The 12 Best Dog Trainers in Toronto [2022]

Best Dog Trainers in Toronto

Dogs are man’s best friends for a reason. They’re loyal, lovable and make great companions. If you’re looking to train your dog, then look no further than these 12 best dog trainers in Toronto! We chose them based on their experience, success rate, techniques and reviews from past clients.

So whether your dog is just a puppy or a full-grown adult, there’s sure to be a trainer on this list that can help you out! From basic commands like sit and stay, to more complicated tricks, these trainers have the knowledge and expertise to help your furry friend learn whatever it is you want them to know. 

So if you’re ready to get started on training your pup, be sure to check out one of these amazing dog trainers in Toronto today!

For more great services for your dog, be sure to check out our list of the best dog groomers or the best dog daycares in Toronto. These professionals will help to keep your pup healthy and happy!

Summary

How Much Does Dog Training Cost?

Training your dog can be a costly investment, but it is one that will pay off many times over the course of your dog’s life. Group classes typically cost between $150 and $250 for six to eight sessions, while private sessions generally cost between $35 and $80 per hour. 

However, the benefits of training go well beyond obedience. A well-trained dog is less likely to develop behavioural problems, which can be costly to correct. In addition, a trained dog is more likely to be a welcome guest in public places, making it easier to take them with you on outings.

How to Choose a Dog Trainer?

Choosing the right dog trainer is an important decision. After all, you want to make sure that your furry friend gets the best possible training and learns everything that you want them to know. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a dog trainer:

  • Experience: Look for a trainer who has plenty of experience working with dogs of all breeds and temperaments.
  • Success rate: Choose a trainer whose methods have proven to be successful time and time again.
  • Techniques: Make sure that the trainer uses positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise and petting, rather than negative methods like scolding or hitting.
  • Reviews: Read reviews from past clients to get an idea of what others have thought about the trainer’s methods and results.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect dog trainer for your needs!

The Best Dog Trainers in Toronto

Now that you know what to look for in a dog trainer, it’s time to take a look at our list of the 12 best dog trainers in Toronto!

1. Raising Rover

If you’re looking for a professional dog trainer to help teach your furry friend some manners, you may want to consider hiring Raising Rover. Raising Rover works with dogs of all ages and can train them in a variety of abilities, from potty habits to obedience training practices. 

They’re also experienced in working with canines of any breed and can provide coverage for dogs over three months old. Plus, they offer various training programs that can be customized to suit your individual dog’s needs. The primary way Raising Rover offers its services is through a 3-tier package system that provides different types of services depending on which package you purchase. 

They also offer online training for those who prefer it or live in more rural areas. So if you’re seeking out a reputable and qualified dog trainer, Raising Rover is definitely a name to consider.

Business Information:

raisingrover.com
caroline@raisingrover.com
+14169967339
105 Heath St W #6, Toronto, ON M4V 1T5, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Caroline helped me break my 4 year old dog's habit of barking at house guests. She taught me some great preventative techniques to temporarily calm my dog before the barking started and techniques to positively re-enforced my dog's good behavior. We've been practicing for a few weeks now and have seen great progress thanks to Caroline's help!”
“My partner and I adopted a rescue pup (Dave) in February and brought Caroline in to help us with the foundations. While the majority of our sessions were virtual, it honestly didn't deter us whatsoever and Dave was super responsive. Caroline's guidance was invaluable and we continue to use the tips, tricks and lessons to this day. And even though it's supposed to be dog training, it was more human training! We were so happy with Caroline and would highly recommend her to anyone seeking guidance/training/refreshers for their new pup!”

Pros

  • Positive reinforcement-based programs
  • Offered both online and in person

Cons

  • Closed on weekends

2. Marley's Misfits Dog Training

At Marley’s Misfits Dog Training, they specialize in dog training and offer six different packages designed to enable changes in you and your dog’s behaviour based on whichever package you select. 

Their programs include Puppy Kindergarten, Functional Foundations, Advanced Handling, Master Handling, Aggression Control, and Extracurricular Activities. Each program is slightly different and teaches different things, but all of them offer a 30-minute one-on-one session and the option to book an evaluation of your dog’s behaviour. 

No matter what your goals are for you and your dog, they have a program that can help you achieve them. Contact them today to learn more about their services and to find out which program is right for you.

