We Tested the Best Dog Boarding in Melbourne – Here’s What We Loved
Leaving your furry friend behind is never easy, but with Melbourne’s top-notch dog boarding spots, you can jet off guilt-free!
From cozy play lounges to outdoor doggy playgrounds, these boarding facilities go beyond basic care to keep your pup entertained, socialized, and pampered.
Whether your dog loves making new friends or prefers a quiet nap zone, we’ve rounded up the best places that offer personalized TLC and fun amenities.
Ready to find the perfect doggy retreat? Let’s dive into Melbourne’s finest dog boarding, where tails never stop wagging!
How much do dog boarding kennels in Melbourne cost?
Dog boardings in Melbourne typically range from AU$59 to AU$68 per night, while luxury suites can cost between AU$85 and AU$158 per night. Prices depend on the facility, period, and services offered.
1. Dogdayz

Address: 77 Tills Dr
Contact: +61398443292
Business hours: Mon-Sat: 8:30–10:00am, 3:30–4:30pm
When we visited Dogdayz, we were really impressed by their spacious outdoor areas. It gives dogs ample room to run, play, and socialize with other dogs—a major advantage.
The indoor accommodations, on the other hand, were cozy and felt home-like. They’re complete with comfortable bedding and ample space.
We also saw how attentive the staff members were. Even the clients we talked to have nothing but praise for the staff as they willingly cater to their dog’s specific dietary needs.
They also do a grooming service to ensure pups are picked up freshly pampered and happy.
That said, the staff seemed stretched during busier times. This sometimes leads to less individual interaction with more reserved pets.
The shaded areas were also limited, which might be uncomfortable on very hot days.
They Take Great Interest
“Walter is a happy dog and his behaviour on coming home confirmed that he was well looked after. Staff obviously love the animals and they take great interest and record a daily health report and how the dog has fitted in. The running of the place is caring and professional. It’s Walter’s home away from home. Thank you Warrandyte Team.”
– Willem Roodenburg, Google Review
You Can Tell They Care for Every Animal
“The best care was taken of our pup Ziggy whilst we were overseas for 3 weeks. You can tell the animal attendants, and everyone you cross paths with cares for the animals, and I think Ziggy was sad to leave. Would 100% recommend Dog Dayz Warrandyte and we will be back in the future. Thank you guys for all you do!”
– Emily Bryant, Google Review
2. Melbourne Tiny Paws BnB – Small Dogs Daycare & Boarding

Address: Mill Park area
Contact: +61 403 038 050
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 7:30am–6:30pm
- Sat-Sun: 9:00am–5:00pm
A hidden gem in Melbourne, Tiny Paws BnB offers a cozy and tailored boarding experience for small dogs.
The intimate setting caters exclusively to small breeds. This means chihuahuas and other small-breed dogs may receive focused, personalized attention throughout the stay.
Many of the pet owners we talked to actually felt relieved that the dog boarding is limited to just small breeds. They said it gives them peace of mind that there are no big dogs that can hurt their pups.
The indoor play area was thoughtfully designed. It has toys, soft bedding, and warm spaces that create a comfortable environment for the dogs.
We also appreciated the outdoor space. Although smaller than the other boarding we visited, it offers a fenced area where dogs can safely explore and enjoy the fresh air.
Another standout feature is the quiet and intimate setting. This helps minimize noise and reduce stress, particularly for shy dogs.
However, Tiny Paws BnB has limited spots due to its boutique size. Early booking is recommended, especially during holidays.
Home Away from Home
“As a first time pawrent, I was a little apprehensive leaving my pup for an impromptu overseas visit. My apprehension quickly faded after my pup’s half-day trial. Whilst away, Cindy ensured I received daily updates; the care and attention was second to none – It really is like a home away from home! I especially appreciated the follow up message to see how my pup settled back in after her homestay. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this amazing service and will absolutely book again for any future travels. Thank you so much Cindy, Aaron and Milo.”
– Sarhita Marhawa, Google Review
Provided Daily Photos of our Dog
“I couldn’t have asked for a better pet sitter! Two weeks there and I think Alfie prefers Tiny Paws BnB over to his actual home. Thank you Cindy for such an amazing experience – the communication and the daily photos and clips of him living his best life has made our time away from him so reassuring. And the check in with us a day after he was collected shows how much Cindy cares for all dogs she looks after. Alfie has found his second home everytime we are away and require professional pet sitting, even if the drive is an hour away! We cannot thank you enough Cindy!”
– Cherling Koh, Google Review
3. The Pets Hotel

