Board and Train vs Private Lessons:

If you’re looking for professional dog training in Columbus, Ohio, you’re probably wondering: Should I sign up for private lessons or invest in a Board and Train program? Both formats teach obedience, but the structure, results, and effort involved are very different.

Let’s break down the key differences so you can choose the right fit for your dog—and your lifestyle.

A Board and Train means your dog lives with a professional trainer for a set period (typically 1–4 weeks) and receives immersive, daily training. At OverWatch K9, our Board and Train clients in Columbus get the full package: structured training, socialization, door-to-door pickup and drop-off, and continued support after the dog comes home.

This option is ideal for busy professionals, families juggling work and kids, or anyone who wants a faster and more reliable training result.

Private obedience lessons are scheduled weekly or biweekly. You work directly with a trainer—either in your home or at a nearby park—and you practice with your dog between sessions. While this method works well for owners with the time and consistency to follow through in between lessons, owners who aren’t able to be consistent tend to have frustrations.

It depends! Here are some factors to consider:

• Time: Do you have the availability to train your dog every day? If you do, great! If you don’t, no worries, that is exactly what the board and train is for.
• Consistency: Can your household maintain the same expectations and follow-through? This means everyone in the home is using the same verbal commands, cues, and reward system in order for your dog to easily learn what it needs to.
• Energy Levels: Owners whose dogs have higher energy levels tend to prefer the Board and Train; it can be tougher for these owners to keep their dogs attention during practice sessions.

At OverWatch K9, our Board and Train graduates return home with clear communication, practiced skills, and the confidence to behave in real-world settings. And with lifetime follow-up lessons included, we make sure you’re never on your own. Our Private Lessons clients achieve excellent results when consistent practice in-between lessons is not a problem.

Board and Train is a bigger investment up front, but the results are often faster and more dependable—especially for foundational obedience. Our board and train also includes lifetime support through one-on-one meetups whenever you need them, so you never pay for training again. Private lessons have a cheaper ticket, but requires a longer commitment to see the same level of consistency. Also, private lessons do not come with lifetime support like the board and train does.

If you’re in Central Ohio and you’re unsure which option fits your goals, we’re happy to help you decide. Whether you want to work hands-on from day one or let a pro lay the groundwork, both formats can work—if they’re done right.

Let us know if you’d like help deciding between Board and Train and private lessons. We’re here to guide you to success!