Are you looking to build an unbreakable bond with your dog that’s stronger than a chew-proof leash? If so, investing in a professional dog training course could be your secret weapon to unlocking your pup’s potential and fostering a harmonious relationship that’ll last a lifetime.
Our team has personally experienced and carefully curated a list of the most effective and highly recommended online dog training courses based on our own journeys, as well as the glowing success stories of countless satisfied dog owners.
So, if you’re ready to unleash your inner dog whisperer and join the elite ranks of pet owners who’ve transformed their relationships with their pooches, grab some treats. It’s time to dive in and explore the best dog training courses that have been tried, tested, and proven to deliver results time and time again.
NOTE: If you’re specifically looking for a course to raise a new puppy between the ages of 8-18 weeks, please read our post on the 7 Best Online Puppy Training Courses
Or, if you’re a current or aspiring dog trainer, we recommend our 18 Best Courses for Dog Professionals
6 Reasons to Consider Online Dog Training Courses
There are so many benefits to using an online dog training course as a way to teach your pup basic or more advanced skills and obedience. Just a few are:
1. They’re Affordable
Many of the best online dog training courses cost a fraction of what you would pay for private in-person sessions or puppy classes, and can actually be more effective when delivered by the dog’s full-time carer.
2. They’re Convenient
You can access online dog training classes from anywhere with the internet, seamlessly integrating training into your home life.
3. They’re Comprehensive
The best online dog training programs cover everything from housetraining to obedience commands and behavior modification.
4. They’re Interactive
Leading online training courses usually feature forums or chatrooms, allowing you to ask questions and receive feedback from professional trainers and fellow dog owners in no time.
5. They’re Flexible
Online dog training courses are designed to fit into your schedule – you can work through lessons at your own pace and take a break whenever you need it.
6. They’re Fun!
The finest online dog training courses are filled with captivating videos, tutorials, and lessons. You and your pup will enjoy every moment of training, eagerly anticipating the progress to come!
Why FREE Online Dog Training Courses Just Won’t Cut It
It’s important to note that not all online dog training courses are created equal. Many free courses simply won’t offer you the same level of quality content or expertise as paid alternatives.
So how do you know which is the best dog training course for your needs?
Here are a few things to look for:
- The course should be presented by a qualified trainer or behaviorist with extensive dog training experience.
- It should be well-structured and user-friendly, featuring clear and concise video and text lessons.
- The course should cover a variety of training methods.
- The best online dog training courses should include a Money-Back Guarantee, ensuring full satisfaction or a refund.
The truth is, most professional dog trainers that meet the above requirements can’t afford to share their knowledge and expertise for free. However, the top contenders do often provide a free workshop or a ‘sneak peek’ before inviting you to join their paid masterclass.
13 Best Online Dog Training Courses
Finding a trustworthy and reputable online dog training course can feel a little daunting, unless you’ve been given a glowing personal recommendation. We’ve ventured through the majority of courses out there and handpicked the following providers based on:
- Reputation and Qualifications of Trainers
- Ethics and Quality of the course content
- Ease of application
- Money-Back Guarantee
- Rave reviews and success stories from thousands of dog owners
We’ve intentionally excluded price as part of the selection process, as we believe it shouldn’t be the deciding factor in choosing the most suitable course for your pooch.
That said, all of the dog training courses listed here are undeniably more wallet-friendly than hiring a private trainer for personalized lessons and when consistently applied, can often yield even better results.
You can use this list to identify your dog’s most pressing training or behavioral challenges, then select the most fitting course tailored to your pooches’ unique needs.
1. K9 Training Institute (Best Overall)
The K9 Training Institute (K9TI) is a fairly new kid on the block when it comes to online dog training courses, and it is creating a storm amongst traditional dog trainers who typically use word-based commands to train dogs.
Their groundbreaking approach centers on body language as the foundation for communicating with your dog, replicating the extraordinary bond service dogs share with their humans.
Animal behavior science has revealed that body language, rather than verbal commands alone, is the most effective training method for dogs.
