Board & Train vs. Private Sessions: Which Dog Training Option Is Right forYou?

If you’ve started looking into professional dog training, you’ve probably noticed two

popular options come up again and again: private training sessions and board & train

programs. Both have their place, both can be effective, and neither is a magic wand. The real

question is which one makes the most sense for your dog—and your lifestyle.

WHAT ARE PRIVATE TRAINING SESSIONS?

Private sessions typically involve a trainer working with you and your dog for an hour at a

time, once or twice a week. These sessions are often held at your home, a training facility, or

in public environments depending on the goals.

Benefits of private sessions:

• You’re directly involved in the learning process from day one

• Great for fine-tuning specific issues (leash walking, recalls, household manners)

• Ideal for owners who are consistent, confident, and have time to train daily

• Training happens in your dog’s real-world environment

Private sessions work best when the dog already has a foundation—or when the owner is

ready and able to put in daily, structured practice between sessions.

WHAT IS A BOARD & TRAIN PROGRAM?

In a board & train, your dog stays with a professional trainer for an extended period of

time—usually anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks—receiving daily, structured training.

Benefits of board & train:

• Daily repetition and consistency

• Clear structure, rules, and boundaries from day one

• Faster progress due to immersive learning

• Ideal for dogs with no training foundation or those needing a reset

• Removes confusion caused by inconsistent handling at home

WHY BOARD & TRAIN IS OFTEN THE BETTER STARTING POINT

When a dog is new to training or restarting after bad habits have formed, board & train

programs often produce stronger and more reliable results in a shorter timeframe.

Dogs don’t practice bad habits while learning good ones.

Training isn’t limited to one hour a week.

Clear communication is established before owners take over.

Many dogs struggle not because they’re stubborn, but because they’ve been allowed to

rehearse unwanted behaviors for months—or years. A board & train removes that rehearsal loop and replaces it with structure, engagement, and clarity.

WHERE PRIVATE SESSIONS SHINE

Private sessions are fantastic after a solid foundation has been built. They’re ideal for owner

skill-building, maintenance training, and proofing behaviors in real-world environments.

SO, WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

If your dog is new, untrained, overwhelmed, or struggling with consistency, board & train is often the most efficient option. If your dog already understands basic structure and you want to build together, private sessions can be a great fit.

A strong start matters. Training is easier, clearer, and far more enjoyable when everyone is

set up to succeed from the beginning.