About Holt’s Training Academy

What they offer

Holt's Training Academy is based on a 7-acre farm in Holly Springs, Mississippi, and runs its training as board-and-train programs for dogs five months or older. The home page lists three: a three-week on-leash basic obedience course, a six-week off-leash obedience program, and an eight-week advanced off-leash program that the site calls its most popular option. Boarding is also offered on its own.

What the programs cover

The basic course covers sit, stay and down, walking on a leash without pulling, and stopping jumping and mouthing. The off-leash program builds on it with heel and recall work around distractions, and the advanced program adds house manners and navigating public spaces off leash. The site says socialization with other dogs, horses, chickens, children and guests is part of the daily routine, that training takes place in an indoor facility, and that owners are taught to handle their dogs as well.

Approach

The site says the program emphasizes positive reinforcement techniques and tailors the training to each dog's needs and personality. It notes that the trainers live on the property, that drop-off and pick-up are by appointment, and that payment plans are accepted.