If you’ve ever looked into your French Bulldog’s big round eyes before an overnight stay at a boarding facility, you know the guilt is real.
When I first boarded Maven, she gave me a look so dramatic, I half expected her to start penning a goodbye letter. My previous pup, Novacane, once tried to “fake limp” at drop-off, as if to say, “See? You can’t possibly leave me.” 😂
Frenchies are clingy little shadows, and while boarding them overnight can be nerve-wracking for us, the right prep makes all the difference — for them and for our peace of mind. Here’s what I’ve learned from boarding Maven (and my past dogs) so you can send your Frenchie off with confidence.
Know Your Frenchie’s Personality Before You Book 🐕🦺
French Bulldogs are social, but every Frenchie has their quirks.
Some thrive on group play; others need one-on-one time with humans. Before you pick a boarding facility:
- 🐶 Ask about their social style – Is your pup a player, a napper, or a little of both?
- 🐾 Factor in age & energy – Young Frenchies may need more active supervision, while seniors might prefer a quiet room.
- 🐕 Consider health needs – If your Frenchie has breathing issues (many do), ask how they handle hot weather or overexertion.
Maven, for example, will happily romp for 15 minutes… then collapse like a tiny Victorian lady who’s just heard scandalous news. Boarding staff need to know that’s normal for her. 🤭
Do a Trial Run Before the Big Stay 📅
If your Frenchie has never been boarded, book a daycare trial first.
This lets them get used to the sights, sounds, and smells of the facility without the stress of an overnight separation.
- 🐾 Observe their comfort level – Ask for a report card after the trial.
- 🐶 Check staff communication – Good facilities will tell you about bathroom habits, playtime, and social interactions.
- 🐕 Look for red flags – If your dog seems overly stressed, lethargic, or shows signs of distress, consider another place.
Bring Familiar Comforts From Home ❤️
Frenchies can be prone to anxiety when their routine is disrupted.
Packing a little piece of home can help them settle in faster.
- 🐾 Their favorite blanket or bed – Smells like home and offers comfort during downtime.
- 🐕 A well-loved toy – Bonus points if it’s already chewed into “art.”
- 🍖 Treats they adore – Perfect for reward-based bonding with staff.
- 🐶 Worn T-shirt from you – Yes, your scent matters more than you realize.
When I board Maven, I always include her pink diamond Cuban link collar in the bag. Does she need bling at bedtime? Absolutely not. Does it make her strut into the kennel like she owns the place? Absolutely yes. 😏
Pack the Right Food & Feeding Instructions 🍽️
French Bulldogs can have sensitive stomachs.
A sudden diet change while boarding can lead to digestive drama (and let’s be honest, no one wants a late-night “clean-up” call).
- 🐕 Pre-measure meals – Put them in labeled baggies for each feeding.
- 🍖 Include any supplements – Omega oils, joint chews, or probiotics.
- 🐾 Leave clear instructions – Feeding times, amounts, and any quirks (like “She likes a splash of water over her kibble”).
Pro tip: If your Frenchie takes meds, label them with both their name and your dog’s name to avoid mix-ups.
Share Health Info & Emergency Contacts 🩺
Boarding facilities need to know your Frenchie’s medical history and who to call in an emergency.
- 💉 Vaccination records – Most places require proof of rabies, Bordetella, and distemper/parvo.
- 🐾 Vet contact info – Include both regular and emergency vet numbers.
- 🐕 Health notes – Allergies, past surgeries, or anything staff should watch for (like breathing changes).
For Maven, I make sure they know she overheats easily and has a “weird” sleeping noise that sounds like a deflating balloon — so they don’t panic in the middle of the night.
Ask the Right Questions Before Booking 📝
The facility’s answers can make or break your decision.
- 🐶 Staff-to-dog ratio – The fewer dogs per staff member, the better.
- 🐾 Overnight supervision – Is someone on-site 24/7?
- 🐕 Playtime policies – Structured groups or free-for-all?
- 🛏️ Sleeping arrangements – Private kennels, suites, or communal areas?
- 🧼 Cleanliness – How often are areas sanitized?
Don’t be shy — a reputable place will welcome your questions.
Prep Your Frenchie for a Stress-Free Drop-Off 🚗
Your energy affects your dog’s energy. If you’re anxious, they’ll pick up on it.
- 🐶 Give them exercise before arrival – A short walk helps burn off nervous energy.
- 🐾 Stay calm and upbeat – Avoid long, teary goodbyes.
- 🐕 Hand them off with confidence – Dogs feel safer when they sense you trust the situation.
When I drop Maven off, I make it a mini party: “You’re going to have so much fun!” It helps her associate drop-off with excitement, not dread.
Stay Connected (Within Reason) 📸
Many modern boarding facilities offer updates via text, email, or even live webcams.
- 🐾 Request daily check-ins – A quick photo or note eases your mind.
- 🐶 Avoid over-calling – Constant check-ins can disrupt staff and stress you out more.
During Maven’s first overnight, I checked the webcam so often I’m pretty sure the staff thought I was writing a dissertation on “Frenchie Sleeping Positions.” 😂
Have a Post-Boarding Routine 🏠
Your Frenchie may be extra clingy (or extra tired) after their stay.
- 🐕 Give them quiet time – Let them decompress at home.
- 🐾 Reinforce routines – Resume feeding, walks, and bedtime as usual.
- ❤️ Shower them with love – A little extra snuggle time never hurts.
Final Thoughts 🌙
Boarding your French Bulldog overnight doesn’t have to be stressful — for either of you.
With the right prep, your Frenchie can have a safe, comfortable stay while you handle your trip, emergency, or just a much-needed night away.
When I pick Maven up after boarding, she acts like I’ve been gone for 10 years… then promptly falls asleep in the car before we’re out of the parking lot. It’s the perfect reminder that while they miss us, they can also handle a night (or two) away just fine.
Your job is to make sure they feel loved, prepared, and cared for — even when you can’t be there. And if you sneak in a little “boarding bag” with treats and bling? Well, that’s just good parenting. 🐾❤️
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