Dog Training

Find a dog trainer near Thousand Oaks, CA

Find a dog trainer near Thousand Oaks, CA

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Top 10 Dog Trainers near Thousand Oaks, CA

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Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

How much does dog training typically cost?

The average cost of dog training ranges from $60 to $155 per hour. But, your dog’s training might cost more or less depending on a number of different factors. For example, you might pay less if you schedule group classes instead of private instruction. The type of training (aggressive behavior, basic obedience, off-leash training, etc.) could have different prices as well. 

Get an exact cost estimate by contacting several dog trainers near you

Learn more about dog training cost factors.

Is dog training worth the money?

Dog training can be a highly rewarding investment for most dog owners. With dog training, you can establish a better, healthier relationship with your dog, who will learn to understand your commands and wishes. Your frustration levels may decrease, and you might be able to resume activities you’ve put off, such as having people over or taking your dog to public places (though, this is hard to guarantee because each dog is unique). 

Just remember that no amount of dog training will pay off if you don’t practice and follow the directions the dog trainer gives you. Consistency is the most important factor.

Is it ever too late to start training a dog?

It’s never too late to train your dog — “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is a myth. Whether you adopt an older dog from the shelter or simply want to have a better relationship with your elderly dog, hiring a dog trainer can be a good investment.

What do professional dog trainers do?

Dog trainers can perform a range of activities, ranging from training law enforcement dogs to working with therapy dogs or search-and-rescue dogs. However, most people hire dog trainers for obedience training. This is largely a process of training the human — much of how a dog interprets our behaviors, commands, tone and body language is counterintuitive at first. The trainer will typically come to your home to observe your relationship with your dog, teach you how to train a command and give you guidance for reinforcing it.

Do dog trainers offer remote or virtual services?

Although dog training is traditionally performed in person, the COVID-19 pandemic may have caused some professional dog trainers to move to remote training and virtual services. You can contact dog trainers near you to ask about the possibility of remote or virtual services. Also, ask whether all aspects of the process can be digital, including payment.

How old should a puppy be for training?

Dog training shouldn’t wait until you’re having behavior problems. If you get a new puppy, start from the beginning with professional training to give both you and your puppy the tools you need for a healthy relationship. Dog training is as much about teaching the owner how to interact with their new dog as it is about the dog learning to behave. Puppy training can start as early as eight weeks old. Trainers who offer puppy training programs may works specifically with dogs between the ages of 8 and 18 weeks old. Trainers can teach owners about potty training and how to deal with accidents, working with separation anxiety, and training your pooch out of destructive behaviors like chewing, biting and demand barking. Puppies will start to learn to walk on-leash and other basic skills.

In addition to behavior training, socializing your puppy is an important part of dog training. Socializing your dog means they become comfortable and confident in a variety of settings and have a great foundation for becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. After your puppy has had the proper vaccinations, you can start to introduce it to a variety of different dogs and people in safe settings.

What is a dog boot camp?

A dog boot camp is basically a board and train program that focuses on training your dog or puppy. The trainers will work with your dog to curb unwanted behavior, teach them basic skills and show them how to walk on a leash.

Dog boot camps and training programs might differ when it comes to their services, so it’s always a good idea to do your research and ask them to explain exactly what they offer — and how much they charge.

How long does it take to train a puppy?

Dog training depends on the dog and how much homework the dog owner is willing to put in. Puppy training is similar to dog training in that the onus of the work depends on the owner learning new ways to interact with their dog. For a quick crash course, you can opt for a single, two hour smart-start puppy training consultation to teach you the ins and outs of being a new dog parent. You can learn how to manage potty training and what to do if the puppy experiences separation anxiety. As long as you’re willing to work on dog training a little bit each day, your puppy will quickly learn these new behaviors. If you’re not confident about training your puppy yourself, you can enroll in a 6- to 8-week puppy training course, with weekly lessons touching on everything from bite control to obedience. Puppies usually need to be at least three months old for group training classes. If you want more intensive one-on-one work, you can opt for private lessons. Some behavior problems can be resolved in one session if the dog owner learns and can implement new skills. In the case of more serious issues, 3 to 10 private sessions can typically correct challenges.

Which dog training method is best?

