What is a 2 Week Board and Train Program?
A 2 week board and train program is an intensive training experience where your dog stays with a professional trainer for a concentrated period of time, typically two weeks. During this immersive training, the trainer works with your dog to teach obedience commands, address behavioral issues, and expose them to various distractions and environments.
Training Components
Obedience Commands
The foundation of a 2 week board and train program is teaching your dog essential obedience commands. These typically include:
- Sit and Extended Sit: Your dog will learn to sit on command and maintain the sit position for an extended period.
- Down, Extended Down, and Down from Distance: Your dog will learn to lie down on command, hold the down position, and respond to the down command from a distance.
- Place and Extended Place: Your dog will learn to go to a designated area (such as a mat or bed) and remain there until released.
- Heel (On and Off-Leash): Your dog will learn to walk calmly by your side, both on and off-leash.
- Off: Your dog will learn to disengage from unwanted behaviors or stop specific actions on command.
Distraction and Environment Training
In addition to obedience commands, your dog will be exposed to various distractions and environments during the training program. This helps them learn to maintain focus and respond to commands even in the presence of real-world distractions, such as other people, animals, or noises. The trainer will take your dog to different locations, such as parks, neighborhoods, stores, and other public areas, to practice their skills in diverse settings.
Manners Training
Proper manners are an essential part of a well-trained dog. During the 2 week board and train program, your dog will learn appropriate behaviors in various situations, including:
- Greeting Manners: Your dog will learn how to greet people politely, without jumping or exhibiting excessive excitement.
- Door Manners: Your dog will learn to wait calmly at doors and not rush through when opened.
- Meal Manners: Your dog will learn to remain calm and polite during mealtimes, without begging or exhibiting food aggression.
Equipment Used
During the training process, the trainer may use various tools and equipment to facilitate learning and reinforce commands. Common tools used in a 2 week board and train program include:
- E-collar: An electronic collar, also known as a remote training collar, may be used to reinforce commands and correct unwanted behaviors from a distance.
- Leash: A long leash, typically 15 feet or more, allows the trainer to work with your dog both on and off-leash while maintaining control.
The Training Process
During the 2 week board and train program, your dog will board with a professional trainer, allowing for an immersive training experience. Throughout this intensive period, the trainer will work with your dog daily, focusing on teaching obedience commands, addressing any behavioral issues, and exposing your dog to various distractions and environments.
The trainer will take your dog to different locations, such as parks, neighborhoods, stores, and other public areas, to practice their skills in diverse settings. This exposure to real-world distractions and situations is crucial for helping your dog generalize their training and respond reliably in different environments.
After Training
Once the 2 week board and train program is complete, you will have a one-on-one session with the trainer. During this session, the trainer will provide detailed information about your dog’s progress, the commands they have learned, and how to properly handle and reinforce the training.
Additionally, a mandatory follow-up lesson is typically scheduled a couple of weeks after the initial training period. This lesson allows the trainer to assess your dog’s progress and provide further guidance on maintaining and building upon the training. If you do not attend this follow-up lesson, you may forfeit any future free refresher sessions.
Many 2 week board and train programs also offer free refresher sessions for life. These refresher sessions allow you to bring your dog back for additional training or to address any new issues that may arise, ensuring that your dog’s training remains consistent and effective over time.
FAQs
Q: Can a 2 week board and train program fix severe behavioral issues like aggression?
A: While a 2 week program can provide you with tools and techniques to better manage and control severe behavioral issues like aggression, it may not be enough time to fully resolve the underlying causes. The program aims to give you control and help you better manage these issues, but ongoing training and professional support may be necessary for more complex cases.
Q: Will my dog remember the training after the 2 week program?
A: With consistent reinforcement and practice from the owner, most dogs will retain the training they received during the 2 week program. However, it’s important to follow the trainer’s guidance and continue practicing the commands and techniques to solidify the learning.
Q: Can I visit my dog during the 2 week training period?
A: Many trainers prefer to limit or avoid visits during the intensive training period to maintain consistency and focus. However, policies may vary, so it’s best to discuss this with the trainer beforehand.
Q: How do I prepare my dog for the 2 week board and train program?
A: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and provide the trainer with any relevant medical information. You may also need to supply your dog’s food, bedding, and any necessary medications or supplements.
Q: What happens if my dog doesn’t respond well to the training methods used?
A: Reputable trainers should be flexible and adapt their methods to suit your dog’s individual needs and learning style. Open communication with the trainer is essential to ensure the program is effective for your dog.
Q: Can I continue the training after the 2 week program is over?
A: Absolutely! Most trainers encourage ongoing training and practice to reinforce and build upon the skills learned during the 2 week program. Many offer additional training sessions or classes to support your continued progress.