11+ Best Dog Training Programs In Austin, TX (Affordable)
Having an untrained dog is like having a squirrel in a room full of pecans - chaos is inevitable. From chasing after bikes on the Lady Bird Lake trail to barking at the food trucks at Barton Springs, a misbehaving pup can cause more trouble than a swarm of love bugs. The solution? Find the best Austin dog training programs for you and your furry friend.
But finding an expert dog trainer is like trying to herd cats - not impossible, but certainly a challenge. What's a dog parent to do? Well, we're not going to sit and stay on the sidelines while you struggle to find the perfect Austin dog training program for your pup.
That’s why we've dug up 12 of the best dog trainers in Austin. Our guide will help you navigate the maze of these training programs and find the best dog trainer that will have your furry friend behaving like a true Texan.
By the end of this 10-minute read, you'll be the top dog in Austin when it comes to finding the best professional dog training classes in town. And you might even catch them doing their own rendition of the famous Two-Step dance, who knows!
12 Best Austin Dog Training Classes To Unlock Your Pup’s Potential
Here are our top 3 picks for the best dog training programs in Austin, TX:
- Suburban K9 - Overall best customized dog training in Austin
- ATX K9 Dog Training - Proven methods for desired results
- Sit Means Sit - Attention-based training approach
Let's delve into the dog training journey by taking a closer look at each of the 12 trainers and selecting the one that best suits your dog training needs.
1. Suburban K9 - Top Pick
Yes, we know - we’re sitting pretty at the tippy top of the rankings. But, let's be real, if we weren't the best, we wouldn't have done it. It's like when your mom says you're the most handsome kid in the family - is it biased? Sure. But is it true? Absolutely!
Established in 2006, we at Suburban K9 have helped over 15,000 dog owners improve their dog's behavior and obedience. We know that dogs aren't all the same and that one-size-fits-all approaches don’t work! That's the very reason we customize our training methods based on your dog's unique personality and temperament.
At Suburban K9, we believe in using a balanced training approach where we teach the dog right from wrong. If you involve too many treats and focus on purely positive reinforcement without rules and discipline, your dog will never learn to be calm.
That’s why in our balanced approach, the trainer will teach them right from wrong and then give them a fair correction if the dog doesn’t listen. And by correction, we mean enforcing the rules and gently nudging your dog in the right direction without resorting to any harsh or inhumane techniques.
Suburban K9’s focus is on the underlying cause of your dog's behavior. We deploy a proprietary internal checklist and schedule for training to ensure that we cover everything your dog needs to learn to behave better.
We can also provide a customized Lifestyle Adjustment Plan (LAP) which is designed to be a holistic approach to dog training, addressing not just specific behaviors but also your dog's overall well-being.
One of our most popular programs is our Board and Train program. This program is customized to your dog and puts them on the fast track to better behavior and obedience. With options for 2 or 3 weeks, your dog will receive intensive dog obedience training to learn all the necessary obedience commands as well as general life skills.
We will teach them front door manners, potty train them, and work on eliminating all unwanted dog behavior like jumping, leash pulling, and nipping. But our training doesn't stop there. We provide follow-up lessons at your home to ensure that you and your dog are continuing to make progress.
For those who want more comprehensive training, we offer our Dog Boot Camp Plus program. This program includes:
- 2-week board and train
- 14 lessons in your home
- 1-week refresher board and train with 2 more follow-up lessons.
With this program, your dog will receive even more personalized attention and training from our experienced dog trainers to ensure that they are behaving to the best of their ability.
At Suburban K9, we're confident that you and your dog will love our training program. In fact, we're so confident that we offer a guarantee – if you do your first lesson with us and aren't completely satisfied, it's on us. That's right, no questions asked, your first lesson is completely free.
Pricing
Get in touch with us to receive an instant customized price quote for our services. Trust us, it will take less than 30 seconds.
2. ATX K9 Dog Training - Proven Methods For Desired Results
If you're a dog owner in Austin, you've probably heard about ATX K9 Dog Training, one of the leading names in dog training in the area. With over 10 years of experience in the business, ATX K9 Dog Training has been a reliable and trustworthy resource for any dog owner.
ATX K9 Dog Training uses specialized positive training methods and prioritizes the physical and mental health of your dog by creating a safe and positive learning environment that fosters growth and development.
ATX K9 Dog Training offers a range of unique services that make them stand out in the industry. They provide learning excursions field trips for the dogs which are educational outings designed to expose dogs to new experiences and environments. They also provide one-on-one or group classes which teach dogs to socialize and interact with other dogs in a supervised setting.
For those looking for more intensive training options, ATX K9 Dog Training offers 1-4 weeks of boarding and training at their facility and in the trainer’s home. During this time, dogs receive off-leash obedience training and learn to work around distractions, preparing them for real-world scenarios. With only 2-3 dogs per trainer, each dog receives individualized attention and personalized instruction.
For dogs with advanced behavioral issues, ATX K9 Dog Training provides advanced behavioral modifications. Through customized training plans and one-on-one sessions, they work with dogs to address specific behavior problems and help them overcome challenges. ATX K9 Dog Training also offers private in-home and on-location training for those who prefer a more personalized approach.
