Maya RichardsonLeaving our four-legged family members behind while we head to work or run errands is never easy. We all want them to stay safe, happy, and engaged while getting the socialization and exercise they need
If you’re a busy professional or a first-time pet parent, finding a trustworthy place for that daily care is especially important.
You deserve peace of mind knowing your pup is in caring, capable hands throughout the day. That’s why we spent time digging into the local options to help you discover the best dog daycare in Columbus.
Here are the top spots that treat your furry friend like their own.
How Much Does Dog Daycare Cost in Columbus?
Dog daycare in Columbus generally costs $27 to $40 per day, with prices varying based on the location and package options you choose.
| Service Type | Cost Range |
| Single Full Day | $30 – $47 |
| Half Day | $19 – $26 |
| Packages (Per Day) | $23 – $30 |
1. Dogtopia of Columbus-Downtown
Website: https://www.dogtopia.com/
Address: 406 E Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Contact: (614) 254-6722 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Working downtown often means dealing with tight schedules, making pet care logistics tricky for busy professionals. Dogtopia of Columbus-Downtown solves this headache by offering a highly convenient location right on East Main Street in the Discovery District.
Inside, their playrooms are closely supervised by certified canine coaches who undergo over a hundred hours of behaviorist-designed training to manage the packs safely.
When we stopped by recently to chat with a fellow pet parent, they raved about the curriculum-based socialization program.
Rather than just letting the dogs run wild, the daycare environment actively works on improving your dog’s daily manners and comfort around new furry friends.
However, keep in mind that spontaneous visits are not possible because every new dog must first be scheduled and pass a rigorous evaluation beforehand.
Customer Reviews:
They are always doing exciting events.
My Chloe LOVES going to this daycare. I love the hours where I am able to drop her off in the morning before I go to work and pick her up after work, it works great! They are always doing exciting events and I love looking at the social media pages it’s very cute how they are with the dogs! THANK YOU for taking such good care of my Chloe. The only thing is I wish the play rooms were bigger in size because I think at Dublin’s location they are bigger……
- Katelyn Sciacca | Google Review
I would definitely recommend them!
Our dog Doug loves Dogtopia! They are the only daycare we could find that work around the hours of healthcare workers and we absolutely love the daily events they do with all the pups! It’s great being able to check up on him throughout the day through Instagram/the cameras! And the staff are super friendly and they all know Doug by name as soon as he walks in, would definitely recommend!
- Amber S | Google Review
2. The Doggy Den
Website: https://thedoggyden.com/
Address: 1910 Memory Lane Columbus, Ohio 43209
Contact: (614) 252-4211 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM; Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Boarding only)
The Doggy Den prioritizes structured, consistent group dynamics. The strict attendance policy for new dogs is designed to keep the daycare pack stable, well-behaved, and familiar with one another rather than constantly introducing unfamiliar animals.
That consistency also carries over into their boarding setup, since overnight stays are reserved for active daycare clients.
In practice, that means dogs aren’t suddenly placed in a new environment with stressed or unfamiliar animals. This is very reassuring for many pet owners thinking about longer stays.
Some pet owners we spoke with also shared that the free first full day helped them gauge how their dog fit into the group without committing upfront.
The main limitation is flexibility. Because of the structured attendance requirements, it doesn’t really work for owners who only need occasional or irregular daycare visits.
Customer Reviews:
I never have to worry or feel guilty about leaving him.
I bring my dog here for daycare about once a week, and he boards here when we go out of town. He loves it! When I tell him we’re going to the Doggy Den, he literally jumps for joy! The people really love their doggy guests, and I never have to worry or feel guilty about leaving him. Their rates are reasonable, too!
- Linda Kernohan | Google Review
Doggy Den is hands down the best one!
We’ve tried 3 other daycares in town for our high energy goldendoodle and the Doggy Den is hands down the best one! It has the most space, isn’t overcrowded, is well-staffed, and most importantly our dog comes home happy and completely exhausted after a full day of play. The staff here is fantastic- they genuinely care about our dog and always have something to share about his day at daycare.
- Kate S | Google Review
3. Barks and Rec
Website: http://barksandrecohio.com/
Address: 1057 West 5th Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43212
Contact: (614) 725-1475
Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM & 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Boarding Drop-off/Pick-up Only)
Barks and Rec stands out as a mission-driven, non-profit pet care facility where the community impact is as central as the dog daycare itself.
The job training program for workers with different abilities gives the business a stronger social purpose than typical boarding or daycare centers.
A recent visit we made left a strong impression. The air quality inside genuinely felt cleaner, which aligns with their hospital-grade HVAC system and UV filtration setup designed to reduce airborne illness risks.