K9TI’s comprehensive online dog training course tackles a wide array of behavioral issues, including:
- Excessive Barking
- Leash Pulling
- Not Coming When Called
- Jumping on People
- Running Out the Door
- Chasing Cars or Animals
- Chewing
- Nipping or Biting
- Begging
- Ignoring Commands
The workshops are led by Dr. Alexa Diaz, one of the most respected dog behaviorists in the United States, along with Eric Presnall, host of the Animal Planet TV show ‘Who Let the Dogs Out.’
Their unique approach embraces gentle, non-confrontational techniques that rewire your dog’s thought process and comprehension of desired actions, offering them a rewarding ‘job and purpose’ for a happy, healthy life.
You don’t need a degree in animal behavior to have your pooch listen to you as well as a service dog, all you need is around 10-15 minutes per day to train your dog based on the principles used in their workshops.
And the best part? K9 Training Institute offers a generous free workshop showcasing exactly what you can expect from their Masterclass.
You can actually see the transformation taking place when using their proven methods of dog training techniques.
In addition to their Total Transformation Masterclass, they also offer Q&A calls with their professional trainers for further support, and to top it off, a whopping 90 Day Money-Back Guarantee (the longest of any online dog training course).
Our team has spent several weeks completing the Masterclass Course, and as a result, we have not hesitated in moving it into the No.1 spot on this list.
In our experience, K9TI is the best overall online dog training course available right now. And with popularity and demand rising rapidly, prices are sure to go up in the future.
Learn More
2. SpiritDog Training (Best Variety)
There’s an abundance of online dog training courses to choose from, but one of our personal favorites is SpiritDog Training
It stands out due to its wide range of programs and high success rates, with many dog owners reporting significant behavioral improvements within just a month.
We’ve tried many of their courses, and SpiritDog Training caters to various needs, whether you have a:
- New Puppy
- Adolescent Pup
- Senior Dog
- Dog with Behavioral Issues
It provides everything you need to help train your dog over the course of its lifetime, including modules on:
- Puppy Training Basics
- Obedience Training
- Loose Leash Walking
- Tackling Reactivity
- Resource Guarding
- Perfect Focus
And many more!
The website is incredibly user-friendly and modern, providing easy access to all training modules. Plus, it’s mobile-friendly, making on-the-go training a breeze.
With a raving fan base and a variety of different courses to choose from, the SpiritDog Masterclass Bundle is the most popular and comprehensive online dog training program available at the moment.
Plus, it also comes with a brand new (and very active) forum full of people that discuss specific issues with their dogs. This forum alone is worth the cost of the course, as (over time) you’ll have access to your own real-life solutions to every possible scenario that someone else has already experienced, no matter how unusual the situation may be.
Take a quick tour of all available classes here
Over 50,000 people, including us, have trained their pups using SpiritDog Training courses, earning an average rating of 4.8 out of 5. Their outstanding customer support is always ready to help with any questions.
And a hugely appealing aspect of SpiritDog Training is that it offers a 60 Day Money-Back Guarantee. So, if you’re not satisfied with the course, you will be refunded – no questions asked. This guarantee is a significant reason why we, and so many others, were happy to invest in the Masterclass Bundle.
If you’re looking for a popular, comprehensive, and personally tested dog training course provider that covers everything you need throughout your dog’s life, SpiritDog Training is the perfect choice.
Learn More
3. Dunbar Academy (Best Monthly Membership)
Dr Dunbar has been in the dog training space for many years and has proven to be an excellent resource for thousands of owners all over the globe.
His online dog training courses have gained popularity among professional dog trainers, breeders, and veterinarians, a testament to their high quality and respect in the industry.
The training courses are based on using positive reinforcement, rewarding dogs for their good behavior while never resorting to force or punishment.
The Dunbar Top Dog Academy covers a wide range of dog training topics, such as:
- New Puppy Training
- Common Behavioral Issues
- Dog Training for Children
- Science-based Dog Training
- Reliability Games
- Growl Class
- Aggression Prevention
What sets Dr. Dunbar’s Academy apart is how it helps you understand your dog’s perspective. His ability to articulate the reasoning behind this is unparalleled, making our bond with our dog stronger than ever.
