I get this question a lot: can you board and train my dog? My answer is always NO. Let' dive in.
If you've been exploring options for training your dog, you might have come across board and train programs. These promise a magically transformed pet, but they often fail to deliver long-lasting results. Here’s why:
1. Lack of Owner Involvement
One of the primary reasons board and train programs fail is the significant lack of owner involvement during the training process. Dogs learn behaviors in specific contexts, and when they return home, the context changes. Without owners learning alongside their dogs, the behaviors are not reinforced at home, leading to quick regression.
Solution: Seek programs where owners are included in the training process, even if remotely, through video calls or detailed reports. Training should ideally involve both dog and owner learning together.
2. Stress and Adjustment
Being away from home can be highly stressful for dogs, affecting their learning and leading to:
Separation Anxiety: Dogs might become overly attached to the trainer or distressed upon returning home.
Temporary Behavior: Good behavior in the controlled environment of the facility doesn't always transfer to the home environment.
Solution: Consider day training or shorter stays to reduce stress and facilitate gradual behavior integration.
3. One-Size-Fits-All Approach
Many board and train setups use generic methods, often relying heavily on tools like prong collars and e-collars. These are seen as a way to ensure dogs listen rather than learn:
Breed-Specific Needs: Different breeds have different drives and learning styles, which these tools might not address appropriately.
Individual Temperament: Dogs with different temperaments might react negatively to such methods.
Solution: Look for trainers who personalize their approach based on your dog's unique characteristics, focusing on positive reinforcement rather than just compliance.
4. Short-Term Gains vs. Long-Term Learning
The structured environment of a board and train can produce quick results, but these are often temporary:
Environment Dependency: Dogs might only behave well in the training environment.
Lack of Proofing: Without ongoing practice in various real-world scenarios, behaviors aren't solidified.
Solution: Choose programs that focus on proofing behaviors in different environments with follow-up sessions post-training.
5. Communication Breakdown
There's often a disconnect between the training at the facility and what's communicated to the owner:
Misinterpretation of Techniques: Owners might not understand how to use prong or e-collars correctly or replicate other training methods.
Inconsistent Cues: Dogs can get confused if commands or cues vary between trainer and owner.
Solution: Opt for trainers who emphasize clear, ongoing communication, providing detailed instructions and support.
6. Dependence on Aversive Tools
Board and train programs often use prong collars and e-collars because they believe these tools ensure obedience rather than fostering understanding or learning. This can lead to:
Behavior Suppression: The dog might suppress behavior out of fear rather than learning how to behave appropriately.
Long-Term Damage: Over-reliance on these tools can damage the trust between dog and owner, affecting the bond and the dog's overall well-being.
Solution: Focus on trainers who prioritize positive reinforcement techniques that enhance the relationship between you and your dog.
Conclusion
While board and train can be beneficial under specific circumstances, its success heavily depends on the program's structure, the trainer's philosophy, and the owner's commitment post-training. At LECA, we advocate for a collaborative approach where training is a partnership that builds understanding and trust, not just compliance. Remember, the goal is to foster a lifelong bond and learning journey with your dog, not submit your dog into obedience.
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