A board-and-train program can be a transformative experience for both you and your dog, as it provides structured training and consistent routines that are difficult to establish at home. If you’re considering a program like this, we know you have questions. Today, we hope to put any fears to rest and give you the confidence you need to empower your dog to learn.
- Where Does My Dog Stay During Training?
During their stay in our board-and-train program, your dog will be housed in our state-of-the-art 3200-square-foot training facility, located on a beautiful 5-acre property. Safety and comfort are our top priorities, which is why the facility is equipped with 24-hour internal and external video surveillance and a fully monitored fire and theft system. All dogs are comfortably crated at night in one of our segregated kennel rooms for safety and crate training purposes. - What Results Can I Expect When My Dog Comes Home?
After completing our board and train program, you will notice a significant improvement in your dog’s obedience and behavior. Each dog is taught the fundamental commands of sit, down, heel, place and come. We train them to follow these commands even during the craziness of life. For instance, your dog will learn to maintain calm and obey commands when the doorbell rings or when encountering other dogs on walks. Our training also includes off-leash exercises, emphasizing reliable recall to ensure your dog returns to you when called, regardless of the environment. - What If My Dog Doesn’t Like the Crate? Can He Still Stay with You?
If your dog is initially uncomfortable with the crate, our program includes specialized crate conditioning to ensure a positive experience. We approach crate training with patience and gradual adaptation, not by forcing your dog into it. Through a series of positive reinforcements, we help your dog associate the crate with enjoyment and safety. - What Does a Typical Training Day Look Like?
A typical training day for your dog in our board-and-train program is structured and full of fun. It is designed to optimize learning while keeping your dog engaged and active. The day starts early with a potty break followed by a training session for breakfast, instilling discipline and reinforcing obedience from the moment your dog wakes. Training sessions are interspersed throughout the day, lasting 20 to 60 minutes each, depending on the dog. Activities include individual training to hone specific skills, group sessions to encourage social behavior, and outings to places like local parks and urban centers to practice commands in various environments. We also incorporate play and socialization time with the other dogs. Training extends into the evening, wrapping up around 10 PM with a bedtime snack and a final potty break - How Many Dogs Do You Train at Once?
We maintain a focused and intimate training environment by limiting the number of dogs in our board and train program to between 4 and 6 at any given time. This small group size gives each dog ample attention and customized training. Without this ratio of dog to trainer, we couldn’t maintain the quality of our program or guarantee that each dog progresses at an optimal pace. - Will My Dog Experience Separation Anxiety?
It’s natural for dogs, especially those who have never been away from their owners, to experience some initial anxiety when starting a board and train program. However, our experienced trainers are skilled at helping dogs adjust quickly and comfortably to their new environment. Within just a few days, most dogs settle into the routine, finding reassurance in the structured schedule and bonding with their trainers.Our program can be particularly beneficial for dogs prone to separation anxiety. The training provides a ‘reboot’ to anxious behaviors by removing them from the environments where these behaviors are reinforced. We focus on building confidence and independence, teaching your dog to feel secure even when alone. - At What Age Should I Enroll My Dog?
Enrolling your dog in our board and train program can start as early as four months, though we advise waiting until your puppy has had some time to bond with you, typically after they are three months old. For older dogs, there is no upper age limit to begin training. We successfully train dogs of various ages, including seniors up to 10 years old. Each program is tailored to the dog’s learning pace and physical abilities – regardless of age, your dog can benefit from and thrive in our training environment.
Gulf Coast Dog Training is Bradenton’s premier dog training facility. Call today to learn more.
