Dairydell Canine was founded in Petaluma by Camilla Gray-Nelson, who has trained, bred, and shown dogs since 1989 and reports more than 50 years of experience with animals. She developed the company's signature Dairydell Method, which combines natural dog behavior, voice control, clear boundaries, and owner leadership. The business reports having trained more than 10,000 dogs and operates from a 40-acre property in Sonoma County.
Residential training ranges from a three-day jumpstart to a two-week comprehensive board-and-train program. The two-week option is intended for more complete obedience and behavior work, while the one-week program is positioned for dogs with an existing foundation that need refinement. Three-day options cover either basic manners for puppies and younger dogs or refresher work for previously trained dogs. Every board-and-train program includes owner follow-up to help transfer the work back into the home.
Dairydell's training philosophy differs from both positive-only and traditional dominance-based approaches. Gray-Nelson emphasizes calm leadership, clear boundaries, praise, appropriate corrections, and natural canine communication while rejecting shock collars, intimidation, and harsh corrections. The facility also publishes unusually detailed care policies. Dogs are assessed before boarding, separated according to size, temperament, and compatibility, monitored throughout their stay, and placed on documented routines for feeding, exercise, play, and rest. Owners can contact the facility during a stay and are notified if something unusual occurs.
