
If you're considering a dog boarding experience for your furry friend, you're not just looking for a place to stash them while you're away, you're looking for a happy and healthy environment that will keep them engaged and happy.
Some dog boarding facilities offer training programs as part of their services, which can be a great way to improve your dog's behavior and strengthen your bond with them.
Dog boarding facilities with training programs often have experienced trainers on staff who can work with your dog to address specific behavioral issues, such as barking or digging.
These trainers use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior, which can be especially helpful for dogs that are anxious or fearful.
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Training Process
The training process for a board and train program is designed to be effective and smooth for your dog's behavior.
We start with a customized training agreement that outlines the details of the training process and what you can expect. This document clearly defines the goals, objectives, and anticipated outcomes of the training program.
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Throughout the training process, you'll receive regular updates on your dog's progress, including photos and videos to see how they're doing and the skills they're learning.
The training process typically consists of three phases, with the first phase allowing your dog to become comfortable with the trainers. The second phase focuses on testing your dog's skill level and addressing any areas that need improvement. The third phase enforces the commands to ensure reliability.
In a typical board and train program, your dog will stay with the trainers for a designated period, during which time they'll work closely with your dog to teach new commands, manners, and behaviors. The trainers use balanced reinforcement techniques to achieve effective results.
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Process Overview
The Board and Train process is a comprehensive program designed to help you and your dog achieve a stronger bond and improved behavior.
Your journey begins with an evaluation to determine the best course of action for your dog's specific needs.
Customized Training Agreements are created to outline the training process, goals, and objectives.
Your dog will stay with experienced trainers for the designated training period, where they'll learn new commands, manners, and behaviors through balanced reinforcement techniques.
Regular updates, including photos and videos, will keep you informed and involved in your dog's progress.
The training process is divided into three phases: getting comfortable with the trainers, testing and working on skills, and enforcing commands for reliability.
You'll have the opportunity to learn how to manage the leash and new obedience commands through private lessons.
Follow-up sessions are offered to ensure a smooth transition and provide ongoing support.
The Board and Train program is designed to be a collaborative effort between you and your dog's trainers, with the goal of empowering you to maintain and reinforce your dog's new behaviors.
Consistency, repetition, and understanding are key to successful dog training, and our structured curriculum is designed to provide these elements.
Our trainers take the time to get to know your dog, understand their personality, and identify their learning style to tailor the training process to their needs.
Staff at HDBT
At Happy Dogs Boarding and Training, our team is made up of highly experienced trainers and dedicated care staff who are passionate about dogs. They have a profound understanding of various dog training techniques and methodologies, allowing them to customize their approach to suit each individual dog's needs.
Our trainers have over 30 years of training experience, which is a testament to their expertise in the field. John Soares and Lilia Bozzetti, the owners, are internationally recognized leaders in dog training and have devoted their lives to nurturing and unlocking the potential of dogs.
The trainers at HDBT possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise, honed through years of hands-on experience. They stay at the forefront of the industry by consistently incorporating the latest advancements into their practice.
Our care staff provides an exceptional level of attention and support to every dog that walks through our doors. They are dedicated to ensuring each furry friend receives personalized care and an abundance of one-on-one attention.
Here are some key facts about our staff:
Training Options
Our training options are designed to meet the unique needs of you and your dog. We take the time to understand both you and your dog on a deeper level through a personalized meet and greet session.
We create a training plan that's tailored to your lifestyle and requirements, addressing any specific challenges or goals you may have. This ensures that your program is entirely customized to meet your expectations and produce the best possible outcomes for you and your beloved pet.
Fast Track Alternative
For dog owners who can't leave their furry friends behind, the Fast Track Alternative is a great option. This program combines the benefits of board and train with the comfort of having your dog at home.
The Fast Track Alternative is similar to a board and train in that a trainer does the majority of training for the first couple of weeks. This means you can still get professional training for your dog without having to board them.
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One of the main advantages of this program is that it's often a better fit for dogs that aren't good candidates for boarding and training. This is because they get to stay in a familiar environment and receive the training they need.
In this program, the trainer will work with you and your dog in the comfort of your own home, making it a more relaxed and less stressful experience for everyone involved.
Need Custom Time Period?
If you need a customized boarding and training period, our services can accommodate that. We offer a 6 day minimum stay, and the cost is $200 per day. This allows you to schedule a training plan that fits your needs.
You can choose a customized board and train package that includes an hour lesson on pick up. This is a great option if you have a specific time period in mind for your dog's training. Simply contact us to schedule your customized training plan.
Here are the details of our customized board and train packages:
- 6 day minimum stay
- $200 per day
Kennel
Kennel training is a popular option for many dog owners. The board and train program is a 14-day minimum stay, with over 90% of dogs completing their training within this timeframe.
The duration of the program can vary, but 14 days is the standard. Some dogs may need a longer stay to achieve the desired results.
The kennel training program is divided into three phases, but the specifics of these phases aren't mentioned in the provided information.
Packages and Pricing
Our Board and Train packages are designed to meet your dog's unique needs and goals. We have a range of programs to choose from, each with its own pricing and duration.
