what is a board & train with us?

At Mainely Hounds, Board & Train is not a “drop your dog off and we fix them” program. It is an immersive, relationship-based experience designed to build calm behavior, emotional regulation, and real-world skills — while preparing you to confidently continue the work at home.

This program blends structure, enrichment, and thoughtful exposure in everyday environments. The goal is not robotic obedience — it’s clarity, confidence, and lasting change.

the program

Board & Train provides the structure needed to reset patterns, build confidence, and establish habits — while honoring the dog as an individual.

01

WHAT IS IT?

Board & Trains are immersive programs that come with lasting support. Once we take your dog on, you both are a part of the pack for life!

02

WHO’S IT FOR?

Board & Train may be a good fit if:

  • Your dog needs consistent, structured training

  • You’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed

  • Your dog struggles with moderate reactivity

  • Your dog needs confidence-building in new environments

  • You want immersive professional guidance with owner support

  • You’re committed to participating in the training process

03

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

Many traditional board & train programs focus heavily on obedience drills in controlled environments.

Mainely Hounds focuses on:

  • Emotional regulation before obedience

  • Real-world exposure and practical skills

  • Clear communication

  • Calm leash engagement

  • Sustainable progress over quick fixes

Training happens in real-life environments — outdoors, on trails, and in everyday settings — not just in a facility.

04

HOW INVOLVED ARE OWNERS?

This program is not a shortcut. Owner involvement is essential for long-term success.

We prioritize you, your dog, and your life together. You are a part of the process the entire time ensuring you can maintain the positive changes and growth together!

How to inquire…

Spots are limited to ensure quality and individualized attention.

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Let’s build clarity, confidence, and calm — together.

Pricing

Board & Train is offered in limited availability to ensure quality and individualized attention. Pricing varies based on duration and training goals. Details are discussed after an initial evaluation to ensure the program is the right fit.

program structure

During your dog’s stay:

  • Daily, context-based training sessions

  • Structured exposure to real-world environments

  • Calm leash engagement work

  • Threshold manners (doors, vehicles, excitement triggers)

  • Neutral social exposure

  • Confidence-building exercises

  • Rest and decompression integrated intentionally

Dogs are not drilled nonstop. Regulation and recovery are part of the process.

immersion period

Before your dog returns home:

  • One-on-one session reviewing skills and cues

  • Hands-on coaching so you feel confident

  • Discussion of tools (if applicable) and proper use

  • A personalized household transition plan

You’ll understand what your dog learned and how to maintain it.

owner integration

Support doesn’t stop when your dog goes home. You will go home with structured guidance for integration, receive continued coaching via text or email and always have the option of add-ons.

follow-up support

You might be wondering…

  • Yes. Reactivity Add-on ($1,000) is recommended for dogs with moderate to severe reactivity or bite history.
    Includes:

    • One additional week of immersive training

    • Slower exposure progressions

    • Safety-focused setups

    • Additional owner coaching

    Severe aggression cases are not accepted for safety reasons.

  • Off-Leash Recall Add-On — +$500

    Includes:

    • 5 additional training days

    • Structured off-leash recall foundations

    • Proofing in controlled outdoor environments

    • Clear owner education on when off-leash is appropriate

    Off-leash work is situational and always discussed individually.

  • Your dog will leave with stronger foundations, clearer communication skills, and improved regulation. Long-term success depends on continued consistency at home.

  • I do not take on severe aggression cases. Dogs with a bite history or significant reactivity may be considered on a case-by-case basis, often with the additional reactivity week required. Safety for your dog, other dogs, and myself always comes first.

  • Tools are chosen intentionally and ethically. Options may include:

    • Flat collars

    • Martingales

    • Slip leads

    • Prong collars

    • E-collars

    Tools are never used for intimidation. They are introduced thoughtfully and always discussed with you beforehand.

  • Training happens in real-life environments:

    • Outdoor trails

    • Everyday public spaces

    • Neutral environments

    • Structured home-like settings

    We prioritize real-world skill application.

  • Owner involvement is essential.

    You’ll participate in:

    • A midway or pre-go-home session

    • A detailed go-home session

    • Ongoing communication

    • Optional follow-up lessons

    This ensures the training translates into your everyday life. If you’re looking for a “drop off and never practice” solution, this program will not be a good fit.

  • You’ll go home with:

    • A calmer, more confident dog

    • Clear structure and expectations

    • A personalized plan

    • Continued support

    Board & Train is a foundation — not a finish line.

  • This program works best for owners who:

    • Are ready to commit to follow-through

    • Want clarity and structure

    • Value calm, sustainable progress

    • Are open to learning

    If that sounds like you, we’d love to talk.

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