Frequently Asked Questions

Answering your questions about dog training board and train programs

What is your average response time to emails?

You can expect a 3-5 day response time when sending me a training inquiry! My days are not spent on the computer, but rather training and taking care of the community’s amazing dogs. If you haven’t heard back from me in a few days, please feel free to send a follow up email or send me a text at 925-451-9155.

My dog is a rescue and has bounced around a lot. Will a board and train be stressful for them?

This is a super valid concern! My dog training business is small, and dogs live in my home. Because the dogs live in a comfortable home environment with only a few other dogs, they aren’t experiencing a stressful kennel environment.

Many dogs are little nervous for the first few days of a board and train—just like kids might be nervous their first few days at sleep-away camp! I guarantee that by the end of the dog training program, your dog will be having fun and feeling comfortable, and will always be happy to return for boarding!

Is it ok if my dog sleeps in my bed?

Totally! My dogs also sleep in my bed. :) All I ask is that dogs are acclimated to the crate before beginning their board and train program, so they can have an easier transition into my home. Unfortunately, I can’t have all of the dogs in my home share my bed! :)

Will my dog miss me? Can I visit them?

Dogs are so amazing because they live in the moment! This means they won’t be “missing you.” They will definitely be happy to see you and I do allow visits!

I also allow clients to take their dogs home on weekends, so they can practice some of the training, and or just spoil and love on their dog a little while they are in their dog training program.

I’m nervous about the electric collar and or prong collar. Does my dog have to be trained with them?

First of all—it’s totally valid that you feel nervous using dog training tools you haven’t used before, especially ones that have such a bad rap! With all the misinformation and fear-mongering out there, it’s no wonder people are afraid of humane dog training tools like prong collars and electric collars.

I never force my clients to use dog training equipment they are seriously uncomfortable with, because that means they likely wont be able to use them correctly. I always explain what clients can expect with different dog training methods.

If it’s any consolation, every dog in my training program (unless they have only done the puppy program) has used the prong collar and electric collar, and they have all finished their programs as extremely happy dogs who have retained their unique personalities.

Will my family and I be able to maintain the dog training?

If you are committed to maintaining your dog’s training, then YES! Working with people and their families in private one-on-one dog training sessions is an essential part of my board and train programs.

I have a passion for teaching and deeply care about my clients feeling confident and happy maintaining their dog’s training. This is why I offer lifetime refresher sessions for FREE with my board and train programs.

When you sign up with Dog Training Together, you get dog training support for life, and a safe second home for your beloved dog.

What is the routine of dogs in your care?

Dogs in my dog training programs rotate between the following activities: private, one-on-one dog training with me, group dog training with the other pups in my program, free play time in my yard, dog training outings out in the world, free off-leash play time at parks and in the hills, chill, free-time inside my home, and of course, time in the crate.

It’s extremely important to me that dogs in my dog training programs are well cared for, and have both their physical and psychological needs met—this is why I only train a few dogs at a time.

A pent-up dog who stays in the crate or kennel all day is frustrated, can develop more problems, and is not experiencing what their life will be like when they are back at home with their families. It’s important to me that the dogs in my dog training program know how to live and relax in the home!