Want to take your training to the next level, but not sure where to start? Want to DIY a board-and-train from the comfort of your own home?
With this course, you'll follow along as we train two board-and-train dogs, Nikko and Bailey, from start to finish. Along the way, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how we work with board-and-train dogs and you'll learn to e-collar train your dog in the process!
This course is the perfect fit for dog owners who love the expedited approach to training that comes with a board-and-train program, but want to train their dog themselves. Whether you’ve already done some training with your dog or if you’re building from the ground up, this course will help you advance your dog’s training so that you can live an optimal life with them!
What you’ll learn as part of this course:
- IN-HOME MANAGEMENT – Learn how to create a safe and structured environment conducive to good behavior.
- CLEAR MARKER SYSTEM – Lay the foundation of clarity right from the start through a clear marker system.
- LEASH WALKING – Master leash walking techniques for peaceful and enjoyable walks.
- PLAY DEVELOPMENT – Discover effective ways to engage with your dog through play.
- E-COLLAR CONDITIONING – Gain confidence in using an e-collar responsibly and effectively.
- STOP UNWANTED BEHAVIORS – Make jumping, endless barking, digging, and other bad behaviors a thing of the past.
… And much, much more!

COMMANDS THAT WE'LL FOCUS ON IN THIS COURSE:
- NAME RECOGNITION – look to you for direction when name is given
- HERE – recall to handler
- SIT – sit and remain in position until released, automatic sits at heel position
- DOWN – down and remain in position until released
- PLACE – go to a specific boundary and remain until released (bed, crate, etc.)
- HEEL – walk on left side, nose to knee, auto sit when handler stops walking
- SWITCH – switch from left side to right when heeling
- LET’S GO – follow along, less structured loose leash walk
- WATCH – make eye contact with handler
- TOUCH – two paws on object, i.e. a rubber feed bowl
- OUT – drop a toy
MARKERS THAT WE'LL FOCUS ON IN THIS COURSE:
- KEEN/CLICK – terminal marker / release word for food reward direct from handler; builds drive, enthusiasm and engagement
- GET IT – terminal marker / release word for toy reward or food reward delivered indirectly by handler (tossed out)
- YES – terminal marker / release word for toy reward direct from handler (optional)
- FREE – terminal marker / release word with no reward (freedom is the reward)
- GOOD – duration marker; let’s your dog know you like what they are doing and to keep doing that behavior; food, affection, or praise reward
- NICE – duration marker; let’s your dog know you like what they are doing and to keep doing that behavior; no reward (optional)
- EH-EH – lets your dog know that they are on the wrong track
- NO – stop unwanted behaviors

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between this course and the “Raising Your Dog the KeenDog Way” course?
- This course is structured differently. Raising Your Dog the KeenDog Way takes a more traditional approach to teaching concepts by breaking modules down by topic area. Each module and lesson within that module goes in-depth about a particular subject or aspect of training. This course, E-Collar Train Your Dog in 3 Weeks, follows two dogs as they go through our 3-week board-and-train program Keen Camp. We have included a video for each day and break down the concepts we work on each day. Overall, it is a more expedited course, detailing a more expedited training process.
Does access to this course ever expire? Is lifetime access included?
- It’s impossible to predict the future, but it’s our intention that you should have lifetime access to the content included in this course. If for any reason we have to change platforms or decide to change our course offerings, we will contact you and come up with a solution to keep the course content available to you, though it may be in a different format.
What format is the content? Does each module have videos?
- This course includes 4 modules, comprising 16 lessons. Almost all lessons include videos, and all include written content.
What training methods are used?
- We take a modern, balanced approach to training. We do not use a one size fits all approach; we train the dog in front of us, utilizing all four quadrants of operant conditioning.
When is the best time to start this course?
- As soon as possible! We recommend waiting until your dog is at least 6 months of age before beginning the e-collar portion of training, but the foundational, on-leash portion of training can be started with puppies as young as 8 weeks of age.
Is an e-collar included with this course?
- No, an e-collar is not included, though we do include recommendations for our favorite brand and model!
Is a training manual included with this course?
- Yes! The training manual is a comprehensive reference PDF that we developed for our in-person clients. We have included it as part of this course and you can use it as a printable summary of course content if desired.
Is access to KeenDog boarding and group classes included with this course?
- No, access to KeenDog boarding and group classes is not included with this online course. If you’re local to the Charlotte / Fort Mill area and you’re interested in boarding with our trainers or participating in group classes, we would be happy to do an in-person assessment with you and your dog(s). Please email [email protected] to request an in-person assessment.
What if I decide that I need more hands-on support?
- Let us know! Our team is always available to answer questions, but beyond that we’re also happy to walk you through the options available to you as far as virtual lessons, board-and-train programs, etc.
Not sure whether a KeenDog online course is right for you and your dog? Schedule a virtual consultation with one of our trainers. They’ll be happy to discuss your needs and point you in the right direction!