What New Dog Parents Need to Know About ‘Board and Train’?

Are you looking for a board and train in Georgia? If so, there are a few things you need to know. Board and train facilities allow your dog to learn basic obedience commands while living in a boarding facility. This is a great option for new dog parents who want their pets to have the best possible start in life. This blog post will discuss the benefits of the board and train programs and how they can help you get your dog started on the right foot!

First, let’s talk about what the board and train program is.

What are Board and Train programs?

Board and train programs, also called “dog boot camps,” are dog training programs where the dog is boarded at the trainer’s facility and trained in basic obedience, manners, and behaviors.

There are two main types of board and train programs, but all will include basic obedience training, behavior modification, and socialization. The two programs are:

– Residential Board and Train: The dog lives with the trainer in their home and receives training throughout the day.

-Kennel Board and Train: In Kennel Board and Training, your dog lives at the trainer’s facility in a kennel and will only go out for training sessions. Normally the trainer will house your dog together with other dogs during training. This is beneficial for socialization but may not be ideal for dogs with separation anxiety.

Now let’s look in detail at what you should expect from a board and train program.

Basic Training

All board and train programs will include basic obedience training. This will usually consist of commands such as sit, stay, come, down, heel, and leave it. These commands are important for you to have a well-behaved dog. Some basic behavior issues will also be addressed, such as jumping, chewing, and pulling on the leash.

The duration of the training will depend on the individual dog, but most programs last between two to four weeks.

Behavior Modification

In addition to basic obedience training, the trainer may also include behavior modification in the program. This type of training is designed to address specific behavioral issues that the dog may have. The most common behavior modification programs are for aggression, separation anxiety, and fear. The trainer’s approach exposes your dog to a low level of the trigger (people, other animals, new environments) while teaching them to remain calm and not react. This is done through:

Desensitization – By gradually exposing your dog to the trigger in a controlled setting, they will learn not to react. For instance, if your dog is fearful of other dogs, the trainer will start by having them see other dogs from a distance. The trainer will bring the other dogs closer as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Counterconditioning – This is a process of changing your dog’s emotional response to the trigger. For instance, if your dog is fearful of other dogs, the trainer will pair the presence of other dogs with something that your dog enjoys (treats and toys). Over time, your dog will learn to associate the presence of other dogs with something positive, and their fear will lessen.

Habituation – This is simply the process of your dog getting used to the trigger. With time and exposure, your dog will learn that the trigger is not something to be afraid of.

Training and Boarding Requirements

You probably want to ask, “How do I know if my dog is a good candidate for board and train?” So here is an outline of what most board and train programs require:

• Proof of vaccination
• A leash or collar
• A signed agreement between the owner and trainer

Pros of Board and Train

Now that we’ve gone over what board and train programs are and their requirements let’s talk about the pros!

Learning is accelerated – Dogs in a board and train program learn at an accelerated rate because they are in a structured environment with few distractions. Following a strict schedule also helps to reinforce good behavior.

Convenient – For working dog parents, board and train are convenient for having your dog trained while you’re at work. It’s also a good option for those going on vacation.

Cons of Board and Train

There are a few things to keep in mind before deciding if board and train is the right option for you and your dog.

Your dog will no longer be in your care – This is probably the biggest con for most people. When you drop your dog off for board and train, you entrust them to someone else for care and training.

Board and train programs are a great option for new dog parents who want their pets to have the best possible start in life. These programs provide an environment where your dog can learn basic obedience commands. In addition to basic obedience training, the trainer may also include behavior modification in the program. Board and train can be a great option for those who want their dog trained while at work or on vacation, but it’s important to remember that your dog will no longer be in your care. However, with the right program, your dog will have a great foundation for a happy and healthy life!