Your Guide to Dog Boarding and Training Near Vero Beach, FL

Your Guide to Dog Boarding and Training Near Vero Beach, FL

by | Jan 16, 2025

Welcome to Goldstar Puppy Academy: Your Partner in Dog Training and Boarding

Finding trusted and effective dog training near Vero Beach, FL, doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Goldstar Puppy Academy, we specialize in personalized board-and-train programs designed to meet your puppy’s unique needs. Whether you are searching for “dog boarding near me” or looking for structured dog daycare, we’ve got you covered with a warm and supportive approach.

What is Board and Train?

Our board-and-train programs are an immersive way to teach your dog essential obedience skills and address specific behaviors. Your puppy will stay in the trainer’s home, receiving round-the-clock care and positive reinforcement training in a stress-free, family-style environment.

1. How Long Will My Puppy Be Away?

We recommend a three-week program for optimal results. But don’t worry, you won’t miss them for too long! Puppies come home on weekends so that you can see their progress firsthand. If you have unique travel plans, we will tailor accommodations to fit your needs.

2. Where Will My Puppy Stay?

Your dog will live like a family member in Gerry-Anna’s home, not a kennel. This setup ensures less stress and more comfort for your pup, with the added benefit of constant socialization and hands-on training.

3. What Will My Puppy Learn?

Our programs cover foundational obedience and behavioral skills, including:

  • House training
  • Sit, stay, and down command
  • Leash walking
  • Crate training
  • “Leave it” and “drop it” commands
  • Waiting at doorways
  • Socialization with other animals

Whether your puppy needs help with basic manners or specific behavioral challenges, we will cover them.

4. Will My Puppy Miss Me?

Worrying about your puppy missing home is natural, but most adjust quickly to their new routine. Many alum pups treat Goldstar Puppy Academy as their second home, often returning for boarding long after completing their training.

5. Stay Connected with Daily Updates

We know you want to see your pup’s progress, so we provide daily photos or videos. Watching their growth and newfound skills is all part of the experience!

6. Will Training Results Stick at Home?

Yes! Your puppy’s skills will transfer to your home with practice. Our program includes support before and after your puppy’s stay to help you reinforce their training. Follow our guidance, and your pup will be just as obedient for you as they are for us, giving you the confidence that our training is effective and long-lasting.

7. Tools We Use

We use humane tools like leashes, harnesses, crates, and playpens to create a positive learning environment. Rest assured, we avoid using harsh tools like shock collars or prong collars.

8. Positive Reinforcement Training

Our training methods are rooted in positive reinforcement. We reward desired behaviors with treats, toys, or attention, which creates a happy, motivated pup eager to learn. For behaviors we want to discourage, we use gentle techniques like temporarily removing attention or redirecting to more appropriate actions. Ensuring your dog’s well-being is always our top priority.

9. What to Pack for Your Dog

Here’s what to bring for your dog’s stay:

  • Their regular food and medications
  • A favorite toy or blanket (optional)

We provide crates, beds, leashes, and many toys, so you only need to pack the essentials.

10. Why Goldstar Puppy Academy?

Located conveniently near Vero Beach, FL, Goldstar Puppy Academy offers the following:

  • Expertise in dog training near Sebastian, Port St. Lucie, and Fort Pierce
  • A safe, comfortable, and loving environment
  • Customized training programs tailored to your dog’s needs

When searching for dog boarding near me or dog training near me, Goldstar Puppy Academy is your trusted partner.

A Brighter Future for Your Dog Starts Here

Need Further Support?

Investing in professional training is a significant step towards ensuring your dog’s happiness and well-being. Whether you need help with obedience training, socialization, or behavior modification, our team at Goldstar Puppy Academy is here to guide you.

Ready to give your dog the best training and boarding experience? Contact us today to learn more about our dog training programs in Vero Beach, FL.

CLICK TO CALL

Obedience Training: Lola Practicing Stay

Obedience Training: Leave it with Hamilton

Can Dogs Eat Turkey? 5 Safety Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know

Can Dogs Eat Turkey? 5 Safety Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know

by | Nov 12, 2024

Thanksgiving means family, football, and a feast that everyone looks forward to—even your dog! But when those puppy-dog eyes lock onto your turkey, it’s important to ask: Can dogs eat turkey? The answer is yes, but with some precautions to ensure your furry friend stays safe and healthy.

