How to Prepare Your Dog for Their First Day at Daycare

Sending your dog to doggy daycare for the first time can feel like a big step. While it’s exciting for both of you, it may also cause a little anxiety, especially if your dog has never been away from home or around many other dogs. Preparing well can ease the transition and ensure a happy experience for your furry friend.



Understand What Doggy Daycare Involves

Before your dog’s first visit, it helps to understand what doggy daycare really offers. These facilities provide structured play, rest time, socialisation, and often basic training reinforcement. Most daycares group dogs by size, energy, and temperament to keep things safe and fun.

Knowing this can help you decide if your dog is a good fit. For example, puppies with high energy or older dogs who love companionship usually benefit most.

Visit the Facility Ahead of Time

Familiarity helps reduce stress. Plan a short visit to the doggy daycare beforehand. This lets your dog sniff around, meet the carers, and see the new environment. Many centres also offer short trial sessions or meet-and-greets.

During your visit, observe the staff, ask about daily routines, and watch how dogs interact. A calm and well-organised space is a good sign.

Schedule a Health Check

A healthy dog is a happy dog. Most doggy daycare centres require up-to-date vaccinations, flea treatments, and worming. Before the first day, schedule a quick check-up with your vet to ensure your dog is fit to mix with others.

Ask your vet to provide proof of vaccinations and keep a copy for the daycare records. This protects your dog and others from potential illness.

Practice Separation at Home

If your dog hasn’t spent much time away from you, practise short separations before the big day. Start with five to ten minutes, gradually increasing the time. Use treats or toys to reward calm behaviour when you leave and return.

Building this habit will make the daycare transition smoother. Your dog will learn that it’s okay to be apart and that you’ll always come back.

Teach Basic Commands

Most doggy daycare providers appreciate dogs who understand basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” These commands help staff manage groups and reduce the risk of scuffles.

If your dog already knows these, practise them regularly. If not, start with simple sessions at home. Consistent training gives your dog the confidence to thrive in a group setting.

Pack the Essentials

Your dog’s first day is like a child’s first day at school—they’ll need a few things to feel settled. Pack a labelled bag with:

  • A lead and collar

  • Any special food or treats

  • Medication if needed

  • A familiar toy or blanket

  • Emergency contact information

Check with the doggy daycare in advance to see what they allow or require. The goal is to make your dog feel safe and secure in a new environment.

Keep Calm on the First Day

Dogs pick up on human emotions. If you're nervous, your dog might feel unsure too. On the morning of their first visit, keep things upbeat and positive. Avoid fussing or over-explaining.

Drop your dog off with a cheerful tone, and don’t linger. Quick goodbyes reduce anxiety and help your dog settle faster. Many doggy daycare centres share photos or updates, so you can check in without disrupting the day.

Monitor Their Behaviour Afterwards

When you collect your dog, ask the staff how the day went. Did your dog socialise well? Did they eat or nap? Use this feedback to adjust for future visits.

At home, your dog may be tired or extra cuddly. This is normal, especially after a stimulating day. Let them rest and offer plenty of water. If you notice signs of stress or discomfort, talk to the daycare team for guidance.

Make It a Regular Routine

Like humans, dogs thrive on routine. If your dog enjoyed their first day, try to make daycare part of their weekly schedule. Regular visits help dogs build confidence, social skills, and healthy energy levels.

Some dogs benefit from one or two days a week, while others enjoy daily visits. Watch your dog’s behaviour and adjust accordingly. Every dog is unique, so pay attention to what works best.

Build Trust with the Daycare Team

Over time, you’ll form a relationship with the daycare staff. This trust helps everyone, especially your dog. The team will get to know your dog’s personality, likes, dislikes, and quirks.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share concerns. A strong relationship with your doggy daycare provider ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for your pet.

Conclusion

Preparing your dog for doggy daycare doesn’t need to be stressful. With a bit of planning, your furry friend can have a positive, enriching experience that improves their confidence, social skills, and happiness. From practising short separations to packing familiar items, each step helps create a smooth transition. 

Location: West Sussex, UK

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