Bringing your dog home after completing our board and train program is exciting — you finally get to enjoy all the hard work that our trainers, your dog, and you have put in! But just like with any new skill, consistency is the key to long-term success.
Every client leaves our program with a detailed Post Training Guide and a thorough hands-on session with one of our trainers. This gives you everything you need to keep your dog on track — but it’s up to you to stick with it.
Practice Makes Perfect (And Calm)
Your dog doesn’t need hours of training every day to maintain their progress. We recommend setting aside just 10–15 minutes each day to run through the commands they already know. Short, consistent practice sessions help your dog stay sharp and responsive — and help you build a stronger relationship, too.
One of the best tools you have is the place command. Use it daily. Having your dog hold place teaches them impulse control, reinforces boundaries, and creates calm energy in the house. Don’t let your dog bull-rush up to entryways when there’s activity, or roam freely all day without structure.
Start Inside — Then Go Outside
When your dog first comes home, focus on building reliable listening skills inside the house. Practice the commands just like you did with your trainer: leash on, collar properly fitted, calm energy from you. The next step is to remove the leash while indoors and start using those off-leash cues. Once your dog is fully tuned in indoors, it’s time to take that same structure out into the yard, on walks, or for playtime.
Remember that your dog is a living, breathing soul — not a robot — so it’s okay (and normal) for them to make some mistakes, especially in the early days of returning home after graduation. The same goes for you as their owner!
Check the Collar, Check Your Mindset
Before every session, double-check that your dog’s collar is fitted correctly and that you know how to use it properly, just like we covered in your go-home lesson. A secure, well-fitted collar keeps communication clear and your dog safe.
And remember: your mindset matters. Calm, clear, consistent leadership from you gives your dog the confidence to keep making good choices.
Use Your Follow-Ups and Group Classes
To help you and your dog stay successful long after the program ends, don’t forget to schedule your follow-up lessons included in your board and train package. These sessions give you extra hands-on guidance, answer any questions, and help you keep building on the foundation we started.
We also encourage you to attend our group classes — they’re a great way to practice your dog’s obedience skills alongside other K9 Control training graduates. You’ll build confidence working around real-world distractions and strengthen your bond even more. Details on dates, times, and locations are shared with you via email.
Options and Tools to Help
The structure you provide at home is what keeps your dog’s training strong. Use the guide, lean on what you learned from your trainer’s lesson, show up for follow-ups and group classes, and stick to short daily practice sessions. If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to help you and your dog succeed for life!
Need more ideas? Contact us today!