Turkey contains many healthy nutrients, such as phosphorus, and is a great source of protein. However, pet parents must heed certain warnings to prevent potential health risks. Here are five crucial safety tips to help you enjoy a pet-safe Thanksgiving feast.

1. Can Dogs Eat Turkey Safely? Gobble Gradually

Moderation is key. Feeding your dog too much turkey can upset their digestive system and even lead to serious health issues like pancreatitis. Start with a small portion and observe how your dog reacts before offering more.

2. Do Not Pass the Salt or Seasonings

Dogs can’t handle as much sodium as humans, so skip the seasoned turkey when sharing with your pet. Ingredients like salt, garlic powder, and onion powder—common in Thanksgiving recipes—can harm dogs. Stick to plain, cooked turkey with no added spices.

3. What’s Good for the Goose Isn’t Always Good for Dogs

Some ingredients that humans enjoy, like onion and garlic, are toxic to dogs. These can cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, damage to red blood cells. Symptoms like lethargy or anemia could result if these ingredients are ingested.

4. Remove Bones Before Serving

Turkey bones are a choking hazard and can splinter, potentially causing tears or blockages in your dog’s intestines. Always ensure the turkey is deboned before offering it to your furry friend.

5. Here’s the Skinny About the Skin

The high-fat content in turkey skin is difficult for dogs to digest and can lead to pancreatitis. Additionally, turkey skin often contains leftover seasonings that could be harmful. Remove the skin entirely and serve small, bite-sized pieces of plain turkey meat instead.

How to Safely Prepare Turkey for Dogs

Shiba Inu puppy chewing on a red toy while lying on a soft rug, illustrating safe playtime for puppies - Goldstar Puppy Academy.

If you want to share turkey with your dog, follow these simple preparation tips:

  • Cook the turkey plain, without any added salt, butter, or spices.
  • Remove all bones and skin before serving.
  • Cut the meat into small, manageable pieces to avoid choking hazards.
  • Serve it in moderation as a treat, not as a meal replacement.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey Alternative Treats

Alternative Thanksgiving Treats for Dogs

Not all Thanksgiving foods are pet-safe, but there are some dog-friendly options to consider:

  • Plain, unseasoned green beans
    Mashed sweet potatoes (no butter or sugar)
  • Small amounts of plain pumpkin (not pie filling)
  • A dog-safe turkey-flavored treat from your local pet store
Can Dogs Eat Turkey Without Bones

Key Takeaway: Can Dogs Eat Turkey? Yes, But With Caution

Plain, cooked turkey in small portions can be a delicious and healthy treat for your dog this Thanksgiving. However, avoid bones, skin, and seasonings to ensure their safety. By following these simple tips, you can include your furry friend in the holiday festivities while keeping them happy and healthy.

Need Further Support?

If you need further support, Goldstar Puppy Academy offers expert guidance to help you and your puppy succeed.

CLICK TO CALL
How to Prevent Resource Guarding in Puppies: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Prevent Resource Guarding in Puppies: A Comprehensive Guide

by | Oct 1, 2024

Resource guarding is a behavior in which dogs feel the need to protect their possessions, such as food, toys, or even spaces. While it is a natural instinct, allowing it to go unchecked can lead to aggressive tendencies as your puppy ages. Fortunately, resource guarding can be prevented and even corrected with the right approach. In this guide, we’ll discuss proven strategies to prevent resource guarding and help your puppy feel secure, confident, and trusting.

Small dog wearing a green and black sweater lying next to a food bowl, demonstrating a relaxed, safe feeding environment to prevent resource guarding - Goldstar Puppy Academy

What Is Resource Guarding and Why Does It Happen?

Resource guarding occurs when a dog or puppy becomes defensive over things they perceive as valuable. This behavior is commonly seen with food but can extend to toys, bedding, or even certain people.

