BOARD/TRAIN PROGRAM

I offer both a 16 day and a 21 day beginner training program. Both programs address the issues below.     My main focus as a trainer is starting young puppies 4-7 months of age. This is the time to  give the pup a good foundation based on leadership and brain work!  Early issues such as housebreaking and crate training are covered through phone consults prior to the board/train program. These consultations are set up by appointment after a contract is in place so that we make sure we cover any problems before they get out of hand! 

I do consider older dogs under 60 pounds based on an individual consult to determine whether or not he/she would benefit from my program. However, please note that all dogs at 7 months must be spayed or neutered to attend the program.

I also offer custom programs to fit individual problem issues. Those programs would vary in length depending on what we need to address.

Refresher training is offered to dogs who have completed my beginner program.

Behavioral issues addressed may include, stealing,  counter surfing, jumping, mouthing,  etc. Learning how to establish leadership with your dog through behavior modifications and teaching impulse control is the base of my training program.

The board/train takes place in my home versus a kennel situation. This means that your dog is cared for 24 hours a day-just like home! I do not employ any outside staff- your dog is treated just like our own dogs. Not only is this unique to a kennel (where your dog is often left alone overnight,looked after by various different people), but being in a home environment is advantageous as I can work on issues you may be having related to the home environment (counter surfing, stealing, etc.). I do focus as well on working with dog and children interactions ensuring a good family relationship!

I also take your dog on "field trips" to various local locations (the mall, in town, forest preserve and walking trails) so he or she learns how to behave in a variety of situations. Dog socialization is an integral part of the program-dogs must be social to attend. A minimum of 4 one hour playtimes daily is a crucial part of each day’s routine. There are normally not more than 6-10 dogs with me at one time, and of those no more than 4 are beginners.

Dogs must be  housebroken and well crate trained to board ( no excessive barking while crated. no accidents in the crate) If you have any questions regarding housebreaking and crating please ask!

Dogs with dog to dog OR dog to human aggression are not allowed. Dogs with SEVERE separation anxiety issues do not do well in a board/train situation and will also not be accepted into the program.

Also included as part of the program are pre-training phone consultations and a post-training review lesson.

During the post-training review lesson I teach you how to reinforce commands and housebreaking rules.  This session is approximately 1-1/2 hours long and takes place on the end date.

Dogs must have a negative fecal within 30 days of boarding. The fecal sample must be lab tested and run for Giardia.

Also required is the the bordetella vaccine  (the bordetella must be administered at least fourteen days prior to the training start date. I will need written proof of the above at least two business days prior to boarding date.

Adult only Owner(s) need to be present for the pick up and lesson. 

Drop off is Monday-Saturday mornings by 11:00 am-no afternoon or evening available. Pick up with the lesson is Monday-Saturday mornings between 9-9:30 am. No pick up or drop off available  Sundays or Holidays. Please inquire for current fees and scheduling.

Visit my Instagram (#markaydogtraining) to see photos of daily life here at Markay.