BOARD AND TRAIN CHICAGO IL
Looking for the most effective board and train Chicago IL has to offer? My intensive board and train program delivers faster results than traditional training sessions. Your dog stays with me for complete immersion training, then comes home with advanced obedience skills, better behavior, and the manners you’ve always wanted. Perfect for busy dog owners who need serious results fast.
EXCELLENT Based on 33 reviews Posted on Grace L.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. While it’s been a while since we had Steve come out, he truly helped my Aussie and I live a more comfortable yet structured life. We had an incident a few years back, worried about what options I had left, and through training with Steve, my girl and I to this day are doing great! Thank you Steve!Posted on Donna SchaafTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Steve was always on time, very attentive to our dogs needs, and gave us the tools we needed to provide our dog the opportunity to grow and learn with her reactivity. We’re excited to put our new skills to work. We plan on using Steve again in the near future.Posted on Aaron SchockTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We would like to thank Steve for his wonderful training experience. We learned so much from him and our chocolate lab Luna as well. He is extremely knowledgeable, calm and patient. Highly recommend his services. Thank you for all the tips and tricks.Posted on Tea_ AUTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Helped me and my fiance understand what our puppy responds too and understands, was very considerate of our opinions on what we are comfortable with during training our puppy and definitely made it considerably easier to teach him new things. Steve is a very respectable man comes up with solutions that would work with your dog and it is very impressive. He is making his way to being an even better boy than before his training and I am excited to have Steve help us during our trainings with our puppy.Posted on Heaven's Best Carpet Cleaning Northern IllinoisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great with dogs! Amazing at correcting behaviors.Posted on DSM MTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have nothing but good things to say about Steve and his training. Most helpful, and has included access to other helpful resources.Posted on Bernadeta MajchrzakTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Steve from Steve the Dogman LLC to any dog owner seeking professional, knowledgeable, and effective training. His expertise, positive approach, and commitment to both the dog and owner’s success makes Steve an outstanding choice. Whether you're dealing with basic obedience issues or more complex behavioral problems, Steve has the skills and experience to help you achieve lasting results. Steve is not only a skilled trainer but also an excellent communicator. He took the time to answer all my questions, offer clear explanations of the training process, and provide ongoing support. I felt confident and empowered to implement the techniques at home, knowing I had expert guidance every step of the way.Posted on donna gustafsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We cannot say enough about Steve! My husband and I adopted a scared, timid 4 month old puppy and we had no idea how to help her! She was good with us but everything else seemed to overwhelm her. We contacted Steve in hopes of making our Stella’s life much less stressful! He sure came through!!! He showed us how to improve her confidence. Gave us the tools we needed to support and continue training a well balanced, happy dog! Steve is definitely the person to call if you need help with your dog!Posted on Lisa ShermanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If I could give Steve 10 stars I would !!! I would highly recommend Steve to anyone looking for a great trainer !!!! He has done wonders with Moose in a short period of time - he knows what he’s doing my dog is very receptive to his training skills and I did have a trainer before I was introduced to Steve and there is no comparison- I cannot say enough about him- he is a dog whisper in my opinion and has helped me so much in not only training Moose but giving me the tools to keep it going to reach my goals. He’s the best 👍Posted on Kyle CullnanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Steve Was great to work with! Helped us with our Shepard that had aggression and a high prey drive. Thank you Steve!
WHAT IS BOARD AND TRAIN?
Board and train is an intensive dog training program where your dog lives with my professional dog trainer for 2-4 weeks. During this time, I work on everything from basic commands to complex behavioral issues using proven training techniques. Your dog gets multiple training sessions every day in a structured environment designed for learning.
This isn’t doggy daycare. This is serious, focused training that transforms dog behaviors quickly and effectively. When your dog comes home, they’ll know basic manners, respond to commands reliably, and have the foundation for being the well-behaved family dog you deserve.
WHY CHOOSE BOARD AND TRAIN?
Fastest Results Available – Multiple daily training sessions mean your dog learns in weeks what would take months with weekly lessons. My board and train program delivers the quickest transformation of any training option we offer.
