Ruffin Inn provides luxury dog boarding for Elk River, MN families at our eight-acre facility in Buffalo, MN. About 28 minutes from Elk River, MN. Elk River has plenty of its own kennels, so the families who come to Ruffin Inn are after something specific: solid-wall private suites, open play yards, and eight acres of room. For that, the drive across the river is an easy trade. Private suites, supervised group play, and frequent photo updates have earned 5.0 stars across 360+ Google reviews. We also offer daycare, grooming, training, and cat boarding.
Boarding for Elk River families
Elk River is one of our larger Sherburne County draws, and it's a town with real boarding options of its own. The families who choose us tend to want more space and more supervision than a closer indoor facility can give, so they make the roughly half-hour drive west across the Mississippi through Monticello. The open acreage and quiet private suites are why they keep coming back.
Why Elk River dog owners choose Ruffin Inn
- Worth crossing the river. Eight acres, solid-wall private suites, and supervised group yards. Elk River families tell us the space and calm are what the drive buys.
- Luxury boarding environment. Private suites with solid sheetrock or glass walls, group play yards, and raised cots. No chain-link cages, same standards every day.
- Frequent photo updates. More than 5,500 families follow our Facebook for frequent photos. You'll see your dog while they're with us.
- Most-reviewed in Sherburne County. 5.0 stars across 360+ Google reviews from Elk River and beyond.
Getting here from Elk River
About 28 minutes from Elk River, west on I-94 to Monticello, then Highway 25 south across the Mississippi into Buffalo. West across the Mississippi, an easy run by way of Monticello.
Questions from Elk River families
Why drive to Buffalo when Elk River has its own kennels?
Space and supervision. Ruffin Inn sits on eight acres with solid-wall private suites and open group yards run by trained handlers. Elk River families who want more room and a calmer stay than a closer indoor facility offers make the roughly half-hour trip west for it.
How far is Ruffin Inn from Elk River, MN?
Ruffin Inn is approximately 28 minutes from Elk River, MN, at 2667 Dague Ave NE in Buffalo. About 28 minutes from Elk River, west on I-94 to Monticello, then Highway 25 south across the Mississippi into Buffalo.
Do you board dogs from Elk River?
Yes. Many Elk River families board their dogs with us. Pet families across Sherburne County and the surrounding 50 miles choose Ruffin Inn for the luxury boarding environment and the frequent photo updates.
Is Ruffin Inn a luxury boarding facility?
Yes. Every boarding dog gets a private suite with solid sheetrock or glass walls and a raised cot, plays in open group yards with trained handlers, and takes a midday nap break. No chain-link cages or jail-like runs anywhere on the property.
What vaccinations do you require?
Rabies, DHPP (distemper combo), and Bordetella, with Bordetella administered at least 7 days before the first stay. Same requirements for boarding, daycare, grooming, and training.
Can I tour the facility before my dog stays?
Yes. We have an open-door tour policy. Drop in during business hours, or schedule a tour through our booking portal. Tours typically take 10 to 15 minutes.
How much does dog boarding cost?
Boarding starts at $49 per night for the first dog as one all-inclusive rate, with 30% off each additional dog from the same family. See our rates page for current pricing on all services.
Also serving nearby
Book your Elk River dog's first stay
New families get a quick orientation visit before the first overnight.
Or call (763) 682-4247