How Much Does It Cost To Train A Dog? Training Prices Explained

• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

You’ve just adopted a new dog, and it’s time to start training! With so many different classes at different prices, it can be confusing to know where to start. The average cost of training your dog is $300 per course for 4-6 classes. For private, in-person training, you can expect dog training to cost $150 per hour.

The type of course, the trainer’s experience, and where you live all affect the cost. Most dogs need around 4-6 sessions to learn the basics. While dog training can seem expensive, it’s essential. Professional dog training can:

• Stop problem behaviors and keep you and your dog safe
• Build a stronger bond between you and your dog
• Help your dog feel more confident
• Improve your dog’s social skills with people and other dogs
• Give your dog’s mind and body a good workout

Keep reading to find out how much training costs and how to determine which type of training is right for you and your dog.

Most Common Training Services & What They Cost

There are many types of dog training courses, each with its own price. Always check that your trainer is fully certified and uses positive, kind training methods.

What About Speciality Training Courses?

More intermediate and advanced classes will cost more depending on the difficulty of the task and how well your dog does throughout the course.

Service dog training: Cost: $100-200+ per hour

Service dog training classes help dogs learn skills to assist people with daily tasks, says Brett Reynolds, a certified dog trainer and director of dog care at The Dog Stop.

The cost of these classes depends on the tasks being taught. Some tasks that might be covered include:

• Alerting
• PTSD training
• Guiding
• Retrieval
• Mobility and stability

Loose leash training: Cost: $120 per group class, $195 per private class

Training classes about loose-leash walking are less common than puppy and behavior modification classes, says Rachel Lane, a certified Fear-Free dog trainer and the founder of Leash & Learn.

An initial consultation is often required before private loose-leash training lessons start.

Separation anxiety training: Cost: $600-900 per month

This type of training is done virtually, done in little sessions each day, and payment differs to group or private classes, says Nicole Kohanski, a multi-certified and credentialed behaviorist and trainer for Wiggle Butt Academy.

Pet parents should expect costs for this training to add up since training away separation anxiety can take a long time.

Aggression management training: Cost: $150-300 for a 90-minute consultation

Reynolds says since every dog’s needs are different, there’s usually a consultation before aggression management training.

Expect follow-up training sessions to be around $100-200 each.

Behavioral modification training: Cost: $195 per class

Behavior modification training is helpful for anxious or reactive dogs. Lane says this type of training is often kept to private lessons so the trainer can work one-on-one with a dog and their pet parent.

A consultation is usually required before training sessions begin.

What Determines the Cost of Dog Training?

There’s no set price for dog training because many things can change how much it costs. Here are some factors that can make training more or less expensive:

• Location
• The trainer’s expertise and overhead costs
• Class type
• Targeting behavior problems
• Dog’s age
• Breed
• Duration: single session vs. course

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What Other Costs Come With Training?

Aside from the classes themselves, here are some other dog training costs:

• Training equipment: Thankfully, very little equipment is required for training. “All we need is a fanny pack to have training treats easily accessible—and some great treats,” Kohanski says. You might also want to buy a few toys if your dog likes to play. You can even use things around the house, like a bath mat, to help teach commands like “place.”
• Travel to in-person training: If your trainer isn’t nearby, think about how much you’ll spend on gas to drive there and back or on bus or train tickets.
• Follow-up sessions: Some dogs need a few extra sessions to really learn their new skills. “These are usually around the same rate as the first session,” Kohanski says. Once your dog understands the behaviors, you can keep practicing at home.
• Refresher courses: If your older dog starts picking up bad habits or you have a new puppy, you might want a refresher course. “These usually cost the same as the original sessions or classes,” Kohanski says.
• Extra help: Sometimes, training for specific issues like separation anxiety means paying for extra help. Kohanski says this could mean a trip to the vet or hiring a pet sitter to stay with your dog when you’re not there.

How to Save Money on Dog Training

Dog training can cost up to $300 (or even more) per class, which can be very expensive. But there are ways to save money without compromising on quality.

• Group discounts and bundles: Reynolds says many trainers offer discounts if you pay for a package of lessons ahead of time. For example, some may include a week of board and train plus two follow-up private lessons.
• Training packages. This is another way to save. For example, a trainer might offer five private lessons for the price of four or ten short sessions for the price of seven.
• Online training courses. Online courses can save you money and work well for busy pet parents. However, Reynolds says “virtual training can be limiting since the trainer doesn’t directly handle the dog.”

Is Dog Training Worth the Money?

Lane says spending money on puppy classes or training sessions now can help in the long run. This is good not just for your dog but for everyone else in the family, too!

Studies show that professional-led training and socialization has many benefits:

• Following commands better
• Being more comfortable with handling
• Acting less aggressive toward other dogs
• Feeling less anxious from loud noises (like fireworks or thunder)
• Building a stronger bond with their parent

Training your dog can also save you money in the future. A well-trained dog is less likely to get into fights with other dogs (which can mean expensive vet bills) or decide a pricey piece of furniture is their new chew toy.

How to Pick the Right Training Type

Unsure what approach is best for your dog’s education? This breakdown from Reynolds and Lane might help you decide.

If you’re a new dog parent and have different training options to pick from, it can feel a little confusing.

Whatever option you choose, Lane says that it’s crucial to check a trainer’s experience and credentials. She says a well-qualified trainer should have the proper, up-to-date certifications and attend continuing education events regularly.