When researching how much dog training costs, it can be tempting to look for a discount. And while the cost of the dog trainer is an obvious factor, you will definitely want to make sure the trainer has the credentials before considering the bill, says Sarah Kalnajs, CDCB, CPDT. She is certified as a dog behavior consultant and as a pet dog trainer Training and behavior of blue dogs in Madison, Wisconsin.
Whether it is teaching basic directions or change your dog’s behavior, you need a science-based trainer who doesn’t use aversive methods, Kalnajs tells Daily Paws. This could cost more than a less experienced coach, but often the most experienced coaches will have comparable or even cheaper rates.
The cost of training a dog also depends on the type of training you are looking for. Group classes are cheaper, while a stay and training program can cost you thousands of dollars. Let’s run the numbers.
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How Much Does Dog Training Cost?
Kalnajs says it is best to think of dog training costs as part of the total amount you will spend in a new dog or puppy. The total cost of training, depending on where you live and how much training you want, can cost between $ 1,500 and $ 2,000 in the first year, he says.
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This total cost increases if you live in a place with a higher cost of living, or if you are looking for professionals who do all the training and offer you the maximum support. Kalnajs says this “Rolls Royce” type training can cost more than $ 4,000 a year.
And keep in mind: we still have some inflation worry, and the demand for coaches is quite high. This raises rates, including their own.
“There are many more dogs than trainers [now]says Kalnajs.
In the Midwest, where Kalnajs is headquartered, you can expect to pay a coach between $ 100 and $ 200 an hour for one-on-one sessions. He charges $ 140 an hour for his basic training sessions. (Again, this is in the Midwest, so you can expect to pay more when the cost of living is higher).
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Here are some other training options, depending on what you plan to spend:
- A group training classwhere you and your dog learn to sit, to stayi stretch along with other owners and dogs, it can cost between $ 150 and $ 200 in total for a week’s training, Kalnajs says. Sure, it’s a more affordable option, but you won’t have as much time in the face with the coach leading your classes.
- Stay and train involves leaving your dog or puppy with a trainer for days at a time. This way, the puppy can learn both the basics and the rules of the house. It’s a good option if you don’t have time to train a puppy yourself, but it’s expensive. The Kalnajs blue dog charges $ 3,600.
- Consultations for new puppies or dogs are another option. A trainer like Kalnajs will visit you at home and follow you up to advise you on how to better teach and handle your new dog. At Blue Dog, these sessions cost a flat fee of $ 395.
If money is scarce …dogs are car—There are some free resources you can use to train your dog. Kalnajs recommends several online coaches included Training and behavior of JW dogs, Dog training by Kikopupi Simawtico dog training.
What to look for (and avoid) in a dog trainer
Cost is important, but choosing the right coach is vital. Also, do you really want to pay another coach when the first one doesn’t work? Fortunately, Kalnajs and I know what to look for and what to avoid.
What to look for
Credentials: Does your future dog trainer have acronyms as part of your title? That’s a good sign. For example, if the trainer has CPDT after his name, as Kalnajs does, it means he is a certified professional dog trainer. They have completed hundreds of hours of training and passed an exam. Some trainers can also be certified behavior consultants (CDBC, ADCBC), which is great if your dog needs to work on any problematic behavior, such as anxiety or reactivity.
Experience: If they have continued their own training and attended (or presented at) conferences, this is a sign of a good coach. A coach who has been in the game for years is likely to be trusted, but don’t let that stop you from hiring a younger coach. If they show commitment to their own training and education, you can also give them a chance.
Do you need a driver? Trainers are great for teaching tricks and tricks to your dog. But if your dog has any unwanted behavior, you will want to talk to a behaviorist or behavior consultant, says Kalnajs.
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What to avoid
Someone who promises a quick fix or says he can fix anything: Kalnajs calls these “red flags.” Sometimes dog problems are complex or take a long time to resolve. And the dog training industry is not well regulated, so you have to be careful about the guarantees that sound too good to be true.
Coaches who use aversive methods: If you see that coaches use suffocation chains, shock collars, or any other harmful method, look elsewhere. Only reputable coaches use positive reinforcement methods.
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