Transform Camp

A comprehensive guide to the Transform Camp Program at Partners Dog School, designed to tackle advanced behavioral issues and fast-track obedience and socialization.

The Transform Camp Program at Partners Dog School is an all-inclusive training solution designed to address both advanced behavioral problems and foundational obedience skills. This program is suitable for dogs struggling with reactivity, anxiety, dominance, and other behavioral issues, as well as for owners seeking a fast-track approach to improving manners and obedience. Through a balanced training approach, the camp focuses on building a strong partnership between dogs and their owners.

Topic Sections

  1. Program Overview
  2. Key Benefits and Features
  3. Training Phases and Steps
  4. Combined Program Details and Duration
  5. Alternative Options and Suggestions
  6. Onboarding Process
  7. Common Questions and Answers
  8. Additional Resources

Program Overview

The Transform Camp is designed for dogs that require a higher level of behavioral correction or those who need an accelerated path to obedience. The program uses a combination of positive reinforcement and corrective tools tailored to each dog's specific needs. Owners are involved throughout the training process to ensure consistency and long-term success.

Key Objectives:

  • Correct advanced behavioral issues like reactivity, aggression, anxiety, and territorial behavior.
  • Establish fundamental obedience and socialization skills.
  • Build a trusting, respectful bond between the dog and owner.
  • Provide tools and resources for long-term behavioral management and training.

Key Benefits and Features

The Transform Camp offers several key advantages for both dogs and their owners:

  • Advanced Behavioral Correction: Tailored interventions to address issues such as fear, resource guarding, and dominance.
  • Balanced Training Approach: Uses both positive reinforcement and necessary corrections to ensure clear communication and consistent results.
  • Structured Socialization: Controlled interactions with other dogs and people to enhance social behaviors.
  • Owner Education: Over 6+ hours of private lessons and 12 weeks of group classes for continued learning and reinforcement.
  • Comprehensive Online Resources: 8+ hours of video lessons and access to the Pet Parent Guide for additional learning and reinforcement at home.

Training Phases and Steps

The Transform Camp Program is divided into several key phases, ensuring a holistic and structured approach to both dog and owner training.

Dog Training Phases

  1. Pre-Check-In (Before Week 1)
    Objective: Prepare for a smooth onboarding process.
    Activities: Verify vaccinations, update records in the Pet Parent Portal, and pack necessary items like food and treats (bedding and toys should be left at home).

  2. Check-In (Week 1)
    Objective: Assess goals and current behaviors.
    Activities: Meet with the instructor to discuss goals, evaluate temperament, and review the training schedule.

  3. Training (Weeks 1-4)
    Objective: Focused training on behavioral correction and obedience.
    Activities: Daily active training on key commands and passive training to reinforce learned behaviors.

  4. Transition (Week 4)
    Objective: Prepare for transferring the training back to the owner.
    Activities: A 1.5-hour transition lesson to discuss the dog's progress and how to maintain it at home.

Owner Training Phases

  1. Online Resources (Weeks 1-2)
    Objective: Educate the owner on training concepts and techniques.
    Activities: Access 8+ hours of video lessons to reinforce at-home practices.

  2. Lessons (Weeks 2-4)
    Objective: Owner involvement in the training process.
    Activities: Introductory lessons, video demos, and hands-on transition lessons to ensure the owner understands training protocols.

  3. Classes (Weeks 4-16)
    Objective: Continued learning and reinforcement of skills.
    Activities: 12 weeks of Pet Parenting Group Classes to practice commands and socialization.

  4. DayCamp (Weeks 5-16)
    Objective: Ongoing reinforcement through immersive training based on the dog’s social needs.
    Activities: 24 days of DayCamp where dogs less comfortable in social settings focus on individual attention and smaller group settings, while more social dogs get advanced training sessions and DaySchool to build on obedience and social skills.


Combined Program Details and Duration

The Transform Camp program spans 16 weeks, during which your dog will undergo intensive training and socialization activities tailored to their specific needs.

  • Program Length: 16 weeks in total, including 28 nights of boarding and 24 days of DayCamp.
  • Training Activities: Active training sessions focused on obedience commands, behavioral correction, and structured socialization. Passive training includes immersive environments where dogs practice learned skills.
  • Socialization Opportunities: Dogs will be grouped according to their comfort with other dogs. Those less social will receive smaller group interactions to gradually build confidence, while more social dogs will experience larger group sessions and dedicated DaySchool to further enhance their training.
  • Enrichment: Mental stimulation activities such as structured play, problem-solving exercises, and environmental exposure are incorporated to keep your dog engaged.
  • Pet Parenting Group Classes: Over 12 weeks, these classes will reinforce the skills your dog has learned, focusing on practical application in everyday scenarios.
  • DayCamp:
    • For less social dogs: Individualized care in a calm setting, with smaller group training to ease anxiety and gradually introduce positive social interactions.
    • For more social dogs: DayCamp combines training sessions with DaySchool, offering structured group environments where dogs practice socialization and obedience in real-world scenarios.

Alternative Options and Suggestions

For dogs that may not be suitable for the full Transform Camp or require a different approach:

  • Behavioral Private Lessons: One-on-one sessions that focus on specific challenges or behaviors.
  • DayCamp: Shorter, intensive training days for dogs that need extra focus without overnight stays.
  • Virtual Training: Online training sessions and coaching for owners who prefer a remote learning option.

Onboarding Process

  1. Contact Us: Schedule an initial consultation with our team.
  2. Assessment: Attend an evaluation to discuss your dog's behavior and determine the program's suitability.
  3. Registration: Complete the registration process, provide vaccination records, and pack essential supplies.
  4. Begin Training: Drop off your dog for the start of the Transform Camp.

Common Questions and Answers

Q1: Is this program suitable for dogs with aggression?
A: Yes, the Transform Camp is designed to address advanced behavioral issues like aggression and reactivity.

Q2: What is your training philosophy?
A: We follow a balanced training philosophy that combines positive reinforcement with necessary corrections. This approach ensures clear communication with your dog, helping them understand expectations while promoting lasting behavioral improvements.

Q3: Can I participate in the training sessions?
A: Absolutely! Owner participation is crucial, and we provide several lessons and group classes to ensure you're involved in the process.

Q4: How do I reinforce training at home?
A: You'll have access to video lessons, Pet Parenting Classes, and transition lessons to help you maintain consistency at home.

Q5: What happens if my dog doesn’t respond well to training?
A: We tailor our approach to each dog's specific needs, and adjustments can be made to the training plan as needed. Continuous feedback and assessment help ensure progress, but we also provide alternative options such as private lessons if required.

Q6: How long before I see improvements in my dog’s behavior?
A: Many dogs show improvements in behavior within the first few weeks, but long-term success requires consistency. As you and your dog go through the full 16-week program, gradual and lasting changes will become evident, especially with ongoing practice at home.

Q7: Will my dog have downtime during training?
A: Yes, your dog will have downtime for rest and crate training, helping them recover from active sessions and assimilate learned behaviors. We balance training with rest to ensure they are mentally and physically well.