EVALUATION PROCESS

All dogs attending any service at K9 & Company Retreat must complete a temperament evaluation. This helps us determine whether daycare and/or boarding is a good fit for your dog’s safety, comfort, and success.

Evaluations typically take 2–4 hours. Please call the office at 804-714-1783 to schedule. Drop-off is between 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM.

What to Expect

Your dog’s evaluation begins with a brief introduction with you present, followed by a structured assessment in our play environment.

We carefully observe:

  • Social behavior with other dogs

  • Body language and communication skills

  • Energy level, confidence, and play style

  • Comfort in group and one-on-one introductions

Introductions are done gradually and safely—starting with controlled, leash-based meetings and progressing at your dog’s pace.

Dogs are then grouped based on size, age, and activity level, with the goal of finding a stable group of 5 or more compatible dogs.

If at any point your dog becomes overwhelmed, we pause and allow them time to reset. In some cases, a second evaluation day may be recommended—this is completely normal and depends on each dog’s comfort and experience level.

Behavior Review

We also assess behaviors that may impact group safety or comfort, including:

  • Separation anxiety

  • Fearfulness or timidity

  • Resource guarding

  • Leash reactivity

  • Toy or food guarding

  • Excessive barking

  • Signs of aggression or over-arousal

After the evaluation, we determine whether your dog is best suited for:

  • Level 1 Care

  • Level 2 Care

You will also receive a summary of observations and any recommendations for your dog.

Level Definitions & Pricing

Level 1 Dogs – $50 per dog
Friendly, balanced, playful dogs who respond well to social cues from both humans and other dogs.

Level 2 Dogs – $100 per dog (aggressive/behavioral evaluation)
Dogs who may display rough play, humping, snapping, excessive barking, resource guarding, or other behavioral challenges requiring additional structure and support.

We take pride in working with Level 2 dogs who need extra time and guidance. These dogs are often some of our most rewarding success stories when given consistency and patience.

After the Evaluation

For most dogs, we recommend starting with a minimum of three daycare days per week for one month. This helps your dog settle into the environment and allows our team to better understand their individual needs.

Occasionally, a dog may not be the right fit for daycare at the time of evaluation. This does not mean anything is “wrong” with your dog. It simply means the environment may not currently match their needs.

In those cases, we can provide guidance and recommendations for training or behavior support options.

A brown and white puppy with floppy ears standing on a blue surface, looking up at the camera.
A dog in a red and black checkered sweater sitting indoors in front of a sign for a dog training and boarding facility.