Business Information:

marleyandmedogtraining.ca
joseph@caninetraining.ca
+16479752739
2283 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6R 1X6, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Marley and Me has been a game changer for my dog and I. We started classes after he turned 1.5yrs old when my training stagnated. He's overly social and after completing the basic obedience course, we have a much stronger relationship, he is calmer and understands he can't always say hi or play. I'm now much more comfortable taking him to new places and training in stores knowing he will respond even if it's distracting. Joseph level set from the get go and really honed in on how to improve our relationship. I can't wait for us to start the next level with MMDT!”
“We did the basic obedience program and learned so much about how to handle our dog in different situations. Joseph is very knowlegeable and gave us guidance and tips throughout the program to build a solid relationship with our dog. We are very happy and satisfied with the progress. Glad that we found Marley & Me Dog Training, highly recommended!”

Pros

  • Joseph has owned and handled dogs his entire life.
  • Wide range of courses

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays

3. Hairy Tales Training

If you’re looking for a top-notch canine training center, look no further than Hairy Tales Training. Owner Kristine is a certified K-9 expert and takes pride in helping her furry friends. She employs positive conditioning methods in all of her training sessions, so you can rest assured that your pet will be treated with kindness and respect.

At Hairy Tales Training, your pet will receive the best possible care and attention, ensuring that they will be happy and well-behaved in no time. Kristine’s goal is to provide a safe and fun environment for your beloved pet, and she is confident that her years of experience and knowledge will help to achieve this. 

Contact Hairy Tales Training today to book your pet’s next appointment.

Business Information:

hairytalestraining.com
info@hairytalestraining.com
+14163208710
168 Erskine Ave, Toronto, ON M4P 1Z1, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“As a first time dog owner, Kristina gives me all the tools I needed to best support my pup! She is super knowledgable and understanding of my pups needs and has so many helpful resources. She is also great with humans - professional, kind, and easy to work with. She has checked in with me throughout my training journey making me feel very supported!”
”We are so grateful for Kristina and all her help training our 100 pound puppy! She is very honest, knowledgable and really makes training feel simpler. Kristina has been so helpful teaching our dog (and us) all the necessities to have a loving, obedient, trustworthy dog! Everything she has showed us has been so helpful and we cant thank her enough- highly recommended!”

Pros

  • Certified professional dog trainer with a specialty in behavioural issues and rescue dogs
  • offers private and semi-private lessons that are fun and educational

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

4. Dankroft K9 Services

Dankroft K-9 Services is more than just your average dog training company. In addition to providing obedience training for all breeds of dogs, they also offer compound guard dog services, drug detection, explosives detection, and bed bug detection. Their highly trained dogs are specifically trained to assist in locating leaks, and their tailored team approach is unique in its results. 

Additionally, their experienced team of trainers are able to provide training for other new dogs that enter their program. Whether you’re looking for a specific type of training or you need assistance with a bed bug problem, Dankroft K-9 Services is the company for you. Check out their website today!

Business Information:

dankroftk9.com
info@dankroftk9.com
+14166536281
112 Turnberry Ave, Toronto, ON M6N 1R1, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“We had a great experience at Dankroft K9. They are very knowledgeable about leash reactivity, dog behavior and handling. Our trainer, Amber, was really kind, patient and professional. We learned the skills needed to manage our dog's attention and set boundaries. Thank you for helping us and Ruby become more confident on our walks!”
“I deeply appreciate the Dankroft k9 team for all they have done for me and my dog. I was on the verge of giving up as I had tried two other trainers who have given up as well. Thanks to my vet, I got connected to the most amazing trainers who are absolutely good at what they do; with no hesitation, I recommend them to whoever that is struggling with any and any issue they have with their dog. I, myself was struggling with resource guarding and aggression; however, with the support of Dan himself and Amber, I was able to enjoy the process of training and also having my dog around. I cannot thank this amazing team enough. Hands down the best trainers out there. Such friendly people as well as so understanding and empathetic. They hear you out completely and modify training that is best for you and your dog.”

Pros

  • Specializing in obedience, protection & detection dogs
  • Offer both group classes or 1 on 1 private session

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays

5. Progressive K9

K9 Progressive’s dog training services offer a variety of options for dogs of different sizes and breeds. Obedience training is the core of their services, but they also offer behaviour modification, protection training, boarding and training, scent detection, and P.S.A. 

If you are looking for more serious training than just obedience or command training, K9 Progressive is a great option. They are knowledgeable and experienced in a variety of dog training methods, so you can be sure that your dog will be well-trained. 

In addition, their prices are very competitive, making K9 Progressive a great value for your money.

