Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

7 Best Dog Training Courses in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks 

dog training obstacles_MuriloViviani_Unsplash

dog training obstacles_MuriloViviani_UnsplashDog training is the most important thing you need to do to maintain your pup’s behavior, but it can be overwhelming to search for reliable and trustworthy classes that will give you and your canine the best results. Plus, it’s hard to know which ones are worth the extra money or if you can get away with something cheaper.

But don’t worry because we did all the work so you don’t have to. Here are seven of the best dog training courses this year and our reviews of them!

divider dog faces oct 2024

A Glance at Our Top Picks (2026 Update)

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Science-Based Dog Training by Ian Dunbar Science-Based Dog Training by Ian Dunbar
  • Rating: 4.7/5
  • Includes: 18 hours of video, 1 article, lifetime access, access online and mobile
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Brain Training for Dogs by Adrienne Farricelli Brain Training for Dogs by Adrienne Farricelli
  • Affordable
  • Taught by a certified dog trainer
  • Advanced lessons
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Peach on a Leash Peach on a Leash
  • Specialized support
  • Behavioral fixes
  • Best for Puppies
    How to Train a Puppy by Ian Dunbar How to Train a Puppy by Ian Dunbar
  • Highly-rated
  • Perfect for new dog owners
  • Petco Dog Training Courses Petco Dog Training Courses
  • Established company
  • Well-priced for open courses
  • The 7 Best Dog Training Courses

    1. Science-Based Dog Training by Ian Dunbar – Best Overall

    Udemy

    Rating: 4.7/5
    Includes: 18 hours of video, 1 article, lifetime access, access online and mobile

    The first on our list is the Science-Based Dog Training Udemy course by Ian Dunbar, a lifelong veterinarian and dog behavior expert. The reason why we listed this as our best overall dog training course is the fact that it covers all of the essentials; puppy training, practical obedience, and phasing out of treat rewards. Plus, he talks about other useful topics, such as off-leash work and how to know if your training is working as intended. The cost of this course isn’t anything crazy compared to competitors on Udemy, so it’s worth giving it a go!

    Pros
    • Over 10,000 students and a strong rating
    • Covers essential topics

    Cons
    • Priced slightly higher than other Udemy courses


    2. Brain Training for Dogs by Adrienne Farricelli – Best Value

    Brain training

    Rating: 4.5/5
    Includes: Training videos vary depending on purchased module

    Our second pick is the best dog training course for the money, made by certified dog trainer Adrienne Farricelli. This class is a cost-effective way to get your pup trained fast, with basics like potty training and impulse control, as well as misbehavior. It’s set up in different ‘grades’, all the way from preschool to university and beyond. Adrienne mentions she is able to personally support her clients as well, so you can get help if you have questions. The only thing that seems off is the page itself, which seems to focus heavily on sales pitching. Then again, that’s just an observation, and it’s a relief that it comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee!

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Taught by a certified dog trainer
    • Advanced lessons

    Cons
    • The site is a bit salesy/overpromising


    3. Peach on a Leash Dog Training Online Course – Premium Choice

    Peach on a leash

    Rating: 4.8/5
    Includes: In-person and online training

    Compared to the previous courses we’ve talked about, Peach on a Leash offers both in-person and online services. We’ll be discussing the online variant, which helps your dog fix more specialized problems such as food guarding and separation anxiety. Of course, you’ll also be able to teach your pooch other behavioral cues, but there’s one catch. Our premium choice is far more expensive than the others on our list. For that matter, it might be worth checking out other options unless you really need help with dog anxiety or even service dog troubleshooting.

