Dog Board and Train Programs: What to Know & Alternative Options

Board and train programs, often called ‘dog boot camps,’ offer a comprehensive solution for owners struggling with their dog’s behavior issues, from house soiling puppies to adult dogs with reactivity or aggression. These programs provide intensive, professional training where dogs reside in the trainer’s facility for an extended period, typically two weeks or more. While they promise a transformed pet, it’s vital for owners to understand their operations, potential pitfalls, and alternative training methods before making a commitment.

What Is Board and Train?

Board and train facilities are immersive training centers where owners temporarily surrender their dogs for intensive professional training. These programs last from two weeks to several months, depending on the dog’s needs and the issues addressed. During their stay, dogs work one-on-one with a trainer who aims to instill manners, obedience, and resolve problematic behaviors. The promise: owners receive a well-behaved, more manageable dog at the end of the program.

• Duration typically ranges from two weeks to a month or more
• Trainers focus on issues such as house training, basic obedience, leash manners, and even aggression or fear
• Dogs often live in a kennel-like environment but may also stay in the trainer’s home, depending on the provider

While the appeal of an instant transformation is strong, it’s essential to look beyond the promises and evaluate whether this method is the right fit for you and your dog.

How Board and Train Programs Work

The typical process of a board and train program includes:

• Initial Assessment: Trainers evaluate your dog’s history, personality, and specific behavioral challenges.
• Customized Training Plan: Based on the initial assessment, trainers create a plan targeting basic obedience, house manners, or more complex issues like reactivity.
• Intensive Training Sessions: Dogs receive daily, focused training, sometimes in both individual and group settings, to maximize learning and socialization.
• Trainer Updates: Reputable facilities provide regular updates, videos, or progress reports to keep owners informed.
• Transfer Sessions: Upon completion, trainers spend time with owners to transfer skills and teach necessary cues and commands for consistent reinforcement at home.

Despite the comprehensive nature of these programs, the work isn’t finished once your dog returns. Long-term success hinges on ongoing reinforcement and owner involvement.

Types of Board and Train Facilities

Not all board and train facilities are the same. Owners can choose between a variety of options, such as:

• Kennel-based Programs: Dogs stay in a structured kennel environment, often with other dogs.
• In-home Programs: Training takes place in a trainer’s home, simulating a traditional household and family life.
• Specialized Programs: Some facilities focus on specific issues, such as aggression, service dog training, or advanced obedience.

The environment, methods, and intensity can vary widely. It’s crucial to visit potential facilities, meet trainers, and ensure their philosophies align with your goals for your dog.

Promised Results vs. Realistic Expectations

Many board and train programs advertise rapid, dramatic transformations. However, it’s important to manage expectations:

• Behavior Change Takes Time: Deep-seated behaviors, especially fear and aggression, require ongoing effort even after the program ends.
• Owner Involvement Is Essential: Dogs learn best when their families are part of the process. Without consistent follow-up at home, old habits can quickly resurface.
• Transfer Training: Trainers may speak a different ‘language’ with your dog. Owners must learn and maintain those cues and routines for lasting results.

Before enrolling, clarify what is realistically achievable in a set period and what your role will be in reinforcing the training at home.

Pros of Board and Train Programs

• Professional Expertise: Trainers have experience dealing with a vast array of behaviors and can jump-start your dog’s learning process.
• Structured Environment: Dogs receive consistent routines, socialization, and clear boundaries.
• Time Efficiency: For busy owners, boarding allows the dog to make progress even when personal schedules are tight.
• Jump Start for Problem Behaviors: Trainers may rapidly address problem behaviors, setting the dog and owner up for success back home.

