We know puppy training in Orlando can be ruff – what with all the theme park distractions and endless sunshine-induced napping opportunities. Also, we have all sorts of dog trainers here. It seems like there are more dog trainers in this town than there are chihuahuas in a Beverly Hills purse. But who can blame them? With so many dogs around, it's no wonder everyone wants to get in on the action.
So how can you tell if you're dealing with a legit puppy trainer or a random person calling themselves a dog trainer? Start by checking out their credentials! Make sure you find someone who has been in business for a while and has excellent reviews. If you're looking for obedience training, you need to do a lot of digging to ensure you are working with the right trainer!
That’s where our guide comes in. We've done the digging and compiled a list of the 12 best puppy training classes in Orlando. This guide won't take you long to read. In just 7 minutes, you'll have the inside scoop on the best puppy trainers in town who can transform your puppy into the most well-behaved dog in no time.
12 Best Puppy Training Programs In Orlando For The Best Start In Life
Here are our top 3 picks for the best puppy training classes in Orlando, FL:
- Suburban K9 - Overall best in-home dog training in Orlando
- The Bark Stop - LIMA-based training approach
- Orlando Dog Training - Most customized training
It's time to leash up and take a closer look at each of the 12 puppy training companies so you can pick the pawfect fit for you and your puppy.
1. Suburban K9 - Top Pick
Yes, we at Suburban K9 have kept ourselves as the number 1 in-home dog trainers in Orlando because we're just really good at what we do. Maybe it's because we're secretly part dog ourselves or maybe it's because we genuinely love working with dogs. Either way, we're not giving up our top spot anytime soon.
We at Suburban K9 began helping dog owners in 2006 and we've trained more than 15,000 pups since then. We're proud to say that all 45 of our trainers are experts in their field and work with us full-time. They're highly skilled and use our renowned training techniques that work for every kind of dog, no matter their age or breed.
We provide in-home dog training sessions for your puppies! When we come to your home to train your puppy, we’ll meet you one-on-one to get to know your puppy and its personality, as well as what you're hoping to achieve from the training. Using all of this information, we'll create a unique plan that's custom-tailored to meet your pup's specific needs.
During private in-home lessons, our trainers give your puppy extra-special attention that's focused on them. We believe in this personalized approach because it lets us work together with you and your pup in the coziness of your own home where your furry friend is most relaxed and happy.
Our trainers don't just work with your pup during the in-home training session, they also give you customized homework to practice with them afterward. This way, you'll reinforce what your dog learned and keep them on the right track even when our trainer isn't around. The homework is based on your pup's personality and the goals defined by you earlier.
At Suburban K9, we have a unique way of training puppies that we call balanced training. It's a mix of positive reinforcement and fair corrections when needed to help your pup learn the right behaviors. While positive reinforcement is important, we don't rely on it exclusively. If we were to only use treats and praise, your dog wouldn't learn about boundaries and limitations. Establish these and show your pup that you're a strong leader.
However, that doesn’t mean that we believe in bullying or other inhumane techniques to train dogs. If you take this approach, your puppy may become submissive and afraid of you. Instead, we work to establish a relationship built on trust and respect between you and your furry friend. This takes time and consistency but it's worth it because it helps your pup become more confident and better behaved.
We want you to feel fully confident and comfortable with our program at Suburban K9. That's why we offer a special money-back guarantee that takes away any risk. If you take the first class and find that it's not the right fit for you and your puppy, just let us know. We'll be happy to offer you a full refund, no questions asked.
Pricing
We provide instant customized price quotes for our private in-home lessons which take less than 30 seconds.
2. The Bark Stop - LIMA-Based Training Approach
The Bark Stop is a leading dog training company in the area that has been in business for over 20 years. Their dog trainers use positive reinforcement and a fear-free training lifestyle. This approach creates a positive association in your dog's mind and encourages them to repeat desirable behaviors.
The Bark Stop uses the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach to behavior modification and training. Their dog trainers prioritize methods that minimize stress and discomfort for your pup while still effectively addressing any undesirable behavior.
The Bark Stop offers specialized training programs for puppies under six months old, including private sessions for one-on-one attention, as well as stay-n-train and day-n-train programs for more intensive training.
Their puppy training program focuses on socialization, basic obedience, and addressing common puppy behaviors such as biting, chewing, and potty training. The trainers use positive reinforcement techniques to teach your puppy basic commands like sit, stay, and come, as well as reinforce good behavior such as appropriate play and calmness.
The Bark Stop also takes a science-based and goal-oriented approach to dog training. Their dog trainers will work with you to identify specific goals for your dog's behavior and develop a personalized training plan to achieve them.
Pricing
Customized plans are provided on demand.
3. Orlando Dog Training - Most Customized Training
Orlando Dog Training has been in the business for over 10 years. The lead dog trainer at this facility is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), ABCDT, and SDC-certified service dog training specialist. This means that the trainer has undergone extensive training, totaling more than 300 hours, and has completed a 10-stage research-based learning program that covers animal behavior and training principles.
