Puppies can usually start daycare once their vaccination series is complete — for most dogs that’s around 16 weeks. Before that, the risk of parvovirus and other infections in a group setting is too high, and no responsible facility will take them.
The vaccine timeline
Puppies get DHPP in three rounds (roughly 8, 12 and 16 weeks) and rabies at 12–16 weeks. Group play is safe once round three is done and a week or two has passed. Bordetella (kennel cough) is strongly recommended for any dog in a group. Our full list is on the service requirements page.
Why start early — and why half days
The socialisation window closes around 14–16 weeks, so a puppy who meets calm, well-matched dogs right after their shots learns dog manners fast. Start with half days. Four hours of play, rest and a snack is plenty; a 12-hour day for a four-month-old is too much stimulation. Our weekday half day (up to 4 hours) is $39.
What a good puppy daycare does differently
- Small, matched groups. Our park is split into nine areas so puppies play with dogs of similar size and energy, not the whole pack.
- Nap enforcement. Puppies don’t self-regulate. Someone has to call the rest.
- Indoor and outdoor. Hot pavement and ice are hard on young joints; we have both a 4,000 sq ft outdoor park and indoor space.
- Consistent staff who notice a puppy who’s overwhelmed.
Red flags
All dogs in one room regardless of size; no rest periods; no vaccine check at intake; staff who can’t tell you your puppy’s play style at pickup.
Getting started at Soulmutts
Every dog starts with a free 45-minute assessment where we introduce them gradually to a matched group. Puppies go through the same process — book a free assessment once the last vaccine round is done. From there, most puppy families do two or three half days a week of dog daycare, and add the van shuttle when the puppy is settled.
Frequently asked questions
Can an unneutered puppy attend?
Yes. Adult dogs must be spayed or neutered at their breed-appropriate age, but puppies are assessed as puppies.
Is full-day daycare too long for a puppy?
Usually, before six months. More in is full-day daycare too long for puppies.
