Boarding

Heading out of town or just need a safe place for your pup? Our boarding program offers a calm, enriching space and hands-on care where your dog is treated like one of our own.

What you can expect

Every dog deserves a calm space, a structured routine, and people who truly see them. At Appalachian Dog Training, our boarding guests are surrounded by trained, caring staff, a predictable daily rhythm, and 24/7 onsite supervision with overnight staff and security monitoring. It’s not just where they sleep — it’s where they feel safe.

Your dog has an active, engaging day from wake-up at 7 AM to bedtime at 9 PM, with outdoor exercise, frequent potty breaks, and moments of affection. We tailor care to each dog’s needs—whether that means extra walks, chew toys, outdoor play, or simple quiet connection.

We love our dogs and know the joy of coming home to them when they’ve been deeply cared for, and we want you to have that same experience.

Appalachian Dog Training staff walking multiple golden retrievers on scenic grounds in Mills River Western NC

Daily Enrichment

Our daily routine includes individual walks on leash multiple times throughout the day to keep your dog physically active and mentally engaged while you’re away.

Dogs staying in outdoor kennel runs at Appalachian Dog Training's boarding facility in Mills River, North Carolina.

Safe, Comfortable Structure

Our training center features climate-controlled indoor kennels for cozy rest and spacious outdoor runs so dogs can enjoy fresh air throughout the day.

Kennel technician providing hands-on care and positive reinforcement to a dog at Appalachian Dog Training in Mills River, North Carolina.

Caring Team

Our trainers don’t just supervise, they engage. Every dog gets personalized attention from experienced staff who understand canine behavior, body language, and emotional needs.

How We Keep Your Dog Safe

When you board your dog, you’re trusting us with family. That’s why we’ve built our program around safety, comfort, and peace of mind, so both you and your pup can feel at ease. Dogs rest in climate-controlled kennels with calming practices like ambient music to encourage quiet, restful behavior. With the Blue Ridge Mountains as our backdrop and the company of our resident animals, boarding at ADT is both safe and enriching.

Three boarding dogs relaxing in spacious indoor kennels at Appalachian Dog Training's climate-controlled boarding facility in Mills River, North Carolina.
  • Climate-Controlled Kennels

  • 24/7 Supervision: On-site Staff and Cameras

  • Fire Safety Systems in Place

  • CPR + First Aid Certified Team

  • Same-Day and Urgent Veterinary Appointments* (transportation fees apply, Credit Card must be kept on file for all veterinary care or care can be denied at vet hospital)

How we keep your dog active

Dogs enjoy regular on-leash potty walks with our kennel technicians, daily outdoor exercise, and exposure to the sights and sounds of our training yards and surrounding pastures. This allows them to stay mentally engaged while becoming part of the steady, peaceful rhythm of the training center.

Durable toys and chew items are provided, and you’re welcome to send familiar favorites from home. Barking is a natural canine behavior; however, persistent barking can increase stress for the dog and others nearby. In these situations, appropriate tools may be used to help promote calm and relaxation.

For safety, all dogs are handled on a slip lead or prong collar during walks to prevent bolting and ensure the well-being of both dogs and staff.

How we Provide Care

Our team is CPR and First Aid certified, with a trained attendant on site 24 hours a day. Dogs begin their morning around 7:00am with a potty walk and fresh water, followed by breakfast at 8:00am. Throughout the day, dogs receive scheduled potty walks, outdoor exercise, and designated quiet time to encourage rest and recovery.

Dinner is served in the late afternoon, followed by additional outdoor exercise, with a final potty walk before lights out around 9:00pm. Outdoor activity is adjusted as needed based on weather conditions.

We do not offer group daycare or co-mingling. All play and exercise is individual unless a dog is enrolled in a training program, allowing us to maintain a calm, structured environment focused on safety and well-being.

Our Rates at a Glance

Scheduled Drop-Off & Pick-Up Appointments available at 9am, 12pm or 4pm.

When checking out at
9am, there is no charge for that day.

Boarding

$65 / Night

  • Daily Potty Walks

  • Fenced Yards for Playtime

  • Consistent Routines

Refresher Training

$75 / Night

  • Previous Graduates Only

  • Daily Obedience Training

  • Trainer Session at Pick-Up

Refresher Training is not available on Saturdays or Sundays. Weekend stays will be booked as regular boarding.

Grooming Add-Ons

$25+

  • Nail Trim: $25

  • Bath, Brush & Dry: $35 – $65

  • Bath Price Based on Dog Size + Coat

Deposit Policy: A one-time $100 deposit for new clients is required to reserve your dog’s stay. The deposit is applied to your balance at check-in.

Looking for Training Options?

room to play, room to rest

5-Star Rated

Our community of returning clients and 5-Star Reviews speaks to one thing: dogs (and people) love it here.

Veterinarian Recommended

We’re proud to receive regular referrals from veterinarians who’ve seen our work firsthand.

certified trainers

Our staff is certified in canine behavior and training, ensuring your pup is in knowledgeable, caring hands.

Have a question?