Sydney's kennels and catteries publish more about price than about availability. Of the 12 providers we track, not one has published how full it is for Christmas 2026, so the only way to know is to call. Here's what they do publish.
What dog boarding costs in Sydney
All 9 Sydney kennels we track publish a standard rate. The lowest rates start at $45 per dog per day, with a median of about $64. Most sit between $45 and $92; luxury suites cost more, up to $142 a day. Size, room type and whether the kennel charges per day or per night all change the total. See the full table on Sydney dog boarding prices.
For cats, the 6 Sydney catteries we track start from $30.50 to $60 a day, with a median of about $39. Compare them on Sydney cat boarding prices.
Christmas minimum stays
Sydney's Christmas rules are strict, and they're set per provider:
- 7-day minimum charge over Christmas and New Year at Pet Resorts Australia (Dural and Ingleside) and Barnstone Kennels & Cattery.
- 10-day minimum for bookings 22 December to 4 January at SmallPaws Pet Hotel.
- 14-night minimum at Aragon Cattery for any dates 18 December to 4 January, and for Hotel for Cats' larger suites over Christmas.
Deposits and payment
Pet Resorts Australia takes a 25% non-refundable booking fee. Sydney Pet Resort wants full payment 30 days before a Christmas check-in. Dogs in Town says its peak-season deposits are non-refundable. Others don't publish their terms, so ask before you pay.
The Sydney Christmas 2026 tracker is updated weekly with each provider's peak dates, minimum stays and deposits.
How to book without the stress
- Call before you book flights. No Sydney provider we track publishes availability, so confirm your dates first.
- Check vaccinations early. Most kennels ask for C5 for dogs and F3 for cats, often 10–14 days before arrival.
- Count the days, not the nights. Many Sydney kennels charge per calendar day, including arrival and departure.
- Have a plan B. If kennels are full, a pet sitter or home boarding may suit better.
For a step-by-step list, use the Christmas boarding checklist. Heading south or north instead? Read our Melbourne and Brisbane guides.
Packing for their stay
A familiar bed or blanket, their usual food and a favourite toy can help them settle in. Browse The Journey for carriers and travel gear, or The Sanctuary for beds and blankets that smell like home.
Prices and rules are copied from providers' own websites as of 23 October 2026 and can change. Always confirm with the provider before booking.