Puppy Board, Train & Socialize Camp
Silver Spring Maryland…ALL Puppies welcome!
Utilizing 100% science based positive reinforcement puppy training techniques
Essential for Every Puppy Owner!
(“Older” pups are accepted for board and train camp on a case by case basis ONLY)
Enroll now to reserve your puppy’s spot in our Puppy Camp!
Spaces fill quickly, so don’t wait—Contact us today to get started.
We do NOT support the use of shock collars, prong collars or choke chains!
What is puppy foundation training?
This is the essential early-stage training that helps puppies develop good behavior, social skills, and basic obedience. It sets the groundwork for a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Typically, this training starts when a puppy is around 8-16 weeks old, during their critical socialization period.
What does puppy board and train camp include?
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Puppy Socialization – Exposure to different puppies of similar age, people, dogs, environments, sounds, and experiences to build confidence and prevent fear-based behavior.
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Basic Puppy Training – Teaching essential cues i.e. sit, stay, come, down, impulse control and promote all round good puppy manners.
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Puppy House Breaking– Establishing a routine for potty training and preventing accidents inside the house.
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Leash Walking – Getting your puppy comfortable with a collar/harness and walking politely and not pulling on a leash.
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Crate Training – Teaching the puppy to see the crate as a safe and positive space, which helps with house training and separation anxiety.
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Puppy Biting – Teaching the puppy to control the force of their bite, reducing nipping and mouthing behaviors.
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Handling & Grooming Desensitization – Getting them used to being touched, brushed, bathed, and having their paws, ears, and mouth checked.
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Impulse Control – We focus on teaching your puppy how to remain calm and control their impulses, such as resisting the urge to chase, jump, or exhibit excitable behavior at inappropriate times. This results in a more composed and relaxed puppy.
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Confidence Building – Encouraging problem-solving, positive interactions, and exposure to new environments.
Early training creates a strong bond between the puppy and owner, making future training easier; ensuring your dog grows into a well-adjusted companion.
SPECIAL NOTE:
Our Puppy Board & Train Program is not a traditional “boot camp,” and our goal is never to create a robotic dog. Instead, we focus on building a strong foundation during your puppy’s most important developmental stages. By teaching essential skills and behaviors early on, we help set your puppy up for success through adolescence into adulthood.
Training does not end when your puppy goes home. Continued success depends on consistency, routine, and repetition from the owner. Once your puppy returns home, you play the most important role in reinforcing and continuing the training we have introduced.
It’s also important to understand that puppies do not naturally generalize behaviors from one environment to another. This means your puppy may not immediately apply what they learned with us once they are back in your home. We will show you exactly how to transfer those skills into your everyday environment so your puppy can succeed at home as well.
After your puppy returns home, our trainer will follow up with you to help guide the transition and support your puppy’s adjustment back into the home environment. We are committed to providing ongoing support, answering questions, and helping you work through any challenges along the way so you can feel confident continuing the training process at home.
What is unique about our puppy board and train camp?
Apart from the obvious commands such as sit, stay, lay down, and leash walking, our board and train program goes above and
beyond the basics. We understand that many puppy owners seek more comprehensive training solutions.
Most puppy owners are looking for assistance in teaching their puppies to settle, relax, refrain from jumping on people, exhibit impulse control, reduce excitability, and develop excellent social skills. These skills are vital for their success as they transition from puppyhood to adolescence.
We prioritize creating a comfortable and nurturing environment for your puppy. Unlike sterile warehouse facilities, we do not kennel puppies. Your puppy will utilize their crate for relaxation and nap time, and all training sessions will take place within the trainer’s home environment.
Additionally, your puppy will have ample time to play outside in our spacious grassy area, where they can interact with various stimuli that occur in everyday life. This exposure helps them become well-rounded and adaptable companions.
Results vary from one pup to another – factors to consider:
- The personality and emotional state of your puppy. i.e if your puppy is shy / fearful it is likely results will be slower and owners are urged to continue with the basic training installed during your puppy’s stay at puppy camp ie. slow and often wins the race.
- How frequently the owner practices the homework/ training exercises with their pup. Consistency, patience and repetition is the key to successful puppy training.
Setting your puppy up for success | set realistic expectations!
Training your puppy should occur during periods when your puppy is receptive and less distracted. As your puppy matures he/she is more likely to increase his or her level of focus. Therefore keep your puppy training sessions short and fun!
How long is puppy board and train camp?
A minimum of: 7 days, however 10 days, 14 days are RECOMMENDED extended durations are available depending on your puppy training goals.
We will carry out an initial 1hr puppy “intake” consultation at our location in Silver Spring Maryland to determine the most appropriate training camp and duration for your puppy.
How to qualify for our puppy training camp?
- You will be required to carry out an initial puppy “intake” consultation session at our location in Silver Spring MD.
- Puppies under the age of 20 weeks old. However…. Older puppies are accepted on a case by case basis.
- Your puppy must be healthy and not have any medical conditions which could place your puppy or others at risk.
Our Dog trainer qualifications and training techniques:
- Janet Oquendo is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant (CCPDT-KA/ CDBC)
- Over 20 years experience.
- Certified Positive Reinforcement Dog and Puppy Trainer – (CCPDT)
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
- Member of CCPDT – Council for professional dog trainers
- Member of IAABC – International Association Animal Behavior Consultants
How much does it cost?
Click HERE For more details of our “Puppy board and train camp”
What training methods do you use?
We use 100% science based positive reinforcement training methods, which focuses on rewarding desired behaviors to encourage learning and motivation. Our methods are gentle, effective, and designed to build a strong bond of trust between you and your puppy.
Will I be involved in the training process?
Yes, absolutely! While your puppy’s stays with us, we will work closely with them, but we also emphasize owner involvement. After the program, we provide you with training sessions and guidance to ensure a smooth transition and continued success at home.
How do I enroll my Puppy in the board and train camp?
To enroll your puppy, simply Contact us to schedule a consultation. During this consultation, we will assess your puppy’s needs, discuss your training goals, and provide you with all the necessary information to get started.