The puppy training classes at Orlando Dog Training are designed for puppies between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks. It's a great time to start teaching them good behavior and obedience training so they grow into well-behaved adult dogs. The trainers at Orlando Dog Training use a positive reinforcement approach in their training sessions which is gentle and effective.
Orlando Dog Training offers 3 different levels of training for puppies. The first level is basic obedience training where puppies are taught commands like sit, stay, come, and heel.
In the second level, the trainers address specific issues that the puppy has, such as biting or jumping. In the third level, the trainers gradually phase out treats and train the puppy not to get distracted by any sort of distraction so they become more obedient.
Pricing
- Level 1 Puppy package ($480): 4 sessions of 40-60 minutes each.
- Level 2 Puppy package ($220): 2 sessions of 40-60 minutes each.
- Level 3 Puppy package ($220): 2 sessions of 40-60 minutes each.
4. B.A.R.K. Training - For Better Communication
Founded in 2021, B.A.R.K. Training has quickly established itself as one of the leading training programs in the Orlando area. All of their trainers are accredited by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and are certified professional dog trainers through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA).
B.A.R.K. Training uses the LIMA method and emphasizes positive reinforcement and avoids the use of punishment or aversive techniques. They work with both the handler and the dog and not only teach the puppy obedience training and important life skills but also help the owner learn how to handle their puppy. This approach results in a harmonious existence between the puppy and its owner.
B.A.R.K. Training offers a two-part foundational program for puppies. Part one focuses on socialization, relationship-building, enrichment, handling, and potty training. This is a critical period in a puppy's development and sets the foundation for its future behavior.
Part two takes the concepts and skills learned in part one and expands on them. This includes teaching mechanical skills that are necessary for important life skills, instilling healthy habits, and introducing the specific goals you have for your puppy's training.
Pricing
You can get in touch with B.A.R.K. Training for customized plans.
5. Diversity K-9 - Incorporating Enrichment Framework
Diversity K-9 is a top-tier puppy training facility located in Orlando, Florida. With over 20 years of experience, they have developed an in-depth understanding of dog behavior and training methods.
Diversity K-9 utilizes the "Hierarchy of Procedures for Humane and Effective Practice" method in their training sessions. This identifies the root cause of a puppy's behavior and addresses it in a manner that is both humane and effective.
When it comes to training methods, Diversity K-9 also incorporates an enrichment framework into their dog training classes. This framework involves providing puppies with a variety of experiences that help them develop mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Pricing
- Board and Train Programs ($110/per day): For obedience as well as behavior modification.
- Private Lessons ($60/hour): To lay a solid foundation for your dog.
- Agility Training ($30/class): Engages your dog mentally and physically.
- In-Home Training ($125/hour): Training in the comfort of your home.
6. The Calm K9 - Training By Getting To The Root Of The Problem
Established in 2013, The Calm K9 has trained thousands of dogs and earned a reputation as one of the leading names in puppy training. Expertise.com has ranked The Calm K9 among the best dog training programs in Orlando. They combine their extensive education with years of experience to create the best-balanced training programs.
The Calm K9 specializes in working with the most difficult dogs and they have succeeded where many dog trainers may have fallen short. They have a keen understanding of canine behavior and can reach the core of the issue to train the dogs how to react in different situations.
The Calm K9 has its own 14 dogs of various breeds, sizes, and temperaments. They use their own dogs as teachers to help your puppy learn how to socialize and behave properly. The Calm K9 accepts puppies of 12 weeks or older. They offer a range of services, including:
- Trust Building
- Crate Training
- Leash Walking
- Puppy Socialization
- Puppy Potty Training
- Basic Puppy Obedience
- Appropriate Greeting Behavior
Pricing
- Puppy Training Board & Train Plan 1 ($1,900): 2-week program.
- Puppy Training Board & Train Plan 2 ($3,700): 4-week program.
- Foundational Board & Train ($1,900): 2-week program.
- Behavioral Rehabilitation (4,600): 2-week program.
7. Dog’s Best Friend Of Central Florida - Creating Trust & Respect
Dog’s Best Friend of Central Florida has been in the business for over 30 years. Their training is centered around communication - not just between the trainers and the dogs but also between the puppy parents and their furry friends.
They believe that most issues in puppies are created by the dog owners because of the lack of attention, exercise, and proper training. That's why they teach puppy parents how to effectively communicate with their pups and create a strong bond based on trust and respect.
One of the key ways Dog's Best Friend achieves this is through their group classes. These classes allow puppies to socialize with other dogs and learn important social skills, all while under the supervision of experienced trainers. Puppy parents also benefit from these classes as they can learn from other owners' experiences and share tips and tricks.
Pricing
Dog’s Best Friend of Central Florida offers customized pricing plans for its services.
8. Tip Top K9 - Highest Success Rate
Tip Top K9 has been in business for over 15 years. They have trained more than 15,000 dogs of over 134 breeds, making them one of the leading names in the industry. They provide a guarantee to fix 95% of the issues or your money back, coupled with a staggering 99.3% success rate.
