How Much Will it Cost to Train My Dog?

"How Much Will it Cost to Train My Dog?" is probably one of the most common questions callers have when seeking professional training for their dog. In the past I have talked about some of the varied business models in the dog training industry and their relative pricing. Because of this variety, there's no clear way for owners to compare apples to apples. Cost is an important consideration for owners seeking training for their dog, so today I'd like to offer how I strive to provide outstanding value to all of my clients.

My fees are based on an hourly rate, and I charge about 15% less than most trainers with comparable (or less) experience. I do provide longer sessions than most trainers, so each visit might be more expensive than competitors. However, these longer sessions allow me to cover more skills and information at every visit, so I believe my clients can reach desired goals more economically than through many other training options. Fewer visits, with available evening and weekend hours, also provide tremendous scheduling convenience to owners.

I am very organized individual. Not only are many owners surprised by how much we cover at every session, I remain focused on achieving owner defined goals as quickly and directly as possible. Assignments are detailed, organized, and individualized for an owner's specific goals and a dog's particular personality. The final number of visits is up to an owner, and will vary depending on goals, their dog, and their ability to work on homework assignments - but on average I see owners twice. Many find desired assistance / goals / help / information at their initial visit. Others wanting higher levels of training will require more visits. All of my visits are focused on help NOW, not signing folks up for recurring visits or expensive training packages.

Training in an owner's home allows unique opportunities to observe a dog and its owners in the environment where desired behaviors and performance are desired. To me, real-life training means just that - training in real life, in the environment and situations where an owner wants their dog to obey and behave. If an owner is having problems in settings away from their home, I'm happy to go to locations providing those challenges they wish to work on.

Finally, I am running a business and need to remain profitable. Many new training services will quote very low fees, but don't remain in business very long when they're not profitable. My fees are very fair to owners given the level of service received, and fair to me given the time spent delivering those services. For every dollar I charge 0.43 cents ends up in my pocket, 0.27 cents pays expenses (travel, insurance, supplies, etc.), and 0.30 cents is taken by the government for taxes.

I welcome those considering my services to call and inquire further !