Boarding My Retriever
Retrievers are bred for endurance, teamwork, and control in the field — but they don’t always do well in normal boarding solutions. Whether you have a Labrador Retriever, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, or a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, these dogs need more than a place to eat and sleep. They need structure, space, and a team that understands what makes them tick. At The Gundog Club, that’s exactly what we offer.
Do retrievers do well in a dog boarding environment?
Only if it's the right one. Retrievers are intelligent, biddable, and driven — but without daily engagement, those strengths can become sources of frustration. A field-bred Golden Retriever, for example, needs more than a quick walk and a bowl of food. These dogs were made to work, and they need to be managed accordingly. Our working dog boarding program is built specifically for field-bred retrievers, but we love a good bench-bred Labrador as well and have several of them as members.
What should I look for when boarding my retriever?
Look for a place where your dog’s instincts and energy are respected. That means:
- Staff experienced with retriever breeds like Labradors and Chessies
- A low-stress dog boarding facility with structured routines
- Options for training or continued development
- Clear boundaries and consistent handling
The difference is night and day. A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever left in a noisy, overstimulating kennel may come home anxious or regressed. Here, they stay focused, calm, and steady - exactly how gundog boarding should be.
Will my retriever get any work or training during their stay?
Absolutely. Many of our members use dog boarding to reinforce obedience, improve conditioning, or keep their retriever generally tuned up during the offseason. Whether you’re bringing in a young Flat-Coated Retriever for her first solo stay or a seasoned waterfowl dog for a month-long break, we know how to keep them engaged and progressing. All dogs benefit from daily structure and intentional handling in our working dog boarding program.
Are retrievers social with other dogs?
Most are — especially Goldens and Labradors— but social doesn’t always mean easy. Big, powerful dogs with a lot of energy can create chaos without clear rules. At The Gundog Club, we don’t do free-for-all group play. All interactions are supervised, and our primary focus is keeping your retriever safe, sound, and stable throughout their stay at our kennel.
What should I pack when boarding my retriever?
Food is provided by the club, but you’re welcome to bring own if you'd prefer not to switch. Any supplements and/or medication you regularly feed can be sent along, and we’ll follow your instructions exactly. Please do not send crates, bedding, or toys — we provide everything needed there!
Why board your retriever at The Gundog Club?
Because we just don’t board pets. We manage working dogs. That means your Labrador won’t be one of dozens of dogs walked by the clock and ignored the rest of the day. Your Chessie won’t be confused by inconsistent handling or overwhelmed by noise. Your Flat-Coat will be treated like the athlete she is. Here, your retriever is respected — and boarded — the way they were meant to be.
