Board & Care Dog Boarding
Core Canine provides board & care for dogs across Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.
Instead of crowded boarding facilities, dogs stay in a family environment, follow a consistent daily routine, and spend their time alongside us.
A premium alternative to standard kennel care.
CORE CANINE PROFESSIONAL BOARD & CARE
At Core Canine, our Board & Care service provides more than basic accommodation. Dogs in our care live within a structured, calm environment where behaviour, routine, and wellbeing are actively managed, not simply supervised.
This service is designed for owners seeking reliable, professional care for their dog while they’re away, with the reassurance that their dog’s behaviour, routines, and handling standards are maintained throughout their stay.
What Makes Core Canine’s Board & Care Different
Unlike large-scale boarding facilities, our Board & Care program operates with limited capacity, ensuring each dog receives individual attention and appropriate management.
Dogs are integrated into a stable daily routine that supports calm behaviour, predictability, and comfort, particularly important for dogs that don’t thrive in chaotic kennel environments.
Our background in behaviour and training means we don’t just house dogs, we manage behaviour, maintain standards, and prevent unwanted habits from developing during their stay.
Board & Care is offered in two tiers to reflect handling and management requirements
Board & Care is available to both existing and new Core Canine clients.
If you are a new client or your dog has not previously trained with Core Canine, an Initial Consultation / Assessment is required before booking into our Board & Care service.
This allows us to understand your dog’s behaviour, handling requirements, and daily routine before their stay, and ensures owners are aligned with our structure and management protocols.
Standard Dog Rate
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Suitable for trained and well-managed dogs
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24/7 Supervision and care
Dangerous Dog Rate
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Dogs displaying human aggression
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24/7 Supervision and care
Board & Care Rates, Policies & Booking Information
Minimum Stay
All Board & Care bookings are subject to a 3 night minimum charge.
Shorter stays may be accommodated where availability allows, however the booking cost will reflect the 3-night minimum stay.
Public Holiday Policy
A $50 surcharge per dog, per day applies on public holidays.
There are no drop-offs or pick-ups on public holidays.
Payment Terms
Deposit to secure booking: $250
Bookings under 5 days
Full payment is required at the time of drop-off.
Bookings of 5 days or more
• First instalment: 50% of the remaining balance due the day before drop-off (excluding deposit)
• Final instalment: Remaining balance due the day before pick-up (less deposit already paid)
Holiday Period Policy
Effective: 15 December to 15 January
Due to increased demand and limited availability during the holiday period, the following rates apply:
Standard Daily Rate: $150 per day
Human Reactive / Aggressive Dog Rate: $200 per day
Minimum booking: 5 consecutive nights
A $50 public holiday surcharge per dog, per day still applies where applicable.
A $250 deposit is required to secure all holiday bookings.
Full payment is required at drop-off, minus the deposit already paid.
Bookings that do not meet the 5 night minimum will be charged at the 5 night rate.
Pick-Up & Drop-Off Service
Pick-up and drop-off services are available by arrangement.
• Within 15km of Lilydale (3140): $50
• 15km – 30km of Lilydale (3140): $100
• 30km – 50km of Lilydale (3140): $150
• Over 50km or interstate: Price quoted based on distance. We will contact you directly to confirm.
Who Board & Care Is Suited For
Board & Care is ideal for:
- Dogs already trained through Core Canine programs
- New clients are welcome
- Dogs that benefit from structured routines and calm environments
- Owners wanting higher-quality care than traditional boarding kennels
- Dogs that may struggle in large, high-stimulation facilities
This service is not designed as a high-volume kennel and is intentionally selective to maintain quality of care.
Peace of Mind While You’re Away
Our Board & Care service is built for owners who want confidence that:
- Their dog is safe, settled, and well-managed
- Behaviour standards are upheld
- Care is delivered by experienced professionals
- Their dog returns home settled, not overstimulated
This level of care is what sets Core Canine apart from standard boarding providers.