Cons and Potential Risks of Board and Train

• Owner Absence: Dogs learn best alongside their guardians. Separation can cause stress or anxiety and make in-home transfer of skills difficult.
• Quality Varies: Not all facilities are created equal; training methods and staff qualifications can differ greatly.
• Methods Used: Some facilities may employ harsh punishment-based techniques. Always ask about training philosophy and practices before committing.
• Limited Customization: Group settings may not address unique needs; dogs risk learning issues not relevant to them.
• Cost: Board and train programs are often expensive, sometimes costing thousands of dollars.

What to Look for in a Board and Train Facility

Choosing the right facility ensures safety, comfort, and effectiveness. Key considerations include:

• Trainer Credentials: Seek certifications, experience, and professional affiliations.
• Training Philosophy: Favor positive reinforcement, science-based approaches over aversive or punitive techniques.
• Facility Conditions: Visit in person, observe cleanliness, safety, and how staff interacts with dogs.
• Owner Communication: Look for facilities offering frequent updates, reports, or owner training sessions.
• Post-Board Support: Training must continue at home. Quality programs include transfer lessons and ongoing support.

Risks and Cautions

Though many trainers are professional and well-intentioned, the unregulated nature of the industry means some may use outdated or harsh punishment-based strategies. In some cases, dogs have returned home exhibiting fear, anxiety, or even new unwanted behaviors. Owners should consider:

• Visiting facilities before enrolling
• Requesting references or reviews from previous clients
• Asking specifically about the methods and tools used during training
• Ensuring staff can handle medical emergencies or behavioral crises

Is Board and Train Right for Your Dog?

Board and train can be effective for certain cases, but may not be ideal for every dog or problem. Consider your dog’s temperament, the issues you’re hoping to solve, and your own willingness to follow through with training at home. For severe behavior problems (such as aggression or deep-seated fears), ongoing support and owner education are critical.

Alternative Training Options

If board and train isn’t a fit, consider these alternatives:

• Private Lessons: Work one-on-one with a trainer in your home, where problem behaviors are most likely to occur.
• Group Classes: Socialize and train your dog in a controlled, group setting led by a professional. These are ideal for basic skills and socialization.
• Day Training: Similar to daycare, your dog spends the day with a trainer but sleeps at home, keeping you more involved in the process.
• Do-It-Yourself Training: Utilize videos, books, and online resources for home-based learning. Many reputable sources, such as AKC.tv, offer free guides and instruction for teaching essential obedience skills.
• AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program: A structured path to teaching your dog basic manners, safety, and socialization skills. Certified CGC trainers and evaluators can provide the foundation for further training.

Alternative Training Comparison Table

Maintaining Behavior After Board and Train

Success doesn’t end when your dog comes home. Here’s how to support your dog’s new skills:

• Attend all follow-up or transfer sessions offered by the trainer
• Practice commands and routines daily
• Maintain consistency in expectations, cues, and rewards
• Communicate regularly with the trainer for troubleshooting and advice

Dogs thrive on consistency. Without continued, at-home practice, even the best-trained dogs can revert to previous habits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long do board and train programs usually last?

A: Most board and train programs last between two and six weeks, though some complex cases may require longer stays.

Q: Are all board and train facilities safe?

A: Many facilities are reputable, but the industry is unregulated in many areas. Always tour the facility, ask about methods, and check references before enrolling your dog.

Q: Will my dog forget me during their stay?

A: Most dogs do not forget their owners during a board and train stay. However, separation may cause stress or anxiety in some dogs.

Q: Can board and train fix all behavior problems?

A: While useful for jump-starting training, board and train can’t guarantee permanent behavior changes unless owners reinforce training at home.

Q: How do I maintain my dog’s training after the program?

A: Consistently practice commands, attend follow-up lessons, and maintain communication with the trainer for ongoing support.

Conclusion

Board and train programs can be a valuable tool for owners facing challenging behaviors or time constraints. However, their success depends on the quality of the facility, the methods used, and especially owner involvement after the program ends. Always research trainers thoroughly and consider alternative options to determine the best fit for your dog’s individual needs.

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

Read full bio of Anjali Sayee