    Pros
    • Specialized support
    • Behavioral fixes

    Cons
    • Expensive


    4. How to Train a Puppy by Ian Dunbar – Best for Puppies

    Udemy

    Rating: 4.7/5
    Includes: 15 hours of video, 1 article, lifetime access, access online and mobile

    The name Ian Dunbar may sound familiar; he’s the one who made the #1 course on our list! Another one of his Udemy courses, the ‘How to Train a Puppy’ class is the highest-rated puppy training class on the platform. It goes over everything from learning tricks, what to do with a new pup, and applying the SIRIUS method in practice. The entire course caters to new dog owners who want the foremost puppy training available, and the price is quite similar to his science-based training course.

    Pros
    • Highly-rated
    • Perfect for new dog owners

    Cons
    • For puppies only
    • A bit expensive


    5. Petco Dog Training Courses

    Petco

    Rating: 4.5/5
    Includes: Group training classes or 1:1 training classes

    Petco is the name that most of us know as the Walmart of the pet world. But as it turns out, they have more than just physical products for your canine’s health. They’ve conjured up their own dog-training courses curated for different ages and behaviors. That includes both puppy and adult development, as well as a guide on separation anxiety. Petco’s pricing stays modest for their generic courses but you can also dive deeper and try their private lessons for a bit more. Either way, they’re a trusted company that has been in the business for decades – they know what you and your dog need!

    Pros
    • Established company
    • Well-priced for open courses

    Cons
    • Private lessons are expensive


    6. Fenzi Dog Sports Academy Course

    Fenzi

    Rating: 4.5/5
    Includes: Varies depending on the webinar, workshop, or classes purchased

    For those of you out there who want to train your dog like an Olympian, look no further. The Fenzi Dog Sports Academy offers a myriad of tools to teach your companion everything about puppy training or adopting an adult canine. The prices of each of their courses vary depending on what you choose, but they are quite affordable if you opt for the workshops and online webinars. You can also trust the process with their selection of PhD-approved professionals.

    Pros
    • Affordable webinars and workshops

    Cons
    • Not many specialized services


    7. Professional Dog Walker Training by Dom Hodgson

    Udemy

    Rating: 4.3/5
    Includes: 35 minutes of video, 4 downloadable resources, lifetime access, access online and mobile

    Last but certainly not least is a Udemy course by Dom Hodson, focusing solely on walking your dog the right way. A lot of experienced dog owners still have trouble keeping their dogs in line on walks because they weren’t trained the right way. If you want to make your dog stay by your side and respond to useful cues on your morning stroll, this is the one for you. The entire thing is only 35 minutes long with 4 downloadable resources, which makes it a great option for busy people. It’s a bit pricey for the amount of content you get through.

    Pros
    • The best option for dog walking expertise
    • Short, to-the-point video

    Cons
    • Expensive

    divider dog faces oct 2024

    Buyer’s Guide: How to Select the Best Dog Training Course

    Here are the essential things you need to consider when purchasing the best dog training course for your needs.

    Your Dog’s Age

    The main factor that determines what course you buy is your dog’s age. Puppies are far quicker at learning new training regimes. However, dogs who are a bit older will need more work.

    Behavioral Problems

    If you have a dog that has behavioral problems from the neglect of a past owner, it’s wise to follow a class that has a dedicated section on reinforcing their habits. This may be food protecting, problems with other dogs, or a lack of exercise. A veterinarian can also be a great help in dealing with these issues.

    If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's our online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

    PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

    Advanced Learning

    If your dog already knows the fundamentals and has been trained thoroughly, you may want to get something more intensive. There are many options that offer advanced tricks that push the boundary further between you and your pooch’s bond. These might be figure-8’s or a run through an entire playground. Plus, you can show your friends all the cool tricks that your dog can do!

    divider dog faces oct 2024

    Conclusion

    Our best pick was the Udemy course by Ian Dunbar which is packed with essential dog-training information. If you’re looking to spend a bit less money, there’s also the Brain Training for Dogs course by Adrienne Farricelli. For a higher price, you’ll get specialized help from Peach on a Leash. If you’re looking for a dog training course, we hope you consider these seven options; they’re all online and offer everything you need to get your pup ready for the world!


