Training your dog can be a daunting undertaking. You need the right tools, techniques, and knowledge to get your pup to learn the behaviors you want. For those of us who don’t have the time or patience, there is a great option that can help make training easier: board and train.
What is Board and Train?
Board and train is an intensive dog training program in which your pup stays with a professional trainer for a set amount of time, usually ranging from one week to several weeks. During this time, the trainer works with your dog on basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, coming when called, heel, down-stay, place command (stationing in one spot), leave it (not taking something they shouldn’t), etc. The goal of board and train is to give you a well-trained dog that has good manners when it returns home.
Benefits of Board and Train
The biggest benefit of board and train is that it is a quick and efficient way to get your pup trained. In just a few weeks, you can have a well-mannered dog who understands all the basics and will listen even when surrounded by distractions. Trainers also typically work on socializing your pup with other dogs and to new environments so they are comfortable in any situation. Finally, board and train gives you peace of mind because you know your pup is being taken care of by an experienced professional while you’re away.
Finding the Right Trainer
Before entrusting the care of your pup to a board and train program, it’s essential that you do your homework. Look for trainers who use positive reinforcement methods such as clicker training or treat training. Avoid trainers who use harsh methods such as shock collars or physical punishment.
Research everything from the business’s credentials to how their programs are structured and conducted. Ask for references and read reviews to make sure the trainer is experienced and knowledgeable, and be sure you are aware of and comfortable with the type of training techniques that will be used. You don’t want to be left with horror stories of dogs being mistreated or put in danger during a board and train program – so make sure you choose wisely!
Board and train can be a great option for those looking for a quick and efficient way to get their pup trained. With the right trainer, you can have a well-mannered dog in no time!
How Does It Work?
The first step in any board and train program is for the owner to communicate what behaviors they would like their dog to learn or improve upon. This will provide the trainer with an understanding of what needs to be worked on while your pup is in their care. Then the pup will stay with the trainer for the duration of their training program. The trainer should communicate with you throughout this process by providing updates via email or text message about how your pup is doing and what behaviors are being taught. After completion of the board and train program, most trainers offer follow-up sessions where you can go over what your dog learned during the program so that you can continue reinforcing these behaviors at home.
Quick Fix?
Board and train is not a quick fix solution for your every serious behavior problem. A dog is not a computer that you can delete and reprogram. Professional dog training takes time, commitment and knowledge about why a dog’s issues arise and how to change behavior effectively. Too often dog training companies don’t care about the dogs’ emotions, or how and why the dog learns basic manners. Some even guarantee 100% obedience. A board and train facility that offers guarantees on a living beings behavior will very likely use force and aversive tools and methods to make sure your pet complies.
Advantages & Disadvantages
The main advantage of board and train programs is that it allows you to have a professionally trained dog without having to put in hours of work yourself, which is especially useful if you have a busy schedule. However, this comes at an added investment compared to other training methods. Additionally, since your pup won’t be living in their own home environment during this time, there may be an adjustment period for your dog in acclimating back into their regular routine once they return home from board and train due to the changes in the dog’s environment/schedule/etc.
What are the advantages of using a board and train service?
Advantages
• Quick and efficient way to get your pup trained by an expert
• Professional trainers use positive reinforcement methods
• Gives you peace of mind knowing your pup is in experienced hands
• Promotes socialization with other dogs
• Teaches basic obedience commands quickly and effectively
• No need to put in hours of work yourself
What are the disadvantages of using a board and train service?
Disadvantages
• Added cost compared to other training methods
• Potential adjustment period when returning home due to changes in environment/schedule/etc
• Risk of an inexperienced or unqualified trainer if not researched properly
• Not able to observe dog’s behavior and progress in real time as with other at-home training methods
• Potential for harsh methods such as shock collars or physical punishment if the wrong trainer is chosen
• Possible separation anxiety due to extended periods away from their owners
Overall, board and train programs can be a great way for owners who don’t have much free time or those wishing for more structure when teaching their dogs obedience skills. should still be used responsibly as there are advantages as well as disadvantages associated with them. If you are considering using a board and train program for your pup, do your research before committing to know exactly what kind of services are being offered by each individual provider, as these programs can vary greatly between trainers!
Are you interested in having your puppy trained by professionals you can trust? We have very limited space in our Puppy Camp Program