Common signs of resource guarding include:

  • Growling, snarling, or baring teeth when someone approaches food or toys
  • Snapping or biting to protect their “valuables”
  • Freezing or stiffening their posture when someone gets too close to a guarded item

Resource guarding often stems from fear, insecurity, or competition, especially in multi-pet households. If your puppy feels threatened, they may become defensive in protecting their possessions.

Small dog being fed from a plate by hand, demonstrating positive reinforcement techniques to prevent resource guarding - Goldstar Puppy Academy.

Outdated Methods That Can Worsen Resource Guarding

A common outdated piece of advice suggests sticking your hand in a puppy’s food bowl while they eat. While this may seem like a good way to teach your puppy to tolerate human presence during meals, it can actually create anxiety around food, leading to defensive or guarding behavior that wasn’t initially present.

Imagine this scenario: You’re eating your favorite meal, and someone interrupts by touching your food. How would you react? Your puppy feels the same way when you invade their space during meals.

Proven Methods to Prevent Resource Guarding in Puppies

Preventing resource guarding doesn’t require invasive techniques. In fact, fostering a calm, secure environment where your puppy associates human interaction with positive experiences is key. Read some effective strategies below.

Feed Your Puppy in a Safe, Enclosed Space

Feeding your puppy in a designated area, such as a crate or exercise pen, allows them to feel safe and secure. The enclosed space removes the need for them to feel defensive or threatened by distractions.

Why it works: By creating a consistent routine in a peaceful environment, your puppy learns that their meal is protected and they don’t need to worry about interruptions.

Use Positive Reinforcement During Mealtime

Using positive reinforcement techniques can help prevent guarding by creating a positive association with humans being around during meals.

How to do it: While your puppy is eating, walk by and drop a high-value treat, such as a piece of chicken, into their bowl. This teaches your puppy that your presence around food leads to something rewarding, reducing the likelihood of guarding.

Pro Tip: Gradually approach closer while they eat to normalize your presence. If your puppy associates you with positive reinforcement, they’re less likely to display guarding behaviors.

Avoid Punishing or Taking Away Items Forcefully

Punishing your puppy for growling or guarding can exacerbate anxiety and make the behavior worse. Similarly, forcefully taking items from them can trigger defensive reactions. Instead, focus on trading or exchanging items for something of higher value.

How to do it: If your puppy is guarding a toy or treat, offer them a higher-value treat or toy in exchange. This teaches them that giving up one item leads to a better reward, rather than having their possession forcefully removed.

Shiba Inu puppy chewing on a red toy while lying on a soft rug, illustrating safe playtime for puppies - Goldstar Puppy Academy.

How to Identify the Early Signs of Resource Guarding

Early signs of resource guarding can be subtle but should not be ignored.Watch for behaviors like:

  • Stiffening or freezing when someone approaches their food or toys
  • Fast eating or hoarding behavior during meals
  • Low growls or quick nips if disturbed during play or mealtime

If you notice these signs, early intervention with positive reinforcement and professional training can help curb the behavior before it escalates.

Advanced Tips to Prevent Resource Guarding

Once your puppy is accustomed to these basic prevention techniques, you can expand their training to prevent resource guarding from developing further. Read some effective strategies below.

Practice the "Leave It" Command

The “leave it” command is essential in teaching your puppy to relinquish items without anxiety. Start training with low-value objects and gradually increase the difficulty as your puppy masters the command.

Pro Tip: Consistently rewarding your puppy for complying with the “leave it” command reinforces positive associations with letting go of valuable items.

Encourage Socialization and Cooperative Play

Helping your puppy feel comfortable around other pets and people can reduce the likelihood of guarding behaviors. Engage your puppy in cooperative play, such as fetch or tug-of-war, where it learns to share toys and enjoys the interaction.

Golden retriever puppy eating kibble from a bowl with text 'When to Seek Professional Help' indicating the importance of addressing resource guarding early – Goldstar Puppy Academy

Building Trust to Prevent Resource Guarding

Preventing resource guarding in puppies is all about building trust and positive associations. By using positive reinforcement, feeding in a safe space, and avoiding forceful actions, you can help your puppy feel secure and confident. Early intervention and consistent training will ensure that your puppy grows into a well-mannered adult dog, free from guarding behaviors.

