Doggy daycare isn’t just about minding your dog. It’s about trust, consistency, and giving your pet a place they actually look forward to visiting. That’s what we offer at Northside Doggies.
We run a small, family-based dog daycare service from our home in Dublin 9, and we only take small-breed dogs. If your dog is under 10kg and loves company, fresh air, and naps on a comfy couch, they’ll feel right at home here.
No loud kennels. No concrete floors. No overwhelming groups of dogs. Just a calm, safe space where your dog can play, relax, and get the kind of attention they’d get at home.
We’re located just 15 minutes from Dublin Airport and easily accessible from areas like Santry, Beaumont, Clontarf, Drumcondra, Swords, and Artane.
Your dog’s day with us is relaxed, structured, and full of simple comforts.
Drop-offs start from 7.30am. Most dogs arrive between then and 9.30am, depending on what suits your schedule. We greet them at the door with a gentle hello and let them settle in without any fuss.
Our own dog, Milo, helps break the ice. He’s a Bichon Frise and has grown up around dogs. Most of the dogs who stay with us become fast friends with him.
Once everyone is in and settled, we usually head out for a short walk to the nearby park. It’s never rushed. If your dog isn’t a big walker, they can skip it.
Back home, they get time to explore the garden, curl up on the couch, play with a toy, or simply watch the world go by from the front window. There’s always someone around, and we’re always paying attention.
No dog is left on their own. No one is crated unless you specifically ask for it. And no dog is ever ignored.
Throughout the day, we send photo or video updates. We know it helps to see how your dog is getting on, especially if it’s their first few visits.
Not all dogs are suited to big daycare centres. Some get overwhelmed. Others get lost in the mix. And let’s be honest, small dogs often need a little more calm.
We work best with:
Small breeds (under 10kg)
Dogs that are well socialised and friendly
Toilet-trained dogs
Puppies that are used to being around other dogs
Older dogs who enjoy a peaceful environment
We don’t take large dogs, high-energy working breeds, or dogs that bark constantly. If your dog is nervous or has specific needs, we can usually accommodate, but we always start with a meet and greet to make sure it’s a good fit.
When dogs are in a home, they relax faster. They feel the difference. There’s carpet under their paws, not rubber mats. They can nap where they want, stretch out, or stay close to someone.
Our space is calm, secure, and never overcrowded. We usually have no more than four or five dogs here at any one time. That means more attention for your dog and less stress all around.
We’re not running around trying to keep up with 20 dogs. We’re here with your dog, one-on-one or in a small group, making sure they’re content, safe, and well cared for.
It’s more personal. It’s quieter. It’s the kind of environment that suits dogs who aren’t suited to loud, high-energy settings.
We open early to suit working dog parents. Drop-offs are from 7.30am to 10am, depending on what works best for you. Collections are usually between 4pm and 6.30pm.
If you need slightly earlier or later times, we’ll do our best to help. Just let us know when booking. We’re flexible, but we also make sure every dog gets proper rest and a calm end to their day.
We like to keep things simple. All you need to pack is:
Their regular food if they’re staying through mealtimes
A lead or harness for walks
Any medication they need, with instructions
A small blanket, toy, or item from home if your dog is nervous or new
We provide water, clean bowls, treats (with your permission), cosy sleeping spots, toys, and as much cuddling as they want. We also have spare leads and harnesses if needed.
Dogs are never left alone here. There is always someone at home during daycare hours, whether it’s one of us or a family member.
Our garden is fully enclosed with high fencing, and we double-check gates before letting dogs outside. All indoor areas are safe, clean, and dog-proofed.
We keep the group small on purpose. A smaller pack means fewer problems and more attention. It also makes it easier to spot if something’s off. If a dog isn’t feeling well, we pick up on it quickly. If a dog needs space, they get it.
Dogs thrive on routine. That’s why we try to keep each day familiar. Meals are given at the usual time, walks happen at a steady pace, and quiet time is always part of the afternoon.
This structure helps the dogs settle in faster. They know what to expect. New dogs take a few hours to figure things out, but once they do, most start looking forward to their daycare days.
We’ve had dogs who used to bark nonstop at bigger crèches come here and stay completely relaxed. Others who were shy with strangers now run to the door, tails wagging.
