Preparing for Your Dog's Board & Train
A little preparation goes a long way. Here's everything you need to know to prepare your dog for their Board & Train experience with Reliable Canine.
Set Your Dog Up for Success
Complete Your Training Intake Form
Before your dog's arrival, please complete the Training Intake Form. This gives us important information about your dog's behaviour, history, routines, challenges, and your training goals.
The more we know about your dog, the better we can tailor their program to their individual needs.
Complete the Board & Train Agreement
Please review and complete the Board & Train Agreement before your dog's scheduled drop-off date. This agreement outlines the terms and expectations for your dog's stay and training program.
Keep It Simple
Your dog doesn't need to arrive with a suitcase full of belongings. We'll provide the basics they need for their stay.
Required
- Enough food for the entire stay, plus a little extra
- Current measuring cup
- Any required medications
- Collar and leash
- Your dog's current training equipment, if applicable
Optional
- Favourite toy
- Comfort item
- Special treats or chews
- Other familiar items that may help your dog settle
We Provide
- Food and water bowls
- Crate
- Bedding
- Training equipment included with your program, where applicable
Please leave valuable or irreplaceable items at home. Your dog's stay is focused on training, structure, and real-world experiences—not keeping their belongings perfectly organized!
Start the Program on the Right Foot
Give Them Some Exercise
A normal walk or some light exercise before drop-off can help your dog arrive ready to settle. There's no need to exhaust them—just give them an opportunity to move, sniff, and go to the bathroom.
Feed as Usual
Unless we've discussed otherwise, maintain your dog's normal feeding routine before arrival.
Keep Goodbyes Calm
Your dog may pick up on your emotions. A calm, matter-of-fact goodbye can make the transition easier. Once your dog is with us, we'll take it from there.
Arrive on Time
Please arrive during your scheduled drop-off window. If you're running late or your plans change, let us know as soon as possible.
Training Beyond the Commands
Your dog's stay isn't simply about teaching them a list of commands. Their program will include structured training, clear communication, rest, enrichment, and real-world practice based on their individual needs.
We work toward creating skills that transfer into everyday life—not just behaviours that look good during a training session.
Every dog progresses differently, so their daily routine will be adjusted according to their temperament, training level, and goals.
The Training Doesn't End at Pick-Up
Your dog will learn new skills during their time with us, but your role begins again when they come home.
Our goal is to give you the tools and understanding needed to maintain your dog's progress and continue building on what they've learned.
Training & Transfer
At the end of the program, we'll go over your dog's training, demonstrate the skills they've developed, and show you how to maintain them at home. Training & Transfer is an important part of creating lasting results.
Ready to Go Home
Arrive During Your Scheduled Time
Please arrive during your scheduled pick-up time. Your pick-up will include a training transfer, where we'll go over your dog's progress and help you understand how to continue their training at home.
Come Ready to Learn
Your dog may have learned a lot during their stay, but consistency after they return home is what helps those skills become part of everyday life.
We'll make sure you leave with a clear understanding of what to do next.
Trust the Process
Some dogs settle in immediately. Others need a little more time to adjust to a new environment and routine.
Your dog's program is individualized to their needs, and we'll communicate with you if we have any concerns during their stay.
Our goal isn't simply to send your dog home knowing more commands. It's to help build a dog who is more reliable, confident, manageable, and enjoyable to live with.
Once your Training Intake Form and Board & Train Agreement are completed and your deposit has been received, you're all set.
We look forward to welcoming your dog to Reliable Canine.