DOG TRAINING FAQ
Our dog training FAQ answers the most common questions about Sanctus K9’s programs, training process, owner involvement, and what to expect before, during, and after training.
What does your Board & Train program include?
Our six-week Board & Train is built around reliable obedience that carries over into everyday life. Dogs live in a structured home environment while working on recall, leash manners, off-leash reliability, impulse control, household manners, public behavior, and advanced obedience. Training is practiced in the environments dogs actually encounter—not just inside a training facility. Owner education and go-home training are included so you know how to maintain the work after your dog comes home.
What does your Puppy Raise & Train program include?
Puppy Raise & Train gives young dogs a structured foundation from the beginning rather than waiting for unwanted habits to develop. The program focuses on social development, household manners, crate skills, early obedience, environmental exposure, confidence, neutrality, and impulse control. The goal is to build the habits and communication your puppy will need as they mature.
Is food included?
Yes. Food is provided during your dog's stay with Sanctus K9. If you'd like to continue feeding the same food after training, we'll provide our recommendation before your dog goes home.
What if my dog needs more training time?
Six weeks is the foundation. If your dog needs additional time to reach the agreed-upon training standard, we take it—at no additional charge. We don't send dogs home simply because the calendar says six weeks. We send them home when they're ready.
What does life look like for my dog during training?
Your dog doesn't board in a kennel. They live with their trainer in a structured home environment, around family and everyday life. Formal training sessions are combined with real-world exposure, household structure, outings, and daily routines. Training doesn't stop when a session ends—the way your dog lives throughout the day is part of the program.
What does the investment look like?
Securing your dog's training dates requires a 10% non-refundable deposit. After that, 50% of the remaining balance is due at drop-off and the final 50% is due at completion. Once your application is approved, you'll have 24 hours to sign your agreement and secure your dog's place in the program. Discounts are available for first responders and veterans.
Is the e-collar required?
Yes. E-collar training is part of our Board & Train program and is used alongside clear communication, reinforcement, and other training tools. The goal is not constant reliance on equipment, but reliable communication your dog understands even around significant distractions. Owners are taught how and when to use the e-collar appropriately before their dog goes home.
What will I need to purchase?
Very little. Training equipment—including a properly fitted flat collar, prong collar, e-collar, and leash—is provided as part of the program. The only additional owner purchase required is a place board for continued training at home.
How does drop-off and pickup work?
Drop-off and pickup are handled directly with Anthony. Around Week 4, owners are strongly encouraged to attend a check-in session where you'll see your dog's progress and begin learning how to maintain the training yourself.
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At the end of the program, your dog's go-home session takes place at your home. Anthony will walk you through the training, equipment, expectations, and how to maintain the work moving forward.
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Long-distance service may also be available. Travel is arranged case-by-case, with associated travel expenses covered by the client.
Can I visit my dog during the program?
Outside of the Week 4 check-in and end-of-program go-home session, visits are generally discouraged. Consistency is an important part of the training process, and unnecessary interruptions can make it harder for some dogs to settle into the program.
You'll receive regular photo and video updates so you can follow your dog's progress throughout training. If there's a specific reason you'd like to visit, talk with Anthony and we'll determine what's best for your dog.
Where does Sanctus K9 provide dog training?
Sanctus K9 is based in Fort Worth, Texas, and serves dog owners throughout Fort Worth and the surrounding DFW area. Dogs also come to us from elsewhere in Texas and across the country for training. Long-distance arrangements are handled individually based on the dog's program and the owner's location.
What training methods does Sanctus K9 use?
Sanctus K9 uses a balanced approach to dog training built around clear communication, reinforcement, structure, and accountability. Training methods and tools are selected based on the individual dog, the behavior being taught, and the level of reliability required. Our goal is not dependence on equipment—it's a dog that clearly understands what is expected and an owner who knows how to communicate with them.
How is Sanctus K9 different from a traditional Board & Train facility?
Sanctus K9 intentionally operates a low-volume, in-home training program rather than a traditional high-volume kennel environment. Dogs live alongside us in a structured household and train in neighborhoods, stores, parks, and other appropriate real-world environments. Anthony personally trains each dog and limits enrollment so the program can be individualized around each dog's temperament, needs, and training goals.
What support do I receive after my dog comes home?
Every program includes owner education and lifetime support. Your go-home session teaches you how to handle your dog, use the training equipment appropriately, maintain expectations, and continue progressing at home. If questions or challenges come up after training, you can reach back out to Sanctus K9 for guidance.
Is this program right for my dog?
That depends on both sides. Sanctus K9 is intentionally selective about the dogs we accept, and we're looking for owners who are equally committed to maintaining the work after training.
Every dog and owner is evaluated individually. If we believe the program is a good fit for your goals, we'll explain exactly what we recommend and what you can expect. If we don't believe we're the right fit, we'll tell you that too.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Tell us about your dog, what you're struggling with, and what you want life together to look like. We'll determine which Sanctus K9 program is the right fit.