The Unwritten Rules of Doggy Daycare

Every workplace has rules… and doggy daycare is no different!

Of course, we have our important rules about safety, welfare, manners and making sure everyone has a happy day. But there are also a few unwritten rules that every daycare dog seems to know instinctively.

Rule #1: Someone else's toy is ALWAYS better

You could have an entire room full of toys.

Balls? Check.

Tug toys? Check.

Teddies? Check.

But if another dog picks up a toy, suddenly that is the most important toy in the entire building.

Rule #2: The comfiest bed belongs to whoever gets there first

There might be several beds available, but somehow everyone wants the same one.

And if another dog is already sleeping there?

Obviously, that's the one you want.

And if all the beds are taken?

Find a staff member.

Staff laps, feet, shoulders… apparently humans make excellent furniture.

Bonus points for falling asleep on them just as they were about to get up. 😂🐾

Rule #3: Everyone must be greeted

New dog arriving?

Greet them.

Dog you've known for months?

Greet them.

Dog who literally just walked past you 30 seconds ago?

Greet them again.

You never know when a friendship might need renewing.

Rule #4: Every sniff is important

Humans might think you're just standing there sniffing the same patch of floor for five minutes.

But you know better.

There could be very important information hidden there.

Who was here?

What did they have for breakfast?

What's happened since yesterday?

It's basically reading the newspaper… but with your nose.

Rule #5: Zoomies are compulsory

Sometimes you simply have to run.

No explanation required.

Maybe you've just finished playing. Maybe you've had a nap. Maybe someone looked at you funny.

Whatever the reason…ZOOMIES!

Rule #6: Resting is serious business

After all that running, sniffing, playing and socialising, a good rest is absolutely essential.

Some dogs are professional nappers.

Some prefer a cosy bed.

Some like the sofa.

And some seem to believe that lying directly on top of another dog is the most comfortable option available.

Rule #7: You must make at least one new best friend

Doggy daycare is a great place to make friends.

Some friendships start with a gentle sniff.

Some start with a game of chase.

Some start with two dogs discovering that they both have exactly the same obsession with a particular toy.

And sometimes… you just know you've found your new best mate.

Rule #8: A walk at the park is never just a walk

A trip to the park means one thing: adventure!

There are smells to investigate, grass to explore, leaves to inspect and, of course, absolutely no reason to walk in a straight line.

One minute you're strolling along nicely, the next you've spotted something VERY interesting and the whole group needs to stop immediately.

And let's not forget the most important part…

Coming back to daycare looking slightly windswept, smelling of the great outdoors and ready for another round of zoomies! 🐕🌿

Because sometimes the best part of the day is getting out for a little change of scenery and letting those noses do what they do best - sniff! 👃🐾

Rule #9: Someone is always watching

Doggy daycare is full of curious noses and watchful eyes.

What's happening over there?

Why did that dog get up?

Where is everyone going?

Did someone just open a cupboard?

Was that a treat packet?

It is your responsibility to investigate.

Rule #10: Every day should be fun

And perhaps the most important unwritten rule of all…

Every dog gets to be themselves.

Some are energetic, some are chilled out. Some love making friends, while others prefer a quieter corner. Some spend the day playing, while others are perfectly happy having a little explore before finding somewhere cosy for a nap.

explore before finding somewhere cosy for a nap.

That's what makes daycare so much fun; every dog has their own personality, and there's always something going on.

So, while there may be plenty of official rules at doggy daycare, the unwritten ones are definitely the most entertaining!