Dog Training in Madison

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Every trainer passes a background check and provides dog training credentials.

Madison, Find top rated dog training

Prices are estimates per training session for 1 dog. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.

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Trainer Profile Image: Alissa A.
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Alissa A.
$85
total per session
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 42 reviews
Positive-reinforcement trainer
12 years of experience
Portage, WI, 53901

“She trained my puppy very well, we saw a huge progress in crate training especially, would definitely like to work with her again!!”

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Yakama A.
Trainer Profile Image: Emily B.
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Emily B.
$90
total per session
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 15 reviews
Positive-reinforcement trainer
20 years of experience
Pardeeville, WI, 53954

About: All of my training services are virtual. I have been in the behavior field for 20 years and have worked in animal shelters, vet clinics, and private practice. I am comfortable working with a myriad of behavior concerns including inter-dog conflict, bite cases, leash reactivity, and more.

Trainer Profile Image: Shobhali T.
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Shobhali T.
$150
total per session
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 13 reviews
Positive-reinforcement trainer
13 years of experience
Fitchburg, WI, 53711

About: A lot of training stays at the surface with commands that often break down in real life. I focus on: - How your dog processes information - Where confusion stems from - What needs to change for behavior to shift Thus, my work creates noticeable changes not just in commands but in how your dog carries itself. I work with puppies, adult dogs, & anxious dogs - I pick up on small behavioral & physical shifts early, which helps prevent bigger issues later. When working with me, you get: - Clear, simple guidance on what to do between sessions. - An engaged & happy dog that enjoys training!

Trainer Profile Image: Robyn s.
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Robyn s.
$595
total per session
8 reviews
Positive-reinforcement trainer
10 years of experience
Wonder Lake, IL, 60097

“Robyn was very knowledgeable, answered a bunch of questions and guided us on this confusing behavior. It completely changed the way we handle guests. We’ve noticed our dog slowly building confidence and settling quicker and quicker each time someone comes over. Highly recommended Robyn for simple and complicated issues you are having with your dog.”

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Ava P.
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How to book dog training

  1. 1. Search

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  2. 2. Chat with your trainer

    Talk about your training goals and find a time that works for you.
  3. 3. Book & Pay

    It's that easy! All payments are processed through Rover's secured platform.

FAQs for Dog Training - Madison

Frequently asked questions about Rover

The average cost for dog training in Madison on Rover is $97 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 Madison 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 Madison 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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