ARK DOG · Relationship before expectation

One philosophy. Three ways to train.

The product is the training process. Board & Train, Owner Train and guided virtual coaching are ways to make that process work for your dog and your life.

We don’t prescribe training before we understand the dog.

We begin with your dog’s needs and your household’s goals. Then we recommend a delivery method, participation plan and training priorities during consultation.

Across every format, the foundation is relationship, state of mind, clear communication and meaningful owner involvement. Training is not measured by how quickly we can send a dog home.

Arkhein trainer sharing a relaxed moment with a Great Dane outdoors
Relationship before expectation.

Board & Train

Owners typically come to the trainer for Board & Train, including owner sessions, drop-off and pickup. Some Board & Train owner sessions may also take place at your home or in public, depending on the training plan.

For puppies, this is our premium and most comprehensive trainer-led option. Daily professional handling and consistent practice create more opportunity to develop foundations than remote coaching alone.

Your dog receives individualized training in a trainer’s home. We work with a small number of dogs so there is room to understand the individual and build a relationship.

You are required to meet and work with your trainer and dog regularly throughout the program. Owner participation begins during training, not only at a final go-home lesson.

Before choosing this format, we’ll discuss your ability to take part in those sessions, travel logistics and how the work transfers to your home.

Owner Train

Hands-on weekly coaching helps you learn to train your own dog. We teach the handler as well as the dog, including use of trained demonstration dogs when helpful.

You practice between sessions, bring questions back and build your handling skills over time. We typically travel to you for hands-on Owner Train. The first few sessions are usually in your home to prepare the dog and establish the foundations. Sessions often move into public spaces toward the end of the program as you and your dog are ready. We confirm the location, schedule and any applicable mileage with you before training begins.

Guided virtual training

Private weekly one-hour sessions combine with Microsoft Teams and phone communication. You upload videos during the week, and your trainer provides critique and feedback between sessions.

This format supports owners who want professional direction while doing the training themselves. Suitability depends on the dog, goals and type of support needed.

For puppies under six months, our $800 virtual program includes four weeks and four private one-hour sessions. All sessions are required and the program is non-refundable. If you need more direct help, we can discuss Board & Train or Owner Train, including suitability, availability and pricing.

What we ask of you

  • Participate consistently and practice the agreed work.
  • Be honest about your dog’s history and your available time.
  • Ask questions when something is unclear.
  • Make space for a relationship to develop before increasing expectations.

No standard program price or public duration promise fits every dog. We design the plan after consultation.

Start with your dog’s story.

Complete the application so we can understand your dog, your household and your goals. Most clients begin with a $75 virtual consultation. In-person consultations are $120 plus applicable mileage. This is an assessment and program-design conversation; normal training plans and prices are customized afterward.

Start your application ↗