I had been thinking about having our dog trained by a professional trainer a few times a week, with one session with you. Numerous websites that I have come across advise against doing that since that is how they form bonds with you. I did not train my last dog, who was adopted after she was about 7 years old, but we had the best relationship ever. At home, we would also continue the puppy training.
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If a trainer tells you the best technique to train your dog, that is fine, but you should be the one training the dog in order to strengthen your relationship with them and help them learn to obey your directions.
Although our trainer visits our home, my wife and I are the ones that practice recall, biting, jumping, and other skills. The trainer serves as a guide only.
A 7-year-old dog that is already at least partially taught is very different from a puppy in this regard.
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I have never done it since I think it is a waste of money, but I have spent money on treats, food, and positive reinforcement to help with good behaviour improvements. There are very few negative reinforcement techniques that do not usually involve her biting something that could damage her or cost a lot of money to fix. Dogs are incredibly sensitive to their owners in every way, and they will respond appropriately if you are calm and collected. You must set the stage if you do not want an overactive dog and if you want a workout partner.
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It’s important to consider the target audience when evaluating opinions on board and train programs. When someone says “board/train = bad,” they might be addressing those who expect a quick fix without doing any work themselves, which isn’t realistic.
I once used a board and train program under special circumstances. I arranged with the trainer and town (which wanted to euthanize the dog) that if the trainer made the dog adoptable, I’d cover the training costs. The trainer, a former K9 officer and positive reinforcement advocate, did a remarkable job. The dog wasn’t perfectly trained, but he was manageable and never bit anyone again. I still had to do a lot of training at home.
If you trust your trainer and are committed to continuing the work, a board and train program can be a good option.