How Much Does Dog Training Cost?

Quick Summary

• How much dog training costs depend on the trainer and the services. Individual trainings ranges from $1500 to $2000, while group training classes costs cheaper at $150 to $200.
• Special trainings for therapy or emotional support dogs runs for around $300. Training a dog to be a guide can cost approximately $10,000. Similarly, search and rescue training for dogs can run roughly $5,000.
• Some communities offer programs or financial assistance for guide dog training.

So you finally have your own dog, but training him seems overwhelming so you decide on hiring a dog trainer. Now you wonder, how much does dog training cost? There’s really no exact answer to this as it always depends on the trainer and the type of service that you are after. Generally, however, individual trainings can cost up to $2000 and group classes can be cheaper at $200. There are also board and train programs that may cost up to $4000, and so on.

Dog training is always a good idea. I cannot stress enough how important it is for all dogs to be trained. Puppies that obey commands and are usually well-behaved can use a little extra instruction and more attention. Training even works well with older dogs that are on good behavior but love to learn. Many dogs are relinquished to shelters because the original owner didn’t take the time to train their pup. You can get off to a great start with your new friend by working with a trainer. Benefits of professional dog training include: 

• A dog that behaves well
• Improved quality of life for the dog and owner
• A dog that’s happy and relaxed
• Your dog is safer when they obey commands

When you choose to work with a professional dog trainer, the first thing you’ll want to know is what it will cost. You should consider what type of training your dog needs, your budget, and then search for the trainer that fits your criteria. There’s no such thing as one type of dog trainer. Many certified trainers offer custom services to fit the needs of dogs and their owners.

What Is the Cost For Different Types Of Training?

When you’re researching training for your dog, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all. When you take the time to consider what you want you and your dog to accomplish, you can narrow down the field. The total cost of proper pet training depends on the type of training you want. Some training classes are basic. Owners sign up for weekly sessions that last for approximately six weeks. Advanced and specialized training is more complex and costs more.

Group Class Training

One of the most popular and cost-effective ways to train your dog is with a group class. Group training is a popular method for first-time dog owners. There can be significant differences in the training cost depending on the location. Petsmart and Petco offer basic group dog training. Some professional trainers offer classes for groups at their facility. Types of standard group classes are:

Introductory classes also referred to as puppy kindergarten is for puppies up to six months of age. A basic group training class teaches dogs and their owner’s basic obedience and simple commands such as:

• Down
• Drop it
• Leave it
• Sit

The classes designed for dogs six months and undercover some of the most common behavior problems with puppies, including:

• Chewing
• Jumping
• Play biting
• Potty training
• Pulling on the leash

If your new puppy is starting to develop some negative traits or bad behavior, it’s best to correct the problem early.

Basic obedience training classes for puppies six months old and older teach young dogs good manners. Classes cover basic commands like sit, stay, come, and properly walk on a dog leash. Dogs learn to come when called and how to greet people without jumping. Trainers may address any behavior issues your dog has. 

Advanced obedience training is for dogs and their owners that have completed an introductory class. The purpose of advanced training is to reinforce commands your dog already knows. The cost of group training classes can vary depending on the location. Some trainers may charge up to $100 per session. However, other classes may run as low as $25 per session. On average, you should anticipate approximately $50 per session. 

An excellent option for dog owners who want their dog trained but don’t want to spend a lot on classes is to sign up with one of the nationwide pet stores like Petco or Petsmart. The big box stores charge by an entire class rather than hourly and are a perfect option for the dog owner who wants to start with the basics. Experienced trainers teach dogs and their owners who are expected to make a commitment of six weeks. However, the classes are approximately $20 per session. 

Basic School Training And Stay-Away Options

School training, sometimes called “boot camp,” requires owners to bring their dogs to the location and leave them with a trainer. School training charges by the week. School training is a drop-off in the morning and pick-up at night situation. In-depth training with school training may cost up to $600 per week. A second option with school training is the “stay away” method, in which you leave your dog with the school for a week or more. Dogs receive a significant amount of training, but it costs more. Stay-away training often runs between $500 and $1000 per week. Although the stay-way option can be more expensive, it’s an excellent choice for dogs with behavior issues, like canine aggression, that the owner can’t handle.

