When it comes to dog training, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Every dog brings their own personality, learning style, and life experiences to the table, and every pet parent has different goals, schedules, and challenges. Two of the most common and effective training options are Stay & Train programs and in-home private training. Both can produce wonderful results when matched thoughtfully to the dog and family.
At Playful Pups Retreat, we offer a structured Stay & Train program designed to build polite manners, confidence, and reliable skills. Below, we break down how each option works and when one may be the better fit for your dog.
What Is a Stay & Train Program?
A Stay & Train program allows your dog to stay with professional trainers for a period of time, receiving daily, structured training sessions in a controlled environment. This immersive approach is ideal for establishing strong foundations and consistent habits.
Our Stay & Train Options at Playful Pups Retreat
7-Day Stay & Train
This short-term program is perfect for dogs who need help getting started on the right paw. Over seven days, our certified trainers focus on:
- Building foundational manners
- Introducing core cues and expectations
- Creating positive learning experiences
- Beginning impulse control and polite behaviors
This option works well for younger dogs, newly adopted dogs, or families who want a professional jump-start before continuing training at home.
14-Day Stay & Train
Our more comprehensive option allows for deeper skill development and greater reliability. With two full weeks, trainers can:
- Reinforce skills through repetition and consistency
- Work with a variety of distractions
- Build confidence in shy or uncertain dogs
- Strengthen self-control, patience, and focus
This extended program is ideal for dogs who need more time to solidify behaviors or benefit from structured practice in different environments.
What Makes Stay & Train So Effective?
- Consistency: Daily training with experienced professionals
- Structured curriculum: A proven, step-by-step approach to polite manners
- Distraction exposure: Skills are practiced in a variety of settings
- Confidence building: Especially helpful for dogs who need reassurance
While the dog does the hands-on work during their stay, pet parents are not left out. We provide guidance after their training is complete so skills carry over smoothly into the home.
What Is In-Home Private Training?
Private training brings the trainer directly to your home, usually for one-hour sessions. These lessons focus on teaching both the dog and the pet parent how to communicate clearly and work through challenges together.
How Private Training Works
- Sessions are typically scheduled weekly or bi-weekly, or as needed
- Training occurs in the dog’s everyday environment
- Pet parents are actively involved in every lesson
- Homework and practice between sessions are essential
Private training often centers on specific behavior concerns, such as:
- Jumping on guests
- Leash manners around the neighborhood
- Doorway behavior
- Household routines and boundaries
Why Some Families Prefer In-Home Training
- Real-life context: Skills are practiced where behaviors actually occur
- Hands-on owner coaching: Pet parents gain confidence handling situations
- Flexible pacing: Progress unfolds over time, session by session
This option is especially helpful when the primary goal is teaching the human side of the leash how to manage and reinforce behaviors consistently.
Which Training Option Is Right for Your Dog?
Both approaches are valuable, it’s about matching the method to your dog’s needs and your family’s lifestyle.
Stay & Train may be the best choice if:
- You want a strong foundation built quickly
- Your dog benefits from structure and consistency
- Distractions are a challenge and need professional guidance
- You prefer an immersive, jump-start approach
In-Home Private Training may be ideal if:
- You want to be deeply involved in every step
- Training goals are very specific or environment-based
- You prefer gradual progress over time
- Your dog works best learning alongside you
In many cases, families even combine approaches—starting with Stay & Train to establish skills, then transitioning to private sessions for long-term success at home.
A Thoughtful, Traditional Approach to Training
At Playful Pups Retreat, we believe in time-tested training principles: consistency, patience, clear communication, and positive reinforcement. Whether your dog stays with us for a Stay & Train program or learns with you at home, our goal remains the same, to help create a polite, confident dog and a strong, trusting relationship between you and your furry companion.
If you’re unsure which option is right for your dog, our training team is always happy to talk through your goals and recommend the most appropriate option to best meet your training goals. Give us a call! We would love to learn more about you and your dog. You can also check out our website for more information on our Stay & Train Options.
Written by Laurie Yost
Laurie is the owner of Playful Pups Retreat, which has been providing exceptional pet care for 16 years! She holds the highest level of certification through PACCC (Professional Animal Care Certification Council) with a CPACO certification (Certified Professional Animal Care Operator). In addition, she is certified in Pet First Aid and is also certified through Fear Free Pets. Laurie is also the founder of a non-profit rescue organization, Pitties Love Peace.