You might consider letting your dog stay with a trainer to get some intense training. This arrangement is often called a “board-and-train” arrangement, but it can also be referred to as a “boot camp” for dog training. It has its pros and cons. Your dog might learn a lot quickly. You must also understand that your dog will learn a lot in a short time. You should also be alert for signs that something is not right with the trainer’s business management or methods.
What is Board and Train?
A type of training arrangement in which your dog stays with the trainer or the facility for a certain period is called “board and train”. The set-up allows for concentrated training with a skilled professional who can set up regular training sessions to build desired behaviors.
There are many benefits to board and train for your dog
Consider these important points when you are considering using a train or board service. You should receive everything in the “Pro” column.
Your dog receives consistent training. It is difficult for many households to devote consistent time to training. Training the dog in a board-and-train setting is the most important task. It’s not something that one tries to do while juggling work and family responsibilities. A professional can help your dog learn quickly. A professional trainer can help both the pet owner and her dog learn new skills when they work together. Dogs can be confused when their human is trying to overcome her learning curve. A professional trainer will help them. Dogs are incredibly patient and can learn quickly in new environments. Change of scenery can help with behavior problems. Sometimes the environment can be so strong that it triggers undesirable behavior. It’s hard to encourage a better behavior in the environment. The trainer should be able to help the dog learn alternate behavior under similar situations while he is away so that when he returns home, it will be easier for him to succeed.
The Cons of Train and Board Arrangements
It can be difficult to find the right program. Dog training is an unregulated field. Anyone can become a trainer. It’s expensive. If you don’t do your research when selecting a trainer or board, you may end up spending a lot of money. For a two-week program, expect to spend thousands. The trainer’s time training your dog is not all that you pay. You also have to spend time caring for your dog every day. We get it. You’re probably thinking “Duh.” This is the point. Dogs work best when they are involved in training. Your dog may be responding well to your trainer, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will automatically transfer to your home.
How to evaluate a board-and training facility
It is important to observe a potential trainer in action when you’re looking to hire them. This includes working with dogs who are at the same level as your own dog and training clients. Photo by Gajus, Getty Images
These are some things to remember when looking at train and board options.
Refer to trusted sources. You can find many reports about cruelty, abuse, or neglect at boarding and training facilities online. Many people have lost their dogs or found them in horrible conditions. Do not rely on online reviews. The stakes are too high. Ask your trainer if they offer training and board services. Ask your family and friends for honest and trustworthy recommendations. Visit the facility to see some training in action. Find out when you are able to visit a dog training facility if the board and train is taking place there. Is the facility clean? Is there a distinct “doggy smell”? Are dogs barking endlessly? Watch the dog’s body language as you observe the training. Is the dog comfortable with the trainer? Does the trainer seem patient when working with fearful or shy dogs? You may not have the opportunity to visit the home of a private trainer, but you can observe him in action teaching classes or private lessons. Ask about the training methods used and what equipment is used. Explicitly ask if aversive tools such as training collars (“choke chains”), pinch collars, or shock collars are used, even if the trainer says she uses positive-reinforcement training.Be leery of guarantees and other claims that sound too good to be true. If a trainer, board or private trainer claims that you can expect your dog to stop exhibiting undesirable behaviors or be completely reliable off-leash after the program, it’s a red flag. You should expect to make progress, even substantial progress, depending on the issue. However, if a trainer claims he can eliminate problem behaviors in a short time frame (typically between two and four weeks), it’s likely that they are using punishment-based training collars to suppress undesirable behavior. It is important that you communicate with your trainer what behavior priorities you have for the board and training time. You should also be able to understand what the trainer expects from your dog after the program is over. You should have a few private sessions with your trainer after the time spent in board and train. This will allow you to discuss how to continue the new behavior at home.
Is it worth the expense of boarding and traveling by train?
If you have the financial means, you should know that you are working with someone you trust. Also, you need to understand that it is not an instant fix. You will still need to put some effort into the transfer of the behavior from the trainer to you – and maintaining the dog’s success. This can be a great way for your dog to learn.
This can be particularly useful for puppies who are just starting out. By ensuring consistency, your dog will learn the correct behavior from the beginning and not later on. A trainer can help your puppy get out and about during critical socialization. This will create a confident dog.
A trusted trainer can provide “day training” as an alternative to the traditional board and train program. They will pick up the dog from your home, or work on the dog’s property. This service is something I have successfully provided to clients who needed a boost in training when they couldn’t commit to it. Day training is often less expensive than private lessons with a trainer. And you don’t have to forget your dog friend!
Is it a good idea to send your dog to a training “boot camp”? Whole
