Board And Train Sacramento

Board & Train FAQs

How much does a board and train cost in Sacramento?

Our board and train immersion programs run about $150 per day: $2,100 for two weeks, $3,150 for three weeks, and $4,200 for four weeks. Pricing is listed right here on our site — no mystery quotes. If your dog needs specific training equipment, we'll discuss it up front and add it to your package.

How long is a board and train program?

Two weeks is our minimum, and we offer three- and four-week programs. For extreme behavior cases, we've run programs as long as six weeks.

How do I know which length my dog needs?

Think of it like learning a new language — because for your dog, that's exactly what this is. Two weeks of full immersion in a foreign country teaches you a lot. Four weeks builds real fluency. If your dog has already done private lessons with us, two weeks goes further because we already know your dog and have a working foundation. If you want polished, reliable results, look at four weeks.

What can a two-week board and train accomplish?

A two-week program focuses on a small set of skills: leash manners, threshold manners (no more door-dashing), and holding a duration sit or down. It's designed to refine skills your dog already has or build a few key behaviors they're missing — not to remake your dog.

Can a board and train fix reactivity?

Not in two weeks — and we'll tell you that straight. Reactivity, whether it comes from over-excitement, fear, or aggression, can't be resolved in a short program, and anyone who promises otherwise isn't being honest with you. Reactive dogs need a longer program — we've run up to six weeks for serious cases — paired with coaching for your family, because lasting change happens on both ends of the leash. Start with a consultation and we'll map out what your dog actually needs.

Does board and train actually work? Will it stick at home?

Yes — if you do your part. Your dog comes home speaking a new language, and there will be rules, guidelines, and boundaries for keeping it. If you use it, it sticks. If you don't use it, they lose it. Period. That's why every program includes hands-on skill transfer to you, plus follow-up lessons — we're not finished until you can lead your own dog.

What's included after my dog comes home?

Every program includes free follow-up lessons — one with the 2-week program, two with the 3-week & 4 week.— plus discounted additional sessions.Want more follow-ups built in? Just bring it up during planning, before pricing is set.

Who trains my dog, and where do they live during the program?

Board and trains are run personally by Terra, our owner and Licensed Family Dog Mediator, or Alex, our Canine Relationship Coach. Your dog lives in their trainer's home for the entire program. And because there are two of us, there's always a backup — if illness or a family emergency ever comes up mid-program, your dog's care and training never miss a day. The two of us also balance each other — Alex brings structure and consistency; Terra adapts and reads each dog as she goes.

How is your program different from other board and trains?

Every program starts with a full assessment of your dog's learning history, environment, genetics, and individual self — the four forces that drive behavior. Terra is a Licensed Family Dog Mediator® trained in Kim Brophey's L.E.G.S.® framework, and that whole-dog approach shapes what your dog's program covers and how we teach it. No cookie-cutter curriculum — your dog's program is built for your dog.

What are the requirements for board and train?

There's no minimum age, but dogs must be crate trained before their stay — being comfortable in a crate is a hard requirement. (Alex has some availability to crate train young puppies as part of a program.) Dogs must also be safe to handle; we can't accept dogs with a level of human aggression that prevents safe daily care. Proof of vaccines is required, just like our boarding.

Will I get updates during my dog's program?

Always — though our styles differ, and honestly, so do our training personalities. Alex runs a structured program with updates on a consistent schedule you can count on. Terra's approach is more fluid — she adapts the program as your dog reveals what they need, and you'll hear from her freely and often along the way. We'll set expectations at drop-off either way, and if you have a preference for structure or flexibility, tell us — it can help us decide which trainer is the right match for your dog and for you.

I'm traveling but my dog already graduated. Do I need another board and train?

Nope — that's what our in-home boarding is for. Training alumni board with Alex, fall right back into their good habits, and come home with their skills maintained. Alumni dogs can also upgrade to Terra's Overnight Adventure Training for active skill-building during their stay.

Can reactive dogs board with you?

Absolutely — working with reactive dogs is exactly what we do. Whether your dog is reactive to other dogs or to people, they're welcome here, cared for by trainers who read canine body language for a living. Reactive guests are managed safely away from triggers, never forced into group play, and handled at their own pace. And if you'd like your dog's stay to actively work on that reactivity, ask us about pairing boarding with a training program.

Do you board intact males or females in heat?

Yes. Whether and when to spay or neuter is your choice, and we'll care for your dog at whatever stage of life they're in. Intact dogs are managed thoughtfully within the group — play groups are already matched by size, energy, and play style, and dogs who need space get it.

Can my dog receive medications during their stay?

Yes — medications stay exactly on your dog's home schedule, at no extra charge. Bring them labeled with dosing instructions at drop-off and we'll take it from there.

What if my dog won't eat at first?

Super common — some dogs won't even potty for the first day or two. It's not a crisis; it's information. It tells us your dog is carrying some anxiety, so we slow everything down: hand feeding, extra pets and reassurance, and a much gentler transition into the routine. Dogs settle when they're ready, and we give them the room to get there.