The Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Kennel Property
Buying a kennel property — whether for boarding, daycare, training, grooming, breeding, or rescue work — is an exciting opportunity. But for first-time buyers, the process can feel overwhelming. A kennel purchase isn’t just about buying real estate — it’s about investing in a business, lifestyle, and set of responsibilities.
This guide breaks the process down into manageable steps so you can move forward with confidence.
1. Define Your Purpose and Goals
Before you start looking, get clear on why you’re buying a kennel and what you need it to do for you.
• Commercial operation – Boarding, daycare, grooming, training, or a combination.
• Hobby or personal use – Breeding, rescue, or personal dog facilities.
• Expansion – Adding services to an existing business.
Tip: Your intended use will influence location, size, zoning, budget, and facility layout.
2. Understand Your Budget and Financing Options
Kennel properties often require specialized financing.
• Traditional mortgage – May apply for residential or mixed-use properties.
• Commercial loan – For larger operations or when buying the business along with real estate.
• SBA loans – Common for kennel purchases; may require a detailed business plan and financial projections.
• Cash purchase – Simplifies the process but still requires due diligence.
Tip: Work with a lender experienced in pet care or kennel properties to avoid delays or denials.
3. Learn About Zoning and Regulations
Kennels have specific zoning requirements that vary by location.
• Confirm allowable use – Make sure the property is legally approved for kennel operations.
• Licensing requirements – Some municipalities require kennel licenses or inspections.
• Noise and neighbor considerations – Check for barking ordinances and buffer requirements.
• Animal welfare regulations – Be prepared to meet any local, state, or federal care standards.
4. Identify the Right Location
Your location impacts business potential, convenience, and quality of life.
• Proximity to target market – For commercial kennels, being near populated areas helps attract clients.
• Accessibility – Easy for customers, staff, and suppliers to reach.
• Surrounding environment – Peaceful for the dogs and without problematic neighbors.
5. Evaluate the Facility and Property
Look for features that match your needs and allow for growth.
• Kennel buildings – Number, size, and condition of runs.
• Play yards – Fenced, safe, and well-drained.
• Grooming/training areas – Dedicated spaces or room to create them.
• Storage – For food, cleaning supplies, equipment, and records.
• Utilities – Reliable water, electricity, heating/cooling, and waste management systems.
• Safety and sanitation – Easy-to-clean surfaces, secure fencing, and proper drainage.
6. Decide: Buy With or Without an Existing Business
• With a business – Immediate income, existing clients, trained staff, and operational systems.
• Without a business – Lower purchase price and full freedom to design your own operation, but requires building from scratch.
7. Do Your Due Diligence
Before making an offer, investigate the property and business thoroughly.
• Financial review – If buying a business, review at least 3 years of tax returns, profit-and-loss statements, and balance sheets.
• Property inspection – Have a qualified inspector check buildings, systems, and infrastructure.
• Zoning and permits – Confirm compliance and any transferable licenses.
• Equipment and inventory – Determine what’s included and its condition.
8. Plan for Staffing and Operations
If you’re running a commercial kennel, you’ll need a team and systems.
• Staffing needs – Kennel attendants, groomers, trainers, managers.
• Training – Consistent service and safety protocols.
• Standard operating procedures – Written systems for daily tasks, emergencies, and client care.
9. Prepare for Ownership
Owning a kennel means balancing property management, animal care, and business operations.
• Property upkeep – Regular repairs, cleaning, and maintenance.
• Animal care responsibilities – Meeting health, safety, and welfare standards every day.
• Client relations – For commercial kennels, excellent communication and customer service are essential.
10. Work With the Right Professionals
First-time buyers benefit from expert guidance.
• Real estate agent – Choose one with experience in kennel and pet care properties.
• Attorney – For contracts, licenses, and compliance.
• Lender – Familiar with kennel financing.
• Accountant – To review financials and plan for taxes.
The Bottom Line
Buying your first kennel property is a big step — but with clear goals, proper planning, and the right team, it can be an exciting and rewarding investment. The more prepared you are before you begin, the smoother your buying journey will be.
At Kennel Connect, we guide first-time buyers through every step — from finding the right property to closing the deal — so you can start your new chapter with confidence.
