About Gem State Kennels

Board and train near Caldwell

Gem State Kennels is a dog training and boarding kennel in the Caldwell area run by Seth Simpson, who founded it in 2015. Dogs stay with him at his small farm outside Parma, kept in a fenced area, with a heated and cooled shop and an attached play area for group play. He now specializes in advanced obedience and works closely with families toward the companion they want.

How the program works

The main program is a board and train, typically six weeks, where the dog is worked every day and the family meets weekly for sessions at home, in stores or in local parks. The first week focuses on socialization, stressful behaviors and building a relationship with the dog. Over the following weeks he introduces a pressure-versus-rewards method, moving slowly from a slip leash to an electronic collar only when the dog is ready, sometimes using just the vibration or beep. The goal is a dog that is trustworthy off leash and easily handled by everyone in the family. Training usually starts at 6 months, with short socialization or potty training programs for younger puppies, and in-home training for some clients.

Hunting and decoy dogs

The kennel also offers waterfowl and upland training for hunting dogs, plus breeding and training of decoy dogs, and boarding.

What to ask

Ask about pricing and current availability.