Tip Top K9 focuses on building confidence in the puppy because when your furry friend is confident, they are much easier to train. They understand that dogs benefit from a strong foundation and building that foundation starts with the right training at an early age.
At Tip Top K9, the dog trainers focus on environmental soundness so that the puppy can be comfortable and confident in any environment, whether it's at home or in a crowded public place.
Tip Top K8 offers a free evaluation for your puppy. They provide lifetime phone support and lifetime group classes. This means that once you become a part of their training program, you have access to their resources for a lifetime.
Pricing
Contact the sales team to get a free tailor-made plan.
9. Penn's Canine Training - Guaranteed Fast Results
Penn's Canine Training is ranked among the Top 50 Best Dog Trainers in America and they are also the #1 Florida Dog Trainer, according to Happy Doggo. Penn's Canine Training's founder and lead trainer is a graduate of the Master Trainer Course from the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers. He is also an expert witness and court advisor.
Penn's Canine Training provides training for service dogs, therapy dogs, and family protection dogs. So whether you need a puppy trained for personal protection or a specific type of service, they have the expertise to get the job done.
Penn's Canine Training provides a written lifetime guarantee that your puppy will continue to obey commands even years after their training is complete. They also guarantee fast results and you will see a noticeable improvement in your puppy's behavior after just a few training sessions.
Penn's Canine Training uses proven and effective methods commonly used to train K9 units for life-threatening situations. By using these techniques, they ensure that your puppy understands and obeys even the simplest commands in any situation.
Pricing
Contact Penn's Canine Training directly for custom quotes.
10. Walking Dog Training - Resource-Based Training
Walking Dog Training is an innovative puppy training company that started in 2018. At Walking Dog Training, the goal is simple – to empower your puppy through training and provide the resources you need to get there.
The trainers at Walking Dog Training don't just teach your puppy a few basic commands and call it a day. Instead, they work with you and your puppy to address the specific issues you are struggling with and provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to continue training at home.
Walking Dog Training has an extensive library of videos and literature and with hundreds of resources available, you can learn everything you need to know about training your puppy – from basic obedience to more advanced skills.
They work through the issues you are struggling with alongside you and your puppy. They teach your dog what to do instead of simply punishing bad behavior and then show you how to continue that training at home, making this personalized approach incredibly effective.
Pricing
Walking Dog Training only offers a 2-week board and train program which costs $2,900.
11. The Dog Wizard - For Long-Term Success
The Dog Wizard is another worthy contender on our list. Their approach to training puppies is unique and effective and they have helped many pet owners achieve long-term success with their dogs.
The Dog Wizard specializes in redefining your dog's comprehension of obedience. They don't just teach your puppy to follow commands; they help them understand the meaning behind those commands.
One of the most significant challenges in training a puppy is getting them to listen to you instead of its instincts. The Dog Wizard teaches puppies to make better decisions by redirecting their natural behaviors toward acceptable alternatives. This not only develops obedient behavior but also helps puppies develop their cognitive abilities.
The Dog Wizard's approach to training ensures long-term success by laying a solid foundation for raising your puppy right. They specialize in training puppies between the ages of 10 weeks and 5 months old during which they focus on 3 key areas: basic obedience, socialization, and good manners.
Pricing
Custom plans are available on demand.
12. The K9 Training Academy - Teaching Real Obedience
The K9 Training Academy has been in operation for several years and has trained over 800 dogs. Their experienced owner and master trainer has over 27 years of experience and is certified in various areas like police tactics training, K9 protection decoy, and service dog training.
The K9 Training Academy has trained dogs for many celebrities. The academy focuses on teaching real obedience to young puppies to develop self-control. This approach involves training the puppy to follow commands and respond to cues consistently. Through this method, the puppy learns to be well-behaved.
The K9 Training Academy focuses on educating puppies and re-educating their owners. They recognize that puppy training requires the active participation of the owner, and therefore, teaches the owners how to communicate effectively with their puppies.
Pricing
- Puppy Kinder ($1,000): 10-day board and train for puppies 8 to 11 weeks old.
- Basic Obedience Level 1 ($2,000): 15-20 days board and train for puppies 3 to 5 months old.
- Basic Obedience Level 2 ($3,000): 40-day board and train for dogs 6 months and older.
- Advance Obedience ($2,500): 20-30 days board and train.
Conclusion
Before you go ahead and book a class, remember to consider your pup's individual needs and temperament. Do they have separation anxiety? Are they a high-energy breed that needs lots of physical activity? These are all important factors to consider when choosing a training program that will work best for your pup.
At Suburban K9, we bring the puppy training classes straight to your front door. Our trainers are highly experienced and knowledgeable in dealing with various types of puppies and their breed-specific issues. We will also provide you with the necessary tools and resources to continue training and reinforcing good behavior even after the classes have ended.
Book a free consultation with us and see the Suburban K9 difference.