Is It Ok To Send Your Dog Away For Training?

While it’s common knowledge that every dog needs training, not all training methods will work effectively. Identifying what kind of training will work best for your dog or puppy is the first step to successful training. There is no better way to simplify this than involving great trainers providing obedience lessons and a range of other hard-to-handle dog behaviors. Dog training is a rigorous affair, and a DIY approach can be not only complex but also time-consuming, given that you’ll need to learn how to train it effectively. You’ll have to create lots of time out of your likely busy work and social schedule. 

The good thing is that there are many training programs offered by various reputable dog training companies you can choose from. Many people find themselves jittery about the idea of sending their dogs or puppies on boot camp training. However, having your dog enrolled in a certified board and trained facility may be the best decision you will ever make for your dog’s best behavior. It’s the best way to fix wayward behaviors like your dog jumping on guests or stealing food to other basic obedience behaviors. Only ensure to do your due diligence before entrusting a training facility with your dog.  

What Are Board & Train (Dog Boot Camp) Programs?

As the name suggests, board and train mean having your dog get hosted and trained by a professional dog trainer either in their residence or training facility. Most of them will accept dogs from the age of 7 weeks. The dog training program focuses on various areas such as basic obedience skills, polishing up their manners, walking on a leash, custom training plans, and many others. The best training facilities have expert trainers who know the importance of thoroughly evaluating a dog or puppy before coming up with the most suitable training plan. 

Do Dog Board And Train Programs Work?

Whether or not a board and train program will work is primarily dependent on the training facility you settle on. While there are thousands of successful dog training sessions, there is also a significant number of dissatisfied dog owners; some who had seemingly successful training followed by relapses and some whose dogs never changed after training. A reputable board and train facility will provide you with a practical guide on reinforcing the new behavior in the home scenario after training. You should also be willing to punish or refrain from rewarding any form of deviant behavior if that is to be part of the training plan. 

Crucial Aspects To Choosing A Dog Board And Train Program

Various board and train professionals in the market have different programs. These programs have varied training approaches and effectiveness depending on the trainer, making it pertinent to know what to look out for in a potential one; it is essential to settle for one who’ll provide the best training approach befitting your particular dog and your expectations. Below are some crucial things you should consider before settling for a dog trainer;

• Is Their Environment Right For Your Dog?

It’s a good idea to visit the facility or trainer’s residence to evaluate if the environment is conducive for your dog or puppy. Some of the things to look into include the professionality level of the staff, general cleanness of the facility, how other dogs look, ventilation, availability of custom food, freshwater, and more. The ideal trainer should also evaluate your lifestyle and match it with their training goals. They should simulate the same home environment the dog is familiar with, including food. You should also know their training schedule and allow enough outdoor time. 

• How Will They Handle Transition After The Training?

Even expert dog trainers know that successful training of dogs doesn’t start and end in a dog board and training facility. It’s a lengthy process involving effective handling of the transition period. During this period, your dog could easily relapse due to its previous attachment to destructive behaviors while at home. To counter this, most training companies make owners commit to follow-through. They are briefed on implementing the dog’s commands for a successful transition. For the best results, they should do this consistently. Ask what plans they have in ensuring the success of your dog’s Transition after training. 

• Do Their Training Programs Match Your Expectations?

Professional dog trainers will want to know your expectations from the training to understand how to customize your dog’s training program better. They know the nature of dog behavior and the importance of spelling out training goals. For a training program to be effective, it must incorporate training goals. Ensure that their training program is suitable for your dog’s best interest.