Some dogs come five days a week. Others drop in once a week or every now and then when needed. We work around your life.
We don’t ask for long contracts or set schedules, but we do recommend booking early if you know your dates. Fridays, Mondays, and holiday weeks tend to fill quickly.
If you’re heading off for the day, dealing with home repairs, or just need a quiet house for a few hours, we’re here when you need us.
We’re based in Dublin 9 and welcome dogs from across the Northside and surrounding areas, including:
Santry
Drumcondra
Whitehall
Swords
Beaumont
Artane
Malahide
Clontarf
Raheny
Donnycarney
Coolock
If you’re unsure whether we’re close enough, just give us a quick message. Many of our regulars found us through word of mouth and now wouldn’t go anywhere else.
We’ve built strong relationships with both dogs and their owners. The bond matters. Here’s what some of them have said:
“My dog used to come home stressed from daycare. Since switching to Northside Doggies, she’s calm, content, and absolutely loves it. I wouldn’t leave her anywhere else.” – Aoife, Whitehall
“It’s such a relief knowing my dog is being cared for like a family member. The updates throughout the day are a lovely bonus.” – Mark, Santry
“Northside Doggies is the first place my nervous pup has ever truly relaxed in. You can tell they’re dog lovers through and through.” – Lisa, Drumcondra
The first step is a short chat. We’ll ask you a few questions about your dog – age, breed, temperament, routine – and let you know if we think it’s a good fit.
From there, we’ll book a short meet and greet. This gives your dog a chance to explore, sniff around, and get used to us without pressure. We find that just a few minutes in the garden is enough to ease most dogs in.
After that, you can book single days or ongoing slots as needed. You’re not locked into a contract or a package. Just let us know what suits you.
To book a meet and greet or ask a question, contact us by:
Email: northsidedoggies.ie@gmail.com
Phone: 085 861 3079
Location: Dublin Northside (exact address given after booking)
Messages are usually answered quickly, especially through WhatsApp. Let us know your dog’s name, breed, age, and preferred dates and we’ll take it from there.
What size dogs do you take?
We only mind small-breed dogs, typically under 10kg. This keeps the group calm, safe, and easy for everyone to get along.
Is this a kennel or a home-based daycare?
We’re fully home-based. Your dog stays in our actual house with us — on the couch, in the garden, or wherever they feel most comfortable.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. We only take a few dogs at a time, so spots can fill quickly. It’s best to book as early as possible, especially for busy days like Mondays and Fridays.
Can I see the space before booking?
Absolutely. We offer short meet and greets so you and your dog can get a feel for the space before committing to a full day.
Do you walk the dogs during the day?
Yes. Dogs usually get a gentle park walk in the morning, depending on the weather and their energy levels. Walks are always calm and safe.
What time can I drop off and collect?
Drop-off is between 7.30am and 10am. Collection is between 4pm and 6.30pm. If you need slightly different times, let us know in advance and we’ll try to help.
Will my dog be safe with other dogs?
We only take friendly, social dogs and keep the group small. Dogs are supervised at all times, and we never overcrowd.
Can I bring my dog’s own food and bed?
Yes. We recommend bringing their usual food and something familiar from home like a small blanket or toy. It helps them settle in faster.
Do you take puppies?
Yes, as long as they’re small-breed, social, and toilet trained. A quick trial visit is often a great way to start.
My dog is nervous. Will they be OK in daycare?
We’ve worked with many dogs who started out nervous. The calm, homely setting often helps them relax much quicker than a big crèche environment.
Do you send updates during the day?
Yes. We send short messages, photos, or video clips during the day so you know how your dog is getting on.
What if my dog gets sick or injured?
We’ll contact you straight away. If needed, we’ll bring them to your own vet or a trusted local one. You’ll be kept informed at all times.
Do you offer weekend daycare?
Our main daycare service is during weekdays, but occasional weekend bookings may be available. Message us to check availability.
Can my dog stay longer than 8 hours?
In some cases, yes. We charge a small hourly rate after 8 hours. Just let us know in advance and we’ll make sure your dog is looked after until you return.
How do I get started?
Send us a message with your dog’s name, breed, age, and a few details about their routine or behaviour. We’ll guide you through the next steps.