As of 2026, dog boarding in Minnesota typically costs $35–$80+ per night. Basic kennel-style facilities run $35–$50, most Twin Cities metro facilities charge $45–$65, and luxury suite-style boarding runs $60–$80 or more. The advertised rate is only half the story — play time, feedings, and medication fees can add $15–$30 per day at facilities that price them separately.
What drives the price
Sleeping space. The cheapest facilities board dogs in chain-link runs with concrete floors — that's what makes the low rate possible. Private rooms with real walls cost more to build and clean, and that shows up in the nightly price.
What's actually included. This is the big one. Some facilities include play, meals, and medication administration in the rate; others sell each separately. A $42 base rate plus $20 of daily add-ons costs more than a $55 all-inclusive rate.
Location. Twin Cities metro facilities pay metro rents and wages. Facilities 30–45 minutes out — Wright County, for example — often deliver more space for less money, which is why many west-metro families drive past closer options.
Season. Holiday weeks and summer peak periods commonly carry a 10–25% surcharge across the industry.
Typical Minnesota boarding costs compared (2026)
| Basic kennel | Metro facility | Ruffin Inn (Buffalo, MN) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nightly rate | $35–$50 | $45–$65 | $49–$55 flat |
| Sleeping space | Chain-link run or cage | Run or small room | Private suite, solid sheetrock/glass walls |
| Group play | Often +$10–$25/day | Sometimes included | 5+ hrs/day included |
| Feedings | Sometimes +$2–5/meal | Usually included | Included |
| Medication administration | Often +$3–$10/dose | Varies | Routine meds included |
| Multi-dog discount | 0–20% | 10–25% | 30% each additional dog |
| Photo updates | Rare | Sometimes | Frequent, on Facebook |
Ranges reflect typical advertised Minnesota rates as of 2026; individual facilities vary. Ruffin Inn column is our actual published pricing — see the full rate sheet.
How to compare quotes the smart way
Ask every facility the same question: "For my dog — with their feeding schedule, their medications, and daily play — what is the total per night?" Then compare those numbers. While you're at it, ask what the dog sleeps in and whether anyone verifies that feedings and meds actually happened. Our 10-point checklist for choosing a boarding facility covers the full list.
Frequently asked
How much does dog boarding cost in Minnesota?
Most Minnesota boarding facilities charge between $35 and $80 per night as of 2026. Basic kennel-run facilities run $35–$50, Twin Cities metro facilities typically $45–$65, and luxury or suite-style boarding $60–$80+. Watch the add-ons: play time, feedings, and medication administration are often charged separately.
What does Ruffin Inn charge for boarding?
Ruffin Inn in Buffalo, MN charges $49 per night all-inclusive — private suite with solid walls, 5+ hours of supervised group play, feedings, and routine medication administration included. Each additional dog from the same family is 30% off. A guaranteed 54 sq ft Large Room is $55/night.
Why do some facilities look cheaper but cost more?
Many facilities advertise a low base rate, then charge separately for group play ($10–$25/day), medication administration ($3–$10/dose), and meals. A $40 base rate can become $60+ per night. Always compare the all-in number for YOUR dog's needs, not the advertised rate.
Do boarding prices go up around holidays?
Usually, yes. Peak-period surcharges of 10–25% are common across Minnesota for major holidays and summer weeks. Ruffin Inn's peak premium is 15%, disclosed up front on our rates page, and long stays of 10+ nights get 10% off.
See exactly what $49/night includes
One all-inclusive rate: private suite, 5+ hours of daily play, feedings, and routine meds. No surprise add-ons at pickup.