How Board and Trains Work: Why They're a Great Training Idea

Board and train programs provide a focused, structured training environment to help your dog succeed in overcoming behavior challenges.

Board and train programs are an excellent way for dogs to receive focused, professional training in a controlled environment. These programs are designed to offer structured, intensive training that accelerates a dog’s learning process. Whether you're struggling with specific behavioral issues or want to give your dog the best start with obedience training, a board and train can provide the foundation for long-term success.

Denise Bozenski, owner of Fetch This Canine, says, “Board and train programs are effective because they allow for immersive, hands-on training, while also giving owners the tools to reinforce what their dog has learned at home.”

Learn more about Denise HERE!

How Board and Train Programs Work

Board and train programs typically last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the goals and the dog’s progress. During the program, your dog will stay at a training facility or with a trainer where they will receive daily lessons tailored to their specific needs. These programs are perfect for dogs that need intensive behavior modification, socialization, or basic obedience skills.

Denise explains, “Board and trains are ideal for dogs who need to focus in a distraction-free environment, as well as for owners who need extra help staying consistent with training at home. The goal is always to set up both the dog and owner for success once the training is complete.”

Learn more about balanced training and its benefits at our blog, Balanced Dog Training: What It Is, Why It Works & How It Aligns with Holistic Training.

Different Types of Board and Train Programs

There are different options for board and train programs, depending on your dog’s needs and your preferences as an owner. The most common options are:

14-Day Straight Board and Train

In this type of program, your dog stays with the trainer for a full 14 days. The trainer works with your dog consistently, focusing on behaviors like leash manners, basic obedience, or correcting problem behaviors. This is an ideal option for dogs who need a concentrated amount of training in a short period. Owners often see a significant transformation in their dog’s behavior by the end of the program.

Denise states, “A 14-day board and train is a great way to jump-start training, especially for dogs that need a quick refresher or have behavior problems that need immediate attention.”

Pros:

• Intensive training with concentrated focus
• Rapid improvement in behavior
• Reduced distractions for faster learning

Cons:

• Limited interaction with the owner, which could cause a transition period once the dog returns home
• Shorter programs might not address all long-term behavioral needs

Check out our blog, The First 5 Commands Every Dog Should Learn for a Well-Behaved Companion, to learn about the basic commands that are taught in the board and train programs.

Monday through Friday Board and Train with Weekends Home

This option allows your dog to stay with the trainer from Monday through Friday, with the weekends spent at home. This option gives dogs the opportunity to practice what they've learned in the home environment while receiving consistent lessons throughout the week. It also gives the trainer a better idea of what still needs to be addressed during training.

Denise shares, “This option is great for dogs that need more real-world experience and owners who want to be actively involved in the training. By working with the dog during weekends, owners get a chance to apply what their dog has learned in training.”

Pros:

• Allows owners to practice over the weekends
• Dogs get to experience a balance of structured training and familiar home life
• Owners receive important guidance on how to implement training techniques at home

Cons:

• Transition periods between home and trainer’s facility might create challenges with consistency
• Requires more commitment from the owner during weekends for continued reinforcement

Day Training (Monday through Friday) with Homework for Owners

Day training programs are a great option for owners who can’t commit to a full board and train but still want their dog to receive consistent training. In this option, dogs receive daily training during the day with the trainer while the owners work on homework and reinforcement at home.

Denise explains, “Day training is perfect for owners who want a consistent structure for their dog during the week while still being actively involved in reinforcing what their dog is learning.”

Pros:

• Balanced approach that involves owners in the process
• Perfect for dogs that need consistent lessons but can’t be away from home for too long
• Flexibility for owners to continue reinforcing training at home

Cons:

• Requires owner commitment and consistency with homework
• Limited exposure to training outside of scheduled hours

Why Board and Train Programs Are Beneficial

Focused Attention

Board and train programs allow your dog to receive uninterrupted, intensive training. It removes the distractions that may exist at home and helps dogs focus on learning.

Expert Guidance

With professional trainers, dogs get access to skilled behaviorists who can address issues that may be difficult to manage on your own. These trainers know how to handle various situations that might overwhelm less experienced owners.

Denise adds, “Training dogs is a specialized skill, and professional trainers are equipped with the knowledge to handle complex behavior issues. Board and train allows dogs to learn from the best, and it sets them up for long-term success.”

Learn about holistic dog tranining and how it can benefit your dog at our blog, Unlock Your Dog’s Full Potential with Holistic Training.

Consistency

Having a consistent trainer and training environment ensures that your dog receives reliable lessons each day. Consistency is crucial in reinforcing good behaviors and addressing negative habits.

Better Communication

Board and train programs teach owners how to communicate with their dog more effectively. These programs offer guidance and support on how to maintain progress after the dog returns home, ensuring the training sticks in real-life situations.

What to Expect After a Board and Train Program

When your dog returns from a board and train, expect a period of adjustment. The transition back to home life can be challenging for both you and your dog, but the key is consistency and practice. The trainer will likely provide you with a detailed plan and homework to keep reinforcing what your dog has learned.

Denise explains, “When you bring your dog home after a board and train, it’s important to stay consistent. The training doesn’t end when they return. It's a partnership, and you’ll be key in helping your dog maintain their good behavior.”

Choosing the Right Program for Your Dog

Not all dogs are the same, and choosing the right board and train program for your dog depends on their age, temperament, and the issues you’re hoping to address. If you’re unsure which option is best for your dog, working with a trainer to create a customized plan is a great first step.

If you’re ready to see lasting results and take your dog’s training to the next level, a board and train program could be the perfect solution. Whether your dog needs basic obedience, behavior modification, or a full reset, we’ll tailor a plan to meet their unique needs. Contact Fetch This Canine today to schedule a consultation and start your dog’s journey to becoming the well-behaved companion you’ve always dreamed of. Let's work together to set your dog up for success! Get started HERE!

FAQs

How do I know if a board and train is right for my dog?

A board and train program is ideal for dogs that need intensive behavior modification, extra structure, or struggle with certain commands. It's also a great option if you're struggling with consistency at home and want a professional to take charge.

How long does it take for my dog to adjust after a board and train?

The adjustment period varies by dog. It could take a few days or a couple of weeks for your dog to fully transition back to home life. During this time, it’s important to follow the trainer’s guidelines and maintain the structure introduced during the program.

Can I continue training my dog after the board and train is over?

Absolutely! In fact, consistent practice at home is key to reinforcing the lessons learned. After the program, you should continue applying the techniques provided by the trainer to ensure your dog’s progress.