There is a great deal of misinformation and dishonesty surrounding dog training methods and the results they produce. To make the best decision for you and your dog, my advice is simple: Clearly define the behavioral changes you want to see, consider any concerns you may have, and seek trainers with a proven track record of achieving those results with dogs similar to yours. Speak with several former clients of the trainer you’re considering to learn about their experiences and outcomes. Ask what their dog was like before, what they’re like now, and just as importantly, how was the process of getting there?

Anyone can claim to be “experienced” and “skilled," so I encourage you to refer to the advice I shared in the previous FAQ, “What kind of training methods do you use?"

I recommend allowing your puppy to settle into their new home for about three days before scheduling the first training session. It’s important to book the lesson when your puppy is well-rested, hungry, and eager to engage, so both of you can get the most out of the session.

Some of you may be worried that sending your dog away to “boot camp” will somehow break their spirit and make them less happy and playful. The good news is that none of those things will occur. One positive change you will definitely see is them being more responsive to your commands. With skillful training, their happy, playful and affectionate spirit can only be enhanced Click HERE to see what my clients of the past have to say about what they observed after their dog returned home from training.

Of course! I am more than happy to arrange up to two 30-minute visits per week. Any trainer who tells you that visits will harm your dog’s progress is simply not being honest. It’s important to stay connected with your dog during their training journey, and I’m here to support both you and your pup every step of the way.

Unlike humans, who often dwell on past decisions or worry about future problems, dogs live in the moment. While they can experience temporary sadness or anxiety when separated from their pack, they quickly adjust in a nurturing environment like mine. With plenty of space to run, play, and explore, they settle in well. Though they don’t forget you, they’re always excited to see a familiar, loving face when you visit. I recommend coming for a visit about 7-10 days after drop-off. It’s a reassuring opportunity to see your dog doing great, well cared for, and making progress. Plus, during these shorter visits, we can introduce you to some new skills without overwhelming you.

100% yes, but only if you attend the minimum recommended three follow-up sessions and follow my guidelines for maintenance to the letter. The good news is my guidelines for long term success mostly involve being mindful of not UNDOING the training and the recommended follow-up sessions are included in the program.

You need only bring their food, vaccination records, if not already sent by email/text, and a collar with identification tags. If they have a special blanket, bed, or toy that you feel they can’t do without then you may bring that along as well. Otherwise, I have all of the bedding, safe chew toys and treats they might need or enjoy.

Each month I limit availability for the Board and Train program to only 4 dogs. I will not admit any dogs with a bite history or unprovoked serious aggression towards humans or dogs. I am, however, happy to work with these types of dogs in a private lesson format.

We typically wake up at about 7 am and everyone is let out for about 15 mins. Next, I bring them in for breakfast. After they have eaten, they are taken out to one of the two exercise yards for about 30—45 minutes.

Between about 8:30 am and 5 pm (dinner), your dogs will be rotating between the exercise yards, individual training sessions, and the brand new climate-controlled kennel. The kennel allows your dog to have free access between the temperature controlled 5x5 inside area with a raised cot and fresh water at all times or the outside, covered 5x10 runs on a special "stay cool” decking surface for the hot summer days.

After dinner, at about 5:30 pm, the dogs will be let out briefly before going back to the kennel or inside my home for some living room lounging until going outside one last time between 9:30 am and 10 am. Dogs that are new arrivals or those requiring special attention will come into the house after dinner and sleep in crates in my home overnight. I will honestly do whatever I think is necessary to make sure all dogs are content and comfortable for the duration of their stay.

Some dogs will require more special attention than others and I am more than happy to provide that.

Lastly, your dogs and I will also be taking field trips to places like Willow Creek Park, Round Valley, Run-A-Mok, and Main St in Park City to make sure they are training in new and challenging environments. The other reason for these little excursions is just to have a little fun. Variety is the spice!

The good news is, while a lack of consistency among household members isn’t ideal, as long as YOU are consistent in holding the dog accountable for the behaviors that matter to you, the dog will remain mindful and respectful of those behaviors when YOU are present. Getting the dog to respect OTHER family members' personal space and THEIR commands without you present will depend on their ability to follow the basic training protocols I provide after the dog completes their time with me. Naturally, some family members may be too young or not motivated enough to follow the prescribed training protocols. My advice is simple: advocate for your younger child and don’t stress about others not fully embracing the program (remember the serenity prayer!). Lead by example, and you’ll not only have a dog that is responsive and respectful to you, but your family members may see the benefits and decide to follow suit.

Boarding without training is only available to 1 or 2 dogs per day that have already boarded and trained with me in the past.

Because I only take in 3-4 board and train students per month, and only have 2 larger dogs of my own (both male and female) it is hard to say for sure there will be other dogs here your dog will enjoy playing with. Your dog’s age, size and temperament will all be factors when I’m deciding which dogs may be compatible for play or just being together off-leash. The one playmate for your dog I can absolutely guarantee however is myself:) Some dogs are not at all interested in playing with other dogs and only want to be around their people. For these types of dogs, I’m always happy to fill in as a playmate/ buddy throughout the day. Keeping my numbers small allows me the time and flexibility to make special accommodations for the dogs who may need them.

While your dog won’t be sleeping in my bed, they are welcome to lounge on the couch if that’s something you allow at home. Depending on your dog’s temperament and how long they’ve been with me, they will either sleep in a 5x5 temperature-controlled suite in the kennel or in a crate in my home. Teaching your dog to be comfortable in a crate is beneficial for their confidence, safety, and your peace of mind—whether they’re staying at home alone, traveling with you, or staying at a hotel, rental, or a friend or family member’s home.