10 Things to Look for in a Dog Daycare (Why Oz Wagtails Leads the Pack in Brisbane)

Finding the Perfect Daycare for Your Dog

Choosing a dog daycare isn’t just about convenience — it’s about ensuring your pet’s safety, comfort, and wellbeing.

A quick search on Google will show that not all centres offer the same options or level of care.
Some shine with consistent praise; and others fall short.

Here’s a 10-point checklist for picking the right dog daycare in Brisbane, with a comparison of common pitfalls and how Oz Wagtails in Darra, West Brisbane gets it right.

1. Collar & Lead Safety

Some Dog Daycare centres: Leave collars on in play areas, risking tangles or injuries while dogs are at play.
At Oz Wagtails: We remove collars and leads on arrival, store them on clearly labelled boards, and only put them back on at pick-up time.

2. Air-Conditioned Comfort

Other centres: Have limited or no climate control, leading to discomfort during Brisbane’s hot and muggy summer days.
Oz Wagtails: Is fully air-conditioned year-round, keeping dogs cool in summer and comfortable in winter . This is especially important for heat-sensitive breeds.

3. Twice-Daily Cleaning Routine

Other centres: Infrequent cleaning, which creates odours and allows unwanted germs to linger.
Oz Wagtails: All our play areas are cleaned just before midday and at the end of the day using pet-safe cleaning products, following hygiene recommendations as stated from the QLD animal premises guidelines.

4. Fresh Water at All Times

Other centres: Limited water stations or poorly maintained bowls.
Oz Wagtails: Multiple water bowls in each area, refreshed and cleaned with Vet grade and pet-safe cleaning products, multiple times throughout the day to prevent dehydration.

5. Grouping by Personality, Not Just Size

Other centres: Sort dogs by size only, which can lead to less positive interaction and play, signs of stress and the possibility of conflict.
Oz Wagtails: Dogs are matched by temperament and personality. Quieter dogs enjoy the “small side,” while more energetic dogs play in the “large side”, ensuring every dog is comfortable and enjoys their stay.

6. Qualified, Attentive Staff

Other centres: Understaffed or inexperienced carers.
Oz Wagtails: Staff are trained in dog behaviour and safe handling. We have multiple trainers and a Vet nurse that brings over 32 years of experience to the centre.

7. Indoor and Outdoor Play Options

Other centres: Small or no outdoor space for dogs to explore.
Oz Wagtails: Spacious indoor and outdoor play zones, allowing dogs to move freely and enjoy a variety of environments.

8. High Hygiene Standards

Clean environments reduce the spread of disease and make for happier dogs.
Oz Wagtails follows industry best practices by using pet-safe disinfectants, regularly sanitising bowls, and cleaning high-contact surfaces regularly with pet-safe disinfectants.

9. Transparent Communication

Other centres: Limited updates or no communication during the day.
Oz Wagtails: We update our social media accounts almost daily with and feedback so owners always know how their dog is doing, building trust and peace of mind.

10. Location and Accessibility

Other centres: Remote or inconvenient locations that make drop-off difficult.
Oz Wagtails: Located in Darra, West Brisbane, close to major roads for easy drop-off and pick-up.

Why This Matters for Your Dog

Daycares that neglect safety, hygiene, or supervision risk both the physical and emotional wellbeing of dogs in their care. By choosing a centre that consistently meets high standards, you give your dog a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

See the Oz Wagtails Difference

Address: Unit 1/28 Sumners Road, Darra QLD 4076
Phone: (07) 3279 6199
Website: www.wagtails.com.au

Book a visit today and see why our tails are always wagging.