Expert Training Around the Clock – I work with your dog throughout each day, capturing teaching moments you might miss at home. This constant guidance from dog training experts accelerates learning dramatically.
Perfect for Serious Behavioral Issues – Some behavior issues need intensive intervention. Aggression, severe separation anxiety, reactivity, and other complex problems respond best to my immersive behavior modification approach, where I can address issues immediately as they arise.
Ideal for Busy Dog Owners – No need to schedule weekly sessions or practice daily homework. I handle the heavy lifting while you’re at work or even on vacation. You get a trained dog without disrupting your schedule.
Real-World Training – I don’t just train in one location. Your dog practices commands at parks, stores, and around distractions throughout the Chicago area. This creates reliable obedience everywhere, not just in controlled environments.
Peace of Mind – Know your dog is in expert hands, getting professional attention and making real progress every single day. I have years of experience and have successfully worked with hundreds of dogs with all types of challenges.
WHAT YOUR DOG LEARNS
BASIC COMMANDS & OBEDIENCE
Your dog will master essential basic commands including sit, down, place, stay, and come. These aren’t just tricks, they’re the foundation of good behavior and give you control in any situation.
IMPULSE CONTROL
Dogs with poor impulse control jump on guests, chase squirrels, steal food, and ignore commands when excited. I build self-control so your dog can make good choices even with distractions present.
BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
I address specific behavioral issues, including aggression, reactivity toward people or dogs, destructive behaviors, excessive barking, and anxiety. My behavior modification approach identifies the root cause and fixes problems at their source.
POTTY TRAINING & BASIC MANNERS
For younger dogs, I establish solid potty training habits and teach basic manners like not jumping on people, staying calm during greetings, and respecting boundaries in the home.
PUPPY SOCIALIZATION
Puppies in my program get crucial puppy socialization with people, other dogs, and new environments during their critical developmental window. This prevents future behavioral issues and builds confidence.
SEPARATION ANXIETY MANAGEMENT
Dogs with separation anxiety panic when left alone. I help your dog learn to feel safe and confident when you’re gone, reducing stress for both of you.
LOOSE LEASH WALKING
Say goodbye to leash pulling forever. I teach your dog to walk calmly beside you without dragging you down the street. My training techniques make walks enjoyable instead of exhausting.
OFF LEASH RELIABILITY
For dogs ready for advanced obedience, I work toward off leash control. Imagine your dog responding to commands even without a leash, giving you freedom and confidence during activities.
HOW MY BOARD AND TRAIN PROGRAM WORKS
Free Consultation – I start by meeting you and your dog to discuss behavioral issues, training goals, and your dog’s unique needs. This helps us create a customized training plan that addresses your specific situation. I’ll explain my training methods and answer all your questions.
Drop-Off Day – Bring your dog to us with their food, any medications, and favorite toys. We’ll review your training plan one more time and make sure you’re comfortable with everything. Many dog owners feel nervous, but I promise your dog will be in excellent hands.
Daily Training Sessions – Your dog receives multiple focused training sessions throughout each day. I use positive reinforcement and proven training techniques that build confidence and create lasting results. Between sessions, your dog has time to rest, play, and decompress.
Real-World Practice – I take your dog to parks, pet-friendly stores, and busy areas around the Chicago area. This real-world exposure ensures your dog listens everywhere, not just in my training environment. I practice around other dogs, people, traffic, and all the distractions your dog will face at home.
Progress Updates – I send regular updates with photos and videos showing your dog’s progress. You’ll see them mastering basic commands, working on behavioral issues, and becoming more confident each day.
Go-Home Day – When your dog completes the program, I schedule a comprehensive handoff session. This typically takes 1-2 hours, where I show you everything your dog learned and teach you exactly how to maintain their training. You’ll practice commands, learn my training techniques, and get comfortable handling your dog’s new skills.
Follow-Up Support – I include follow-up training sessions after your dog comes home. These check-ins ensure you’re successful in maintaining your dog’s training and give us a chance to fine-tune anything needed. my commitment to your success doesn’t end when the program does.
