You know that feeling when you return from a trip with a suitcase full of dirty laundry and you desperately want a laundry service to take all your clothes only to bring them back all cleaned up, ironed, and organized? Well, the concept of dog boarding training is somewhat similar to that. Only instead of dirty laundry it's your doggo and the laundry service is the dog boarding training.
If you can’t create a comprehensive training environment at home for your not-so-well-behaved doggo, this may be the silver lining for you. Dog boarding training is like a finishing school where your dog stays until they are fully trained.
Seems promising? Our article is an in-depth research of what a dog boarding training program is and how useful it can be in certain dog behavioral cases. It will also guide you on how to choose one for your dog. By the time you finish reading, you will be on your way to enrolling your dog in the best dog boarding training programs near you.
What Is A Dog Boarding Training Program
A dog boarding training program, commonly known as board and train, is a blend of traditional dog boarding services with behavior modification techniques under the supervision of expert and knowledgeable trainers.
The boarding training program offers a structured environment for dogs to stay in while receiving professional training and socialization. They are kept at a stimulating kennel facility or the trainer’s home to ensure their safety and comfort.
The best age to board and train a dog depends on the breed type. Also, every dog is unique and the ideal age varies with that individuality as well. It Is generally recommended to begin socializing and training puppies as early as possible. Ideally, the critical socialization period for puppies is between 3 and 16 weeks of age during which they are more receptive to new experiences and learning.
Remember there are no quick fixes when it comes to dog board and train programs. But yes, it comes with varying duration periods. The board and train program typically lasts 2 to 6 weeks depending on the type of training your dog is selected to go through.
Young dogs or puppies aiming to get a better understanding of obedience training and needs practice around it may require 3 weeks.
2 Types Of Dog Boarding Training Programs
While we are at it, let’s get into more detail about the dog boarding training types to make things even clearer.
A. In-Home Board & Train
In this type of program, your dog gets to live with the trainer as part of their family, experiencing the benefits of a home setting. We find this to be the best style of boarding training program because the dog is still in a setting they are familiar with, a home. There is still a couch, bed and kitchen. The dog is living with the trainer just as your pup lives with you!
Because we think it is the best type of boarding training it is the only Boarding and Training Service We Offer!
During the dog’s stay, it will participate in structured training sessions tailored to its specific needs. From basic obedience commands to more advanced skills, the trainer will work closely with your dog to help them learn and develop good behavior.
This is not just any babysitter sort of trainer or casual training. It is an individual training program tailored for your dog with the basics of indoor living and socializing carried out with the trainer’s personal dogs.
B. Kennel Board & Train
In the kennel board and train program, your dog will be accommodated in a dedicated facility alongside other canine companions. Professional trainers will take care of your furry buddy and provide training sessions during their boarding stay. Your dog will have access to spacious kennels, exercise areas, and socialization opportunities with other dogs.
During the program, the trainer will follow a structured training program that covers various aspects of behavior and obedience. This environment can be particularly beneficial for dogs who need to improve their social skills and resolve behavior issues as they will have the chance to interact with other dogs under the guidance of experienced trainers.
Now that we know the different types of dog board and train programs, let's discuss their advantages and see how they can benefit you and your dog.
8 Reasons Why Dog Boarding Training Program Is A Game-Changer
If you think about it, a dog boarding training program comes with a bundle of benefits – for both the dog and the owner. To begin with, this kind of arrangement is pure convenience for pet owners who are running on a tight schedule. But there is so much more to it than just convenience. Let’s take a deeper look into what you gain out of a good board and training program.
1. Behavior Makeover
Dog board training is a one-way ticket to transforming your dog from a mischief-maker to a well-behaved superstar, especially if it is being one tough cookie. These training programs are associated with trainers who are experienced in dealing with dogs from various psychological and behavioral backgrounds.
With these guys guiding them through structured sessions, your furry friend will learn obedience and manners. Their extensive experience helps them understand the intricacies of the dog’s behavior, identify underlying issues, and tailor training techniques accordingly. They also provide the necessary structure and consistency to help them overcome their behavioral hurdles and make progress.
Not only that but they get to learn how to resist the temptation. May it be chewing on your favorite slippers or rearranging your perfectly organized bookshelf. With dog boarding training say goodbye to chaos and hello to harmony.
2. New Environment
A change of routine can work like a charm for dogs to break out of their shell. This holds true especially for those cases of behavioral issues where resilience to learn has hit the roof high. This change of scenery removes all the distractions at home and lets your dog fully focus on what matters – learning.
The consistent routines, dedicated training sessions, and specialized attention will help loosen up that tough cookie and encourage them to embrace new behaviors. Also, this new place houses companion dogs. Watching them follow a routine enhances flexibility and adaptability to accept new environments and things.
So yes, the socialization factor of dog board training can soften their rigid outlook and make them more open to change.
