Dog Training Questions Boarding & Daycare SpaW Add-Ons

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Tampa Bay Canine Retreat, our dog training programs, daycare, boarding, behavior services, and SpaW add-ons.

Not sure where your dog fits? We can help you choose the right starting point.

How Our Training Programs Work

Every dog is different. We match the program to your dog’s age, temperament, and your goals. For behavior cases, advanced service work, or protection training, we require an evaluation before we recommend a plan.

Immersive Training

Board & Train — 14 Days

Best for building strong foundations fast. Your dog stays with us and trains daily in a structured, real-world environment. Ideal for Puppy Basics and resetting household manners.

  • Daily training reps + structured routine
  • Obedience foundations, manners, engagement
  • Owner transition guidance to maintain results at home
Advanced Immersion

Board & Train — 28 Days

The most immersive option. Great for expanding reliability, impulse control, and introducing more advanced skill-building and task readiness. Ideal for Puppy Advanced.

  • Deeper proofing and consistency
  • Advanced obedience + structured focus work
  • Evaluation required for advanced task paths
Day Training

Daycare & Train — 10 Days

Your dog spends up to 12 hours/day at our Retreat, participates in structured daycare activities, and receives a focused one-on-one training session each day.

  • Adolescent Basic: sit, down, stay, place, thresholds, manners
  • Jumping, counter-surfing, furniture boundaries, household etiquette
  • Socialization and emotional regulation through structured routines
Leash Skills

The Perfect Walk — 10 Days

A Daycare & Train program focused heavily on loose-leash walking, handler engagement, and real-world walk scenarios.

  • Leash pressure education + positioning
  • Impulse control around distractions
  • Practical everyday-walk reliability
Individualized Support

Behavior Modification

Behavior work is customized to the behavior being corrected, ranging from lighter household issues such as jumping, chewing, and indoor potty problems to reactivity and aggression.

  1. Transformation Session: quick call to understand the problem and goals
  2. Meet & Greet: in-person evaluation and safety assessment
  3. Custom Plan: a tailored training structure to correct the behavior
Advanced behavior cases, service work, and protection training are evaluation-based and are not guaranteed placements.
Personalized Planning

Why We Start With the Dog in Front of Us

A dog’s age, temperament, environment, history, habits, stress level, and family goals can all affect which training approach makes sense.

That is why more complex behavior work begins with conversation and evaluation rather than forcing every dog into the same program.

The goal is a practical plan that fits both the dog and the household they are returning to.

SpaW Services

SpaW services are offered as an add-on to an existing daycare, boarding, training, or package booking.

Retreat Add-On

A Little Extra Pampering

Offering SpaW services alongside a dog’s existing stay allows us to coordinate bathing, grooming, handling, rest, and departure timing without rushing the pup through a separate appointment.

Services may include oatmeal baths, nail trims, de-shedding, ear cleaning, and other available refresh services.

Important SpaW Information

SpaW services are not booked as a standalone appointment.

Boarding bonus: Baths are included with stays of three nights or more.

Tampa Bay Canine Retreat FAQs

Have a question about your dog’s stay, training program, vaccinations, scheduling, or care? Start here.

What vaccinations are required before my dog can attend?
We require proof of up-to-date Bordetella, DHPP, and Rabies vaccinations. Records must be submitted prior to booking for the safety of all guests.
Do you accept dogs who are not social with other dogs?
Yes. We specialize in personalized care and can accommodate anti-social, anxious, or special-needs dogs who require more space or one-on-one attention.
How many dogs do you care for at once?
We are intentionally small-scale to ensure top-tier care. We allow up to 15 daycare dogs and 9 overnight boarders at a time, creating a calm, structured, and safe environment.
Will I receive updates while I’m away?
Yes. We provide regular text and photo/video updates so you can stay connected. You can also request more or fewer updates based on your preferences.
My dog takes medication. Can you administer it?
Yes. We follow your instructions and ensure your pup receives care as directed.
What is your cancellation and deposit policy?
We require a 35% non-refundable deposit to secure your booking. Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance to avoid additional charges.
Do you offer grooming services?
Yes. SpaW services, including oatmeal baths, nail trims, de-shedding, ear cleaning, and more, are available as add-ons only to daycare, boarding, or training appointments.
Can I schedule a Meet & Greet first?
Absolutely. While not always required, a Meet & Greet allows your pup to explore the space, meet our team, and helps us assess temperament and tailor our care.
What does a typical day look like at TBCR?
Dogs follow a structured routine including playtime, enrichment, walks, training moments, and rest time. We prioritize calm structure, safety, and individualized attention.
Where are you located?
We’re located in Lutz, Florida, offering a tranquil home-based retreat setting with a large fenced yard and dedicated indoor spaces for our guests.
Not sure which program is right?
Start with a Free Transformation Session . We’ll discuss your goals and your dog’s needs, then recommend the most effective path forward.

Still Have Questions?

That’s exactly what the Transformation Session is for. Tell us what’s happening with your dog, what you’ve tried, and what you’d like to change. We’ll help map the best next step.