When nothing is working with your dog, you need more than another training camp.

Searching for board and train for an aggressive, fearful or difficult dog? Canine Family Guidance offers an individualized, specialist-led intervention built around understanding the dog and helping the family live together more safely.

Is this the help your dog needs?

• Your dogs are fighting at home and household life feels impossible.
• Your dog reacts aggressively, guards resources or struggles with fear.
• Previous training has not resolved the problem.
• You are considering surrender because you cannot see another option.
• You want your dog understood, and you need guidance that works in your real home.

What makes this different?

Observation before interpretation. Understanding before intervention. We examine the circumstances around behavior, the dog's communication and the family's daily environment before deciding what intervention is appropriate. We do not rely on coercion or shock collars as instruction.

The objective is meaningful, sustainable improvement for the dog and family. Every case is different: a particular behavioral result or permanent cure cannot responsibly be guaranteed in advance. The free orientation is where we discuss what success would look like for your household and whether this program is a fit.

Questions families ask about board and train

Can board and train help an aggressive dog?

Sometimes, but the right intervention depends on why the behavior happens, the dog's health and environment, and what can realistically change at home. CFG starts with an individual assessment rather than assuming a standard obedience program will solve aggression.

What if other dog training has not worked?

Previous attempts are useful information. We review what has been tried, what changed, and what the dog may be communicating before deciding on next steps. A free orientation is available even if you are unsure whether board and train is appropriate.

Is this a two-week board and train camp?

No. CFG does not assume a fixed-length training camp is right for every dog. The $497 Focused Behavior Deep Dive addresses one defined concern; any longer residential intervention is discussed and quoted individually, with duration, family participation, handover, follow-up and written terms established before enrollment.

Do you use shock collars?

CFG does not use shock collars or coercion as instruction. The focus is on observing the dog, understanding the conditions around behavior, and developing safe, sustainable changes.

Where do you work?

CFG serves families in Highland Park and the Chicago North Shore, with remote consultation options. Discuss travel, availability and program suitability during the Free Orientation.

Don't take our word for it.

Read firsthand reviews from families who have worked with Marnie Harris, including clients dealing with difficult behavior and dogs facing uncertain futures. Many were originally posted under her previous business name, Marnie Puppins.

Start with understanding. No obligation.

Tell us what is happening. The Free Orientation helps establish the next step before you pay for a program.

CFG provides behavioral assessment and intervention, not emergency medical care. If a person or animal is injured or in immediate danger, contact emergency services or a veterinarian first.