Pricing
You can contact ATX K9 Dog Training for a customized quote.
3. Sit Means Sit - Attention-Based Training Approach
Sit Means Sit is one of the best dog training services to help your furry friend develop proper manners and skills. They offer puppy training classes that focus on potty training, behavior modification, and socialization. These classes are designed to teach your puppy the basics of obedience and help them develop good habits that will stay with them for life.
Sit Means Sit uses its proprietary Attention-Based Training approach in which they use a variety of attention-based modalities such as leashes, flat collars, food, toys, and their patented Sit Means Sit Collar. This collar uses gentle tapping to help the dog learn instead of traditional methods that rely on punishment or force.
At Sit Means Sit, they believe in generating and maintaining a happy and relaxed attitude in all of their dogs. They understand that a calm and content dog is more receptive to learning and will respond better to training.
If you're looking for more intensive training, Sit Means Sit also provides day camp training. This program involves its expert dog trainers initially training your dog and then you do some of the training yourself. This approach allows you to become a more experienced pet parent while still giving your dog the benefit of expert training. Day camp training normally takes place for 2 to 4 weeks and can be a 3, 4, or 6 days all-day training program.
In addition to day camp training, Sit Means Sit also offers hour-long one-on-one sessions in private training. For new pet parents, they also provide puppy kindergarten classes. They also offer puppy management lessons for puppies between 8 weeks and 6 months of age so you can get your furry friend off to a great start in life.
Pricing
Sit Means Sit provides tailor-made plans for its services.
4. K9 Kenny - Most Budget-Friendly Training Services
K9 Kenny is one of the most sought-after dog trainers in Austin Texas. What sets K9 Kenny apart from other trainers is their expertise in leash training. No more struggling with a dog that pulls on the leash and drags you around the neighborhood. K9 Kenny's methods teach your dog to walk calmly and obediently by your side.
But leash training is just the tip of the iceberg. K9 Kenny specializes in aggressive dogs and can help turn your furry friend into a well-behaved companion. Their dog obedience training methods ensure a powerful owner-dog relationship.
K9 Kenny's services are affordable and their training methods ensure that your dog's obedience will last a lifetime. Their certified canine training specialists are fully bonded and insured giving you peace of mind while your pup is in their care.
K9 Kenny also provides advanced obedience training which introduces distractions, duration, and distance to help your dog stay focused and obey commands no matter what the situation. They can even teach your dog to leave food alone, drop items, ignore distractions, and come when called, making them the go-to choice for any dog owner in Austin, Texas.
Pricing
- Green Dog Package ($695): Basic obedience commands ideal for puppies
- Blue Dog Package ($695): Advanced obedience commands and ideal for older dogs with some prior training
- Red Dog Package (Custom pricing ): Overall advanced training of all sorts
5. Zoom Room Dog Training - Comprehensive & Customized
Zoom Room Dog Training is not your typical dog training center. They have been in the business since 2007 and are known for their legendary training techniques. They use positive reinforcement training techniques which means no yelling or physical punishment for your pup. Once your pup completes its training, the dog trainers at Zoom Room Dog Training will provide ongoing support.
Zoom Room Dog Training offers different levels of obedience training programs depending on your dog's age and needs. Whether you have a new puppy that needs basic obedience training or an older dog that needs advanced training, they have a program for you. Each program is tailored to meet your pup's individual needs and ensure they receive the best training possible.
Pricing
Single Session ($79): Private training in all disciplines
Private training Pass ($279): 4 sessions in 2 months
6. Karma Dog Training - Most Critically Acclaimed
Karma Dog Training’s amazing program has been around since 2004. It is a 100% science-based positive reinforcement program called the Karma Dog Training Method. They rely on the latest research and evidence to develop their training programs which sets them apart from other dog trainers in Austin.
Karma Dog Training has been endorsed by many veterinarians, doggie day care professionals, rescue organizations, and animal control officers throughout Austin. And that's because their methodology and techniques work. Karma Dog Training offers a wide range of services, including:
- Rescue dog training
- Service dog training
- Basic dog obedience classes
- Dog behavior modification training
- Private in-home dog training lessons
- Puppy training and puppy socialization classes
- Treatment plans and protocols for separation anxiety
Pricing
Karma dog training offers custom pricing plans tailored for each dog.
7. My Love Fur Paws - Adding Calm Energy To Your Dogs
My Love Fur Paws is a pup-centric establishment that is the perfect place in Austin to take your furry friend if you're looking for some serious training and development. They are committed to upscale and high-quality services. Their folks are trained to implement calm energy and provide a structure which is essential for any effective dog training program.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about My Love Fur Paws is their deep understanding of dog psychology. Unlike some other dog training programs that focus solely on getting dogs to "do" certain behaviors, My Love Fur Paws recognizes that true training involves helping dogs to "be" a certain way.
