Sit, Stay

Whether it's basic obedience or problem solving, the key elements to successful training are patience, consistency and time. But finding the necessary time to work with your dog every day can be difficult, so a board-and-train experience is a great alternative.   "Board and train is like a short-term boarding school for pets," says Matt Stewart, professional trainer at Best Friends in White Plains, NY. "Pets live at 'school' for a week or two and we devote hours to training, specifically focusing on any problem areas or the skills he needs to learn."   Any dog can benefit from the program, says Stewart, regardless of age, breed or prior training. A minimum of seven days is recommended for the Best Friends Board and Train program, but even more can be achieved with a 10-14 day stay. "We can get a lot accomplished in a short amount of time," Stewart says, "but the more time we spend together, the more reinforcement is received, making it easier on the owner."

How it works

Board and Train begins with a consultation between the trainer, owner and pet before the boarding stay. At this important meeting (which is included in the fee), the trainer asks questions about the pet, the family and the home environment, and discusses specific training needs and goals. He/she will also evaluate the dog to gauge the amount of training he's already received.   During the pet's stay, the professional trainer takes him for private lessons, generally 30 to 60 minutes each. Some trainers break up the training into two short sessions each day to keep the dog from becoming overwhelmed or bored. The program is customized for each dog's needs, which are identified in the initial meeting.   "Whether you want to work on basic commands or problematic behavior like barking or jumping, the Board and Train program can help," says Steve Forsty, professional trainer at Best Friends in Carmichael, CA. "Most of these behaviors are instinctive to dogs, but can be altered with training techniques. Once the dog is trained, we instruct the owner how to interrupt, redirect and reward."   Puppies especially benefit from the Board and Train program, says Forsty. However, he warns, housetraining cannot be taught in a kennel environment, so if you're looking for a trainer to help with the dirty work, a better option would be at-home consultations or sessions.

Going home

At the end of his stay, the happy pet returns home to his family with new skills ... and homework for his owners. The trainer creates a document outlining specific instructions, details and tasks for the owners. The commands the dog has been taught, and the techniques for working with and correcting him, are outlined in the paperwork. It's up to the owner to practice with the dog on a regular basis, so he retains what he has learned. A follow up meeting between the trainer and owner, also included in the Board and Train price, is arranged at a convenient time. Obedience classes are generally recommended to reinforce new skills and encourage socialization.   Training your dog is one of the best things you can do for him, and for your family. Your dog will be safer, happier, and a pleasure to have in your home. For more information on the training options in your area, contact your local Best Friends Pet Care center.