Boarding, Daycare and Training
Dog Board and Train
If you are interested in becoming a new client, please fill out the boarding agreement below.
Boarding/Daycare Agreement
Dog Boarding and Training
Welcome to K-9 Divine, where we specialize in exceptional dog board and train programs for the greater Washington DC area at our Nanjemoy Dog Ranch in scenic Southern Maryland. Our unique approach provides a comprehensive training experience that immerses your dog in a 24/7, free-range environment. At K-9 Divine, your furry friend will benefit from structured training, socialization, and plenty of supervised play on our expansive 15-acre property, featuring two large indoor buildings and secure 8-foot fencing.
Our dog board and train programs are designed to foster a positive, calm state of mind for your dog, making it easier to maintain training progress at home. With our dedicated staff available around the clock, you can rest assured that your pet receives the best care without the use of crates or kennels, except during feeding times. At K-9 Divine, we also emphasize humane training methods, avoiding the use of shock collars to ensure a positive learning experience for every dog.
This is an ideal dog training program if your dog:
- Has abundant energy and needs help learning to be calm
- Requires assistance with basic obedience or specific behavioral issues
- Benefits from socialization opportunities with other dogs
- Tends to chew furniture or exhibit other destructive behaviors
- Gets overly excited and struggles to listen to commands
- Needs improvement walking on a leash
Cage-Free Dog Boarding
Dogs don’t like to be crated, caged, or put into the kennel. For most, it causes anxiety and boredom. That’s why we believe in and employ cage-free boarding! Our expansive property, within driving distance of Washington DC, is a dog’s paradise, designed to provide your dog with the freedom and comfort they deserve. Don’t worry – it’s all securely enclosed by 8-foot fencing to ensure your pet’s safety while allowing them the freedom to roam and explore.
Committed to Humane Practices
Our trainers prioritize humane training and boarding practices. We do not use shock collars or any aversive methods. Instead, we focus on positive reinforcement and natural interaction to promote a calm and well-adjusted demeanor in all our canine guests.
When you choose K-9 Divine, you’re choosing a facility that prioritizes your dog’s happiness and well-being. Our cage-free haven offers the perfect blend of safety, comfort, and freedom, ensuring that your dog enjoys a fulfilling and enriching experience every time they visit.
Sample Curriculum
One week
Basic manners (no jumping or biting), housetraining, sit, loose leash walking. Includes one training session with the owner upon completion.
Two Weeks
Basic manners (no jumping or biting), housetraining, sit, loose leash walking, recall, down and stay. Includes one training session with the owner upon completion.
Behavior Work
We can also do behavior work with your dog. If your dog has a problem with aggression, separation anxiety or fear, talk to us and we will work out a training program.
Dog Behaviors We Train
Our boarding and training programs are designed to address and resolve a wide range of problematic dog behaviors, ensuring your pet becomes a well-mannered and balanced companion. Some common behavioral issues we tackle include excessive barking, jumping, leash pulling, and difficulty with basic commands. Whether your dog struggles with socialization, anxiety, or aggression, our expert trainers are equipped to develop a customized plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Jumping and Mounting Behaviors in Dogs
Jumping and mounting are common behaviors that many dog owners find challenging to manage. While these actions can be a natural expression of excitement or a way for dogs to seek attention, they can also be problematic. Jumping can be intimidating or even dangerous, especially to children or elderly individuals, potentially leading to injuries. Similarly, mounting can be inappropriate and embarrassing for owners. When left unchecked, these actions can escalate, becoming habitual and more challenging to correct. They can also hinder your dog’s ability to interact positively with people and other dogs, potentially leading to increased anxiety or aggression.
We emphasize rewarding your dog for calm and composed behavior. By providing treats, praise, or affection when your dog remains calm and keeps all four paws on the ground, we reinforce the behavior you want to see repeated. This helps your dog understand that staying calm leads to positive outcomes. To discourage jumping and mounting, our trainers teach owners to turn away or ignore the dog when these behaviors occur. By withholding attention during these moments, your dog learns that jumping or mounting does not result in the desired interaction, encouraging them to seek alternative, more appropriate ways to engage.
Our trainers utilize consistent verbal cues and commands, such as “off” or “sit,” to guide your dog toward preferred behaviors. Consistency is key in helping your dog understand expectations and respond appropriately to different situations.
Other behaviors we work on with adult dogs and puppies include:
- Food aggression
- Submissive urinating
- Biting
- Chasing
- Resource guarding
- Coprophasia
Achieving Long-term Success
Our goal is to equip you and your dog with the skills necessary to maintain positive behavior long after training ends. We provide ongoing support and guidance to ensure lasting success, fostering a healthier relationship between you and your dog.
K-9 Divine Trainer Qualifications
Our dog training and boarding services are led by Rachel Jone who has over 20 years of experience in training and caring for dogs. She is the owner, head trainer, and also a Certified Pet Dog Trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Her commitment to excellence has seen her participate in numerous training and certification programs. Rachel is also recognized as an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and serves as a Community Training Partner for Best Friends Animal Society. Her expertise extends beyond the realm of conventional training, having served as the on-set trainer for the National Geographic show My Dog Ate What?
In addition to Rachel’s leadership, our staff includes certified dog trainers, vet techs, animal shelter workers, volunteers, and experienced animal care workers. Each member of our team is devoted to creating a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where your dog can thrive.
We understand that each dog is unique, and our team is equipped to tailor our care and training programs to meet the individual needs of every pet. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every dog receives the attention, love, and care they deserve. Whether your dog is staying with us for boarding or participating in one of our specialized training programs, you can trust that our team is committed to providing the highest quality of care.
Dog Board and Train FAQs
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Should I Board and Train My Dog?
Board and train programs can be highly beneficial for many dogs and their owners. These programs provide intensive, focused training in a controlled environment, allowing your dog to learn and practice new skills under the guidance of experienced trainers. If your dog struggles with specific behavioral issues, such as jumping, mounting, or general obedience challenges, a board and train program can help address these problems efficiently. Additionally, this option can be especially helpful for busy owners who may not have the time to consistently train their dogs at home. At K-9 Divine, we tailor our programs to meet the individual needs of each dog, ensuring they receive the attention and training necessary for success.
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How Much Does Dog Obedience Training Cost?
The cost of dog obedience training can vary depending on several factors, including the length and type of program, the specific needs of your dog, and the expertise of the trainers. We encourage you to contact us directly for detailed information about our training programs, but you can find our general pricing guidelines for board and train here on the website. We can provide you with a customized plan that aligns with your goals and budget, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment in your dog’s development.
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Is My Reactive Dog a Candidate for Board and Train?
Reactive dogs can benefit significantly from a board and train program. Our team at K-9 Divine is experienced in working with reactive dogs, helping them build confidence and learn appropriate behaviors in a safe and supportive environment. We develop customized training plans tailored to your dog’s specific triggers and reactions, utilizing positive reinforcement techniques to promote calm and balanced behavior. Through our comprehensive approach, we aim to transform your reactive dog into a well-adjusted and confident companion, ready to thrive in various social situations.