If you are a pet owner, each trip brings the same question: Where will my beloved dog stay? Most dog owners have likely faced this situation at some point. In such cases, a dog centre would generally be an ideal option. However, choosing the right ‘dog hotel’ is not just about convenience, but also crucial for ensuring your dog’s comfort and well-being. Consider what extra amenities are important to you, whether it’s grooming, training, or socialization opportunities, and make sure the facility offers those services. Before you book a stay at the centre, it’s essential to ensure that your dog’s vaccinations and medication are up to date. From diet preferences to special medical needs, most facilities take the time to learn about your dog’s routine and adapt their services accordingly. Items from home, like a favourite toy or blanket, can provide comfort and make your dog feel more at ease.

Safety first

One of the primary concerns of any dog owner is safety, and Centro Canino do Algarve in Albufeira is built with this in mind. The facility is designed to provide a safe environment with fenced play areas and secured enclosures. “Each dog needs to go through evaluation with my own dogs to see if he can co-exist with other dogs and how is his personality and behaviour. Those who show signs of unstable behaviour need to stay in an individual cage as we cannot risk anything. Although I don’t like the idea of separate cages, safety is in the first place,” João, owner of Centro Canino explained. During the day, all dogs socialize and play together, while at night they sleep in individual spaces.

It is important to try to stay calm at drop-off, as dogs pick up on our emotions, so staying calm and positive can help them feel secure. Always share any important details, what your dog likes, dislikes and if there are any specific needs they may have.

A lifelong passion

João always liked dogs, had a lot of experience with them since his childhood, so when the right space came, and after he got all his qualifications, the decision to open a place for dogs was natural.

When it comes to hiring people, for João is most important that people who work with him genuinely like dogs. He wants them to take care of the dogs the same way as they take care of their dogs at home, just in bigger quantities in the hotel.

Leaving your dog can be stressful (for both owner and the dog), but João tries to make this experience as stress-free as possible. He provides daily photos and videos at the end of the day so you can see your dog and know he is in good hands.

“We are transparent about our policies, care practices, and staff qualifications. You can meet the staff and discuss any specific concerns before boarding.”


99% of clients’ reviews are positive and most clients are local, but there are also foreign clients who regularly look for this service.

“Dogs are highly intelligent and most of them understand that staying here is only a temporary situation. They enjoy their time here.”

I asked João what his typical day looks like. “Each of my days is completely different as working with people and their dogs brings various situations. The daily tasks and responsibilities vary so I don’t get bored from stereotype.”

There is never a low season in the dog hotel, they are always busy, just certain periods are even busier and that is summer, mostly August and Christmas time, as during this time many people go on holiday.

Services and future plans

As the owner explains, now he doesn’t have the intention to expand the place; they already offer everything they wanted to. “We have a hotel, creche, home services, training and veterinary support. We also offer dogs’ grooming, which involves bathing, hair trimming, cleaning ears, nails and teeth”. Grooming is about aesthetics but plays an essential role in maintaining a dog’s health. He wants to maintain the place as it is, just add more organisation, because with so many dogs, organization is really important and, in the future, try to select clients, even though that is a difficult task, but unfortunately not all the dog owners are transparent about their dog’s personality and then problematic situations might occur.

Finding the perfect home away

Choosing the right place with professional care, socialization opportunities, and a secure environment can give your dog a fun experience, making it a good option when you need to be away.

Author

Tereza Pedro is originally from Slovakia and now based in the Algarve, with a master’s in mass media. Passionate about lifestyle and storytelling, she captures the essence of daily life through a blend of creativity, international perspective, and coastal living—all while raising her son.

Tereza Pedro