Should You Tip at a Dog Boarding Kennel?

Updated October 13, 2026 · 1 min read · 3 sources

Short answer

Tipping at a dog boarding kennel isn't required, and there's no fixed standard. Many owners tip the staff when they gave extra care, such as medication, special handling or holiday stays. For independent pet sitters, Rover notes that sitters set their own rates, so tipping isn't always expected. Etiquette guidance for dog walkers suggests up to a week's pay as a holiday tip.

Unlike grooming, where a 15% to 20% tip is standard, boarding and pet sitting have no firm tipping rules. Here's how to handle it.

Tipping guidance by pet service

Service Common practice
Groomer 15%–20% per visit (NerdWallet)
Dog walker Holiday tip up to one week's pay (Emily Post Institute, via NBC News)
Independent pet sitter / in-home boarder Optional; Rover notes self-employed sitters set their own rates, so tipping isn't always required
Boarding kennel staff Optional; appreciated for extra care

When tipping at a kennel makes sense

  • Your dog needed medication, special feeding or extra attention.
  • You boarded over a holiday, when staff gave up their own time off.
  • Your dog was difficult (anxious, reactive, an escape artist).
  • Staff went above and beyond (extra walks, updates, a bath).

Ask at the front desk how tips reach the staff who cared for your dog.

How much?

There's no standard amount. Some owners use a small per-night amount or a lump sum for the whole team. For a pet sitter you use regularly, a holiday tip around the cost of one visit or one week of service follows the same logic as Emily Post's guidance for dog walkers.

Other ways to say thank you

  • A detailed online review naming the staff who helped
  • Treats or a card for the team
  • Referrals to friends and neighbors

See dog boarding costs and find pet boarding near you.

Sources

  1. Rover: Dog sitting rates
  2. NBC News: How much to tip your hairstylist, dog walker and more for the holidays (Emily Post Institute guidelines)
  3. NerdWallet: How much to tip a dog groomer (2025)

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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.

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