As a dog daycare, every choice you make should balance fun with function. This is obvious with things like add-ons, creating playgroups, and maintaining hygiene, but what about the actual design of your space?
Choosing what elements to include can feel tricky. Some equipment pieces are good investments, while others can either be useless or a recipe for disaster. What you decide ultimately depends on your budget, clientele, and space constraints. But to help you in the process, we've compiled a list of the top dog daycare playground elements. Get your shopping list ready!
Many dog daycare businesses start out using hand-me-down equipment, leftover agility gear, or even repurposed children’s playgrounds. That can feel resourceful at first, but it often leads to long-term issues like:
The result is more chaos and less control. Your staff ends up spending more time managing mischief instead of creating meaningful moments with pets.
Climbing equipment allows dogs to exercise, build confidence, and burn energy in a controlled setting. These structures create visual interest in your play yard and give staff another tool to manage energy levels in high-drive dogs.
Choose durable, dog-safe materials with textured surfaces to prevent slips. Equipment should have gradual inclines and wide landings to support dogs of all sizes.
Tunnels offer dogs a fun way to explore and stay mentally engaged. They’re also a great addition to agility-style courses that encourage movement and curiosity. Opt for sturdy, weather-resistant tunnels that won’t collapse or trap moisture. Bonus points for bright colors or see-through elements that make supervision easier.
When the weather warms up, water play becomes a major enrichment tool. Splash pads offer low-impact fun that’s ideal for hot days or high-energy pups. Look for commercial-grade pads with adjustable spray settings and slip-resistant surfaces. Be sure the materials are easy to sanitize and have good drainage to avoid puddling.
A few ideas for splash-tastic additions include:
Dogs need breaks just like people do. Designated rest zones keep pets cool and help staff manage group energy throughout the day. Install sturdy canopies, shaded benches, or covered decks that allow dogs to rest comfortably. These areas should be placed away from high-traffic zones.
Upgrading your space is only half the equation. An effective dog daycare also needs the right tools and tech to reach new customers, showcase furry guests enjoying the space, and make booking visits a breeze. The answer? Doggy daycare software.
At Gingr, we know dog daycares best. Our tools help you:
Demo Gingr today to see how we can support every part of your daycare—from the lobby to the playground.