Dog Training Prices: Everything You Need to Know

Knowing how much it costs to train a dog is relevant for a lot of reasons. Whether you want to adopt a canine companion or purchase a service dog breed from a reputable breeder, understanding the cost of training can help you make your decision. What’s more, it will help you compare costs to determine if you’re getting a fair deal on the dog training.

The good news is that we’re here to help you with various types of dog training prices. Whether it’s service dog training or socialization for an emotional support animal (ESA), we have your back. Read on to learn more about dog training prices.

Factors that Impact Dog Training Prices

Several factors impact dog training prices. These factors tend to include:

• Type of Program: Service dog training and agility training will cost more than general obedience or leash training.

• Length of the Program: Buying training packages is more expensive upfront but you may get more long-term value out of them.

• Training Location: In-person dog training will almost always cost more than online dog training.

• Level of Experience: More experienced dog trainers will charge more.
• Company: Bigger companies tend to be more affordable.

It’s also important to note that additional costs may add up. For example, in board and train programs where you have to pay for housing and food, the cost will be higher.

What Are Dog Training Prices for 1-on-1 Sessions?

Private one-on-one dog training varies in cost based on the trainer. However, you should expect to spend around $100 to $150 per hour. Factors that influence the cost tend to be the type of training, the company, and where the training takes place, and the experience of the trainer.

For example, a newer trainer with a big company may charge around $50 to $100 per hour because sometimes bigger companies have lower costs due to offering more services. On the other hand, a solo private dog trainer may charge upwards of $200 per session, especially if they’re coming to you and teaching an advanced course.

What Are Online Dog Training Prices?

Online dog training tends to be the most affordable option. You can spend around $200 to $250 for an entire course or you can’t opt to have virtual sessions that tend to cost less than $100 per hour. That said, factors that influence the cost tend to be the trainer, the company, and the type of course.

For example, if you work with an online dog training organization, like Dog Academy, you can expect lower prices for more comprehensive courses because it’s a larger company. On the other hand, private trainers may only have hourly plans.

What Are Dog Training Prices for Group Sessions?

Group sessions are a great way to save money on dog training. What’s more, you’ll find that many online providers, like DogAcademy, also offer online dog training courses for groups.

What makes online training more effective is the fact that trainers are tending to multiple people at once, which lowers the cost for each individual dog. This is because trainers can charge a similar price that’s split between more people. Expect to pay around $50 to $100 per group training session. Full courses may run you around $200 to $250.

What Are Dog Training Prices for Board and Train?

Programs that require you to board your dog tend to cost the most. Expect to pay $2,500 to $5,000 depending on the length of stay and the level of training. The cost is higher because you have to pay housing costs, food costs, and everything else necessary to care for your dog.

While board and train programs tend to be the most expensive, the quality of training tends to be incredible. Plus, you don’t have to worry about working around your schedule. Expect the process to take about two weeks at a minimum.

Understanding Dog Training Prices

At the end of the day, dog training prices will always vary based on the type of training your dog needs and the method you choose to train them.

Online training will always be more affordable, which is why we always recommend starting with a few online dog training courses from platforms like DogAcademy. You’ll find a wide variety of affordable courses ranging from basic obedience training to assistance with psychiatric service dog training.

That said, sometimes it helps to work with board-and-train programs or even to have someone come to your home to assist you with the training process. Whatever the method, always use positive reinforcement for the best results.