Dog Training

Find a dog trainer near Jacksonville, FL

Find a dog trainer near Jacksonville, FL

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Top 6 Dog Trainers near Jacksonville, FL

Dog Trainers Cost Guide

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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 Jacksonville dog trainers
Marina C.
Extremely professional trainer that wants the best for our loved dogs.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Maria B.
Although not a dog groomer, they are dog TRAINERS and that is what I was looking for. Answered quickly and gave me the needed info. Looking forward to a long relationship for my service dog.
Kodiak Dog TrainingKodiak Dog Training
Denise B.
She was wonderful with us and our two pups. It was the humans that needed training not the dogs. 😀
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Lynda M.
Gave me specific things I can do to help with my dogs training.
Trunell Dog Training LLCTrunell Dog Training LLC
Melissa M.
Dana has been fantastic in helping me train my goldendoodle Mac. Her methods are fun for my dog to learn and makes training enjoyable!
Tandem K9, inc.Tandem K9, inc.
Thumbtack Customer
I didn’t know what to expect with asking a dog trainer to help me out with my big boy, but Andrea exceeded any expectation I had. She gave valuable assessments and suggestions that have so far turned my dominant bullheaded Great Dane mix into a more well rounded, submissive pup. It’s not just about training the dog, but about re-training the people who care for the dog. Can’t wait to have her back to see our progress and to receive more guidance!!
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Frederick A.
Andrea was very knowledgeable about dogs and their mental state. I was able to take one day of training from her to help understand my dogs aggressive nature towards my second dog. Which in turn help me get my dogs to cohabitate better. I would recommend her.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Colin S.
He is a very sweet guy, but this was a waste of money $1300 for 6 sessions . The first session we had with our German Shepard/ Belgian Malinois mix we did a little walk around the apartment complex and fetch. Our dog was afraid of him but he counted fetch as a “session.” Our dog learned nothing, and we didn’t finish the 6 sessions. He sent us videos of what to do, but only showed us what to do once. We did meet in public for a session with his dog to give ours confidence, which he lacked in, but that was one time. We brought our issue of not learning so much for the price of this training and nothing was changed. Most of the sessions he would talk and not teach. We then started new training with a different company and our dog has learned more and obeys more than what Lee said our dog would ever do. It was not our dog’s “genetics” on his learning, but the trainer himself. I would not recommend this training to anyone. Save your money there are way better trainers for way less money.
Leash & Beyond K9 SolutionsLeash & Beyond K9 Solutions
Kaitlin B.
Andrea was awesome! She gave us a ton of knowledge and information that was useful to learn how to properly communicate with our pups! She tailored the training to our specific needs and came up with a custom plan for our dogs. She was great with the dogs and extremely effective. We are very happy with the results and can now enjoy walks. :)
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Thumbtack Customer
Trainer arrived on time and was super focused. She gave me ideas and methods to help my dog that I never would have thought of. Since each dog is so different, the articles I read online helped in a general sense, but Andrea zeroed in on our dog's specific personality traits and needs and gave me some great instructions to help our overly aggressive and bossy little ShihTzu! Thanks, Andrea!
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Stephanie k.
Went over a lot of information on trainer background, reactions of my dog-what to do to change/correct mannerisms etc. Sized up my minature dacshund to See what needs to be worked on besides what i had asked to learn Left tools to use to correct barking I was given Excellent feedback. Definitely a great idea to have in house training one on one to get the dog to listen to me over her wanting to control everything her way. Very happy with our first visit.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Brenda E.
Andrea has been an absolute God send! We have 2 large rescues,one that is very dog reactive,which makes our walks a little tense. We’ve worked with other trainers in the past that were a total waste of time and money. We have seen such improvements in both dogs’ behavior and manners,and are excited for what the future holds.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Naghyl T.