With various courses available for individual purchase or a bargain monthly membership at $20, you’ll gain access to the Top Dog Academy Training Course Collection and an Exclusive Facebook Group. This group allows you to connect with other members, professional dog trainers, and Dr. Ian Dunbar himself for advice, including periodic Live Webinars, and Q&A sessions.
They have also made it to our No.1 spot for the Best New Puppy Training Programs. And for total peace of mind, they offer a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee, ensuring complete satisfaction.
Learn More
4. Brain Training for Dogs (Best Low-Cost)
As a team of dog lovers, we’ve personally experienced the transformative power of Brain Training for Dogs, one of the most popular and cost-effective online dog training courses available.
Created by Adrienne Farricalli, a CPDT-KA certified dog trainer, this course provided us with simple, force-free techniques to address a wide array of behavioral issues with ease. The easy-to-understand directions and video demonstrations helped us eliminate common unwanted behaviors in no time.
One standout feature we loved was access to a private forum, where we could connect with other dog owners and discuss all aspects of dog training. This sense of community and shared passion for our pups made the experience even more rewarding.
If you’re seeking a less intensive but highly effective approach to training your dog for increased obedience and happiness, we can personally vouch for the results provided by Brain Training for Dogs. It’s been a game-changer for us, and we believe it can do the same for you and your pooch.
Learn More
5. Brandon McMillan (Best for Obedience Training)
Brandon McMillan is an Emmy Award-Winning animal trainer, who provides a highly effective online dog program that had us teaching our dogs basic obedience in no time.
His practical approach to training focuses on commands, manners, and house training, which we found invaluable. The polished training videos, combined with his exceptional ability to articulate instructions, made this course an engaging and enjoyable experience.
Split into 15 video lessons, the course proved to be an excellent starting point for our dog training journey, especially when we needed to quickly prepare for the arrival of a new pup. The captivating Class Trailer was enough to reel us in, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.
What we love about Brandon is his direct, no-nonsense style and engaging training methods, making this one of the easiest online courses for dog obedience training.
Available through a Masterclass Subscription, the course is well-organized and user-friendly, allowing us to revisit specific sections as needed. And with a 30 Day Money-Back Guarantee, there’s no risk involved – although we’re confident you’ll be as satisfied as we were with the outcome.
Learn More
6. Holly & Hugo (Best for Dog Caring Skills)
offer some of the best online dog training courses to help you become more skilled in caring for your pup.
With an emphasis on best practices, modern methods, and compassion as the core of their training philosophy, you will gain essential skills to keep your pup safe and healthy while also gaining knowledge that can help shape your relationship with them.
Not only do their courses provide step-by-step guidance on how to train and look after your pooch, but they also offer advice on different aspects of dog ownership.
These individual courses also cover a wide range of important topics, including:
- Pet First Aid & CPR
- Animal Psychology
- Guide to Dog Grooming
- Physical Therapy
- Dog Socialization
- Pet Adoption
- Caring for Senior Dogs
All courses are backed by a 14-Day Money-Back Guarantee, giving you peace of mind as you invest in your pet care education.
Learn More
7. Fenzi Dog Sports Academy (Best Agility)
We recently had the pleasure of trying out the Fenzi Dog Sports Academy, an online school that truly excels in offering top-notch instruction for competitive dog sports through the most cutting-edge and innovative teaching methods.
Founded by the talented Denise Fenzi, who has extensive experience in various dog sports and consistently showcases her ability to train and compete using motivational techniques, we were thoroughly impressed with the quality and approach of the courses.
If you’re in search of an exceptional online agility training course for your dog, we can’t recommend Fenzi Dog Sports Academy enough. Our personal experience was incredibly engaging and rewarding, leaving both us and our dogs eager for more.
8. Dogsthat.com (Best Traditional Home Trainer)
Dogsthat.com is the perfect online dog training course for people who would prefer some down-to-earth and homely advice from experts who use fun methods and positive reinforcement.
Based on our positive experience with their courses, we can confidently say that they create an engaging and comfortable learning environment for both you and your pooch.
Their approach to dog training is centered around 100% positive reinforcement, developed by professionals with decades of expertise. The courses empower your dog, allowing them to make better decisions on their own without coercion or bribery.