If your puppy is already exhibiting strong signs of resource guarding, such as growling, biting, or stiffening when approached, it’s important to seek the help of a certified dog trainer. A professional can provide targeted strategies and behavior modification plans tailored to your puppy’s needs.

Need Further Support?

If you need further support, Goldstar Puppy Academy offers expert guidance to help you and your puppy succeed.

CLICK TO CALL
The Benefits of Board and Train for Puppies

The Benefits of Board and Train for Puppies

by | Sep 16, 2024

What Is Sleepaway Camp?

The Benefits of Sleepaway Camp

Sleepaway Camp is our specialized version of a board and training program. Your pup lives with one of our experienced trainers for a set period, experiencing socialization while learning crucial foundational skills. 

Are you looking for boarding for puppies or a program to help your new furry friend learn essential skills? If you want a well-behaved dog that feels comfortable in new environments and listens even in public, our board and train program is offered on the Treasure Coast in the following cities: Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, Port Saint Lucie, FL, and surrounding areas and is a fantastic solution! At Goldstar Puppy Academy, our experienced and certified trainers provide a unique ‘Sleepaway Camp’ – an immersive, rewarding experience for you and your puppy.

Sleepaway Camp is our specialized version of a board and training program. Your pup lives with one of our experienced trainers for a set period, experiencing socialization while learning crucial foundational skills. These include:

  • Coming when called
  • Down and Stay
  • Leave it
  • Leash walking

While not every puppy needs this type of program, most dogs thrive in this environment and leave with improved behavior. And the benefits don’t stop with your puppy—you’ll save time by letting the experts at Goldstar Puppy Academy lay the groundwork. Once your puppy returns home, we provide you with all the tools and knowledge needed to maintain their progress.

Board and Train Dogs

Why Choose Board and Train for Your Puppy?

Think of our board and train program like training wheels for a bicycle. It’s much easier to learn with some help, right? Sleepaway Camp acts as those training wheels, and we’re the ones running alongside you, ensuring your puppy stays on course long after they return home.

Additionally, when your dog becomes an adult, you’ll likely need to leave them with a sitter or in a boarding facility while traveling. A board and train experience during their puppy stage ensures they become comfortable being away from you, preventing stress later in life. They’ll know it’s all part of the adventure, and you’ll always return!

Board and Train Dogs in Sebastian FL

Puppy Socialization: Why It’s So Important

A well-socialized puppy is likelier to interact positively with people and other pets

Socialization is one of the most critical aspects of your puppy’s development. During our board and training program, your puppy will be exposed to various environments, people, and other dogs in a controlled, positive way. This helps them grow into confident and well-adjusted adults. Puppies that aren’t socialized properly can become fearful or aggressive, which is why our immersive program is perfect for building their confidence.

A well-socialized puppy is likelier to interact positively with people and other pets, creating a more pleasant experience for you both. The foundation we establish through socialization during boarding for puppies ensures your pup feels safe and secure, no matter where life takes them.

Board and Train Dogs importance

Developing Good Habits Early

Puppies are like sponges—they absorb everything around them, which makes the early months crucial for teaching them good habits. Our board and train program focuses on creating positive associations with desirable behaviors. This early intervention is key in preventing future issues like jumping, chewing, and leash pulling, making you feel proactive and responsible as a dog owner.

We understand that busy schedules can make consistent training challenging for dog owners. That’s why Goldstar Puppy Academy’s board and training program takes the pressure off you. Our trainers dedicate the time and attention needed to reinforce proper behavior, so when your puppy comes home, they’ve already formed good habits.

Ethical Training Methods

Humane, Reward-Based Training for Your Puppy

Your puppy’s emotional well-being is our priority

At Goldstar Puppy Academy, we pride ourselves on using humane and ethical training methods. Your puppy’s emotional well-being is our priority, and we ensure they feel safe, happy, and rewarded throughout their stay. During training, we use positive reinforcement with plenty of rewards such as treats, toys, and access to activities they enjoy.

