board and train

We teach all behaviors using reward-based training and food on-leash. Once the dog has a strong obedience foundation and understanding of what we expect from them, we properly condition them to the e-collar. We have 6-step protocol to ensure fair, safe, and effective communication.

The old and antiquated method of using an e-collar as a “shock collar” is not how we do things around here at Master of Hounds Academy.

We have a modern, humane, and proven method of introducing dogs across all personality types to the e-collar. Our motto is low and slow when it comes to the e-collar. We find their lowest working level, teach them how to turn off the e-collar stimulation, and spend weeks building fluency over a variety of behaviors. We then train you how to properly use the device as well.

When used properly, e-collars are incredibly safe, effective, and humane and allow greater freedom than any other dog training tool.

Every day varies a little bit, but we start each morning bright and early, making sure everyone gets their morning potty break in the yard. Then dogs are either out for some supervised social time or taken on a structured walk around the neighborhood.

We do an average of 3-4 training sessions spaced throughout the day. Outings can range from different parks, stores, outdoor shopping areas, the beach, or a local hiking trail.
Downtime is just as important as getting out and about! We make sure your dog is getting breaks either in their crate or decompressing on their cot.

After dinner, dogs are matched in pairs or trios to play and hang out under supervision.

Last potty breaks are between 9-10PM, then it’s off in their crates to sleep for the night!

Your dog’s stay, broken down broadly by week (timeline may vary a bit depending on your dog’s personality):

We spend the first week building trust, forming a relationship, and creating handler engagement with your dog while hand-feeding during training sessions to build fundamentals. This week is all about acclimatizing, confidence building, and just getting your dog settled into his new routine.

Week Two is all about skill acquisition. This is the big learning week when it comes to new behaviors. We need to teach your dog what TO do before we ever teach them what not to do.

Week Three is when we begin the generalization process. That means practicing their newly acquired skills in different places. Your dog will be going on field trips and getting a lot of repetitions in to build strong, reliable behaviors.

Week Four is all about proofing. That means your dog is working under a variety of distractions, being brought up to our training standards, and if enrolled in our 4-week program, getting ready to make their transition home!

We get this question asked a lot! We have never had a dog (or puppy) forget their families after their stay here. We always spend some time during the go-home lesson to get that initial burst of excited greetings in and satiated.

We send frequent updates via text in form of progress reports, pics, and videos. We send daily updates during the first week because we know how hard it is to be away from your best friend! An average of 4 updates a week are sent after that.

Your training package will come with a go-home lesson, a zoom follow-up, and an additional in-person lesson. You’ll also receive personalized notes and instructional handouts. Our 4 week+ programs also gives you access to a free group class. We’re dedicated to helping our graduates continue their training successes and provide email/phone support.