Before you can drop your dog off for their first day of daycare, you'll need to meet a list of requirements. These exist to keep every dog in the facility safe, healthy, and happy — and they vary slightly from facility to facility.
This guide covers the most common dog daycare requirements so you know what to prepare before you book.
1. Vaccinations (Non-Negotiable)
Every reputable daycare requires proof of up-to-date vaccinations. These typically include:
- Rabies — Required by law in most states
- DHPP / DAPP — Covers distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus
- Bordetella — Protects against kennel cough, usually required every 6–12 months
- Canine Influenza (H3N2/H3N8) — Increasingly required, especially in group play environments
You'll typically need to email or upload vaccination records from your vet before your first visit. Keep copies handy — some facilities audit records annually.
2. Temperament Assessment
Most quality daycares require a temperament test (sometimes called an "evaluation" or "meet-and-greet") before accepting a new dog. This usually involves:
- A short intake conversation about your dog's history and behavior
- Introducing your dog to staff in a calm environment
- Slowly introducing your dog to a small group of existing dogs
- Observing how your dog handles play, corrections, and downtime
Don't be discouraged if a facility declines your dog. Responsible daycares turn away dogs that aren't a good fit for group play — it's a sign they take safety seriously, not that your dog is "bad."
3. Spay/Neuter Status
Many facilities require dogs over 6 or 12 months old to be spayed or neutered before joining group play. This reduces hormone-driven conflicts and unwanted mounting behavior. Policies vary:
- Some facilities allow intact dogs in solo or small-group play
- Others require spay/neuter after a specific age (often 7–12 months)
- A few accept all dogs regardless of status, with careful grouping
If your dog is intact for medical, breeding, or personal reasons, ask about accommodations before booking.
4. Age Minimums
Puppies typically need to be at least 12–16 weeks old and have completed their initial vaccine series before attending daycare. This protects them from parvo and distemper during the critical immune-building window.
Some facilities also have senior dog policies, offering quieter environments or modified schedules for older dogs.
5. Health & Parasite Control
Expect requirements around:
- Flea and tick prevention — Monthly prevention is typically required
- Fecal testing — Some facilities require annual stool samples to rule out parasites
- No active illness — Dogs with coughing, diarrhea, or vomiting must stay home
6. Behavioral Requirements
Beyond the temperament test, most facilities expect:
- No history of aggression toward people or other dogs
- Comfort around handlers and strangers
- Ability to settle during rest periods
- House-trained (or at least able to hold it during group play)
If your dog has some behavioral issues, consider working with a professional trainer first. Our reactive dog training guide has helpful tips if your pup struggles around other dogs.
What to Bring on Day One
Once you've met the requirements, your first day checklist usually looks like:
- Vaccination records (if not already submitted)
- Collar with ID tags
- A sturdy leash for drop-off and pickup
- Any medications (clearly labeled with instructions)
- Food if your dog will be eating there (most facilities don't provide meals)
- Emergency contact info
Questions to Ask Before Booking
- What vaccinations do you require, and how often?
- How do you handle temperament evaluations?
- What's your staff-to-dog ratio?
- How are dogs grouped during play (size, temperament, age)?
- What's your protocol for medical emergencies?
- Do you offer trial days or half-day options?
Is Daycare the Right Fit?
Before committing, make sure daycare is actually a good fit for your dog. Check out our guide on whether dog daycare is good for dogs for honest pros and cons.
And if you're curious about pricing, our dog daycare cost guide breaks down what to expect.
Find a Daycare Near You
Ready to find a daycare that fits your dog? Browse dog daycares in our directory to compare facilities, read reviews, and find one near you.