When we first started looking for a dog trainer, I did a general web search, and Tandem K9 came up as being available on Thumbtack. I downloaded the app and again requested results for dog training. There were about 6-7 matches and I started reading the reviews. Initially I was more cautious about the price tag, because I don’t know much about the cost of these kinds of programs, and I did not know how to judge the quality of what I was paying for. I always read the reviews before I purchase anything because I believe that if a person is willing to take the time to write about their experience and post it somewhere, that it has more value for the person reading it. Nobody has time for anything anymore, but we make time for the things that matter. What attracted me the most to Tandem K9 was the accreditation’s that Dana has with her company, and with her own background. Plus the fact that she is still providing dogs with a purpose for the US military today. Her company is out of Hilliard, which is about an hour from where we live and I was concerned about being able to make that drive on a regular basis. We have very complicated schedules. However once we made the initial trip up there, just to meet with Dana and Lee, who is part of her training staff, we suddenly felt like we were in the right place, and the value of the training they could offer, would be well worth the cost. Dana has a very straightforward, no nonsense approach that makes it easy to understand and appreciate what her training can provide. She was able to give us an example of the results of her training with one of her dogs, and that picture spoke volumes. Since then, we have been working with Lee and he has the flexibility to come to our home, which made this far more convenient. Although only a few weeks in that Lee has been working with our dogs, we have seen improvement, from the very first session, and I appreciate that we are learning to correct our behaviors, right along with our dogs. It is very promising to see that with the right instruction, our dogs can become trained and polite. Lee has been very gentle and humorous with that instruction, to both the dogs and ourselves. We have 2 female littermates, that are approximately a year old. The breed appears to be mixed; lab and pit. The dogs were abandoned on a porch out of state, and we got them at about 6 weeks old. They had some understanding of a few commands at home prior to starting with Lee, but were almost uncontrollable in public. We are definitely improving every week with this training. We so appreciate Tandem K9, and the quality of the training they are offering our family!
Tandem K9, inc.Tandem K9, inc.
Melody K.
Bob is so patient and kind. Knows what he is doing! The dogs love him. I already referred him to my sister for her new puppy. Bob is also very flexible with his time in scheduling. He really makes since of training, he's a natural, never raises his voice, always calm and the dogs respond! He answers any questions I have and is good at "training the owner" lol. Great Value, I will continue to refer him and if I need him for additional help I will call!! Also love his stories to relate to how the dogs learn. I have two Pitmix 6 month old's and I am so glad I called Bob! Melody K.
Trunell Dog Training LLCTrunell Dog Training LLC
Lesley W.
Dana is great! She is extremely knowledgeable about dog behavior and great with our German Shepherd Puppy. She is patient and takes the time to explain each skill. I look forward to continuing our training! I definitely would recommend!
Tandem K9, inc.Tandem K9, inc.
Alaina M.
When I found Lee I was paralyzed with anxiety after being in the middle of multiple attacks on my dogs, one resulting in my hospitalization. My male pitbull was showing signs of the trauma himself and both of us had a loss of confidence. After talking to several trainers that I simply didn’t align with, Lee came to our home for a free consultation, and after watching him with my dogs I hired him on the stop. Our six weeks with Lee were incredibly impactful and transformative. Not only is my 4 mth old puppy off to the best possible start because of Lee, my boy, Blu, is a new man! He is far more confident, focused and trusting. Lee’s training methods changed our lives. Not only does Lee show you “what” to do, he teaches you the “why” behind what you are doing, so you are equipped to continue on with your training beyond the training courses. You will have a deeper understanding of your dog, how they think and why they exhibit particular behaviors. I am forever grateful! Do yourself a favor and hire this man!
Leash & Beyond K9 SolutionsLeash & Beyond K9 Solutions
Tatiana G.
I’m very pleased with the price and way that she trains my dog. Also, I really liked the homework I was given and educational videos. Really shows she took the time after our meeting to explain extra things for me. Great Job!
Pawsitive Canine Services LLC, CPDT-KAPawsitive Canine Services LLC, CPDT-KA
Thumbtack Customer
