Dog Sitting vs Kennels: Cost, Stress and Safety Compared

When you need care for your dog while you are away, the two most common options are home dog sitting or kennels. On the surface, both provide supervision, feeding and basic care. In reality, the experience for your dog can be very different.

If you are searching for dog sitting in Stockport or comparing dog sitters in Stockport to kennels, this guide breaks down the real differences in cost, stress levels and safety so you can make the right decision for your dog.

What Is Dog Sitting?

Dog sitting usually takes place in your dog’s own home or in the sitter’s home. A professional dog sitter follows your dog’s normal routine, including feeding times, walks, play and rest. Many dog sitters also provide overnight stays.

For many owners in Stockport, dog sitting offers a flexible and personalised alternative to kennels, especially for dogs that prefer familiar surroundings.

What Are Kennels?

Kennels are licensed boarding facilities where multiple dogs stay in separate units. Dogs are fed, exercised and cleaned according to a fixed schedule. Staff supervise several dogs at once, particularly during busy holiday periods.

Kennels suit some dogs well, particularly those used to busy environments. However, they are not always the best option for every dog.

Cost Comparison: Dog Sitting vs Kennels

Kennel Costs

Kennel prices in the UK typically range from £20 to £40 per day depending on location, season and the level of care offered. During school holidays and peak travel periods, prices often increase.

Additional charges may apply for:

• Extra walks

• Administering medication

• Heating during colder months

Dog Sitting Costs

Dog sitting costs vary depending on the level of care required. In Stockport, dog sitting prices are usually based on:

• Daytime visits

• Overnight stays

• Length of care

• Number of dogs

While dog sitting can appear more expensive at first, it often includes personalised care, routine walks and one to one attention that kennels cannot always provide.

Verdict on cost: Kennels can be cheaper for short stays, but dog sitting often offers better value for dogs needing individual care or longer stays.

Stress Levels: Which Option Is Calmer for Your Dog?

Stress in Kennels

Kennels can be stressful for some dogs due to:

• Loud barking from other dogs

• Unfamiliar smells and routines

• Limited one to one interaction

• Changes in feeding and walking times

Dogs that are anxious, elderly or rescue dogs often struggle in kennel environments.

According to veterinary guidance from The Dog Clinic, changes in environment, routine and social surroundings can cause stress in dogs, particularly when they are away from familiar settings.

Stress with Dog Sitting

Dog sitting allows your dog to stay in a familiar environment with familiar smells, beds and routines. This significantly reduces anxiety for most dogs.

Benefits include:

• No travel to a boarding facility

• Normal walking routes

• Familiar feeding times

• Reduced separation stress

Verdict on stress: Dog sitting is usually far less stressful than kennels, especially for dogs that value routine and familiarity.

Safety and Supervision

Safety in Kennels

Licensed kennels must meet legal standards, but risks still exist:

• Exposure to illnesses from other dogs

• Limited supervision during busy periods

• Dogs spending long periods alone in kennels

While many kennels are well run, supervision is shared between many animals.

Safety with Dog Sitters

Professional dog sitters focus on fewer dogs, allowing closer supervision. A good dog sitter will:

• Follow your instructions exactly

• Monitor behaviour and appetite

• Spot health issues early

• Keep your dog secure in a known environment

When choosing dog sitters in Stockport, always check experience, insurance and references.

Verdict on safety: Dog sitting offers more personalised supervision and lower exposure to illness.

Flexibility and Convenience

Kennels

Kennels usually have fixed drop off and collection times. Late collections or early drop offs may not be possible, which can be inconvenient for travel plans.

Dog Sitting

Dog sitting is highly flexible. Sitters can adapt to:

• Early departures or late returns

• Changes to routines

• Additional visits if plans change

This flexibility is a major reason many owners choose dog sitting in Stockport.

Which Option Is Best for Your Dog?

Kennels may be suitable if your dog:

• Is highly social and confident

• Is used to boarding environments

• Needs short term care only

Dog sitting is often better if your dog:

• Is anxious or nervous

• Is elderly or has medical needs

• Thrives on routine

• Struggles in noisy environments

  
  

Choosing the Right Dog Sitting Service in Stockport

If you are considering dog sitting, look for:

• Experience with your dog’s breed and age

• Clear pricing and services

• Fully insured sitters

• A meet and greet before booking

Professional dog sitters in Stockport offer peace of mind, knowing your dog is cared for properly while you are away.

You can learn more about our dog sitting services by visiting our Dog Sitting page or explore how our personalised care works alongside our Dog Walking Services.

Final Thoughts

Both kennels and dog sitting have their place, but for many dogs, staying in a familiar environment with a trusted sitter leads to less stress, better wellbeing and safer care.

If you are searching for reliable dog sitting in Stockport, choosing a professional sitter can make all the difference to your dog’s comfort and happiness.🐾