As a pet parent who has faced challenges with your dog’s behavior, you might have come across board and train dog training programs. Not only do these programs offer a potential solution to your dog’s behavioral needs, but they also provide basic boarding while you’re away.
And this is a win-win proposition. That’s because, for a little extra cost, you can get your pup the training you’ve always wanted, all while enjoying your vacation or attending that work meeting.
But that said, these programs are also different from regular boarding for dogs. So, it is important you know what is board and train for dogs in the first place.
Also, programs like these aren’t without their share of pros and cons, something you should know in detail before enrolling your pup here.
Read on, as I’ve discussed all of these along with my own insights as a Memphis dog boarding expert.
What is board and train for dogs?
As you might have figured from the name, dog training and boarding is a professional program where your dog stays at a training facility for a specified period.
Also called ‘boot camp’ for dogs, the trainers here work intensively to address specific behavioral issues and teach obedience commands or skills.
Not to mention, you can also get a tailored training program based on what you’d like your dog to learn.
A program like this lasts anywhere between one and four weeks, depending on how long you’re boarding your pup and what you want them to learn. And the curriculum during this time will typically include:
- Basic obedience training (sit, stay, come).
- Behavioral training (to tackle aggression, reactivity, separation anxiety).
- Advanced training (for off-leash reliability and service dog tasks).
- Socialization with other dogs or humans.
Note: These dog board and training programs are different from aggressive dog board and train. That’s because while the former accommodates all dogs, the latter is meant exclusively for dogs with aggression issues.
What are the pros and cons of board and train dog training?
Having discussed what is board and train dog training all about, let’s now shift our focus to its major advantages and pitfalls. After all, this is one thing that the internet is most interested in, and I am sure you’d be curious too.
You see, the benefits of dog training and boarding are evident beyond doubt. And that’s exactly why pet parents don’t mind sending their pups here, despite these programs being priced higher than the typical cost of boarding a dog.
Nevertheless, there have been accounts of dog cruelty and abuse, which is why PETA advises dog owners against sending their pets to one.
Now, there’s an element of truth to both. And you should know both sides of the story before deciding to send your dog to a board and train.
The pros of board and train programs
1. Professional training
You’ll agree when I say that professional expertise always works better than training your dog by yourself. In fact, this is one of the most significant advantages of board and train programs.
Reputed facilities have access to the best professional dog trainers out there. And the skills and experience of these experts come really handy to address behavioral issues effectively.
So, be it basic obedience or complex problems like aggression or anxiety, you can rest assured of a positive outcome.
2. Consistent learning
From advanced training like off-leash reliability to something as simple as overcoming social anxiety, dogs need to be consistent with their training. And board and train facilities offer exactly this, ensuring your pet receives training as per their curriculum every day.
And not only does this consistency lead to quicker results compared to at-home training, but it is also essential to your dog retaining their learning.
3. Good for busy pet owners
Hiring an at-home dog trainer will also require your involvement, which is difficult in our today’s fast-paced lifestyles.
And to that end, dog board and training programs can be your lifesaver. All you’ve got to do is entrust your dog to professionals and you can go about your day-to-day life while your dog undergoes intensive training.
4. Custom training modules
A lot of board and train facilities offer customized training modules based on what your dog really needs.
For instance, let’s say your dog experiences some unknown fear or anxiety. In this case, the training will be focused on helping them overcome these symptoms.
This approach is effective as your pet gets the attention they need to overcome their challenges.
5. Lets your pup socialize
Yet another brownie point of sending your pup to a board and train dog training is socialization opportunities with other dogs.
You see, many programs include supervised socialization with other dogs. And this is beneficial if your dog needs help to improve their interaction skills or overcome social anxiety.
6. Access to advanced techniques
Board and train dog trainers use advanced techniques and tools that aren’t typically available for at-home training.
For instance, dog trainers utilize precise positive reinforcement using clickers, behavior modification methods for aggression and anxiety, and off-leash training for obedience.
Also, they use e-collar training for remote corrections, impulse control exercises, and shaping behaviors through targeting.
The cons of dog board and training programs
1. Separation anxiety among dogs is commonplace
Although the idea of sending your dog away for weeks can be stressful for both you and your pet, this is more evident in canines.
You see, dogs are prone to separation anxiety and they struggle with mental and emotional distresses in an unfamiliar environment. This means a board and train program can do more harm than good.
2. These programs are too expensive
Dog boarding and training prices can be anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on the facility, training program, and duration of training.
And this is clearly exorbitant, making it an investment that might not be feasible for everyone.
3. Risk of bad experiences
Sending your four-legged companion to an unknown facility comes with a risk of negative experience. That’s because a wrong program or trainer can result in ineffective training and waste of time and money.
What’s worse?
It could be a traumatic experience for your dog leaving them with life-long mental health woes.
4. Lack of industry-wide regulations
Being a dog boarding specialist myself, I have to accept a harsh reality that the dog training industry lacks standardized regulations.
So much so that just about anyone can claim to be a dog trainer. And with a lack of proper research and reference, you can easily end up hiring a rookie or someone who indulges in unethical practices like cruelty.
When should you send your dog to board and train?
Let me make it clear: Not all dogs need to be enrolled in a board and train dog training program.
In fact, conventional dog boardings fare better over these programs for a lot of canines. That’s because they stick to their regular routines and feel a sense of normalcy.
Meaning you should only send your dog to a board train combo if it is absolutely necessary.
Here are some situations that might require you to send your pup to a training program:
1. Your dog faces behavioral challenges
If your dog exhibits challenging behaviors like aggression, severe anxiety, or excessive barking, a professional program might be the best option.
2. You don’t have time for at-home training
Dog board and training is ideal for busy pet owners who struggle to dedicate time for consistent at-home training.
3. Your dog needs specialized training
Board and train programs are invaluable for advanced training such as service dog preparation, hunting dog training, or specific obedience skills.
4. You want your dog to adjust to certain changes
Whether you’re transitioning to a new home, adding a baby to the family, or undergoing major life changes, board and train can help your dog adjust better.
Frequently asked questions
Will your dog forget you during a board and train program?
No, your dog won’t forget you.
Dogs have strong bonds with their owners. Plus, the training period is relatively short, usually lasting for a week or two.
Are board and train programs suitable for all dogs?
Not necessarily.
Dogs with severe anxiety or aggression may not respond well to being separated from their owners. And in such cases, home training might be a better option.
How do you know if your dog’s training was successful?
A successful program will include clear demonstrations of your dog’s progress. Also, the facility will offer instructions that you can follow to maintain the training at home.
Final words
By now, you know what is board and train for dogs, what are the benefits of these programs, and why you should be cautious as well.
You see, a program like this can be a game-changer for some dogs. But they’re not not meant for all dogs, and your pup might be better off at a regular boarding.
So, I suggest you weigh all the pros and cons before sending your dog to this.
Looking for a conventional boarding for your pup instead?
You can get in touch with us!
At Dawg Team Apparel USA, we are more than simply an online dog store.
We’ve got dog boarding centers in Memphis, Arkansas, and Mississippi that are a cut above competition. And we’ve got you covered on a budget.
