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Play-Based Board & Train Dog Training in Lehigh County, PA

Updated: Jan 15

When most people think about dog training, they imagine strict commands, repetitive drills, and stern corrections. At The Wizard of Dogs, we believe there’s a better way—training through play. When you combine play-based training with a structured Board & Train program, you get faster results, a happier dog, and real-world reliability that lasts.


If you’re searching for professional Board & Train dog training in Lehigh County, PA, our facility in Germansville, Pennsylvania proudly serves dog owners from Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the entire Lehigh Valley with proven, results-driven training.


Two black German Shepherds with tongues out sit in a field of tall grass. Green trees blur in the background, creating a serene setting.

What Is a Board & Train Program?



A Board & Train program is an immersive training experience where your dog lives and trains with us for a set period of time—typically 2 weeks, 4 weeks, or 6–8 weeks, depending on goals and behavior history.


During this time, your dog receives:


  • Daily structured obedience training

  • Real-world distraction proofing

  • Controlled socialization

  • Mental stimulation and structured play

  • Clear communication through modern training markers



This consistent, professional environment allows us to build reliable obedience and behavior rapidly and effectively.


Board & Train is ideal for:


  • Busy owners with limited time

  • Dogs needing foundational obedience

  • Behavior issues like reactivity, anxiety, or aggression

  • Owners who want faster, professional results


Why Play-Based Dog Training Works Better



Dogs learn best when they are engaged, motivated, and having fun. Play is not just entertainment—it is one of the most powerful learning tools available.


Through play-based training, we use:


  • Reward-based games to build obedience

  • Toy and tug engagement for motivation

  • Drive-building exercises for confidence

  • Structured play to reduce stress and anxiety



Instead of forcing obedience, we teach dogs to WANT to work. This leads to:


  • Faster learning

  • Stronger focus

  • Better reliability around distractions

  • Increased confidence and resilience

  • A healthier relationship between dog and owner



A working dog is a happy dog—and play is the foundation of that work.


The Power of Combining Board & Train with Play



When your dog enters our Play-Based Board & Train Program, they aren’t just memorizing commands—they’re learning how to think, engage, and problem-solve while having fun.


Your dog will learn:


  • Sit, down, place, heel, and recall

  • Leash manners and impulse control

  • Focus around distractions

  • Calm behavior indoors and in public

  • Proper play and social behavior



For behavior modification cases, we also work on:


  • Dog reactivity

  • Fear-based behaviors

  • Resource guarding

  • Aggression and bite history (with longer programs)


All training is reinforced through structured play so your dog learns that listening and engagement unlock fun and rewards.




Why Dog Owners Across the Lehigh Valley Choose The Wizard of Dogs



At The Wizard of Dogs, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter programs. Every training plan is customized to your dog’s temperament, drive, confidence level, and behavior history.


Clients choose us because of:


  • Over 8 years of professional training experience

  • Extensive shelter rehabilitation work

  • Proven success with fearful and aggressive dogs

  • Play-based engagement systems

  • Real-world distraction training

  • Owner education for lifelong success

  • Structured follow-up lessons after every Board & Train



We don’t just train dogs—we empower owners for life.


Life After Board & Train: Owner Transfer Lessons



Training doesn’t stop when your dog goes home—it transfers to you. Every Board & Train program includes:


  • Mid-program lesson

  • Final take-home lesson

  • Bonus follow-up lesson



You’ll learn:


  • How to use markers correctly

  • How to maintain structure at home

  • How to use play as a powerful reward

  • How to fairly and clearly correct unwanted behaviors



Our goal is to ensure your dog listens everywhere, with anyone—not just with us.


Is a Play-Based Board & Train Right for Your Dog?



This program is ideal if:

You want fast, reliable results

Your dog needs consistency and structure

You’re dealing with reactivity or behavior issues

You want a confident, focused dog

You want lifelong obedience—not short-term fixes


Get Started with a Dog Training Consultation in Lehigh County



All boarding and training programs begin with a professional consultation. This allows us to:


  • Evaluate your dog’s temperament

  • Identify behavior concerns

  • Set realistic training goals

  • Match the correct training program

  • Ensure safety and success


In-Person Initial Consultation
$100.00
1h
Book Now

If you’re ready to transform your dog’s behavior and strengthen your bond through play-based training, we’d love to help.


The Wizard of Dogs – Germansville, PA

484-633-7247

Instagram & TikTok: @thewizardofdogsllc


Proudly Serving:

Lehigh County, Northampton County, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Schnecksville, Whitehall, Coplay, Macungie, and the greater Lehigh Valley.




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