3. Convenience
Dog boarding training program screams convenience and time-saving is the biggest of them all. With a board and train program, professional trainers take the reins so you can focus on your other commitments while they work their magic with your pup. Whether you have a busy work schedule or other activities, you can find a program that fits your needs.
Another aspect of convenience is that board and train programs handle all the logistics for you. No need to worry about organizing training sessions, gathering equipment, or finding suitable training locations. The trainers take care of it all, ensuring that your dog receives the necessary training in a controlled and safe environment.
With Suburban K9's Board and Train Program we even offer Pick-Up and Drop-Off services in the comfort of your home. Any follow up lessons can take place there too!
Travel plans? No problem! Many board and train programs provide boarding facilities as part of the package. So when you're away on vacation or business, you can rest assured that your dog is in capable hands, receiving training and care simultaneously.
4. Healthy Socializing
Board and train programs are socialization galore for dogs. These are social butterflies we are talking about here, just like us humans. They love interacting with their peers. This interaction primes them for positively reacting when they meet new people and adapt to new situations as well.
Dog board training provides them with ample opportunities to interact with their furry peers. All this while being fully supervised by expert dog handlers. Via play time and training sessions, your pup learns proper social skills, builds confidence, and makes new friends. Who knows, your doggy might even be secretly organizing its doggy book club with the clan.
5. Long-Term Results
Do you know why dog owners prefer board and train programs for dogs? Yes, for convenience. But there is another essential aspect it brings to the table. It yields long-lasting results and that is where its beauty lies.
One thing we can vouch for is that these programs don't focus on correcting immediate behavior. The training techniques used are impactful and shape your dog’s habits for life. Board and train programs ensure your dog receives consistent training and reinforcement throughout their stay.
Trainers follow a well-defined plan to reinforce positive behaviors and address any challenges. They lay the groundwork for good manners, impulse control, and positive socialization. By instilling these core principles, your dog is better equipped to navigate various situations and respond appropriately. They learn that the desired behaviors are the norm, even after the program ends.
With their guidance and support, you'll see the training progress stick around for years to come, ensuring a well-behaved pup for the long haul.
6. Consistency & Routine
Dogs thrive when they are kept on a consistent routine. They become clear about what is expected of them and this helps in creating a stronger bond with the owner. With you having a round-the-clock schedule, you would want all the members of your home to move in that harmony. That includes your dog too.
Boarding training programs are experts at creating a structured routine that keeps dogs on track. From designated training sessions to exercise, feeding times, and even rest periods, every aspect of your dog's day follows a carefully planned schedule.
Adhering to this routine, board and train programs reinforce good habits and behaviors. Your dog learns that certain activities happen at specific times which creates a sense of order and predictability – just like a well-rehearsed script where everyone knows their cues and performs flawlessly.
The beauty of a consistent routine extends beyond the training program itself. Once your dog returns home, you can continue following the established schedule and seamlessly integrate the training into your daily life. This continuity helps solidify the learned behaviors and makes the transition smooth for both you and your dog.
7. Enhanced Bonding
One of the highlighted advantages of board and train is the enhanced bond that is built after the dog comes back. You must be thinking how is that possible when the dog had been away all this time? Well, it’s pretty simple.
The consistent training techniques and continuous reinforcement used in boarding training help dogs understand what is expected of them. In return, they respond to their owners' commands more effectively. This improves communication and connection while enhancing the overall relationship between the dog and its owner. Remember, distance makes the heart grow fonder. Yes, that too.
8. Post-Program Support
It is natural to feel lost as a pet owner knowing your pet has been away and trained. You don't know what habits it has taken on (in a good way) and how to deal with them. But these programs won't let you feel that way. If you are talking about reputable companies, then there is another perk to sending your dog to a boarding and training program – continued support and guidance.
These programs don't end when your dog comes home. Most of them provide post-training support and guidance and trainers become your allies in providing follow-up sessions, training materials, tutorials, and advice on maintaining and reinforcing the learned behaviors. This comprehensive support from the trainers empowers the pet owners in building confidence to carry on with what the experts started.
Now this brings us to another burning question - how to pick a board and train program that best suits your needs. Let’s discuss.
How To Choose A Dog Boarding Training Program For Your Dog
So you love the whole concept behind dog boarding training and you are thinking of getting your hands into it. After all, it seems like the best way out for training your ever-so-stubborn dog. Still, the thought of sending your furry friend away for an extended period to a new place is making you perplexed.
Here are some foolproof points to help you in choosing the best facility to send your doggo without a heavy heart.
I. Check Your Trainer’s Qualification
Now this is the first and foremost step to choosing a good board and train program for your dog. Scrutinize their training skills well to know that your doggo will be in experienced and safe hands. You can start by researching the trainer’s credentials and experience.
Look for their education, certifications, and professional affiliations of trainers and other board and train staff members. These credentials will reassure you that your dog will not be at the mercy of a nugget.