The best type of dog training for both you and your dog depends on the outcomes you hope to achieve. If you want your dog to learn agility training, go to someone who specializes in those techniques. Regardless of whether you want your dog to learn basic behavior or competitive-level tricks, the majority of dog training is actually about training the owner how to communicate with their dog. Most professional dog trainers agree that a model of training based on positive reinforcement breeds a happy, healthy, well-adjusted dog. The alternative to positive reinforcement training is using force or aggression techniques like physical punishment or shock-collar training to get the dog to do (or not do) a behavior. While the dog may learn how to behave as you direct, it is also learning to communicate with force and aggression, and will in turn use those behaviors on other dogs (or people) that are smaller or weaker than it is. Before signing up with a dog trainer, meet with the trainer and ask for references. Watch the trainer interact with your dog, and make sure they treat your dog with patience and firm kindness. Ask them questions about their training methods:

  • What type of training methods do you use?
  • What is your background and training, and how did you become a dog trainer?
  • How long do you expect that we will work together before we achieve the results I’m after?
Reviews for Thousand Oaks dog trainers
Matt H.
Or worked with my golden doodle, Koda, for 3 weeks. The results are amazing. Koda can heel, stay in "place", and has gained a ton of confidence after working with Or. Or truly understands each dogs personality and trains them accordingly. The training sessions that involved myself , Koda and Or were particularly helpful so I could continue the training established by Or. You can see the love and hard work he puts into each dog. I would strongly recommend Or and K9Pack Dog Training for your dog. Can you put a value on an obedient dog? I'm, super happy!
K9 Pack Dog TrainingK9 Pack Dog Training
Stef B.
Vicki was phenomenal. I spoke to at least a dozen dog trainers and ended up going with At One with your Dog. She came to my house, taught my 11 week puppy to sit within 10 seconds, and I’m not exaggerating. She was very informative and thorough. She went around my home and helped me develop a game plan for potty training, walked me through how to address his separation anxiety and other little things. Highly recommend.
At One with your Dog Training & RehabilitationAt One with your Dog Training & Rehabilitation
Barbara P.
We have loved working with Osama. He is incredibly knowledgeable in what he does. After our first session we saw an improvement in our very skiddish dog. He is continuing to work with us and helps to teach us techniques to use in between sessions. Definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a great dog trainer.
OneStopK9OneStopK9
Gabby C.
I sent my dog Sprocket to Or the trainer for the boarding program for a month! This was the best decision as Sprocket is so much better with listening, no leash pulling, very calm, and so much better with reacting. A month away from your dog may seem long but Or will keep in touch with you by sending pictures and videos of progress! The boarding was worth it and 100% recommend sending to Or! Each session with Or sprocket is getting better and better! Or is a great guy and has a passion for dogs.
K9 Pack Dog TrainingK9 Pack Dog Training
Tianna J.
I decided to try K9 Dog Pack Training after I felt like it was impossible to help my 3 year old french bulldog. She was very anxious- following me around all the time, struggling to fall asleep or rest, and this led into aggressive snapping at people or dogs. She also never walked calmly on a leash, she pulled me the entire time. I had already taken her to trainers and classes, she got long daily walks, and we even had her on Prozac, but I didn't see much of a difference. Or was extremely responsive to my concerns and explained his process to me on our first meeting. He recognized that my dog needed confidence-building and he told me right away that I have been way too nice to her. He was very patient with teaching me what I was doing incorrectly, and was willing to demonstrate leash walking to each of my many family members. My jaw dropped when I saw my dog walking calmly on the leash next to me, it was an amazing moment! After the 3 week board-and-train was over, I was so happy to have my dog back and it gave me a new appreciation for her. Since bringing her home, I have noticed so many little adjustments I didn't expect. Now that she knows "place", she lays down and sleeps better, there's less nightmares, and she's so much happier while I'm working. I even took her off the Prozac! So thankful to Or and K9 Dog Pack Training for all their help and for taking such good care of my dog. If you're looking for a calm trainer who isn't afraid of a challenge, I highly recommend them!
K9 Pack Dog TrainingK9 Pack Dog Training
Joy R.
We have a 10 month old super exuberant Vizsla. Robert is our second trainer. The difference is remarkable. Robert is a calm, insinc to the dog, all business trainer. No pinch collars, shock collars or methods other than positive reinforcement. He uses a 30 ft lead, giving her room to elect to choose herself the requested direction. And surpizingly she is learning to do just that! Bixie is responsive, attentive and making major strides in happily following his calm lead. She keeps her funny, own style flare and yet still accomplishes following her required directives. She started as a jumper and a mouth-first greeter which is not acceptable with small grandkids. Robert even takes the time to work with the kids so our family can all have a life long love of this quirky, especially spunky dog with tremendous pizazz. Robert respects the dog and the requirements of dog manners.
Weatherwax Dog TrainingWeatherwax Dog Training
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