USA Dog Behavior Podcast

The Hidden Risks of Board & Train Dog Training Schools for Aggression Cases

Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA

In this episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist, dives into the complexities of board-and-train programs for dogs with aggression issues. While these programs may seem appealing for their promise of quick fixes, Scott explains why they often fall short—especially for aggression rooted in fear or insecurity. He highlights the dangers of suppressing symptoms like growling or barking without addressing the underlying emotions, comparing it to closing the vent on a pressure cooker. The episode also explores the deceptive calmness dogs may display after training in these kinds of facilities, which often masks unresolved stress, and emphasizes the importance of the owner’s role in creating lasting behavioral change.

Scott offers practical alternatives to board-and-train programs, such as at-home training, desensitization, and counterconditioning, which focus on building trust and confidence over time. He stresses the need for transparency in training methods and encourages owners to stay actively involved in their dog’s progress. Tune in to learn why a slower, more personalized approach—with you by your dog’s side—is the most reliable path to addressing aggression and fostering a happier, healthier relationship with your pet.

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Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Welcome back to the USA Dog Behavior podcast! I'm Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist specializing in all types of canine behavior issues. Today we’re talking about something that comes up a lot when people have dogs with aggression issues: board-and-train programs. 

The idea sounds amazing—you send your dog away for a few weeks, they get trained by a pro, and they come home “fixed.” But when it comes to aggression cases, the reality is… it’s not that simple. And in some cases, it can actually make things worse.

Let’s Talk about Suppressing Symptoms vs. Fixing the Cause.

Aggression isn’t usually the core problem—it’s a symptom. In most cases, aggression is rooted in fear, insecurity, or past experiences.

When a board and train trainer punishes growling, barking, or lunging, they might stop the behavior in the short term, but the fear that caused it? Still there. Probably actually worse. Now your dog is thinking, “I’m scared… but I’d better not show it.” That’s risky, because you’ve removed the early warning signs but not the emotion behind them.  

Think of it like this: the growl or bark is the steam vent on a pressure cooker—it lets out the fear in a safer way. Punishment closes the vent, but the pressure inside keeps building. And when it blows, it can be much more dangerous and unpredictable. The technical term for this behavior is “masking.”

I want to compare Masking vs. Real Change with you.

One of the most deceptive parts of some board-and-train programs is how “good” the dog looks at pickup. Calm, obedient, ignoring other dogs and people—at least in that controlled training yard. But if you haven’t changed the emotional state, that calm is often a “freeze” response, not relaxation.

Then you bring the dog home, back to their real triggers, and suddenly that aggression is back—because nothing underneath really changed.

When you send your dog away for a few weeks, it introduces Stress from Being Away from Home.

And remember—most aggression cases involve dogs who are already anxious. Being removed from their home, their people, their routine… that’s stressful. Stress hormones spike, and learning becomes harder. In some cases, that added stress can make the original problem worse.

Who’s the most important player in treating your dog’s aggression? You.

In aggression work, the handler is half the equation and your dog is the other half. The trust your dog needs - - the skills you learn to manage and help them - - the ability to read their signals—these things can’t be outsourced. If you’re not part of the process, the results don’t transfer well when your dog comes home.

What’s happening behind closed doors at board and train facilities?

Another concern is what happens behind closed doors. Not all facilities are upfront about their methods, and without transparency, you can’t know whether the training is humane or if aversive tools are being used in ways you wouldn’t agree with.

So What Works Better?

  • Train where your dog feels safe—at home.
  • Work on changing emotions, not just behaviors like barking and growling. Desensitization and counterconditioning can help your dog feel differently about triggers.
  • Stay actively involved—you are the person your dog needs to work through their fears.
  • Vet trainers carefully. Ask a lot of questions about their methods and experience levels.

Let’s wrap things up.

Board-and-train can be great for certain skills—like teaching a recall or polishing manners—but with aggression, the stakes are higher. You can’t just “cover up” fear and expect lasting results.

The most reliable path is slower, more personal, and focused on building confidence and trust—one step at a time, with you right there beside your dog.

Thanks for tuning in. If you enjoy quick insights into dog behavior, don’t forget to subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and leave a review if you find these episodes helpful. You can find us at USADogBehavior.com or follow us on Facebook by searching for USA Dog Behavior. See you next time, now go love your dog.

 

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