The Prodigal Pooch

The Prodigal Pooch offers dog boarding in DeFuniak Springs, FL, in a setup where training is part of the stay. Boarding is limited to five dogs at a time, so the group on site stays small and each dog gets direct attention. Booking is handled by phone, and dogs must be up to date on vaccinations before they arrive.

Programs and services

• Overnight boarding for up to five dogs at a time
• Behavior modification for dogs with aggression or anxiety
• A confidence building program
• Puppy Pre-School for puppies 8 to 16 weeks old
• Structured walks and free time in the outdoor space

What sets it apart

The small group size shapes everything else. With a five-dog cap, the day can run on a set routine of structured walks and free time. Training also does not stop at pickup: follow-up sessions and group classes come after a residency stay, so owners can keep reinforcing the same work at home. Owners who live too far away to drive in for a first meeting can start with a virtual consultation instead.

Practical details

Boarding is priced at $75 per night on the kennel's own website. A go-home bath is available for $25, which is worth asking about if a dog has spent the week outdoors. Grooming, training, and outdoor space are all part of what the property offers.

Proof of vaccination is required before a stay. Reservations go through the phone line at 318-557-0882, and The Prodigal Pooch also keeps active Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages for owners who want to see the day-to-day before they call.