Leaving your dog with someone else isn’t easy. You want to know they’ll be safe, comfortable, and treated with care. That’s why choosing the right dog minder in Dublin matters. Whether you’re away for the day or going on holiday, the person looking after your dog should be someone you trust.
There are loads of dog minding options around Dublin. Some offer home-based care. Others run busy kennels. So how do you know which one’s right for your dog? Here’s a straightforward guide to help you decide.
Not all dog care services work the same way. It’s important to know the difference before you book.
Kennels are the more traditional option. They’re usually run in a facility where dogs are kept in individual pens or crates. While some dogs are fine with this setup, others find it stressful, especially if they’re not used to loud environments or being alone.
Kennels tend to have set schedules for feeding, walking, and rest. There’s often less one-on-one attention, and dogs may be surrounded by others they’ve never met. It can work for confident, easygoing pets, but isn’t always the best choice for nervous or small dogs.
Pet sitters either come to your home or mind dogs in their own house. Some are hobby sitters, others run it as a business. The quality can vary depending on experience, setup, and how many dogs they take at once.
If you go with a pet sitter, always ask where your dog will be staying, who else will be in the house, and what the daily routine looks like. Some sitters offer great one-on-one care, while others take in too many dogs and can’t give them proper attention.
Home-based dog minders (like us at Northside Doggies) care for your dog in a normal family home. It’s a calmer, more relaxed setting that feels just like home. Dogs aren’t put in kennels or crates. They live indoors, have access to a secure garden, and follow a routine that suits them.
This type of care is perfect for small breeds or dogs who don’t cope well in noisy or overcrowded spaces. It also suits owners who want updates, flexibility, and peace of mind.
Once you’ve decided on the type of care you want, here are a few things to check before booking.
Visit the place in advance if you can. Look at where your dog will sleep, play, and eat. Is the home secure? Is the garden fenced? Are dogs allowed to roam freely or kept in crates? Your dog should have space to relax, go outside safely, and move around without stress.
The fewer dogs, the better. Some minders take in large numbers to make more money, but that often means less attention for each dog. A good dog minder keeps numbers small so your dog doesn’t feel overwhelmed or left out.
Dogs love routine. Ask how the day is structured. When are walks, feeds, and rest times? Will your dog be walked alone or with others? Is the minder home all day or do they leave dogs alone? These details matter, especially if your dog has a set routine at home.
If you have a small dog, it’s best to choose a minder who understands their needs. Smaller breeds often feel nervous around bigger dogs, and they need a gentler approach. A minder who specialises in small dogs will usually offer a quieter, more suitable environment.
Always check if the dog minder is fully insured. This protects both you and the minder in case something happens. Also ask about their policies for emergencies, vet visits, and dog behaviour issues.
A good dog minder will offer a meet-and-greet before your first booking. This gives you and your dog a chance to visit the place, meet the minder, and see if it feels right. It also helps your dog settle in more easily on their first day.
You want updates while you’re away. A reliable dog minder should be happy to send photos, short videos, or messages letting you know how your dog is doing. If they seem unwilling to communicate, that’s usually a red flag.
For most dogs, especially small breeds, home-based care is the closest thing to being at home. They get proper rest, real attention, and don’t have to deal with the stress of a busy kennel. At Northside Doggies, this is exactly the kind of care we offer.
We keep things simple. Your dog stays in our home, plays in our garden, goes for walks in the park, and follows their usual routine. There are no crates, no stress, and no big packs of unfamiliar dogs. Just a calm, friendly place where they can feel at ease.
Book early, especially during holidays
Let your dog bring something from home (bed, blanket, toy)
Share your dog’s routine, feeding schedule, and any quirks
Be honest about any behavioural issues or medical needs
Choose someone your dog feels comfortable with
If you’re looking for a small-dog specialist in North Dublin who offers real home care, get in touch with us at Northside Doggies. We’re based just 15 minutes from the airport and offer flexible daycare, overnight stays, and long-term minding.
We’ll make sure your dog is treated like one of the family.
Start by looking for someone with strong reviews, experience with your dog’s breed, and a calm, home-style environment. Always ask to visit the space beforehand and request a meet-and-greet to see how your dog responds.
A dog minder usually minds your dog in their own home, offering full-day or overnight care. A pet sitter might visit your house for short periods during the day. For full care while you’re away, a dog minder is usually the better option.
For many dogs, especially small or nervous breeds, yes. Home-based care offers a quieter, more relaxed setting without crates or crowding. It feels more familiar and personal than a busy kennel.
Ask about group size, daily routine, sleeping arrangements, outdoor access, and what happens in case of emergencies. It’s also important to check if they’re fully insured and comfortable with your dog’s needs.
Most reputable dog minders, including us, will only accept dogs that are fully vaccinated. This helps keep all dogs in the minder’s care safe and healthy.
It’s best to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance. For weekends, school holidays, or peak travel times, book earlier to avoid missing out.