Frequently asked
questions.

Your dog stays with me in my home and becomes part of the household routine: walks, training, play, appropriate crate/rest periods, and everyday boundaries. I handle their care and training.

I keep my Board & Train caseload to approximately 2–3 dogs maximum at one time. That gives me room to know each dog well, adjust their routine, and spend meaningful time working with them.

Yes. I’m the person caring for your dog, holding the leash, teaching your lessons, and answering your questions. You work directly with me, Phillip.

A day may include structured or mentor-dog walks, individual training, play, sniffing, exploration, multiple outdoor sessions, and crate/rest periods. Parks, neighborhood walks, and suitable public outings help put the training into practice. The mix changes with your dog’s needs.

That’s the goal. I want your dog to have healthy outlets for their personality and energy, with the communication and boundaries that make life together easier. Play, exploration, and rest are part of the program.

Yes. Reactivity, strong dogs, and challenging behavior are a major part of my work. I look at triggers, handling, fulfillment, and the dog’s ability to settle, then build a plan with appropriate exposure. Program fit starts with your questionnaire.

You’re welcome here. Many people reach out after putting real effort and money into training that hasn’t carried over into everyday life. Tell me what you’ve tried and where things still feel difficult; that helps me understand what needs to change.

I may use either when appropriate for the individual dog, alongside food, toys, long lines, and other equipment. Every dog does not need an e-collar. I explain any tools I recommend and teach you how to use them. Suitable equipment may be included in a longer program when needed; I confirm that with you before booking.

Yes. Every Board & Train includes handler classes and owner education. Pickup commonly includes a hands-on lesson, often at a park, coffee shop, or another suitable public setting, so you can see the skills and practice them yourself.

You keep practicing the handling, boundaries, and routine. Whenever possible, I keep one or two included handler classes for after your dog returns home. That gives you time to discover your questions and bring those real situations back into a lesson. I confirm the included lesson plan before booking.

Yes. Text me, call with a question, or send a training video so I can see what you’re seeing. There’s no arbitrary short expiration on that relationship. I’ll get back to you when I’m available.

The 2-Week Strong Start focuses on everyday routines, leash habits, and manners. The 3-Week Ready for the World builds on that work outdoors. The 4-Week Outdoor Off-Leash Freedom adds more outdoor practice and introduces off-leash work when appropriate. I’ll recommend the right fit after meeting your dog; progress continues with practice at home.

Yes. Your private assessment is $100, and follow-up lessons are $150 each. If you decide to move into Board & Train during your assessment and first follow-up lesson, I’ll apply what you paid for those two visits toward the program. Only those first two visits are eligible, so the credit is up to $250.

I’m based in the San Fernando Valley and serve nearby Los Angeles areas. Private handler classes can happen at home, in your neighborhood, or in a public setting where you plan to practice. I’ll confirm travel and fit after reviewing your questionnaire.

Fill out the dog questionnaire with your goals, schedule, and location. I’ll review it and follow up with a recommendation for the best next step.

Your dog’s return includes notes, homework, and hands-on practice so you can continue the work confidently at home.