Address: 7 Phillip Ct
Contact: +61 3 9646 3696
Business hours:
- Mon-Sat: 7:00am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
- Sun: 2:00pm – 5:00pm
We were thrilled by the upscale, pet-friendly environment at The Pets Hotel in Melbourne.
What we liked about it is the climate-controlled suites and advanced ventilation. These really help ensure pets stay comfortable and enjoy fresh air throughout their stay.
We also really loved the unique features they offer, like the pet spa bath and soothing background music. They create a relaxing and upscale experience that leaves pets feeling pampered and at ease.
On the downside, The Pets Hotel’s structured schedule may not suit dogs who thrive on a more flexible routine. Playtimes and rest periods are set and are rarely changed.
Additionally, the facility can get quite busy. This makes it less suitable for dogs that prefer quieter environments.
Dogs Were Happy and Healthy Looking
“Easy access and parking though no security such as fence or gate if your dog was to escape from you in the car park. Nice reception area with wonderful check in people. Collecting the dogs was a piece of cake, straight forward with no fuss. Both dogs were happy, healthy looking, well fed!, and freshly bathed. Will use their services again if needed. Thank you for a seamless experience.”
– Irene, Google Review
Great Customer Service
“We love The Pets Hotel for the amazing team and how they care for our dog. We always return, knowing our dog will be happy and safe in this hotel. Great customer service, friendly, welcoming atmosphere, and happy staff. Clean place and has so many things to offer to dogs and cats.”
– Silvana Jovanovic, Google Review
4. Cottage Kennels and Cattery

Address: 248 Yan Yean Rd
Contact: +61 3 9436 1531
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 8:00am – 4:00pm
- Sat: 8:30am – 3:00pm
Established in 1988 as a boutique hotel, Cottage Kennels and Cattery has since evolved into a top-tier boarding facility through continuous improvements.
We were happy to see the spacious kennels and fenced outdoor play areas they offer. But what we liked most was its nature-focused experience. Their facility features scenic walking trails that allow dogs to enjoy daily strolls in a serene, green landscape.
This unique touch of “countryside boarding” helps pets feel relaxed and connected to nature. It creates a calm atmosphere ideal for those who may be anxious or in need of a tranquil environment during their stay.
Our only reservation was the lack of luxury amenities, which can somewhat detract from the overall experience for the dogs.
Some clients also said that its rural location, while peaceful, is a bit out of the way. This made drop-offs and pickups somewhat less convenient.
Gave Me Updates via Email
“My Westie, Bruce, has stayed at Cottage multiple times over the past couple of years (including for a 4 week period) and I don’t think I could trust anywhere else with him when I go away. He always comes back happy, healthy and clearly very well loved. The team are so friendly and helpful – they are always happy to give me updates via email, which is really reassuring. I would absolutely recommend, especially if you’re an anxious pet-parent like me. Thanks team!”
– Alexandra Schutt, Google Review
Made Us Less Stressful
“Having somewhere you trust leaving your children makes travelling so much less stressful – our girls are always excited when we enter the carpark and come home exhausted (and more importantly healthy). Only have good things to say about Cottage Kennels and Cattery! ❤️”
– Tyela Ruska, Google Review
5. Kepala

Address: 55 Edwards Rd
Contact: +61 3 9740 1272
Business hours:
- Mon-Tue, Thurs-Fri: 8:30am – 3:30pm
- Wed, Sat: 8:30am – 12:00pm
- Sun: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Kepala is popular in Melbourne for one thing: its luxurious accommodations that even a human can avail.
For one, the Chandelier Suite provides dogs with a plush and oversized day bed. This offers pets a cloud-like spot to curl up and relax.
As if that wasn’t enough, the suite opens up to a private courtyard. Here, pets can stretch their legs and explore at their leisure throughout the day.
Kepala’s Canine Country Club was another highlight. It features agility equipment, an outdoor heated lagoon pool, and off-leash activity zones that keep dogs stimulated and happy.
Of course, all that comes with a price. Kepala’s resort-style amenities and high-end services can be quite costly, so it’s definitely not the best choice for those with a tight budget.
Professional and Cared about Animals
“If you’re looking for a clean, safe place for your dog to stay where they’ll be well taken care of, I would recommend Kepala. I booked an inspection before making the booking and the staff were very helpful, showing us all the accommodations for dogs. They were very friendly, professional and it was easy to tell that they cared about animals. During my dog’s stay they emailed me multiple updates telling me how she was doing and sent me pictures. Clearly my dog enjoyed her stay there too! Would definitely use Kepala again.”
– Matthew Stretton, Google Review
Pool Is Warm and Nice
“We come here often for the outdoor swimming pool. Our two pups love it. They have a large range of life jackets available to borrow. The pool is warm and nice. There’s a fenced grass area for the pups to settle and go toilet before jumping into the pool. Highly recommended specially for summer days.”
– Franco Caverzan, Google Review