That kind of environmental control isn’t common in most pet facilities.
The staff is also very transparent about health monitoring. They notify owners of potential exposure within a two-week window, which adds a layer of accountability that many pet owners appreciate.
The main drawback is strictness. Vaccination rules are enforced tightly, and missing documentation can result in penalties, so staying organized with your vet records is essential before using their services.
Customer Reviews:
I’ve always felt safe leaving my baby in their hands.
My (generally anxious) pit bull mix LOVES his daycare days! The whole team is thoughtful and kind, and I’ve always felt safe leaving my baby in their hands. We’ve also had great experiences with the groomers! If you’re considering a daycare, boarding or grooming service then Barks and Rec is for you.
- Claire Rako | Google Review
Prices are great and the staff is always very welcoming!
Can’t say enough good things about Barks and Rec! We have been bringing our dog Charlie here for a few years now for both daycare and boarding. They have been incredibly accommodating with medication administration and catering to our dog’s needs as they arise. Prices are great and the staff is always very welcoming!
- Emily Gerraughty | Google Review
4. Camp Bow Wow Columbus – Grandview Heights
Website: https://www.campbowwow.com/
Address: 1006 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: (380) 221-7729 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM & 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Camp Bow Wow Columbus uses an all-inclusive pricing model that eliminates the frustration of hidden add-ons, making it easier for owners to budget for regular daycare.
Medication administration and live webcam access are included in the base price, which adds a strong layer of convenience and transparency upfront.
The facility is also well-structured, with dogs separated into play groups based on size and energy levels. This helps reduce stress and prevents overly rough or chaotic play, creating a more controlled environment than less organized setups.
Some pet owners report that dogs transitioning from private dog sitters adjust quickly and even benefit from the added social stimulation and routine interaction.
Staff training is another key strength. All counselors are certified in pet first aid and CPR, offering added reassurance in case of emergencies.
The main drawback is scheduling. The Sunday split shift can make pickup times less convenient, particularly if weekend plans don’t align with their operating hours.
Customer Reviews:
5 stars all around!
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Camp Bow Wow in Grandview. My pup loves going there whether it is for daycare or overnight boarding. She is so well taken care of, known by name, and comes home tired and happy. The staff is very efficient and courteous. Even on busy drop off mornings, I am in and out in less than 5 minutes. I highly recommend this location for you and your puppy’s needs. 5 stars all around!
- Carrie DiNovo | Google Review
I can tell that they really care about my baby.
I love that my dog has the ability to play and socialize with other dogs all day long in a safe and clean environment. The staff at every Camp Bow Wow I’ve ever been to has been top notch! Everyone is so friendly and helpful. I can tell that they really care about my baby. Also, the price for the daycare and the overnight care is unbeatable!
- Ali Van Loon | Google Review
5. Uncle Keith’s Doggie Daycare
Website: https://www.unclekeithsdoggiedaycare.com/
Address: 1275 S Front ST, Columbus, OH 43206
Contact: (614) 443-1414 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Saturday – Sunday: By Appointment Only
Uncle Keith’s Doggie Daycare is built for convenience in a way that really suits downtown commuters who need fast, no-detour drop-off and pick-up.
The central location in Downtown Columbus makes it especially practical for people working in the core business district, where time and parking are usually the biggest pain points.
The daycare focuses just as much on structure as play, using mental stimulation activities and planned relaxation periods to keep dogs from getting overstimulated. That kind of routine gives the space a calmer feel compared to larger, high-traffic facilities.
The controlled drop-off and pick-up windows also help maintain that stability. There’s less constant coming and going, so the environment doesn’t turn chaotic during peak hours.
Just note that their strict policy requires all dogs over six months to be spayed or neutered. That can be a dealbreaker for owners of young or large-breed dogs who are still waiting on that decision window.
Customer Reviews:
They truly treat every dog like family, and it shows.
I can’t say enough good things about Uncle Keith’s Doggy Daycare! The place is run with so much love, care, and professionalism. Hayder and Matt go above and beyond to make sure every dog feels safe, happy, and at home. They truly treat every dog like family, and it shows. If you’re looking for a daycare that genuinely cares about your pet’s well-being, look no further. Uncle Keith’s is the best in town!
- Maggi Maynard | Google Review
It gives me peace of mind to know he’s well cared for.
My pup has been going to Uncle Keith’s for about 7 1/2 years. He loves it, and it gives me peace of mind to know he’s well cared for, whether for daycare or overnight stays. Hayder and Matthew are the best!
- Anne Hammerstein | Google Review
