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Answers to common questions about CapeWest R&T programs.
Can I visit my dog during training?
Can I visit my dog during training?
Absolutely! You’re welcome to visit as often as you’d like—though visits are completely optional. Many clients choose to visit weekly or every other week, which can help with a smoother transition home.
If you're traveling from out of state or can't visit regularly, don’t worry—your dog will still receive excellent care and consistency.
Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice before visiting.
For weekend visits, we ask for a 2-hour arrival window so we can set aside time to work with you and your dog directly.
What should I bring for my dog's stay?
What should I bring for my dog's stay?
Please bring:
Your dog's most recent vaccination record (Bordetalla is required every 6 months)
Dog food for the full length of their stay. You can ship the food to us for longer stays.
Flea, tick, and heartworm protection
No need to bring beds or crates—we provide all kennel accommodations. We ask that you leave bedding at home, as we can’t guarantee it will be returned in good condition.
What training tools do you use?
What training tools do you use?
We begin with positive reinforcement using treats, toys, and praise to build trust and motivation.
As training progresses, we may incorporate:
Prong collars – one of the most humane and effective leash training tools when used correctly
E-collar conditioning – optional, and only used if requested and appropriate
E-collars are used only to reinforce known commands and never for punishment.
Why do you have age requirements for training?
Why do you have age requirements for training?
Our training timelines align with your dog’s developmental stages.
For example:
Puppies (8–16 weeks): best suited for crate training, potty schedules, and name recognition
Adolescents (7–14 months): more capable of focused learning and consistent obedience work
Training too early (or too late) can delay progress or create confusion.
Our programs are designed for the right phase at the right time.
Do you offer a 2-week training program?
Do you offer a 2-week training program?
We do not offer 2-week programs, and here’s why:
Short-term training often doesn’t stick. Dogs may perform under pressure, but the habits don’t last once they return home—especially if owners haven’t been included in the process.
At CapeWest, we focus on lasting transformation, not quick fixes.
Our board-and-train programs give dogs time to build trust, absorb routines, and transition smoothly back home with the tools both dog and owner need to succeed.
What's expected from me after board-and-train?
What's expected from me after board-and-train?
Ongoing structure is key to your dog’s long-term success.
We recommend:
5–10 minutes, twice a day, five days a week
Practice during feeding, walks, playtime, or while cooking
Use “place” training when you're busy around the house
We’ll walk you through all of this during your final session so you feel confident continuing the training at home.
What are your drop-off and pick-up times for training?
What are your drop-off and pick-up times for training?
Drop-off: Sundays
Pick-up: Fridays (on the final week of training)
This weekend timing helps your dog transition back home while giving the CapeWest team time to rest and prepare for the next group of dogs.
Need to adjust timing? We’re happy to accommodate extended stays when arranged in advance. Additional boarding days are billed separately.
What's the difference between a "started puppy" and a regular puppy?
What's the difference between a "started puppy" and a regular puppy?
A started puppy is one that stays with us for a few extra weeks to receive foundational training—crate time, basic obedience, socialization, and early routines—before going home.
Most of our puppies go home at 8 weeks old without formal training. Started puppies are an upgrade for families who want a head start.
See our Breeding page for more information about our breeding program.
Can my dog be trained as a gun dog and still live inside?
Can my dog be trained as a gun dog and still live inside?
Yes! We specialize in companion gun dogs—house dogs that know how to work when it’s time. Many of our training clients want a reliable hunting partner who still lives comfortably in their home year-round.
Do you train aggressive dogs?
Do you train aggressive dogs?
We do not train dogs with known aggression toward humans or other dogs. If your dog has shown signs of aggression, please call Heath (Lead Trainer) at 817-504-3319 to discuss your situation—we may be able to refer you to a behavior specialist.
Do you guarantee training results?
Do you guarantee training results?
Training success depends on consistency after your dog goes home. We don’t guarantee outcomes, but we do set you up with the tools, structure, and education to reinforce what your dog has learned. We’re also available for follow-up support if questions come up.
What happens if my dog gets sick or injured while in training?
What happens if my dog gets sick or injured while in training?
Your dog’s safety is our top priority. We work with trusted local vets—like Riverstone Veterinary Clinic in Brock—and we keep close tabs on your dog’s health and behavior daily.
If something seems off, we catch it early and contact you immediately.
Have another question?
Have another question?
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