What We Work On
The goal of Foundations isn’t simply teaching your dog a list of commands. We want to help you build a dog who is confident, neutral, well-rounded, and enjoyable to live with.
Depending on your dog and your goals, training may include:
- Foundational obedience including Sit, Down, Place, Stay and Heel
- Leash manners and engagement
- Crate training and potty routines
- Body handling
- Appropriate socialization
- Exposure to new dogs, people, environments and routines
- Building confidence and neutrality around everyday distractions
Your dog gets hands-on training and real-world exposure with our team while you learn how to carry those skills into everyday life.
How the Foundations Program Works
1. Start With a Training Consultation
Your program begins with a 30-minute consultation with our training team so we can learn more about your dog, your current routine and your training goals.
2. Begin Learning at Home
You’ll receive access to our Kickstart online training course, allowing you to start learning and introducing foundational concepts at home before Day Training begins.
3. Your Dog Trains With Us
Your dog will attend Day Training at UCA three or five days per week over either a four- or six-week program.
During the day, our trainers work directly with your dog on foundational obedience, leash skills, confidence, neutrality, socialization and the everyday skills that help create a well-rounded dog.
4. You Train With Us, Too
Foundations includes two one-hour private lessons — one before your Day Training weeks begin and another after they’re complete.
Because lasting dog training requires consistency at home, these lessons help make sure you understand what your dog is learning and how to continue it yourself.
5. Stay Involved Every Week
On the final Day Training day of each week, you’ll receive a weekly report card from a member of our training team.
We’ll review your dog’s progress, give you homework to work on at home and establish goals for the following week.
Is Foundations Right for Your Dog?
The Foundations Program is designed for dogs of any age who have not presented serious behavioral issues.
It’s a great fit for:
- New puppies who need to start with the right routines and expectations.
- Newly adopted dogs who are adjusting to life in your home.
- First-time dog owners who want professional guidance from the beginning.
- Dogs who need better everyday manners and a stronger foundation of obedience.
- Owners who want support and structure without sending their dog away for a traditional Board & Train.
If your dog is experiencing more serious behavioral concerns, our training packages or Board & Train programs may be a better fit. Our training team can help determine the right program for you.
Continued Support After Foundations
Finishing Foundations doesn’t mean your relationship with UCA ends.
Dogs who complete the program receive returning-client benefits, including:
- Day Training for $75/day (regularly $90)
- $100 off private training packages
- Access to UCA Boarding
- Access to returning-client Board & Train services
That means you can continue using UCA for training, boarding and ongoing support throughout your dog’s life.
