Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the Right Program

How do I know which Board & Train program is right for my dog?

Every dog is different, which is why we offer 2, 4, and 6 week Board & Train programs. The right program depends on your dog's current training, goals, behavior, and how much training you want to accomplish. During your consultation, we'll help determine which program is the best fit.

What is included in the 2 Week Board & Train?

Our 2 Week Board & Train focuses on establishing a solid foundation. Your dog will work on basic obedience including sit, down, and place, along with loose leash walking and basic house manners.

What is included in the 4 Week Board & Train?

The 4 Week Program builds on everything taught during the 2 Week Program while introducing more advanced obedience. This includes a reliable recall, down and wait, threshold waiting, and additional tools and techniques designed to improve your dog's reliability and responsiveness.

What is included in the 6 Week Board & Train?

Our 6 Week Program is designed for owners looking for a higher level of obedience and reliability. It includes everything from the 2 and 4 Week Programs, along with off leash walking, a more advanced recall, and an emergency down.

What age dogs do you train?

We work with dogs of all ages, from puppies to senior dogs. Every dog learns differently, and we'll evaluate your dog's age, experience, temperament, and training needs to determine the best approach.  The only thing required, regardless of age, is that your pet has all of their current shots, and are potty trained.

What breeds of dogs do you train?

We work with all breeds, sizes, and personalities. From family companions to working breeds, our training is tailored to the individual dog rather than the breed. Our goal is to help every dog become a well-behaved, confident, and reliable member of the family.

What types of behavioral issues do you work with?

We work with a wide range of obedience and behavior concerns. During your consultation, we'll discuss your dog's specific needs and determine whether Overtime K9 is the right fit.

Can you customize the training for my dog?

Yes. Our programs provide a structured foundation, but every dog receives individual attention based on their personality, behavior, and training needs.

What Happens During Board & Train?

Where does my dog stay during Board & Train?

Your dog stays with Overtime K9 throughout the program and becomes part of our daily routine. We combine structured training with appropriate exercise, socialization, rest, and care.

How much training does my dog receive each day?

Training is incorporated throughout your dog's day rather than relying on one short training session. We use everyday situations to reinforce obedience and good behavior so your dog learns how to apply their training in real-world situations.

Will my dog receive individual attention?

Yes. Our Board & Train programs are training-focused, not simply boarding with a little training added. Your dog receives individualized attention and structured training throughout their stay.

Will my dog be socialized with other dogs?

When appropriate for the individual dog, we use controlled socialization as part of the training process. Not every dog benefits from the same level of interaction, so socialization is based on your dog's temperament, behavior, and training goals.

What does a typical day look like?

Your dog's day includes structured training, exercise, appropriate socialization, meals, rest, and continued reinforcement of the behaviors they are learning. Our goal is to create structure while still allowing your dog to be a dog.

Will I receive updates while my dog is staying with you?

Yes. We understand that leaving your dog for several weeks can be difficult. We guarantee at least 1 video and 1 picture per week, however we are typically sending multiple pictures and videos to provide updates throughout the stay so you can see how your dog is progressing.

Will my dog be monitored while staying with you?

Yes. Your dog's safety and well-being are extremely important to us. We use 24-hour audio and video monitoring both inside and outside of our facility.

What should I bring when I drop my dog off?

Generally you’ll only need to bring food equal to half of the time your pet will be with us (ex. 7 days worth for a 2 week board and train), as well as any medication or supplements you give your pet.  We provide everything else your pet will need during their stay.  However, we'll provide you with everything you need to know before drop-off, including what your dog should bring and any information we need regarding feeding, medications, routines, and special care requirements.

Training & Results

What training methods do you use?

We use proven training techniques and focus on clear communication, consistency, structure, and appropriate reinforcement. We primarily use a positive reinforcement food based training system as well as some more advanced training styles to ensure your pet maintains the behaviors being taught now and in the future.  Our approach is based on teaching the dog what we expect and creating behaviors that can be reliably maintained.

Will you teach me how to maintain my dog's training?

Absolutely. Training doesn't end when your dog leaves Overtime K9. One of the most important parts of our program is helping you understand how to communicate with your dog and maintain the behaviors they learned during their stay.

What happens when my dog comes home?

Your dog will return home with new skills and expectations, but your role is critical. We'll go over the training your dog received and provide guidance on how to continue reinforcing those behaviors at home.

Will my dog need additional training after Board & Train?

Dogs learn through consistency. Our goal is to give you the tools and foundation necessary to maintain your dog's training long after the program is complete. Continued practice at home is an important part of keeping those behaviors reliable.  We will show you how to incorporate everyday activities into training so make sure the behaviors last forever.

What is your Training Guarantee?