The website provides easy access to interactive games, video tutorials, and recorded coaching that make learning enjoyable. We’ve also benefited from their supportive community of fellow dog lovers.
With Dogsthat.com, you’ll receive an engaging and effective dog training experience that promotes a strong bond between you and your pup while nurturing their independence and decision-making abilities.
9. GoodPup (Best 1-2-1)
GoodPup is a premier online dog training platform offering personalized 1-2-1 sessions for you and your dog. Conducted at home through video calls, these focused sessions allow rapid skill development in a familiar, comfortable environment.
Connect weekly with top-rated, expert trainers via 1-1 video calls to learn essential skills and address unwanted behaviors. GoodPup’s flexible approach lets you reschedule sessions, skip weeks, and change training topics as needed.
With exceptional support, send messages to your trainer and their training and veterinary team anytime. Fast, fun illustrated guides provide the tools for quick learning.
Using science-based, humane techniques endorsed by the American Veterinary Medical Association, GoodPup prioritizes your dog’s well-being. With personalized training, expert trainers, and adaptable programs, GoodPup is a top choice for a standout 1-2-1 online dog training experience.
10. Petco (Group & Private Online Lessons)
Did you know that Petco, the well-known supplier of pet goods, also offers dog training services for your pooch?
Although they are better-known for providing in-store and group lessons, they have expanded their offerings by introducing online services.
Their Puppy Basics program is designed to help the little ones learn essential skills, such as potty training and responding when called. For older dogs, the Adult Basics course aims to reinforce good habits and assist in adapting to new situations, like meeting new people or handling unfamiliar environments.
These online dog courses are conducted via Zoom, making it a convenient option for pet owners who prefer learning from home. While the focus is on delivering quality training, the courses are also available at an accessible price point.
11. All Day Dog Adventures (Best for Scent Tracking)
All Day Dog Adventures is a great platform that offers engaging and practical online dog training courses in areas like agility, therapy dog training, and dog scent tracking. They also provide personalized one-on-one training for behavior consultations, ensuring that every dog gets the attention they need.
We love their interactive group classes, hosted via private Facebook groups, which create a supportive and fun learning environment for us and our pups.
We had the opportunity to take part in their Air and Scent Tracking course and were thoroughly impressed with the quality of the content and the progress our dog made. It was fascinating to see their natural instincts come to life, and the course was both enjoyable and rewarding.
If you’re looking for an engaging and comprehensive dog training experience, All Day Dog Adventures is definitely worth considering.
12. Peach on Leash (Best Bespoke)
Peach on a Leash offers private online dog training lessons with customized plans to address a wide range of issues, such as manners and obedience, resource guarding, and separation anxiety, among others.
These lessons come in packages with a specified number of sessions, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience tailored to your dog’s unique needs.
What we love about Peach on a Leash is their one-on-one virtual sessions, which provide an individualized and attentive approach to dog training. This personalized focus allows for a deeper connection with your dog and a better understanding of their specific requirements.
They create a positive, engaging, and supportive learning environment, making the entire process enjoyable for both you and your pooch.
If you’re looking for a tailored, effective, and engaging online dog training experience, Peach on a Leash is an excellent choice.
13. Superhero Game Plan (Advanced Tricks)
If you’re looking for one of the most advanced online dog training courses for tricks, then we have a treat for you!
The Superhero Game Plan is one of three courses created by Success Dogs that’ll show you exactly how dogs are trained in movies to do cool tricks, such as:
- Fetching drinks from the fridge
- Assisting with laundry
- Tidying up their toys
- Skateboarding
With this course we learned the secrets of professional dog trainers and how they teach advanced and complex behaviors, all while having a blast with our pups!
Perfect for both beginners and experienced dog owners, the Superhero Game Plan ensures you’ll enjoy every moment of the training. Plus, with a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee, you have nothing to lose by giving it a whirl with your pooch (no pun intended!)
We highly recommend it for some great bonding time with your dog while learning some amazing advanced tricks.
Learn More
Why is The Online Dog Trainer (Doggy Dan) Not on your List?
