Private Boarding
$50 per night, per dog
Attentive care in my home with supervised play, affection, rest, and a routine built around your dog’s needs.
Diamonds in the RuffDog Training & Boarding
Meet the Owner & Trainer
Better communication. A better life together.
Hi, I’m McKenzie, the owner and trainer behind Diamonds in the Ruff. I provide private home boarding and personalized dog training in Springfield, Missouri. My goal is to give every dog thoughtful care, clear guidance, and an approach built around the dog in front of me.
Contact MePrograms & Pricing
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Training & Skill Polishing
+$50 per training day
Add skill practice on only the days that would be most helpful, or include it every day of the stay if you prefer.
Three-Week Training
$3,300
Our most immersive option, with additional time to strengthen skills, work through bigger goals, and build reliability across more environments.
Two-Week Training
$2,300
More time for repetition, real-world practice, and stronger reliability around everyday distractions.
8-Lesson Package
$800
One-on-one instruction designed around your dog, your household, and the goals that matter most to you.
16-Lesson Package
$1,600
Extended private coaching for more complex goals, greater accountability, and lasting progress.
Group Lessons
Contact for pricing
Structured pack walks focused on calm behavior, clear communication, and making better choices around distractions.
Training Approach
No two dogs learn in exactly the same way. We take the time to understand your dog’s personality, needs, and goals before choosing the approach that will support them best.
Training Tools
Treats
What it isEvery dog is motivated by something. That may be treats, a favorite toy, praise, affection, movement, freedom, or a game of tug or fetch.
How we use itWe find what is meaningful to your individual dog and use it throughout training to build engagement, reward good choices, teach new skills, and make learning enjoyable.
Why we may choose itMotivation is part of every dog’s program. The reward may look different from dog to dog, but each dog is given a clear reason to participate, think, and succeed.
A common misunderstandingRewards are not limited to food, and they are not bribery. We use what your dog genuinely values, then build reliable behaviors that do not depend on seeing a treat first.
Slip Leads
What it isA slip lead combines a leash and collar into one simple piece of equipment that gently tightens and releases.
How we use itWe use it with thoughtful leash handling, clear timing, and immediate release to guide movement and improve communication.
Why we may choose itIt can be a practical choice for dogs who need simple, low-profile guidance or for safe transitions in training and boarding.
A common misunderstandingA slip lead is not meant to stay tight or pull continuously. The release of pressure is an important part of how the dog learns.
Prong Collars
What it isA properly fitted prong collar distributes pressure evenly around the neck and is designed for clear, precise leash communication.
How we use itWhen appropriate, it is introduced gradually and paired with guidance, rewards, and careful instruction for the owner.
Why we may choose itIt may help a strong or highly distracted dog understand leash pressure more clearly while allowing the handler to communicate with less force.
A common misunderstandingA correctly fitted and responsibly used prong collar is not intended to cause pain or punishment. Fit, timing, and owner education matter.
E-Collars
What it isA modern e-collar provides adjustable electronic stimulation that can function as a subtle, consistent communication cue.
How we use itWe condition the cue carefully at a level the dog can perceive, pair it with known behaviors, and teach owners exactly how and when to use it.
Why we may choose itFor some dogs, it supports reliable communication at a distance, greater freedom, and clearer follow-through around distractions.
A common misunderstandingAn e-collar is not a shortcut or a tool for anger. It requires careful conditioning, appropriate levels, and a complete training plan.
Training Tips
Practical guidance to help you communicate clearly, build confidence, and continue your dog’s progress at home. View all training tips →
REQUEST TRAINING OR BOARDING
Let’s find the right
fit for your dog.
Tell us about your dog and what you’re looking for. Every training and boarding request is reviewed personally before being approved.
KIND WORDS FROM CLIENTS
Trusted by dogs.
Loved by their people.
Real feedback from families McKenzie has personally worked with through training programs and private lessons.
★★★★★
“McKenzie was a lifesaver! She picked up on his triggers right away and had thoughtful solutions that worked when implemented consistently. 10/10 for sure. Highly recommend.”
★★★★★
“McKenzie was amazing. She kept us updated, showed his progress, and evidently built a relationship with our pup. Now, he is so much calmer and more confident in his commands.”
★★★★★
“After completing the two-week program, he has transformed into the well-behaved, well-mannered, and highly obedient dog we always hoped he could be. The difference is truly night and day.”
★★★★★
“McKenzie was AMAZING!!! Provided daily updates on progress with photos and videos, and explained what she was doing and why. Thank you for the care and dedication you provided to our pup!”
★★★★★
“Our boy came back a well-behaved dog with manners that we were able to take anywhere in public. We got our money’s worth—an understatement.”