Finding the perfect place for your dog while you're at work or away can be stressful. We've researched Philadelphia's top dog daycare and boarding facilities to help you choose. Here are five standout options, including a local favorite in Old
The Philadelphia Dog Care Landscape
Philadelphia's pet care industry has grown rapidly, with dog daycare and boarding facilities offering everything from basic supervision to luxury suites. Owners demand safety, enrichment, and transparency. We evaluated facilities based on services, pricing, location, and customer feedback.
How We Ranked These Facilities
We ranked these facilities based on service variety, pricing transparency, facility quality, staff expertise, and customer reviews. Direct competitors in the same neighborhoods were prioritized.
Here's a quick comparison of the top five dog daycare and boarding providers in Philadelphia.
| Provider | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Wag Days Philly | Best for comprehensive services and transparent pricing | $33-48/day daycare, $88/night boarding |
| Wag Watch | Best for luxury cage-free care and enrichment | $48/day full daycare, $88/night boarding |
| The Dog Alley | Best for cage-free play in Old City | Contact for rates |
| Uptown Dogs | Best for social play and birthday parties | Contact for rates |
| Doggie VIP | Best for multi-location convenience | Contact for rates |
Detailed Reviews of Each Facility
#1 Wag Days Philly
A screenshot of the Wag Days Philly website.
Wag Days Philly is a full-service daycare and boarding facility in South Philadelphia, founded in 2019 by Nora Rodgers. They offer daycare, deluxe boarding, training, puppy preschool, and spa services. Their pricing is transparent: daycare $33-48/day and boarding around $88/night, with package discounts of 5-20%. They provide indoor/outdoor play areas and enrichment programs. Check their pricing page for details.
Comparison:
- Pro: Transparent pricing and wide range of services
- Con: Located in South Philly, not central
- Pricing: $33-48/day daycare, $88/night boarding
#2 Wag Watch
A screenshot of the Wag Watch website.
Wag Watch offers luxury cage-free daycare and boarding in Northern Liberties. They provide up to 15 hours of playtime, enrichment activities like agility and puzzles, grooming/spa, and daily report cards. Daycare is $48/day full or $33 for 4 hours, boarding $88/night, with packages saving 5-20%. Their premium positioning makes them a strong competitor. Visit Wag Watch for more.
Comparison:
- Pro: Extensive enrichment and report cards
- Con: Higher price point
- Pricing: $48/day full daycare, $88/night boarding
#3 The Dog Alley
A screenshot of the Dog Alley website.
The Dog Alley is located at 239 Market St in Old City Philadelphia, the same neighborhood as Uptown Dogs. They offer premier cage-free daycare, dog baths, and social media updates for owners. However, they are closed on weekends, which may be a drawback for some. Pricing is not listed online; contact them directly. Their website emphasizes a safe, fun environment.
Comparison:
- Pro: Cage-free environment with owner updates
- Con: Closed weekends, no pricing online
- Pricing: Contact for rates
#4 Uptown Dogs
A screenshot of the Uptown Dogs website.
Uptown Dogs, located in Old City Philadelphia, offers a full-service dog daycare and boarding experience. Their facility features three spacious play areas and enrichment activities. According to their website Uptown Dogs, they focus on play and socialization, with a team that adores dogs. They also host dog birthday parties and are open seven days a week. Featured on Fox 29, they have built a loyal following among local pet parents.
Comparison:
- Pro: Passionate staff and clean facility with multiple play areas
- Con: Pricing not transparent online
- Pricing: Contact for rates
#5 Doggie VIP
A screenshot of the Doggie VIP website.
Doggie VIP is a multi-location chain with two Philadelphia spots (Benjamin Franklin Pkwy & Riverwalk). They offer daycare, boarding, dog walking, cat sitting, and spa/grooming. Operating since 2015, they have broader geographic coverage. Pricing is not listed on their website; contact for rates. Their multiple locations provide convenience for many pet owners.
Comparison:
- Pro: Multiple locations and full range of services
- Con: No transparent pricing online
- Pricing: Contact for rates
How to Choose the Right Dog Daycare or Boarding Facility
Consider your dog's temperament, your schedule, and budget. Look for facilities that offer trial days, transparent pricing, and enrichment activities. Visit in person to check cleanliness and staff interaction. For boarding, ensure overnight supervision and comfortable accommodations. Read reviews and ask for references.
Automating Your Pet Care Routine
Use scheduling apps to book daycare or boarding in advance. Many facilities offer online portals for reservations and report cards. Set reminders for vaccinations and grooming appointments. Automate payments with package plans to save time and money.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia offers excellent options for dog daycare and boarding. Whether you prioritize luxury, transparency, or neighborhood convenience, there's a facility for you. Uptown Dogs stands out for its passionate team and community feel, while competitors like Wag Days Philly and Wag Watch provide premium services. Visit their websites to learn more and schedule a tour.