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As of June 2022, Rover and GoodPup are subsidiaries of Rover Group, Inc.
Training your dog is an essential part of being a pet parent. But if the price and time commitment of hiring a personal dog trainer makes you want to lie down and roll over, don’t despair! A good dog training app provides an excellent alternative, helping you teach your pup preferred behaviors and even fun tricks.
Not only are virtual and app-based training generally more affordable, but they’re usually easier to fit into your schedule. Some also come with support and chat features, so you can quickly address new behavioral quirks as they arise. But with so many choices out there, where do you even know where to look?
We’re here to help you figure it out. Here’s a roundup of the best dog training apps for you and your four-legged friend.
Our picks
Best Overall Dog Training App: GoodPup (Verified Review)
GoodPup
Topping our list, GoodPup offers highly personalized training plans and one-on-one sessions with a professional dog trainer.
Our top pick, GoodPup, offers a more personalized experience than most other dog training apps. Along with access to an extensive resource library, you’ll also meet weekly with a professionally certified and vetted dog trainer. Between these 30-minute private sessions, you’ll receive tailored training guides and a daily log to keep you on target. A 24/7 chat feature also lets you send messages to trainers and vets outside of sessions.
We tried this app ourselves and loved the versatility and flexibility it provided. Not only was it easy to schedule appointments, but it gave room to change plans when new issues arrived. For example, our reviewer Jaimee switched from leash training to cooperative care after her pup Enzo injured his leg and needed frequent handling.
Key Features:
- One-on-one weekly video calls with a professional trainer
- Flexible and personalized training plan
- Daily guided practice and progress check-ins
- Unlimited 24/7 chat with behavior and vet experts
- Weekly subscription plan
Best Course Variety: Pupford Dog Training App
Pupford Dog Training App
Pupford offers a variety of training courses, including a free 30-day class designed by YouTube’s most-subscribed dog trainer Zak George.
Pupford offers several training courses on their app, including a free 30-day class led by famed dog expert Zak George. Geared more toward new pet parents looking to teach their pups basic manners, this online course features guided videos, an e-book, and daily tips.
For more advanced and tailored training, Pupford offers a paid subscription plan taught by various certified trainers, nutritionists, and veterinarians. This premium membership includes over 10 courses that cover more complex behaviors and training like reactivity, recall, and separation anxiety. How long you have access to the courses depends on your level of membership. Pupford offers monthly, semi-annual, and even lifetime access.
Key Features:
- Includes several free courses that cover basic training
- Premium membership offers more advanced training courses
- Paid members have access to exclusive content like articles and podcasts
- Membership tiers include monthly, semi-annual, and lifetime access
Best Training App for Community: Dogo
Dogo
This dog training app includes a handy built-in clicker and access to a community of pet parents for added support.
Dogo creates your training program when you sign up and take a quick test. After the quiz, you’ll have access to text and video lessons covering everything from potty training and obedience. The app also lets you send videos of you and your pup in action to get feedback from professional dog trainers within 24 hours.
Added features include a built-in clicker for training and access to a community of other dog guardians to share your wins and support each other during the highs and lows of pup parenthood.
Key Features:
- Tailored program based on signup quiz
- Access to a variety of training programs
- Built-in clicker for training
- Direct feedback from trainers
- Includes access to a supportive community of other pup parents
Best App for Trick Training: Puppr
Puppr Dog Training and Tricks App
Puppr offers advanced trick training and fun trick challenges by celebrity dog trainer Sara Carson.
This easy-to-use dog training app features over 100 lessons by celebrity dog trainer Sara Carson, one of the top trick dog trainers in the world. With a premium subscription, you’ll get step-by-step video instructions on a wide range of topics, from simple cues to advanced tricks like teaching handstands.
Added features include a live chat feature with certified trainers, a built-in clicker, and photo challenges to show off your dog’s tricks with the rest of the Puppr community.
Key Features:
- Popular training app led by top trick dog trainer Sara Carson
- Step-by-step video instructions and live chat with trainers
- Programs include advanced trick training
- Includes fun features like photo trick challenges
Best App for Recall Training: iTrainer Dog Whistle & Clicker
iTrainer Dog Whistle & Clicker
Click and whistle your way to training your dog a solid recall.
Teaching your dog a solid recall is essential for off-leash time. This app features a high-frequency dog whistle that your dog can hear even at far distances. Other sounds include clicker variations and squeaky toy noises if your pup is more play-driven. There’s even over a hundred animal sounds you can use for socialization or to build in as a distraction during your training.
iTrainer includes manuals on how to use the whistle and the other sounds. It also features detailed guides on recall and basic obedience training.
Key Features:
- Built-in high-frequency dog whistle for recall training
- Includes clicker, animal, and squeaker toy sounds
- Interactive home screen widget for easy access
- Reference guides for whistle, recall, and R+ training
Best Dog Training App for Fitness: GoDog
Featuring both customized training and walking plans, GoDog focuses on more than just teaching your dog to be well-behaved. Instead, it helps you incorporate more energy-releasing activities throughout the day so your pup is physically, mentally, and emotionally fulfilled. Lessons can either be bought by course or as part of a subscription plan.
Unique features include a daily activity tracker, a health diary, and an augmented reality feature that lets you watch every lesson in detail.
Key Features:
- Video training lessons led by professional trainers
- Customized walking plans and activity tracker
- Lessons include augmented reality feature
- Built-in clicker and whistle
- Free three-day trial
New Pet Parent Resources
Dog training is a lifelong journey—and it’s not always easy. Consider Rover for a helping hand (or sturdy leash arm!). Sitters and walkers on Rover are here for all kinds of romps, including care for while you’re away. Book loving, experienced dog walkers or pet sitters in your neighborhood.