By understanding the way dogs think and feel, they create a training program that truly resonates with each pup. My Love Fur Paws offers a 6-week Doggy Boot Camp and 4-week Board and Train program. Their in-house training program is also widely considered to be one of the best in town.
Pricing
- Training consultation ($60): 30-minute session before enrolling in a program
- In-person Training Session ($100): One-hour duration
- In-home Training Session ($125): One-hour duration
- Doggy Boot Camp ($1550): 6-week duration
- Board and Train ($3800): 4-week duration
8. K911 - Most Experienced
K911 is another leading dog training program in Austin where it all starts with their balanced canine training approach. They know that every dog has their own set of quirks, so they tailor their training approach to fit each dog's needs. They focus on redirecting negative behavior and then positively reinforcing proper manners.
K911 offers a wide variety of training services, from basic leash manners to off-leash training. Their leash manners training is perfect for those furry friends who like to pull on the leash during walks while their off-leash training is designed for those adventurous dogs who love to explore and run free.
With their specialized training, your dog will learn to respond to your commands even when they're off-leash, giving you peace of mind and allowing your dog to enjoy their freedom without compromising their safety.
Pricing
For custom plans, contact the K911 team.
9. Austin Dog Zone - Most Systematic
Established in 2010, Austin Dog Zone has been a top contender in the city's dog training scene for over a decade. Their training methods are rewards-based and rooted in science. They don't use any harsh techniques such as shock collars, prong collars, or choke chains. But it's not just their training methods that make Austin Dog Zone a top contender. They also offer a wide range of services, including:
- Day Training
- Board and Train
- Puppy Prep School
- Reverse Board and Train
- PTSD Service Dog Training
Austin Dog Zone is focused on building a strong community of dog owners. They host regular events, such as pack walks and training workshops, where owners can connect and learn new skills. And they even have their podcast, "The Dog Zone," where they share tips, tricks, and stories from the world of dog training.
Pricing
You can contact their support team for a free quote.
10. Kim The Dog Trainer - Building Skills With Passion
Established back in 2004, Kim The Dog Trainer has been providing expert dog training services to dog owners in Austin for nearly two decades now. Their expertise and experience in dog training have made them a trusted name in the community.
The owner of Kim The Dog Trainer is certified by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. This certification is not easy to obtain. In fact, there are only 200 Certified Dog Behavior Consultants in the entire world. So you can trust that your beloved pet is in good hands.
Kim The Dog Trainer has a unique approach they take to dog training. Instead of just teaching dogs how to obey commands, they focus on understanding and communicating with your dog. This approach helps build a strong relationship between you and your dog and can lead to better behavior in the long run.
Pricing
You can book a consultation with Kim The Dog Trainer to get a price estimate.
11. The Canine Center - Most Diverse Facility
The Canine Center has been the go-to place for more than 16,000 dog parents in Austin and that's not by accident. The trainers at The Canine Center are not only passionate about dogs, but they also have a profound understanding of canine behavior. Their goal is not just to train dogs; it's to integrate them into the family so that they become happy and trusted members of your household.
The Canine Center's facility is located on a vast 14-acre land that is equipped with eight dedicated outdoor training fields and over a mile of onsite hiking trails. Your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors while learning how to be the best versions of themselves. The training fields are designed to cater to different levels of training, from basic obedience to advanced agility training.
Pricing
The Canine Center offers custom pricing plans for its services.
12. Fidelio Dog Works - Small & Effective
Fidelio Dog Works was born 15 years ago when a group of passionate dog lovers came together to create a world-class training facility. Since then, they have stayed small by design, which means that every dog that comes through their doors gets the utmost individual attention that they deserve.
Fidelio Dog Works’ personalized approach ensures that your dog will receive the training to fix specific behavioral issues. Their team of trainers has extensive knowledge of dog behavior and psychology. They offer a range of services, including:
- Puppy Training Classes: To teach them the right behaviors quickly
- Quick-Start Package: A three-lesson package that covers the basics
- Monthly 'Fast Track' Training: An effective alternative to 'Doggie Boot Camp'
- Individual Dog Training Consultations: For dog owners needing help with specific issues
- Correcting Specific Behavior Problems: House training, shyness/fear, aggression & separation anxiety
Pricing
Contact Fidelio Dog Works to get a custom quote.
Conclusion
As a dog parent, you’ll encounter more doggy obstacles than you can count on your journey to find the best Austin dog training program. Find yourself an incompetent dog trainer and they’ll create more problems than they solve, leaving you and your furry friend in a tailspin. In fact, bad trainers can actually reinforce bad behavior in dogs instead of correcting them.
But we've finally arrived at our destination - Suburban K9.
We at Suburban K9 are the dog training experts who've got it all figured out. We don't just focus on one aspect of training, like teaching your pooch to roll over or play dead. We've got a balanced training approach that'll make sure your doggo becomes a true pro.
And let's not forget about Suburban K9’s money-back guarantee. That's right, if you're not completely satisfied with your first training session, we'll give you a full refund. Talk about putting your money where your mouth is.
So don't let those four-legged troublemakers get the best of you - book a session now and watch as your pup transforms into a model citizen.