We stand behind the training we provide. If your dog does not perform a behavior they were trained to perform during their Board & Train program, contact us and we'll work with you to address the issue and provide additional training when appropriate.

Can you teach specific commands or behaviors?

Absolutely. Our programs have defined training goals, but we can discuss additional training needs during your consultation and determine what can reasonably be accomplished during your dog's stay.

Private Training

Do you offer private dog training?

Yes. We offer one-on-one training for owners who prefer private instruction or whose needs are better suited to individual sessions.

Can private training be done at my home?

Yes. Private training sessions can be conducted at your home or at our facility, depending on your training goals and circumstances.

How long is a private training session?

Private training sessions are approximately one hour.

Is private training a good alternative to Board & Train?

It depends on your dog and your goals. Private training allows you to be directly involved in the training process but requires you to put in the time and repetitions, while Board & Train allows us to establish a structured foundation with your dog before transferring those skills back to you. We'll help you determine which option makes the most sense.

Boarding

Can I board my dog with Overtime K9?

Yes. Boarding is available for dogs that have successfully completed any of our Board & Train programs.

Does my dog have to complete Board & Train before boarding?

Yes. Our boarding service is designed for dogs who are already familiar with our training, routines, and expectations.

What makes Overtime K9 boarding different?

We aren't a traditional boarding facility. Because your dog has already completed training with us, we can maintain the structure and expectations they've learned while they're staying with us.

Will my dog continue following their training while boarding?

Yes. We believe consistency is important. Your dog's training and established routines continue to be reinforced while they're boarding with us.

Vaccinations & Policies

What vaccinations are required?

For the safety of all dogs in our care, dogs participating in our Board & Train programs, and further with any boarding, must be current on Rabies, Distemper/Parvo (DHPP or DA2PP), and Bordetella vaccinations.

What happens if my dog gets sick during their stay?

Your dog's health and safety come first. If your dog becomes ill or requires veterinary attention, we will contact you and take appropriate action based on the situation.

What happens during a hurricane or severe weather event?

Because the safety of your dog and our team comes first, if Broward County is placed under a hurricane watch or warning, owners will be required to pick up their dogs within 24 hours of the issuance of the watch or warning. Any remaining training time will be rescheduled after the storm.

What happens if I need to cancel my program?

Once a Board & Train program has started, the program cannot be cancelled by the owner. At the discretion of Overtime K9, a program may be stopped early if circumstances require it. If a program is terminated early by Overtime K9, payment will be prorated according to the terms of the agreement.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, Zelle, Venmo, and credit cards. Credit card payments may include a 3% processing fee.

When is payment due and do you require a deposit?

There are no deposit’s required to schedule any Board and Train Program or boarding stay.  For Board and Train programs, half of the selected program cost is due before or at drop-off and the remaining balance is due before your dog leaves our facility at pickup.  For boarding only stays, payment will be collected upon pickup.

Questions Every Dog Owner Has

Will my dog be okay being away from home?

Most dogs adjust very well to a structured environment. We understand that leaving your dog can be stressful for you, which is why we focus on providing structure, training, exercise, care, and communication throughout their stay.

Will my dog miss me?

Your dog may need some time to adjust to being away from home, but dogs are incredibly adaptable. Our goal is to provide a consistent routine that helps your dog feel comfortable while keeping them engaged and learning.

Is Board & Train right for my dog?

Board & Train isn't automatically the right choice for every dog or every owner. That's why we talk with you about your dog, your goals, and your expectations before recommending a program.

Will my dog still be the same dog after training?

Absolutely. Our goal isn't to change your dog's personality. We want to teach your dog how to better understand and respond to you while creating structure and reliable obedience. Your dog will still be the same companion you love.

What if my dog doesn't get along with other dogs?

That's okay. Dogs don't all have the same social needs or temperament. We evaluate each dog individually and don't force interactions that aren't appropriate. Your dog's training and safety always come first.

Can I visit my dog during Board & Train?

Board & Train is designed to give your dog consistency and allow us to establish a training routine without unnecessary interruptions. We'll discuss communication and updates with you before your dog's stay.

What happens when I pick my dog up?

Pickup is an important part of the process. We'll review what your dog learned, demonstrate the behaviors they've been working on, and explain what you need to do at home to maintain their training.

Why should I choose Overtime K9?

Overtime K9 was built around a training-first philosophy. We are a first responder family-owned and operated business, and our head trainer, Eric Strzalkowski, is also the Head Trainer for the Broward County Sheriff's Office Patrol K9 Unit. We bring that experience, structure, and commitment to every dog we work with.

What makes Overtime K9 different from other dog trainers?

We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Our programs are built around structured training, individualized attention, clear communication, and preparing both the dog and owner for success. Our goal isn't simply to teach your dog commands. It's to create a dog that can listen, behave, and function successfully in your everyday life.