What truly sets Dog Hotel Amsterdam apart from a traditional boarding kennel or a standard day care is our structured, active day programme. Rather than spending the day in a kennel or a restricted area, dogs enjoy home-style spaces to relax in, alongside meaningful physical exercise and mental enrichment.

In every 3-hour care block, we prioritise quality time outdoors. We take dogs on adventurous walks through some of the most beautiful natural areas close to Amsterdam, including Waterland, the Amsterdamse Bos and (when suitable) the beach. These outings are ideal for energetic dogs, but they’re just as valuable for dogs who prefer to sniff, explore and socialise at their own pace. New environments, scents and experiences support both physical fitness and emotional balance.

In short: your dog gets the freedom to move, learn, play and unwind in a calm, caring environment – a far richer and more balanced stay than most traditional options can offer.

Is a traditional boarding kennel right for your dog?

A boarding kennel can be a safe, practical solution for straightforward care. Dogs typically stay in kennels and have set feeding and outdoor routines. However, many kennels offer less one-to-one attention, limited space and more noise, which can be stressful for dogs who are sensitive to changes or who crave company.

If your dog is independent and settles well in a kennel environment, a boarding kennel may suit them. If they thrive on companionship, longer walks, enrichment and a calm home-style setting, a dog hotel is often the better fit.

Is day care / a dog-walking service right for your dog?

Day care and dog-walking services are excellent for shorter absences during the day (for example, when you’re at work). They usually include one or more walks and supervised play, but they don’t offer the same level of continuous care and comfort as an overnight stay.

Our approach combines the best of both worlds: a safe, comfortable place to rest plus a bespoke programme built around nature walks, structured activity and individual attention. Because we work in clear 3-hour time blocks, we can tailor the day to your dog’s energy level, temperament and needs.

Short walk (30 minutes)
Ideal for dogs who only need a quick leg-stretch, or for senior dogs who benefit from gentler exercise. This is a calm walk locally, with time to sniff, toilet and reset, plus plenty of reassurance and attention.

Standard walk (60 minutes)
Our 60-minute walk is the perfect everyday option. It’s a proper outing in green areas, giving your dog space to trot, explore and enjoy the fresh air. We balance movement with enrichment, so it’s not just exercise – it’s quality time outdoors.

Long walk (90–120 minutes)
For active dogs who need more, we offer extended 90–120 minute adventures in the countryside around Amsterdam. Think Waterland’s open polders and waterways, the Amsterdamse Bos, or the beach when it suits your dog. These longer walks provide the freedom to move, explore and burn off energy in a safe, supervised way.

After-walk care
After a standard or long walk, we make sure your dog is comfortable and tidy. We gently brush the coat to remove loose hair, clean paws (mud/sand) and dry them if the weather is wet. That way your dog can relax indoors, clean and content.

At Dog Hotel Amsterdam we look beyond physical exercise. We structure the day around what dogs naturally need, so they feel balanced and fulfilled.

Sniffing and exploring
A dog’s sense of smell is their primary way of understanding the world. We build in time for sniffing and exploration on every walk. It’s calming, mentally stimulating and hugely enriching.

Movement and chase play
Many dogs have a strong drive to run, play and “chase”. Our longer walks offer safe space for active dogs to stretch their legs, move freely and let off steam.

Social contact
Dogs are social animals, but social needs vary. We support healthy interaction with compatible dogs and plenty of positive human contact, always under supervision.

Rest and recovery
Just as important as activity is downtime. After exercise, dogs need calm, comfortable rest to decompress and recover – especially seniors and young dogs. We plan for that balance throughout the day.

Senior dogs deserve a pace and routine that supports their comfort. We tailor care to your dog’s mobility, stamina and preferences – with gentler walks, more rest breaks and close observation.

We focus on steady movement (without overdoing it), calm enrichment and a stress-free environment. If your dog needs medication or specific support, we follow your instructions carefully so they feel safe and settled.

Puppies need extra care, structure and patience. We provide a safe, supportive environment that helps your young dog grow in confidence while staying properly rested.

Socialisation
Early experiences matter. We introduce puppies to other dogs in a calm, controlled way, prioritising positive interactions and avoiding overwhelm.

Training and routine
Puppies thrive on consistency. We maintain a clear routine and can reinforce basic cues and good manners using positive methods. If you’re working on housetraining, we support that with frequent breaks and guidance.

Age-appropriate exercise and enrichment
We balance play with gentle, appropriate exercise and short enrichment moments so your puppy stays engaged without becoming overtired.

Rest and comfort
Because puppies are developing rapidly, sleep is essential. We make sure your puppy has plenty of quiet downtime, so they don’t become over-stimulated and can enjoy their day safely.

We hope this page gives you a clear picture of what our all-inclusive service looks like in practice – and how it compares with a boarding kennel or standard day care / dog walking.

If you’d like advice on what’s best for your dog (including walk length, puppy/senior support, or suitability), please get in touch. We’ll be happy to help.