How Much Does a Board-and-Train Dog Camp Cost?

Updated October 13, 2026 · 2 min read · 3 sources

Short answer

Board-and-train programs, where your dog lives with the trainer, cost about $900 to $3,000 per week according to K9 of Mine, so a multi-week program often totals several thousand dollars. Price depends on the length of stay, your location and the goals. Because dog training is unregulated, ask exactly which methods the trainer uses and plan to continue training at home afterward.

Board-and-train (also called a "dog training camp") means your dog stays with a trainer for one or more weeks and is trained every day. It's the most expensive training option, and the one where you have the least direct view of how your dog is trained.

Board-and-train cost

Cost
Per week about $900–$3,000
2-week program about $1,800–$6,000
4-week program about $3,600–$12,000

Weekly range from K9 of Mine; multi-week figures are the weekly range multiplied out. Many trainers quote a package price for a set number of weeks, which can differ.

What's usually included

  • Lodging and care for your dog
  • Daily training sessions
  • Updates, videos or photos
  • One or more "transfer" lessons at the end, where you learn to use the cues
  • Sometimes follow-up lessons after your dog returns home

Pros and cons

Pros - Daily, consistent training by a professional - Useful if you're traveling, recovering from surgery or short on time

Cons - Highest cost - Your dog may respond to the trainer but not to you without practice - Less transparency about methods - Not a substitute for a veterinary behaviorist when the problem is serious aggression or anxiety

Questions to ask before you book

  1. What methods and tools do you use? The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends reward-based training and advises against prong, choke and shock collars, intimidation and "dominance" approaches.
  2. Can I see daily videos and visit unannounced?
  3. Where will my dog sleep, and who is there overnight?
  4. What are your credentials? VCA notes dog training isn't legally regulated, so certification and experience vary widely.
  5. What's included after pickup? Transfer sessions and follow-up are what make the training last.
  6. What happens if my dog doesn't progress?

Is board-and-train right for aggression?

For aggression or severe anxiety, VCA advises starting with a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) or certified applied animal behaviorist (CAAB), together with your veterinarian. See can dog training help with aggression and trainer or behaviorist.

Find dog trainers near you and compare programs.

Sources

  1. K9 of Mine: How much do dog trainers cost? (updated 2025)
  2. VCA Animal Hospitals: Do I need a trainer, a behaviorist or a veterinary behaviorist? (2025)
  3. AVSAB: Humane dog training position statement (2021)

Find dog trainers near you

Whether you need puppy classes, obedience training, help with barking or aggression, or service dog training, compare local dog trainers by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.

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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.

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