Unfortunately, many dog owners do not have the time to train their dogs or lack the skill to do so. If you have found yourself in this position, you may be considering board and train programs. Board and train programs seem like the ultimate solution: you send your dog away, and they come back to you happy, healthier, with perfect manners. But what are the downsides of sending your furry friend away? Are these programs suitable for your dog? This article by the best Professional Board and Train for Dogs in Los Angeles will give you information on whether or not board and train is the right program for your dog.
First of all, what exactly is a board and train program?
Board and Train Programs
Board and train programs, also commonly known as “boot camp,” are programs where a dog owner sends their dog away to a trainer for some time. While training, the dog may spend several days or weeks at the facility. Pet boarding facilities and training programs are a great way to fix specific behaviors in your dog.
The Board and Train program is a popular option for dog owners that want to get their dogs trained as quickly as possible. This program is ideal for individuals with busy lifestyles that would like the convenience of dropping their dog off at a trainer’s facility or home and then picking them up once the training has been completed.
Types of Board-and-Train Programs
There are two board and train programs: in-home training and facility/kennel-based training.
In-home Board & Train
With in-home boarding and training, a dog trainer keeps your dog at the trainer’s residence. The dog is integrated into the trainer’s family during the stay and given daily exercise, socialization, and training. The dog will get a taste of life as a family pet, which can help improve its behavior in a home environment.
Kennel Board and Train
While the kennel board and train program is not as personal or intimate as a home board and train, your dog will enjoy its kennel run. In addition, kennel board and train is a more affordable alternative to the in-home board and train. Your dog will be spending time in the kennel and getting to play with other dogs.
What Is Involved In The Board And Train Programs?
Board and train programs usually have a structure based on the trainer’s style and the pup’s specific needs. Board training involves:
Basic Training
Basic training will significantly improve your dog’s behavior. Your dog will learn to:
- Accepting a collar and leash
- Socialize with people and other dogs
- Follow basic commands like sit and wait
When choosing a program, consultation is essential: First, do your research to make sure the program is right for your dog; then select a program where you feel comfortable with the facilities. Consult several references before making an informed decision.
Behavior Modification
Behavior modification is an essential part of dog training that focuses on changing a dog’s unwanted behavior and may require experts.
When you board a dog to work on behavior issues, it is recommended that you find a facility that uses the most up-to-date methods. You will want a trainer who uses only positive training techniques and understands that the behavior is not the dog’s fault but rather the results of many circumstances and situations throughout the dog’s life (fear, stress, excitement, and miscommunication).
Advantages of Dog Board-and-Train Programs
Now, let’s see some of the benefits you will get when using a board and train program.
- Your Dog Will Get A Lot Of Professional Training
To guarantee that the dog learns, most trainers use various methods that involve positive reinforcement. Dog trainers use a combination of rewards, affection, playtime, and corrective language to communicate with your dog. Thus, the success rates are high because the trainer will use several techniques to teach your dog.
- Ideal For Dogs With Particular Behavioral Issues
For dog owners interested in improving their dogs’ behavior or training for a specific purpose, boarding and training programs often offer the best option. These programs allow dogs to focus more intensively on individualized skills, featuring one-on-one attention that allows for quicker learning and easier correction of specific behaviors.
Disadvantages of Dog Board-and-Train Programs
However, boarding and training is not ideal for every owner and dog. For example:
- There Will Be No Learning Together With Your Dog
Even with the best trainer, some training will be necessary upon your dog’s return. If you don’t participate in this process, you may find it challenging to get your dog to behave correctly or respond to commands.
- You Have No Clue How The Dog Is Treated
Dog owners have no control over how their pets are cared for when they leave them in kennels or with families. If your dog requires special care or attention that the kennel cannot provide, boarding and training may not be a good option.
If your pup requires special care that the kennel cannot provide, then this may not be a good option for you. For those who seek to improve a dog’s behavior or train it for a specific purpose, training programs offer the best chance of increasing individualized skills, allowing for faster learning and easier correction of behaviors.
