Board and Train vs Private Lessons?
What is the right direction for you and your dog!
What is Board and Train and What are Private Lessons?
Ok, so you’re thinking about training. You have been doing research and everywhere you look you see training companies offering both private lessons and board and trains. Which one do you choose? These programs have both good and not so good qualities. First, let's take a look at what each one looks like.
What is Board and Train?
The idea behind a board and train is to get your dog out of the old and into the new. A board and train typically consists of your dog staying with the trainer on their property for a number of weeks. This could be in their home or a training facility. Dogs who attend our board and train program stay at our facility. I can’t speak to other board and train programs but our program consists of teaching the dog what we believe are the fundamentals to living in a human world. We want your dog to be able to switch between their dog world and be in our human world. Our programs consist of weekly meetings with the owner to teach them what their dog has been learning. After 4 weeks we have a final go home session. After that final lesson we have a follow up a few weeks later to check in. Our program also has unlimited email support.
What are Private Dog Training Lessons?
Private lessons are the opposite of a board and train. Instead of the trainer doing the training you become the trainer. Private lessons are great because they teach you how to communicate with your dog. This is beneficial because you gain tons of knowledge, a skill set to use for future dogs in your life and you are building up your relationship with your dog. The private lessons typically move at a slower pace because this can be new for many folks. Learning to train your dog is like any other skill, it takes time.
What is the Difference Between the Two?
For us, the biggest difference between the two is the relationship aspect. When your dog goes to the board and train your dog gets really good with the trainer. An often overlooked area is the association your dog has with you (the owner). For example, at the end of our program, we send homework and a 90 day sheet that details the transition back home. Without this blueprint, owners could end going back to what they were doing before and therefore the dog will go back to what they were doing before. The private lessons put you in a position to build that relationship between you and your dog.
When is Board and Train the right option?
A board and train could be the right option for families who have a lot going on. Oftentimes this jumpstart is just what is needed to relieve some stress in the home. A lot can be accomplished in a month. There is still a lot of work to be done after a board and train but the dog is in a better position to take direction from the owners. It is important to remember that a board and train does not fix your dog. It creates the foundation for you to build off of. Board and trains can also be booked out for months in advance which can be tough if you’re struggling with really problematic behaviors.
When are Private Lessons the Right Option?
Private lessons are always a great option. I think oftentimes people sell themselves short and believe they can’t do it. That it would be too hard. There is no denying that it is hard but what you get out of it can be so rewarding. After all, it would be you who did all the work.
Private lessons can be great for everyone. They move at a slower pace because we are training the handler to train the dog. Depending on your current skill set you may need to start at the beginning. Wax on wax off. The private lessons provide you with the ability of working through the issues with your dog which will give you the skills for future dogs you have throughout your life. Not all trainers can handle certain issues with your dog so it’s important to do some research and find someone who can help you.
Is Private Training Worth It?
I very much believe the private lessons are worth it. It is easier on the pocket book and you gain so much more in the long term.
Board and Train Pros and Cons
Pros
Quick results
A fully on and off leash trained dog in a matter of weeks.
Calmer dog
Easier to handle when they get home
Cons
The dog does well with the trainer
There is still work for you to do
It won’t fix your dog
Private Training Lessons Pros and Cons
Pros
You gain a skill
You build the relationship you want with your dog
You build more trust with your dog
Cons
You go slower
So in conclusion, either program is going to be beneficial for the long term with your dog and for you. Training helps immensely when cohabitating with a dog. One program can likely start sooner than the other so be prepared for long wait times if you’re considering the board and train option. When that happens a lot of trainers will point you in the direction of videos to help you with relieving some stress. At that point you are already doing some private work so it seems reasonable that you could do private lessons first and then it could be discussed if a board and learn was absolutely necessary.