Dog training questions, answered

We don’t publish prices, because the right program depends on the dog. Call, text or email and we’ll talk through what your dog needs — the consultation is free and you’ll get a straight quote.

Off-leash reliability is what the 6-week program is built for. It starts from the on-leash foundation — sit, down, stay, place and heel — and adds a recall that holds off leash, with e-collar support.

Both programs are a full-time stay with us rather than a weekly class, so six weeks means six weeks of daily work.

The 4-week on-leash program builds the obedience foundation: sit, down, stay, place, heel, and a recall proofed with the e-collar, all on leash.

The 6-week off-leash program starts from that foundation and adds reliable off-leash control. It also includes all the equipment your dog needs, e-collar included; on the 4-week program the e-collar is sold separately.

Both finish the same way — we bring your dog home and hand the training over to you in person.

Yes. Both programs are board-and-train: your dog stays with us for the full four or six weeks and works every day.

At the end we bring your dog home and go through the training with you in person, so you know how to keep it going.

The e-collar is one part of how both programs proof obedience, and it comes with specific guidance rather than being handed over cold.

For the first few months after training, your dog wears it while supervised — no more than 12 to 15 hours a day, and off for sleep or crate time.

If you have questions about collar use for your dog in particular, your trainer will go through it with you. That conversation is part of the program.

We bring your dog home and go through the training with you in person — what the commands are, how to give them, and how to hold them. On the 6-week program that handover is hands-on.

It is part of the program rather than an extra, because the training holds when the owner keeps running it.

The 4-week on-leash program covers sit, down, stay, place, heel, and a recall proofed with the e-collar.

The 6-week off-leash program builds on those and adds a recall that holds off leash.

All dogs boarding must have current Rabies, Bordetella (Kennel Cough), and DHPP or DAPP vaccines. The shot records must be received before the day of arrival. No exceptions!

Yes. We are based in North Port and work with owners in Venice, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Englewood, Rotunda and South Gulf Cove.

Dogs board with us in North Port for the length of their program and go home at the end.

No — boarding is for dogs who have already completed a program with us. That is what makes it a safe, familiar and structured stay: your dog already knows the place, the routine and the people.

Chad Walker. He has spent 22 years in law enforcement and more than 16 years training police K-9s, is an FDLE Certified Canine Instructor, and is the lead K-9 trainer for his agency’s unit. He has trained pet dogs for more than eight years alongside that work, and coaches other trainers for American Standard Canine.

Kelly Walker works alongside him on daily care for every dog staying with us.

Balanced training, paired with owner education.

The aim is a dog that understands what is being asked and an owner who knows how to ask, which is why every program ends with the training handed over to you in person.

Regardless of size, dogs learn through the same core principles of focus and positive reinforcement.

Our training programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each dog, with progressions carefully adapted to ensure success—even for the smallest breeds.

Similar to learning a new language, consistency and immersion are key. With dedicated training over several weeks, you will build a stronger, more enjoyable relationship with your dog, supported by lasting results.

Age is never a barrier to learning for dogs—we recommend training at any stage of life. Whether you have a young puppy or a more mature companion, starting training as early as possible is always beneficial.

Without proper guidance, dogs can develop unwanted habits that affect both them and their owners. Early training lays the foundation for long-term success, making it easier to instill positive behaviors from the start rather than correcting challenges later.

Yes! Your dog will constantly be monitored during their stay with us.

During the first few months after training, it is important for your dog to wear the training collar while supervised. This ensures you have the tools necessary to reinforce good behavior and address any unwanted habits consistently.

For your dog’s comfort and safety, the collar should not be worn for more than 12–15 hours per day and may be removed during sleep or while crated.

If you have specific questions regarding collar use or best practices for your dog, we encourage you to consult directly with your trainer.

During standard boarding, your dog will enjoy multiple daily turnout sessions for exercise, enrichment, and bathroom breaks.

We ask that you provide your dog’s food during their stay. Keeping your dog on their regular diet helps them adjust more easily to the new environment and prevents unnecessary stomach upset. Our facility is equipped with both a refrigerator and freezer to accommodate special diets.

You are also welcome to bring your dog’s e-collar and remote, treats, chews, and any required medications or supplements. If your dog is a selective eater and relies on a food topper, please be sure to include that as well.

For your convenience, we provide comfortable bedding for all dogs. Food and water bowls are not necessary unless you are using a slow or interactive feeder. Please note that bones which can splinter, break, or cause blockages, as well as rawhides, are not permitted for safety reasons.