FAQ: “Do the Dogs Stay in Kennels?” — Why the Answer Is Yes, and Why That’s a Good Thing

One of the most common questions we get at Buddy Sweets is:

“Do the dogs stay in kennels?”

The short answer? Yes.

But the why behind that answer is just as important—and it comes down to safety, comfort, and doing what’s right for the dogs in our care.

Let’s walk you through it.

Not Every Dog Wants to Be Part of a Pack

We love dogs. We love watching them play, socialize, and make friends. But not every dog wants to be in group settings 24/7—and that’s okay. Especially in our area, where many dogs haven’t had the benefit of structured socialization, it’s unrealistic (and unfair) to expect every dog to get along with every other dog all the time.

Some dogs feel anxious around unfamiliar dogs. Others may be reactive due to past experiences. When businesses offer kennel-free boarding, they’re assuming that every dog will be friendly, tolerant, and able to handle constant interaction. But that’s just not how dogs work.

The Hidden Risks of Kennel-Free Boarding

While kennel-free boarding might sound appealing, it’s essential to understand the potential risks involved:

• Increased Risk of Fights and Injuries

  In cage-free environments, altercations can happen in a split second, even among dogs who are normally friendly. A 2020 report in Pet Boarding & Daycare emphasized that dogs without proper structure and supervision are more likely to exhibit unpredictable behavior, especially in overstimulating group settings (source).

• Overstimulation and Chronic Stress

  Continuous exposure to high-energy environments can lead to heightened cortisol levels, which affect behavior, immune function, and even digestion. In fact, research from Beerda et al. (1997, 1999) demonstrated how elevated stress levels in kennels without environmental enrichment significantly impacted canine welfare.

• No Place to Rest and Decompress

  Dogs need rest—both physically and emotionally. Without designated personal space, some dogs become increasingly anxious or shut down.

• Sanitation and Health Concerns

  In a group environment, it’s harder to monitor individual health indicators like stool consistency, appetite, or signs of illness. Shared spaces also make it easier for illness to spread.

Why We Assign Kennels—and Why It Works

At Buddy Sweets, each dog is assigned their own kennel. But here’s what’s important to understand:

Our kennels aren’t cages—they’re cozy, personalized suites designed for comfort and calm.

Here’s what kennel assignments allow us to do:

• Give dogs a safe place to relax and recharge between play sessions, enrichment, and meals.

• Prevent overstimulation by offering structured downtime to support emotional regulation.

• Match dogs for group play based on behavior assessments, not assumptions.

• Monitor each dog’s health and well-being individually, ensuring timely care and observation.

Kennels Don’t Mean Isolation

One thing we always want pet parents to know is this:

Dogs do not stay in their kennels the entire time they’re with us.

Throughout the day, dogs enjoy enrichment activities, one-on-one attention, potty breaks, walks, and carefully supervised group play—if they’re comfortable with it. Kennels are simply their personal space to rest and feel safe.

And for dogs who are nervous, fearful, or overstimulated?

We never force dogs to do anything they’re not comfortable with. If a dog chooses to spend more time in their kennel, we honor that choice with empathy and patience. We check in on them frequently, provide calm companionship, and ensure their emotional and physical needs are fully met.

Every dog is different—and we treat them as such.

It’s Not Just Boarding. It’s Professional, Compassionate Care.

So yes—your dog will stay in a kennel.

But they’ll also be cared for by certified professionals who understand canine behavior, honor consent, and go the extra mile to ensure each dog feels safe, seen, and loved.

When you trust Buddy Sweets, you’re not just booking a stay—you’re investing in thoughtful, ethical, and science-based care.

If you’d like to see what our kennels look like, ask questions about your dog’s stay, or schedule a tour, we’re always happy to connect.