The Board and Train @ K9 Chicago package includes a free bath at exit, and prices start at $1,550 for 10 nights of training for puppies.
Our most popular program is the Board and Train package, which can be customized to fit your dog's specific training needs. This package is also known as In Kennel Training (IKT) or Doggie Boot Camp.
Here are the different options available within the Board and Train package:
We also offer additional services, including Evaluations, which are available at no charge.
What to Expect
Dog boarding training can be a bit overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can make the process smoother.
You can expect to spend around 7-10 days at the training facility, depending on the program you choose.
The training staff will work with you and your dog to create a customized plan that addresses specific behavioral issues or skills you want to teach.
You'll have the opportunity to observe and participate in training sessions, which can be a great way to learn new techniques and get hands-on experience.
Initial Evaluation/Consultation
Before we start working with your dog, we'll meet for an initial evaluation/consultation, which is free of charge. This meeting is crucial to ensure our training environment is safe for your dog.
The evaluation will last about 30 minutes, during which we'll assess your dog and determine the best type of training for their needs.
We'll also give a preliminary diagnosis and prognosis if there's a behavioral problem. This helps us understand the situation and decide on the best course of action.
The start date for the Board and Train program will typically be decided upon at the conclusion of the evaluation.
If you need immediate assistance but can't start the Board and Train program right away, we may recommend private lessons or group classes as a temporary solution.
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What Sets It Apart?

The Board & Train Program is distinct in its approach, focusing on real-life scenarios and a comprehensive training curriculum. This sets it apart from traditional obedience classes or daycare arrangements.
Your dog will continually practice and reinforce new skills throughout the day in a safe and loving environment. This is a far cry from dedicating a mere hour or two in a classroom setting.
One of the key differentiators is that the training extends beyond obedience commands. Your dog will learn valuable behaviors such as staying off counters and politely greeting staff, guests, and delivery drivers.
The program covers a wide range of crucial skills necessary for living harmoniously with your dog. This includes not begging at the dinner table and mastering leash walking in residential neighborhoods.
Continuous training is a hallmark of the Board & Train Program. While other programs may stop once the basic commands are learned, this program continues shaping and reinforcing your dog's behaviors.
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Benefits and Results
You can expect a positive change in your dog's behavior after a board and train program, where they'll learn to respond to various commands in different environments.
Results will vary depending on your dog's individual temperament and your goals as an owner. You must be willing to continue your dog's training when you pick them up, as this is crucial for achieving the desired results.
Our dog obedience school teaches pets respect, companionship, confidence, manners, and socialization, among other things. We also work on eliminating unwanted behaviors like pulling, lunging, and wandering.
The program is designed to expose your pet to different stimuli and environments, teaching them how to behave in various settings, both on and off a leash. This is guaranteed to work, with the end goal of getting your pet to identify and respect you as the leader of the pack.
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What Results Can I Expect?
You can expect a positive change in your dog's previously unwanted behavior after a board and train program. This is because we customize every program to maximize the potential of the individual dog.

Results will vary depending on the owner's goals and the dog's temperament, but we strive for excellence in every case. We'll work with you to create a personalized plan that suits your dog's needs.
You'll notice that your dog learns to respond to various commands in a wide range of environments. This is a major accomplishment, and it's a testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into our board and train programs.
The success of the program depends not just on our training, but also on your continued involvement. If you're not prepared to follow our directions and continue your dog's training after the program, your dog may regress.
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Benefits of School
Our dog obedience school teaches your pet to respect you as the leader of the pack. By doing so, you'll establish a strong bond with your pet and enjoy a more harmonious relationship.
The program focuses on teaching your pet manners, such as not pulling on the leash or lunging at other animals. This helps you to have more control over your pet in public.
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Respect is a key component of our training program, and it's essential for a well-behaved pet. By teaching respect, you'll be able to take your pet on more adventures and enjoy more freedom.
Our training program also helps to build your pet's confidence, which is crucial for a happy and healthy pet. With confidence, your pet will be more likely to listen to you and behave well in new environments.
The training program is designed to be a one-time program, and it's guaranteed to work. This means you can expect to see significant improvements in your pet's behavior after just one session.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to send your dog away for training?
Sending your dog to training can be a great option, but choose a trainer who prioritizes your dog's well-being and offers ongoing support. This ensures long-term success for both you and your dog.
Is dog boarding stressful for dogs?
Yes, dog boarding can be stressful for dogs, manifesting from mild anxiety to severe behavioral issues. Understanding the causes and effects of boarding stress is essential for pet parents to make informed decisions about their furry companions' care.
Can a dog be trained in 2 weeks?
Yes, a dog can be trained in 2 weeks with a good trainer, but continuous training beyond that is still necessary for full maturity
Sources
- https://k9uchicago.com/k9-training/dog-boarding-and-training/
- https://happydogsboardingandtraining.com/campus-training/
- https://thecaninetrainingcenter.com/dog-training-services-maryland/board-train/
- https://www.evergreenschoolfordogs.com/boarding-training-programs
- https://barkmoreresort.com/dog-board-and-training-program/
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