The Pros and Cons of Send Away Dog Training Programs

Send away dog training programs offer a unique approach to training, but it's essential to consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

One major advantage is the opportunity for dogs to learn in a distraction-free environment, which can be especially beneficial for high-energy breeds.

Dogs in send away programs can focus on their training without interruptions, allowing them to absorb and retain information more effectively.

However, this type of training can be expensive, with some programs costing upwards of $5,000 for a few weeks of training.

Another potential drawback is the potential for separation anxiety in dogs that are strongly attached to their owners.

Board and train is a type of training arrangement where your dog resides with the trainer or at the training facility for a set period.

This setup allows for a concentrated training experience with a skilled professional who has the time to set up frequent training sessions.

The trainer can focus on helping your dog build the desired behaviors without distractions or interruptions.

A concentrated training experience can lead to faster progress and better results for your dog.

By living with the trainer, your dog can learn to follow a routine and respond to commands in a variety of situations.

The trainer can also address any behavioral issues or problems that may arise during the training period.

You have the option of choosing from three different programs at Chicago Dog Trainer's dog away camp in Elgin, IL.

The 7 Day Program is perfect for basic dog training on simple behaviors, making it a great puppy bootcamp to get your dog started on their training needs.

The 14 Day Program thoroughly trains your dog, making them essentially the perfect household companions, depending on what struggles they had in the past.

The 21 Day Program is designed for dogs with more severe behavioral challenges, like anxiety and aggression, giving your dog the celebrity treatment so they're ready to come home confident, friendly, and ready to be a part of the family.

Here are the three programs in a quick summary:

On the last day of all these programs, you'll receive training to ensure your dog is ready to come home and be the family member you hoped they would be.

Dog training is largely unregulated, which means anyone can set themselves up as a dog trainer without any qualifications.

You can walk away from a class if you feel the trainer is incompetent, but if you're sending your dog away, you need to be more cautious.

It's essential to question a prospective trainer about their methods and ask for testimonials or references before committing to their services.

Finding the right board and train program can be a challenge due to the lack of regulation in the dog training industry. Anyone can claim to be a dog trainer, so it's essential to do your homework when choosing a reputable trainer or facility.

Be prepared to spend a significant amount of money, typically in the thousands of dollars for a two-week program. This cost includes the trainer's time spent training your dog, as well as daily care and attention.

You're not the one working directly with your dog during a board and train arrangement. While the trainer may be effective, the relationship between you and your dog is crucial for long-term success. Dogs tend to work best for whomever spends the most time engaged in training.

Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating a board and train program:

Dog training is unregulated, which means anyone can set themselves up as a dog trainer without any qualification. This is a concern because it leaves you vulnerable to incompetent trainers who may do more harm than good.

You can walk away from a class if you don't like the trainer, but if you're sending your dog away for training, you need to do your research.

Find out what methods the trainer uses and ask for testimonials or references before committing to anything. Don't take it on trust, you owe your dog that much.