Business Information:

progressivek9gta.com
info@progressivek9gta.com
+16479634871
4320 Kingston Rd, Scarborough, ON M1E 2M8, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I brought my one year old golden retriever here and it has been the best decision of my life. Walking my dog was becoming extremely difficult and stressful with him lunging and pulling. He now walks loose on the leash, ignores almost every dog and has a great recall. We are not even done with our 6 week program yet and I am SO SO pleased with the results. I highly recommend progressive k9! I can’t thank Rob and his team enough for my dog’s progress.”
“I echo others' sentiment - I wished I had contacted PK9 sooner. Rob took the time to listen to my situation and offered frank and supportive options. I appreciated his direct yet caring approach. Unfortunately, a very tough decision had to be made to return my dog to the shelter before our consult appointment with Rob. I believe the outcome may have been very different if we worked with PK9 first before other trainers in Toronto.”

Pros

  • Offering everything from house training to communication & obedience to managing aggression
  • Train all types of dogs

Cons

  • Hours of operating is not avaliable

6. Gemini K9 Obedience & Training Equipment

If you have a new puppy or an older dog that could use some help with obedience training, Gemini K9 is the perfect place to bring them. The professional team at Gemini offers the very best in terms of services, from training your dog when they are still a puppy to various degrees of obedience training to all the protection/scent training you could need. 

No matter what your goals are for your dog, Gemini K9 will be able to help you achieve them. They offer a variety of classes to suit every need, and their experienced trainers will work with you and your dog to ensure that you both progress at a comfortable pace.

 If you’re looking for a dog trainer that can help you turn your furry friend into a well-behaved companion, look no further than Gemini K9.

Business Information:

geminik9.com
train@geminik9.com
+14162971077
643 McCowan Rd, Scarborough, ON M1J 1K2, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“We cannot be more positive about Mark and the team at Gemini K9. Everyone we have recommended to them to has been very impressed with their approach on managing their dogs. I don’t think there is a situation they can’t help with.”
“After working on my Rottweiler’s dog reactivity/aggression with Mark and learning to manage him around other dogs I was able to safely walk down the street without him fixating, lunging, growling and dragging me into dog fights. His comfort level in the presence of other dogs has completely changed and much to everyone’s surprise he has even made a canine friend! Thank you Gemini for giving me the tools and confidence to deal with this! Forever gratefu

Pros

  • Caters to both the pet and working dog owner
  • Offer free evaluation

Cons

  • Closed Fridays & Saturdays

7. AngelKerr Dog Training and Pet Services

Have you ever wondered why your dog barks incessantly at other dogs, but not at others? Or why he cowers in fear when meeting new dogs, even though he’s been around them his whole life? It could be that your dog needs some positive/socializing conditioning. AngelKerr Dog Training and Pet Services is a dog trainer service that offers your pets just that. 

Rather than using constant direct commands and training, these folks take the group approach, getting your dog into group walks, group training and socializing while also attempting to change the behaviour; the behaviour of other dogs will prominently imprint on your dog as well. 

Your dog will also reinforce that behaviour with occasional individual training, as the effect of that behaviour does not diminish over time. So if you’re looking for a way to help your furry friend socialize better with other dogs, consider giving AngelKerr a call.

Business Information:

angelkerrdogtraining.com
angelkerrdogtraining@gmail.com
+16475289442
122 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, ON M1R 4C4, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I would definitely recommend signing up for training with Angel! It's worth every penny 🙂 I have noticed a big difference in my dog's behaviour after going through the program. We signed up to address issues with recall and leash walking. Angel was extremely patient and really took his time to ensure that we understood the training and the "why" behind the methods - this was so helpful! Angel's partner Kerry was also lovely to work with, and accommodated my difficult scheduling requirements. THANK YOU Angel, Kerry and Luna :)”
“Angel provided us with clear training strategies in our one-on-one classes, which was especially helpful because this is my first puppy. Each class was filled with different focus points while still allowing space for our needs along the way. Angel and Kerry are responsive, caring, and flexible. I will definitely be continuing training with AngelKerr.”

Pros

  • Open every day
  • Training techniques are mostly positive reinforcement based and strictly follow the CCPDT-KA standards

Cons

  • Can be difficult to reach if you’re in downtown

8. Follow the Leader Inc

Follow the Leader Inc. is a dog instruction company that believes that everyone should be able to learn how to train their dog, regardless of age or experience level. Their instructors use positive reinforcement methods to teach dog owners the communication skills they need to have a happy life with their furry friends.

In Follow the Leader’s classes, dogs are able to learn at their own pace and meet expectations in a fun and safe environment. This makes it a great place for both new and experienced dog owners to come and learn about training their dogs. 

They also offer basic and intermediate classes on top of rally obedience with puppy socialization and in-home training. So if you’re looking for a great place to train your dog, be sure to check out Follow the Leader Inc.!