CERTIFIED TRAINER
Your dog will spend weeks in my care. I am a professional dog trainer, so naturally you want to know they’re in expert hands. I am the best dog trainer in the Chicago area with proven experience transforming even the most challenging dogs.
Years of Proven Experience – I’ve completed hundreds of successful board and train programs with dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. From nervous rescues to aggressive dogs to wild puppies, I have seen it all and know how to help.
Professional Certifications – I maintain professional certifications and continuously update my education on the latest training methods and canine behavior research. I am recognized by the American Kennel Club and committed to using humane, effective training techniques.
Real Results – My reviews speak for themselves. Families across the Chicago area trust us because I deliver genuine transformation. Dogs leave my program with better behavior, more confidence, and skills that last.
I Care About Your Dog – Beyond expertise, I genuinely love what I do. Your dog receives attention, exercise, enrichment, and affection throughout their stay. I treat every dog like my own.
BOARD AND TRAIN VS. OTHER TRAINING OPTIONS
Wondering how board and train compares to my other dog training services? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Board and Train – Best for: Busy owners, serious behavioral issues, fastest results. Your dog stays with us for intensive daily training. Results appear quickly but require your commitment to maintenance after your dog comes home.
Private Lessons – Best for: Problems specific to your home environment, owners who want to learn alongside their dog. I come to you for weekly private sessions. Takes longer than board and train but keeps your dog home and involves you in every step.
Group Classes – Best for: Puppy socialization, basic obedience, budget-conscious owners. Slower progress than private training options and less personalized attention, but great for social dogs who benefit from group settings.
Advanced Obedience Classes – Best for: Dogs who’ve completed basic obedience and are ready for off leash work, competition training, or specialized skills. Requires solid foundation before starting.
Not sure which training option fits your needs? That’s exactly what your free consultation is for. I’ll help you choose the dog training program that makes sense for your situation, your dog’s unique needs, and your goals.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT BOARD AND TRAIN
How long does board and train take? Most dogs need 2-4 weeks depending on their starting point and training goals. Basic obedience and manners typically require 2-3 weeks. More complex behavioral issues may need 4 weeks or longer. I’ll give you a realistic timeline during your consultation.
What if my dog has never been away from home? Most dogs adjust within 1-2 days. I create a comfortable, structured environment that helps dogs settle in quickly. Nervous dogs often thrive with my consistent routine and clear expectations.
Can you train my aggressive dog? Yes. I have extensive experience with aggression and reactivity. My behavior modification program addresses the root cause, usually fear or anxiety, while keeping everyone safe. Aggressive dogs need professional intervention, and I know how to help.
Will my dog be around other dogs? Your dog will have carefully managed exposure to other dogs as appropriate for their training plan. Dogs with reactivity are kept separate until they’re ready. Well-socialized dogs may have supervised playtime with compatible dogs.
What should I bring? Bring your dog’s regular food (to avoid stomach upset), any medications with instructions, vaccination records, and a favorite toy or blanket if desired. I provide everything else, including bowls, bedding, and training equipment.
What does board and train cost? Investment varies based on program length and your dog’s specific needs. Contact me for detailed pricing. I offer payment plans to make professional dog training accessible. Remember, board and train delivers results faster than months of weekly sessions, making it cost-effective for many families.
Do you offer guarantees? I guarantee your dog will learn the skills I train when they’re with us. However, maintaining that training at home requires your consistency. I can’t guarantee results if you don’t follow through with practice and maintenance. That said, I’ve never had a dog fail my program when owners stay committed.
SERVICE AREA
I proudly provide board and train services throughout Chicago, IL, and surrounding communities.
Whether you’re in Naperville, Madison, Aurora, St Charles, Rockford, Arlington Heights, Oak Park, Elmhurst, or nearby areas, our board and train program is available to help transform your dog’s behavior and give you the peace of mind you deserve.
START YOUR DOG'S TRANSFORMATION TODAY
The best time to start training is now. Behavioral issues don’t improve on their own, they get worse. Every day you wait is another day of stress, frustration, and missed opportunities to enjoy life with your dog.
Claim your free consultation today to get started with the most effective board and train Chicago, IL, has to offer!