II. Consider The Size Of The Company
Carefully evaluate the size of the company you're considering. While a single person operating in your local area may suit some of your needs, opting for a company that covers multiple markets with a team of experienced trainers provides more advantages.
Larger organizations have shown their effectiveness and reliability by expanding their services to multiple locations. Their ability to thrive in different markets indicates that they have a proven track record of success. With a team of trainers, they can offer a wealth of knowledge and expertise to address a wide range of training needs.
A larger organization often invests in resources, infrastructure, and continuous improvement. They have refined their training techniques and curriculum over time, benefiting from the collective experience of their trainers. This means that your dog will have access to a comprehensive training program that has been tried, tested, and refined for optimal results.
III. Inquire About Their Training Philosophy
Ask away any questions that cross your mind. Inquire about the trainer's methods and philosophy to train dogs. A qualified trainer would explain their approach and demonstrate a commitment to the well-being and welfare of the dogs in their care. They will inform you of your dog’s daily activity schedule as well.
The level of supervision provided by the staff is also crucial. Don't forget to ask about their staff-to-dog ratio and safety protocols like emergency procedures and staff training in canine first aid. A reputable dog training company caters to all these safety needs and much more.
IV. Transparency Over The Progress
Smooth communication is the key to success. Find out how the facility communicates with owners during the board and train program. Will they provide regular updates on your dog's progress? Can you reach out to them for updates or concerns?
Clear communication channels and regular updates will give you peace of mind and keep you informed throughout the dog’s training process.
V. Scrutinize The Facility
A very important point that cannot be skipped. If boarding training in a kennel facility make sure to visit the board and train facility before you make any final decision. Look out for how dogs are kept there. Check out the cleanliness factor. Clean and safe kennels, play areas, and training spaces are reassuring and promising.
Other things to watch out for are proper ventilation, secure fencing, and well-maintained equipment. A positive report ensures your dog’s comfort and safety during the stay.
VI. Check Reviews
Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients who used the trainer's board and train services. If the facility is in your local neighborhood, it will be easier to get these reviews and testimonials firsthand from people around you who had an experience with a certain company.
Check online platforms and social media or ask the trainer for references. Take positive feedback and recommendations from satisfied clients as a green signal for booking the program.
VII. How Robust Is The Follow-Up
After your dog graduates from the board and train program, there has to be a process that checks on how the dog is doing. So just to make sure that you and your dog are on the right track as many reputable dog training companies offer a follow-up session.
These sessions allow trainers to assess your dog's progress. This routine also addresses any new challenges that may arise and fine-tune their training if needed. It's like having a post-training check-up to ensure your pup is maintaining their newfound skills.
Suburban K9's Dog Boarding Training: Experience The Difference
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Suburban K9 has always been at the top of the professional dog training pyramid. And why not? We have 17 years of experience and have trained a whopping 15,000 dogs. With a team of 45 highly skilled and certified trainers, we achieved this recognition.
We understand that dogs flourish under individual attention. That is why our board and train boot camp is based on giving personalized training to your dog. If you want to enroll your dog in this program, we start by asking you to fill out a questionnaire that aids in more individualized training that focuses on the problem areas.
Our training philosophy is based on a balanced training technique that combines positive reinforcement and gentle nudges in the right direction to help your dog learn good behavior. We believe that if you involve too many treats and rely solely on positive reinforcement, your dog will never learn to be calm. A balanced approach emphasizes both rewards and corrections to encourage good behavior and discourage bad habits.
During our board and train program, your dog will stay at our trainer’s home who will be responsible for all the training while taking proper care of your dog. To make your dog feel at home, a cozy crate set up in a distraction-free room will be at your dog’s disposal. The duration of this program ranges from 1 to 3 weeks and can be extended if requested and felt needed.
During their stay with us, your furry friend will learn all the important obedience commands like sit, heel, down, stay, and come. We will also potty train them and teach them front door manners. Other than basic commands, you get your dog trained for some useful life skills like counter surfing, nipping, barking, leash pulling, and more.
We take care of all the logistics for our board and train dogs. That's right, we handle the hassle of picking up and dropping off your furry friend. It's our way of making the process as convenient and stress-free as possible for you.
We also have a more comprehensive dog training boot camp that we call Dog Boot Camp Plus, which includes:
- 2-week board and train session
- 14 private lessons in your own home
- 1-week refresher board and train session
- 2 additional follow-up lessons
Conclusion
Imagine how great it would be to drop off your doggo to a boarding program only to pick it up, shining like a star, with all of the training challenges a thing of the past.
If you fully understand the sole concept of dog boarding training and how beneficial it can prove to be in the long run, nothing will measure up against it. One thing you need to know is how reputable and experienced the dog training company is.
At Suburban K9, we know that every dog has a unique personality and comes from a different background. This is why we offer customized training methods. We are big on using a balanced training approach where we teach the dog right from wrong. Get a free quote or contact us now if you are looking to give your dog the best life possible.
