Haven Dog Training

Training is offered through private sessions or board & train programs. Private sessions include hands-on lessons with detailed homework between appointments. Board & train programs involve 3–4 weeks of 24/7 training with mental enrichment, play, and rest, followed by two private lessons: one at pick-up (2–3 hours) and one follow-up 2–3 weeks later. Programs cover sit, stay, come, leave-it, loose leash walking, door manners, and more. All programs include a focus on dog psychology, communication, and real-life application. Therapy and Service Dog programs require additional assessment and dedicated handler involvement.

Pricing Summary

Private one-on-one sessions: Young Puppy Foundation/Basic Obedience at $455 (5 lessons in 4 appointments); Pet Dog Obedience Intermediate/Advanced at $575 (6 lessons in 5 appointments). Board & Train Hybrid: Young Puppy Foundation for $2,795 (3 weeks stay + 2 private lessons); Pet Dog Obedience for $3,695 (4 weeks stay + 2 private lessons). AKC/UKC testing included at no extra charge for graduates. Testing for non-students is $40 onsite or $100+ offsite. Board & train spots are limited and require early booking after evaluation.

Policies

By appointment only; no drop-ins. Board & train spots are limited and require a free evaluation before booking. Spots are often booked out one to two months in advance. Programs require commitment from the owner, especially for behavior modification, therapy, or service dog training. No cancellation or rescheduling policies are explicitly stated.

Haven Dog Training is a certified, rewards-based, balanced dog training business led by Kandi Burkhardt, a highly experienced trainer with a proven track record in North Carolina before relocating to Lafayette, Louisiana. Kandi offers personalized one-on-one private sessions and board & train hybrid programs designed to build communication, understanding, and trust between dogs and their owners. Her approach focuses on psychology-based methods that help dogs want to work with their humans, not out of fear. Services include puppy foundation training, obedience training from beginner to advanced levels, behavior modification for fear, reactivity, and aggression, as well as specialized Therapy Dog and Service Dog training. Clients also benefit from onsite amenities including a 65,000 sq ft outdoor dog play area with obstacles and a 1-mile hiking trail, available to members. Free training guides are offered for puppy, potty, crate, and separation anxiety training. All obedience programs include complimentary AKC Canine Good Citizen or UKC SPOT testing at no extra cost.

Kandi emphasizes holistic, customized training tailored to each dog and owner’s needs, avoiding one-size-fits-all methods. She holds certifications as an AKC and UKC evaluator and has trained over 400 families annually in her previous location, earning the #1 Dog Trainer title for five consecutive years. Board & train programs include 24/7 care with mental enrichment, play, classical music during rest, and central climate control. Group classes are offered only once or twice per year.

The business operates by appointment only, with no drop-ins, and requires a free comprehensive evaluation before starting any program.

Accomplishments

Kandi Burkhardt is a certified AKC and UKC evaluator, previously voted #1 Dog Trainer for five consecutive years in a market with over 200,000 people and 30+ competitors. She trained over 400 families annually in North Carolina and has extensive experience in behavior modification, therapy dog, and service dog training. Her facility was recognized as the leading behavioral rehabilitation center in its region.

How to Get Started!

Begin with a free, comprehensive evaluation session to discuss concerns, goals, and expectations. After the evaluation, clients choose between private sessions or board & train programs. Evaluation is required before starting any training or testing.