Duncan's Dog Co.
When Can My Puppy Start Daycare?
Work out your puppy's start date, and see what we need before their first day in the woods.
The short answer
Puppies can start daycare at Duncan's Dog Co. from 12 weeks old, once they have finished their primary vaccinations and at least two weeks have passed since the last one. The two week wait is part of the licence every dog daycare in England works under.
Work out your puppy's start date
What we need before the first day
- Vaccination record. We need to see your puppy's card or vet record showing the primary course is finished.
- Kennel cough vaccine. We ask for this for every dog, puppies included.
- Your vet's OK to mix with other dogs.
Why the two week wait
A vaccine needs time to protect your puppy properly. That is why licensed daycares wait at least two weeks after the primary course. If you are looking at daycares, it is a good question to ask each one.
What a puppy's day looks like
Every morning we match each dog to the right area and activity for them that day. Puppies get a gentler pace and proper rest built in, because young dogs often can't tell when they have had enough. Calm, friendly adult dogs are part of the day too, and they show puppies how to behave in a group. Eleanor, our puppy specialist, runs Puppy School, so puppies learn the basics as they go: good manners, recall and settling.
How often should a puppy come?
Once a week is our minimum, but twice a week works better for puppies. Every visit stops feeling like the first day at school, and they settle into a routine much faster.
What about neutering?
We recommend neutering once your dog is fully grown, or sooner if their behaviour shows it is time. Your vet can help you decide. After the operation, your dog comes back once they have fully healed.