The Online Dog Trainer, also known as Doggy Dan, doesn’t make it onto our list of recommended online dog courses due to ethical concerns. While it enjoyed considerable popularity years ago, we found that some of the content falls short in terms of treating dogs with the respect, patience, and understanding they truly need and deserve.
Our priority is recommending courses that align with our values and that we would confidently use with our own pups. Unfortunately, Doggy Dan’s methods do not meet these standards, and as a result, we cannot endorse the program at this time.
5 Tips for Training Your Dog at Home
Training your dog at home via an online course can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you’ll be able to successfully up-skill them in no time!
1. Start with basic commands
Before you try to tackle more difficult commands or behaviors, make sure that your dog knows how to sit, stay and come when called. Use the methods provided in your chosen training course to teach the basics first.
2. Make it fun
Training can be a drag if your online course isn’t particularly entertaining or fun for you or your pooch! Try adding in rewards like high-value treats, toys, and praise during each lesson so that both of you stay motivated and excited. Get that tail wagging and make it a fun exercise!
3. Get the right equipment
Depending on your method of training, you may need certain types of equipment to hand, such as a harness, clicker, treat pouch, or other special tools to improve your dog’s cognitive capabilities.
Here’s our vetted list of 15 Excellent Dog Training Tools and Gadgets
4. Practice consistently
Online dog training courses work best when you’re consistent!
Once your pup knows a new skill, make sure to practice it a couple of times a day for the best results. Be sure that all family members are practicing with them, too!
5. Be patient
Training your dog is a process, and it can take time before they start to pick up new skills. Be patient with them – sometimes when it feels like they are not learning much at all, it all falls into place suddenly!
Do Online Dog Training Courses Actually Work?
Absolutely! Online dog training courses, crafted by industry experts, have successfully guided thousands of dog owners in training their pups.
The key is finding a reputable course that suits your needs, and then dedicating yourself to following the program.
With an online dog training course, you’ll enjoy the convenience of 24/7 access to video and text lessons that walk you through the step-by-step process of training your pooch. Plus, some courses offer exclusive member forums, where you can get prompt answers to all your pressing questions.
Online Dog Training Courses vs Private In-Person Dog Trainer
One of the best things about online dog training courses is the convenience and flexibility they offer. You can learn at your own pace, fitting training into your busy lifestyle. Plus, they’re often easier on the wallet, giving you access to top-notch content without breaking the bank.
Imagine training your dog right at home, where they feel comfortable and relaxed. That’s what online courses offer – a consistent and familiar environment for effective learning.
And let’s not forget the wisdom of renowned experts, who create these courses and share their valuable insights from years of experience. What’s more, you’ll be part of a community of fellow dog owners, offering support and camaraderie along the way.
It can also be argued that there is no better person to train a dog than its owner, and online training courses give you the tools and resources necessary to train your pup effectively.
So, when you weigh the benefits, online courses definitely stand out. They combine convenience, affordability, and personalized learning, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional in-person training sessions.
How Long Does it Take To Train a Dog Online?
The time it takes to train a dog via an online program depends on the dog’s breed, age, temperament, difficulty level of the training skill, and any previous training they have received.
Generally speaking, online dog training courses can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete, depending on how much time you can dedicate to it.
Remember that consistency is key when it comes to training dogs – once the course is complete, you should practice the skills regularly so that they become second nature to your pup.
It’s also important not to get discouraged if it feels like things aren’t progressing as quickly or effectively as you would like – this happens, even with in-person training courses!
Just be patient and persistent, and you’ll see results in no time!
Wrapping Up the Best Online Dog Training Courses
Finding a great online dog training course can feel overwhelming at times, but with more and more courses going online, we’ve started seeing some great options becoming available.
What we can say, is that you’ve got nothing to lose by going for a dog training course that provides the reassurance of a money-back guarantee.
Not only will you be more confident to commit, but it will generally reassure you that the providers trust in the quality of their own products and services too.
Did you find this post useful? Let us know in the comments below whether you’ve tried any of these courses and how it went for you and your pup!
Further Reads:
- 7 Best Puppy Training Courses
- K9TI #1 Online Dog Training Course
- Training Without Conflict® – Full Review
- 18 Top Courses for Professional Dog Trainers