    Featured Image Credit: Murilo Viviani, Unsplash

    Want content like this delivered to you?

    Sign Up For Our Newsletter

    News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

    * By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    What Breed of Dogs Were Bo & Sunny? Famous Pup Facts

    During his campaign in 2008, Barack Obama promised his two daughters that whether he won or lost, they would get a dog. In...

    What Breed of Dog Is Santa’s Little Helper? The Simpsons’ Dog

    If you’ve ever watched “The Simpsons,” chances are that you’ve seen Santa’s Little Helper at some point. He’s the family’s beloved pup and...

    Giant German Shepherd: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

    Giant German Shepherds are a unique and impressive breed of dog. They possess all of the desirable traits of a standard German Shepherd,...

    Astrology Alert: What Are Sagittarians Like as Dog Lovers?

    Each year, the Sun moves into Sagittarius on November 22 and stays there through December 21. That means that right now it’s time...

    More related

    What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs? 4 Vet-Reviewed Reasons

    Caring for a dog with separation anxiety can be difficult. To prevent it from ever taking root, many dog owners try to train...

    Why Is My Dog Peeing a Lot? 9 Vet-Approved Reasons

    Disclaimer: This article has been fact-checked by a qualified veterinarian using information available at the time of review. Veterinary medicine is continually evolving...

    Why Do St. Bernards Have Barrel Collars? Facts & History

    If you’ve spent any time looking at or researching St. Bernards, it’s only a matter of time until you see one of their...

    Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (May 08, 2025)

    This Week’s Winner Most Expressive Best Action Shot Silliest Most Dignified Enter Your Dog Submit your doggie for a chance to be featured!...

    Keep reading

    HEB Heritage Ranch Dog Food Review 2026: Pros, Cons & FAQ

    Review Summary HEB is an American supermarket that is centered in Texas. They have a few locations in Mexico, as well, but for the most part, their stores are found within Texas. Heritage Ranch is their brand of dog food....

    Dogster_HEB Heritage Ranch Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter? Is It Good for Them? Vet-Reviewed Health Facts

    If you are a dog owner, you are probably aware of how often peanut butter is recommended for dogs to eat. Many dogs find the taste of peanut butter irresistible, so it has multiple uses aside from being a tasty...

    Can Dogs Eat Peanuts

    Can a Human Eat Dog Food? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

    If you’re thinking about eating dog food because you’re out of options, we have some bad news for you. Dog food is not meant for human consumption. It’s made with different ingredients and in different proportions than what we need...

    Can a Human Eat Dog Food

    Can Dogs Eat Miso Soup? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Risks

    Dogs are more than just pets. Roughly 95% of owners consider their canine companions as members of their families, so it only makes sense that you’d want to share some of your food with your pup. Of course, some foods...

    Can Dogs Eat Miso Soup

    8 Best Puppy Foods for Shih Tzus in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Many dogs are fine eating whatever food you offer them, though that is rarely the path to peak health. However, Shih Tzus are a different story. They can be difficult to feed for several reasons. They’re known for being picky...

    shih tzu puppy eating

    Are Dogs Carnivores or Omnivores? What Research Suggests

    If you have a dog, you know that there are few things that they like more than pieces of meat, but they also like to steal just about any other kind of food off the table, causing many people to...

    close up of a dog eating from the bowl

    Can Dogs Eat Hamburgers? Vet-Reviewed Risks & FAQ

    Are you barbecuing and wondering if you can feed your dog a hamburger? Or did they eat one, and you’re worried about their safety? The good news is that most hamburger components are completely safe for dogs, minus a few...

    Can Dogs Eat Hamburgers

    Can Dogs Eat Celery? Vet-Approved Feeding Facts & FAQ

    Looking for a healthy snack option for your dog? While you might be tempted to toss them whatever food you’re holding at the moment, there are some foods that are better than others, and celery is a great option, although...

    Can Dogs Eat Celery