Working With A Private Trainer

If you prefer to work one-on-one with your dog and a professional trainer, hire a private trainer. Most private dog trainers charge around $50 per session. You may make arrangements with a trainer from one of the pet stores for a lower rate if you commit to a specific number of sessions. Some private trainers will work with you and your dog at a pet store. However, a lot of private trainers will come to a client’s home. Some dog owners prefer training to take place in an environment with fewer distractions. If you choose to work with a popular trainer that has an excellent reputation, you may pay more for their classes. Private training sessions are the perfect option for pups that focus better in quiet surroundings.

Special Training For Service Dogs

If you think your pup is an excellent candidate to be certified as a service dog, you should understand that the training is very different from an obedience class. Some communities provide training for service dogs. Before you consider certification for your pup, you might want to look into the cost. Training a dog as an emotional support or therapy dog is usually the least expensive of any service dog program. 

Dogs and their trainers visit patients in hospitals, rehab clinics, and nursing homes. Many people with emotional or physical problems find spending time with a service dog is relaxing and comforting. Most service dog training or certification programs for therapeutic or emotional support animals cost around $300. However, guard dog training is the most expensive and may run up to $100 per hour. Training a pup to be a guard dog can benefit the owner who wants to feel secure in their home or place of business.

The most in-depth training programs for dogs are the most expensive. Training a dog to be a seeing-eye or hearing guide dog can cost as much as $10,000, depending on where the training takes place. More intensive training programs can run as high as $20,000. However, there are usually non-profit groups that assist a dog owner with the cost of the program. 

Search and Rescue Dog Training is the most expensive. The training could cost more than $5,000, and for a good reason. The training is very complex, and emergency situations could be a life or death matter for rescue dogs. Search and rescue dogs and their trainers have to be in excellent physical condition since they work for long hours to locate people who are lost or need rescue in natural disasters [1]. 

Do Your Research Before Signing Up

Depending on the training, programs can be expensive and time-consuming. It’s a good idea to consider the kind of training you want before you make any decisions. You might want to determine what it is you want you and your dog to accomplish before making a commitment. It’s a good idea to do some research to find out if your dog is suited to the type of training that interests you. Here are some helpful guidelines to make the best choice. 

Hire A Certified Dog Trainer

Dog training is a profession that isn’t regulated like veterinary medicine or other animal care professions. Certified dog trainers must have high standards. The Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers sets high standards for trainers [2]. The best way to choose a qualified trainer is to find one that has CCPDT certification. Most professional trainers and those who offer classes in pet stores have the certification. However, it’s a good idea to check with the pet store to determine if their trainers are certified.

Set Goals For You And Your Dog

Before you start training your dog, it’s a good idea to set your goals to choose the most effective training. It will be easier to communicate with your trainer if you know what positive changes you want to see and what you want your dog to accomplish. Some dogs have issues that require different training. For example, an aggressive dog may need an animal behaviorist if he’s being aggressive. A behaviorist can get to the root of why the dog is acting out and teach methods to curb the aggression. If your dog has special needs, discuss them with the trainer to be sure they have the qualifications to handle special needs dogs.

Choose the Best Training Method For Your Dog

Each trainer has methods of training that work for them, but it’s not always what the client prefers. Talk to trainers and learn about their approaches to choose the person you and your dog feel comfortable with. Dog trainers are divided into the best method of training. Some prefer using tools to aid in training, like a bark collar. To better understand tools like this, research on the best bark collars out there and how to use them in correcting your dog.

Punishment-based training isn’t humane and can lead to behavior problems that have long-term effects. The majority of professional trainers favor reward-based training methods. Studies on dog training methods indicate that reward-based training is more effective and preferred by most trainers and owners. Dogs quickly learn if they respond positively to commands, they’ll get a reward. Whatever type of professional training you choose for your dog, it’s a good idea to do your homework before making a decision. Sharing your life with a well-trained dog is rewarding and worth the cost.

FAQs

1. Are dog training classes worth it?

Dog training classes are always worth the cost. Your goal may be for your dog to learn basic commands and how to be well-mannered. You may want professional training for service work. Another option is to train your dog for the show ring or field trials. Whatever you want to accomplish, an experienced trainer can help you achieve your goals. 

2. How much does dog training cost?

The total cost of dog training depends on the trainer and the services they offer. Basic training for dogs and puppies is the least expensive. $25 per session for six weeks is average. Training for therapy or emotional support dogs runs for around $300. Training a dog to be a guide dog can cost approximately $10,000. Some communities offer programs or financial assistance for guide dog training. Search and rescue training can run roughly $5,000.