Durham Kennels

Durham Kennels offers three training programs: 1) The Puppy Program for dogs under 18 weeks, providing phone consultations and one in-person class to address early behaviors like nipping and housebreaking; 2) The Train & Board Program, a three-week intensive in-kennel training for dogs 18 weeks and older, teaching sit, stay, come, and heel, followed by six weekly owner follow-up classes; and 3) Private one-on-one instruction, available in hour-long sessions on weekdays and weekends. All programs emphasize owner participation and consistent daily practice to reinforce training.

Pricing Summary

The Puppy Program costs $200 and includes phone consultations and one private introductory class; this fee is credited toward the Train & Board Program. The Train & Board program is a three-week intensive with follow-up classes, though exact pricing is not listed publicly. Boarding is $35 per day. Private training sessions are available Monday through Saturday. All services require advance scheduling and health records.

Policies

Boarding requires up-to-date health records and vaccinations. The Puppy Program fee is credited toward the Train & Board Program if enrolled. Clients are encouraged to schedule visits by appointment. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated, but Jim is described as responsive and available by phone for ongoing support.

Durham Kennels is a dog training and boarding facility owned and operated by Jim Durham, a trainer with over thirty years of professional experience. Located on ten wooded acres in Berea, Kentucky, just off I-75 and 30 miles from Lexington, the kennel is nestled next to Jim’s home, providing a caring, home-like environment for dogs. Jim offers three types of obedience training: a Puppy Program for dogs under 18 weeks, a three-week intensive Train & Board program for dogs 18 weeks and older, and private one-on-one instruction. The Train & Board program includes six follow-up owner classes to ensure lasting results. All training emphasizes positive reinforcement and owner involvement, with Jim providing personal coaching throughout the process. In addition to training, Durham Kennels offers dog boarding with climate-controlled kennels, daily exercise, and the option to bring your pet’s own food and toys. Health records and vaccinations are required for boarding. Jim is recommended by veterinarians throughout Central Kentucky and has been serving the community since 1980.

The facility is designed for comfort and safety, with indoor-outdoor kennels and a spacious exercise area surrounded by trees and flowers. Jim encourages prospective clients to visit by appointment to see the environment firsthand and discuss their dog’s specific needs. He also provides guidance for new pet owners, including advice on housebreaking, crate training, and managing puppy behaviors like chewing and jumping.

Durham Kennels is known for its personalized attention, with Jim maintaining direct communication with owners during training and offering ongoing support after the program ends. Clients consistently praise the cleanliness, professionalism, and compassionate care provided to their dogs.

Accomplishments

Jim Durham has over thirty years of professional dog training experience and has been operating Durham Kennels since 1980. He is recommended by veterinarians throughout Central Kentucky and has built a reputation for compassionate, effective training and exceptional boarding care over more than four decades.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Jim Durham by phone or email to discuss their dog’s needs. An initial phone consultation is offered to assess the dog’s behavior, living environment, and training goals. Jim invites clients to visit the facility by appointment to see the environment and meet him in person before beginning any program.