When your puppy performs an unwanted behavior, our trainers will either withdraw attention or ignore them to avoid reinforcing that behavior. This gentle approach, combined with positive reinforcement, ensures your puppy’s emotional well-being is always a priority. Over time, your puppy learns which actions earn them rewards and which don’t. We gradually increase distractions during training so your puppy can respond well in various real-world situations.\
Board and Train Dogs Benefits

Discover the long-Term Benefits of Our Board and Train Programs

Our board and training program’s most significant long-term benefit is that it helps puppies learn to stay calm and focused, even in distracting environments. This is particularly important if you plan to take your puppy to public places like parks, beaches, or dog-friendly cafes. Through consistent training and exposure to new stimuli, your puppy will learn how to behave appropriately no matter where they are.

Another significant benefit of boarding for puppies at Goldstar Puppy Academy is the peace of mind it provides you as the owner. You can rest assured that your puppy is in the hands of skilled trainers who will help them reach their full potential. Plus, you’ll have a well-behaved dog that you can proudly take anywhere, giving you a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Board and Train Dogs follow up support

We Include Six Months of Support

Follow-Up Support: The Key to Maintaining Your Puppy’s Good Behavior

Offering a comprehensive program and support

What happens after your puppy comes home is the key to lasting success. Our board and train program for puppies comes with six months of follow-up support to ensure your puppy behaves just as well for you as they do for us.

Our comprehensive program includes:

  • In-person sessions
  • Live weekly Zoom meetings
  • Lesson videos
  • Group classes

This multi-faceted approach ensures you’re fully prepared to maintain your puppy’s good behavior. Watching the connection between you and your dog strengthen after training is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work!

Board and Train Dogs Question To Ask

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Board and Train Program

Not all board and train programs are created equal. Unfortunately, many use harsh tools like shock collars or prong collars to achieve a quick fix. While this may seem appealing at first, these methods can cause stress and long-term behavioral issues.

When choosing a board and training program on the Treasure Coast, ask the following questions:

  • What happens if my dog makes a mistake during training?
  • What rewards are used when my dog does something right?
  • What tools are used during training?
  • Where will my dog be housed?
  • How much time will my dog spend in a crate or kennel?

If you are uncomfortable with the answers, keep looking for a better fit.

Encourage the Best Behavior

Why Positive Reinforcement Is Key

At Goldstar Puppy Academy, we focus on positive reinforcement techniques to encourage the best behavior in your puppy. Your puppy builds trust and confidence in its training by rewarding good actions and not punishing mistakes. Over time, it learns that good behavior results in positive outcomes, strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
We Provide A Safe Environment

Safe and Comfortable Boarding Environment

We know how important it is for you to feel confident in the care your puppy receives while they’re away. Our boarding for puppies program provides a safe, comfortable environment for your puppy. They’ll receive plenty of attention, playtime, and rest in our state-of-the-art facility, designed with your puppy’s well-being in mind.

Less Stress When You Travel

Preparing for Future Boarding Stays

As your puppy grows, there will likely be times when you need to leave them with a sitter or in a boarding facility. By starting with a board and training program, you’re preparing your puppy for these future stays. They’ll already be comfortable being away from you, which means less stress for both of you when you need to travel.

Book a Free Consultation Today

 

We’d love to chat with you if you’re looking for expert dog training in Fort Pierce, FL, Vero Beach, FL, or Port St Lucie, FL! Goldstar Puppy Academy offers a personalized approach to training that ensures your pup will thrive in our program. Call us to schedule a FREE phone consultation and see if Sleepaway Camp fits your puppy.

Take advantage of the opportunity to give your puppy the best start in life. Enroll them in our board and train program today and set them on the path to becoming a well-behaved, confident, and happy companion!

With Goldstar Puppy Academy, you’re getting a training program and building a lifelong relationship with your dog!

Schedule Now

Understanding the Differences Between Service Dogs and Emotional Support Dogs

Understanding the Differences Between Service Dogs and Emotional Support Dogs

by | Aug 14, 2024

When it comes to the differences between service dogs and emotional support dogs, understanding their unique roles and functions is crucial. Service dogs are highly trained to perform specific tasks that assist individuals with disabilities, while emotional support dogs provide companionship and emotional comfort. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between service dogs and emotional support dogs, including their training, access rights, and the important role they play in the lives of those who rely on them.

What is a Service Dog?

Service dogs are highly trained to perform specific tasks that assist individuals with disabilities. These tasks are crucial for the daily functioning and independence of their handlers.

