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Columbus, Find top rated dog training
“Our first session with Shelby was fantastic! She was so sweet & patient with our new fur baby, and had many suggestions that seem to be making a difference already the next day. Looking forward to sharing progress at our next training session.”
“Kyla is both a professional at her craft and someone who deeply loves dogs. She took her time asking questions about my dog to understand the problems we are experiencing and then detailed how we would begin to correct them as well as what the end result would be. In just a few short minutes with Kyla my dog was already learning better behaviors. I have no doubt she will be able to help us further. We will be booking more sessions with her and look forward to potentially boarding our dogs in the future!”
About: I'm Sam Short, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the IAABC, a KPA Certified Training Partner, and a Fear Free Certified Professional with 14+ years of experience. I specialize in the cases many trainers refer out: reactivity, aggression, fear, anxiety, separation distress, and resource guarding. You can verify my CDBC on the IAABC consultant locator, where I am listed under Dogs by Sam. If your dog is struggling and you are not sure where to turn, you are in the right place!
“Valerie was kind and interactive with my puppy. She asked questions to gather background information to better help my puppy. Can’t wait to keep working with her in the future!”
“Amanda is AMAZING! She really knows what she’s doing, even with my trauma fur baby, who needs a special kind of attention. Amanda was flexible for the consultation, came to our home, gave great information during her visit, and followed up with a well written and organized training plan. With a traumatized rescue and a broken leg, I was panicking about Rosa’s progress. We are so grateful to have found Amanda! And are so excited to see her progress :)”
“Devin is an absolutely amazing dog trainer! she truly cares about all of her clients. I have two beagles mixes who would be completely different dogs without Devin. We tried all different types of training but have had such fantastic success with Devin and the positive reinforcement she teaches. Both of my dogs struggle with reactivity and with consistent sessions with Devin, both myself and my dogs have improved so much. Devin is consistent, caring, understanding and extremely knowledgeable in this field. I recommend her to everyone!”
How to book dog training
1. Search
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2. Chat with your trainer
Talk about your training goals and find a time that works for you.
3. Book & Pay
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FAQs for Dog Training - Columbus
Frequently asked questions about Rover
The average cost for dog training in Columbus on Rover is $89 per session (as of November 2026). All trainers on Rover set their own rates based on experience, location, and availability.
The price you see before you confirm the booking is the final price you pay for the services. For more information on service fees, click here.
Trainers may recommend the first session to be in your home. Afterwards, where you and your trainer meet may change depending on your training goals.
For example, with obedience training, your trainer may start at home and then move to a park or a store. Sometimes, for specific training needs such as loose leash walking, quiet, low-traffic neighborhood routes around Columbus can be a starting point. Ultimately, training can happen in many places, which is great for folks who want to raise a confident, social dog.
Each training session is unique and trainers can work with you and your dog's needs. As you evaluate which trainer is the best fit, you can read the "Sessions" section on their profile to get a sense of what the first class may be like.
Most trainers list where the sessions take place, the format or focus of each session, what techniques they'll use, and what materials they'll provide so that you and your dog can continue training between sessions.
If you have any additional questions about what to expect during your first session, ask the trainer during your consultation!
Reward-based training is the style of training that uses proactive management and positive outcomes, rewards, or reinforcements, such as treats, praise, or toys, to encourage dogs to choose desired behaviors. The purpose of this training method is to promote thinking, strengthen behaviors, and improve the relationship between you and your dog.
According to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, research shows that reward-based training with an emphasis in positive-reinforcement builds stronger human-animal bonds, reduces anxiety in dogs, and produces more reliable, lasting behavior. Rover is committed to this approach.
The type of credential you want to look for depends on the reason you're looking for a trainer. The most popular credentials on Rover include KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, CCPDT, Fear-Free™, and Good Pup certification, however there are many qualifying credentials from reputable organizations and institutions that we accept.
You can find each trainer's credentials on their profile under the "More info" section. All trainers must submit their credentials and qualifying educational experience before being listed on Rover.
Every trainer on Rover goes through a multi-step approval process before they can accept bookings:
- Pass a third-party background check
- Show proof of education, credentials, or certification in dog training
- Commit to reward-based training methods
Rover does not support trainers who use aversive tools or punishment-based techniques.
Yes. Many trainers on Rover in the Columbus area have experience with reactive dogs—including dogs who bark, lunge, or pull on leash—as well as dogs dealing with separation anxiety, fearful behavior, and reactivity in general.
Dense, high-stimulation environments can be especially challenging for reactive dogs, and working with a trainer who understands specific triggers can make a significant difference. You can filter for leash manners, reactivity, or anxiety to find trainers who specialize in addressing these behaviors.
Vaccination requirements are set by individual trainers, not by Rover. Many trainers may ask if your dog is up-to-date on core vaccines such as rabies, distemper, and bordetella.
For in-home or private outdoor sessions, requirements may be more flexible, especially for very young puppies still completing their vaccine series. Always confirm health requirements with your trainer before your first session.
We get it—sometimes plans change and you may need to cancel your dog training service. Each trainer sets their own cancellation policy and many offer a full refund if you cancel within their cancellation policy. You can find each trainer’s individual policy on their profile under their calendar availability.
Note: If your dog trainer requested to cancel this booking, then they need to cancel from their account. Please contact them via Rover Messages.
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