29/07/2026
What are the regulations for dog boarding in the UK?
To operate a legal dog boarding or home boarding business in the UK, you must apply for an Animal Activities Licence from your local council. Requirements include passing council inspections, meeting strict space and safety standards, obtaining valid public liability insurance, and adhering to strict welfare rules.
Core Licensing and Legal Requirements
Local Authority Licence: Anyone charging to board dogs overnight or look after them during the day must be licensed by their local council. In England, licences are rated and can last for 1 to 3 years; in Scotland and Wales, they are valid for one year.
No Unlicensed Care: Operating without a licence carries heavy fines or prosecution.
Insurance: You must hold valid public liability insurance (usually a minimum of £5 million) and suitable business insurance.
Exemptions: If you are simply looking after a friend’s dog for free, a licence is not required.
Environment and Space Standards (Home Boarding)
Accommodation: Dogs must be kept inside domestic homes, not in external outbuildings, cages, or runs.
Room Space: Each designated sleeping area for a dog must have a floor area of at least 6 square metres.
Temperature and Safety: Sleeping areas must be maintained between 10°C and 26°C. Electrical sockets must be protected, and properties must feature secure, escape-proof gardens.
Welfare and Management Rules
Vaccinations: You must obtain and keep an up-to-date veterinary vaccination record confirming the dog is fully vaccinated against parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. Unvaccinated puppies cannot be boarded.
Staffing Ratios: For home boarding, a competent person must be present. A standard guideline is a maximum of 10 dogs per competent person, although higher standards require 1 full-time staff member per 8 dogs.
Prohibited Dogs: You cannot board dogs registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
Protectivity