Examples of Tasks Performed by Service Dogs:

  • Alerting to medical episodes
  • Guiding individuals with limited or no vision
  • Assisting with mobility

For example, some service dogs can alert their humans to an oncoming medical episode or guide those with limited or no vision.

What is an Emotional Support Dog?

Emotional support dogs provide companionship and emotional comfort to individuals. Unlike service dogs, emotional support dogs are not trained to perform specific tasks for disabilities.

Training and Limitations of Emotional Support Dogs:

  • Emotional support dogs are not required to undergo specialized training.
  • They are not trained to perform tasks related to disabilities.

Access Rights for Emotional Support Dogs:

  • Emotional support dogs do not have the same public access rights as service dogs.
Differences between service dogs and emotional support dogs

Service Dog Registration

Misconceptions About Registration

There is actually no such thing as “registering” your service dog. Many websites assert that you can “register your dog,” but it’s important to note that these websites do not validate a dog as a genuine service dog and are not acknowledged under the ADA.

  • No Official Registry: The ADA does not recognize any official service dog registry.
  • Misleading Websites: Buying a certificate and vest does not make your dog a service dog.
Service dog welcome in public setting

Public Access Rights

Where Can Service Dogs Go?

Service dogs can accompany their owners almost anywhere, including:

  • Restaurants
  • Shops
  • Hospitals
  • Schools
  • Hotels

Businesses are only allowed to ask two questions:

  1. Is the dog required because of a disability?
  2. What tasks is the dog trained to perform?

Where Can Emotional Support Dogs Go?

Emotional support dogs do not have the same access rights and are often restricted from many public places.

Impact of Untrained Dogs

Due to people claiming their emotional support dogs are service dogs and bringing untrained dogs into public spaces, many businesses have become more stringent with their policies. This misrepresentation can jeopardize the safety and independence of individuals with disabilities who rely on genuine service dogs.

Training of a service dog

Importance of Service Dogs

Service dogs are not just pets; they are highly trained professionals. They perform specific tasks that benefit individuals with disabilities, essentially acting as a medical device for their handlers.

Training and Costs of Service Dogs:

  • Service dogs undergo extensive training, often taking up to two years.
  • The cost of training a service dog can amount to tens of thousands of dollars, covering professional trainers, veterinary care, and continuous evaluation.

Respecting Service Dogs

Understanding and respecting the roles and boundaries of service dogs is crucial. Disrupting a service dog, whether by petting, calling, or offering food, can interfere with their ability to perform life-saving tasks, potentially putting their handler at risk.

Service dog with owner in wheelchair

Celebrate and Support Service Dogs Today!

Join us in honoring the incredible service dogs that play a vital role in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Help us spread awareness about the crucial differences between service dogs and emotional support dogs.

How You Can Help:

  • Share This Post: Educate others about the importance and rights of service dogs.
  • Respect and Recognize: Always respect the working boundaries of service dogs and their handlers.
  • Support Service Dog Organizations: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that train and support service dogs.

Service Dog Training Organizations

These organizations are well-respected in the field of service dog training and have a proven track record of helping individuals with disabilities lead more independent lives.

Canine Companions

Website: Canine Companions
Overview: Canine Companions provides highly trained service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities, enhancing their independence.

The Seeing Eye

Website: The Seeing Eye
Overview: The Seeing Eye is the oldest existing guide dog school in the world, providing specially trained guide dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Paws With A Cause

Website: Paws With A Cause
Overview: Paws With A Cause trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities and provides lifetime support for those partnerships.

National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS)

Website: NEADS
Overview: NEADS provides world-class service dogs to veterans, children with autism, and adults with physical disabilities, hearing loss, and other needs.

K9s For Warriors

Website: K9s For Warriors
Overview: K9s For Warriors is dedicated to providing service dogs to veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma.

Disclaimer:

Please note that we do not receive any compensation or incentives for promoting the websites mentioned in this post. These links are provided solely for informational purposes to help our readers find credible organizations that train service dogs. We are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or opinions expressed on these external websites. Visitors are encouraged to review the privacy policies and terms of use on any linked site before engaging with the services or information provided.