Laura's commitment to providing the best care and white glove service is to the highest standards and I have always trusted my dogs in the care of Creature Comfort Pet Services when I have been away. Laura is extremely knowledgeable, passionate and professional and has dedicated a huge part of her life to the care of animals and also educating owners on how to best train their dogs. I highly recommend Laura and Creature Comfort Pet Services!
Creature Comfort Pet ServicesCreature Comfort Pet Services
Peggy J.
Andrea is truly a professional and incredibly knowledgable regarding dog development and training. Her advise and guidance after just my first visit have made a huge difference with my 2 beagle puppies. I am looking forward to our next visits. She is excellent and certainly skilled.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Leann C.
Before working with Lee, Yuffi was a difficult dog and wouldn’t listen to anything I said. It was hard at times to even go out in public with her. Lee not only taught Yuffi to be obedient but he taught me how to understand and work with my dog. Now it’s a night and day difference, Yuffi listens and does what I ask on the first command. I’m no longer scared to go out in public with her but now I look forward to it and enjoy our outings out together. I highly recommend Lee and Leash and Beyond K9 Solutions as your go to for all your dog training needs. He is super patient and takes the time to make sure you’re learning what you need to. Thank you, again!
Leash & Beyond K9 SolutionsLeash & Beyond K9 Solutions
Thumbtack Customer
Andrea is doing an awesome job training us and the dogs. She is very passionate about "the pack" working properly. We have already seen a difference in our household after a short time. :-) She also makes available tools/ products for us to try and test out to make sure they are going to work with our family. The new collars are making a huge difference in our 2 great danes walking!
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Thumbtack Customer
Andrea was extremely helpful! We have two dogs that were getting along but were getting aggressive when they were jealous. Andrea came over and assessed the dogs for us and gave us some exercises to do before she came back the next week for training. We were so amazed at the turn around in behavior in just doing those exercises! When Andrea came back she noticed the progress and we did more exercises to get our dogs more acquainted with a "pack mentality". We are happy to say that in the past weeks since starting the program we have had no biting or fights and we are all getting along beautifully! Andrea is great and explains everything to make it easy to understand. We highly recommend anyone having similar issues to utilize her as she has improved our entire house for the better!
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Lori C.
Andrea was exactly what we needed. From our first visit, Our dog Heidi was a changed puppy and we learned so much that we needed to do to help our sweet (large) puppy. Each of our three visits were filled with great instruction and insight into training our Heidi. Andrea is wonderful. I feel we have made a new friend with a gift who has found her true calling doing what she loves.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Pearl S.
Andrea is the best dog coach ever! Our family rescued a Pitt bull and we were in need of a professional who is not afraid to take a challenge. Bruce (our dog) did not have any manners, didn’t know how to walk on the leash, and be around people or other animals. He was very bad behaved and few other people simply said that they cannot do anything. However, we were lucky to find Andrea. She was able to evaluate Bruce during our first session and was happy to train him. We had about 8-10 sessions with her total but even after first lesson we saw a big change with him. Our big boy changed so much and we still keeping in touch with Andrea in order something comes up.
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
Marlena T.
I must’ve looked into a dozen or so trainers before coming across Rescue Me, and was immediately impressed with the hundreds of positive reviews. After working with Andrea, I’m confident I made the right choice. She worked with my 3 month old Aussiepoo and we easily noticed positive changes after the first session. My dog is now more calm, respectful, and responsive. Andrea also gave some insight on my dog’s behavior that helped me understand what influences his actions and attitude. She gave me the tools to continue reinforcing good behavior after our sessions were over. If you’re looking for your dog to learn more than basic commands and focus more on making an impact to their everyday behavior, please set up a consultation with Andrea. She tailors every lesson to you and your individual pup. Thanks for teaching us!
Rescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLCRescue Me! Making a Woof Connection LLC
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