Business Information:

followtheleaderinc.com
info@followtheleaderinc.com
+14163993179
949 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C 1C7, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Good puppy training classes and puppy socializing sessions. John is a wonderful trainer with a great personality who helps you in your training. Play sessions are streamed on zoom so you can watch the dogs play during covid restrictions. Highly recommend, high demand so book early or may be on a wait list.”
“George (my Beagle) and I had a great experience partaking in the Zoom puppy classes offered by Follow the Leader! Jon did an amazing job showing us what to do and answering any puppy questions I had. He went above and beyond to offer advice and ensure that George was getting the best training possible! We can't wait for in person classes to start again so we can take the next set of puppy classes. Overall, I believe that these classes are essential for anyone new to dog ownership and the price really can't be beat!”

Pros

  • Multiple locations
  • Experience, professional, and compassionate trainers

Cons

  • Lessons typically only take place once a week for one hour

9. Dog Logic Toronto

Founded in 2019 by Maddy Hajek, Dog Logic Toronto is a Canadian company located in Toronto that provides lessons and training regarding canine care and human behaviour. The business holds certifications and insurance policies from ProFur Insurance Group. They devote endless hours of effort to fostering your pet’s comfort and happiness. Dog Logic Toronto aspires to be the leader in humane education for dogs in the city and provides valuable resources for both dogs and dog owners alike. 

The company offers a variety of services, including private lessons, group classes, behavioural consultations, and more. Their knowledgeable and experienced staff is dedicated to helping all dogs live happy, healthy lives with their humans.

Business Information:

doglogictoronto.ca
+14372216788
155 Balliol St Apt. 1704, Toronto, ON M4S 1C2, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Maddy and her team are PAWMAZING! Shayla is Lucy's walker, and I don't know what we did before her. Lucy starts waiting for Shayla to come as soon as she wakes up, (just after 11am), and her walks are around 1pm, 5 days a week. I posted a picture of Lucy waiting. She loves Shayla and her doggie buddies on her group walk - and always comes nice and tired. I can't tell you how happy we are to have you Shayla. Thank you!!!!”
“Maddy and her team have been fantastic since we’ve started working with them! Shayla, our walker, is kind, considerate and in regular communication with us and our dog LOVES her!! I couldn’t recommend Dog Logic Toronto highly enough!”

Pros

  • Their team is CPR and First Aid certified
  • They are dedicated to hiring women, POC and members of the LGBTQ+ community

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays

10. K9 Academy Dog Training Center

K9 Academy is a dog training service that helps pet owners who have unruly dogs. The organization’s canine behaviour counsellors construct custom training plans to cater to your specific requirements. With them, you will learn to correctly interpret your dog’s body language and behaviour to identify the troubles and solutions it needs. 

The K9 Academy team believes that no dog is beyond help. They work with pet owners across Ontario to aid canines with relevant issues like fear and aggression. The team at K9 Academy is passionate about helping dogs and their owners find happiness together. 

Contact them today to begin creating a custom training plan for you and your furry friend.

Business Information:

k9academytraining.ca
contact@k9academy.ca
+16473767016
30 Canvarco Rd #16, Toronto, ON M4G 1L3, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I have done individual training & group training with K9 Academy. You can see the passion the trainers have for their work and the dogs. The training has built a strong bond and trust between myself and my dog. I am forever grateful for the training tools they have provided me to keep my dog safe. I can now take my dog anywhere I go and not worry about any situations occurring. Highly recommend them!!! I also have my dog go on hiked and she is exhausted upon return! She loves her hike days!”
“We completed the Advanced Obedience group class with K9 Expeditions and had a great experience! Anesh and Cass are very knowledgeable and friendly. They answered our questions during our class and even through email while we were working on things from home in between classes. We have a nervous dog and we truly saw her confidence build and shine through this class. I highly recommend K9 Expeditions.”

Pros

  • Free phone evaluation from our canine behavioural specialists
  • Custom training packages to address you and your dog’s specific needs.

Cons

  • Closed on Weekends

11. Who's Training Who Private Dog and Puppy Training

Jason is a professional dog trainer who owns Who’s Training, a dog training program primarily aimed at helping people to create a calm, balanced, and obedient dog. His take on dog training is calm, assertive energy, advice, and reinforcement, which symbolizes the potential for becoming a dynamic and consistent leader.

 Regarding actual services, he provides three fee structure packages that range from $700-1000, with $175 being his hourly rate. Jason’s approach to dog training is based on the idea that dogs should be trained with calm, assertive energy in order to create a strong bond between pet and owner.

His programs are designed to help people develop their pet’s relationship through reinforcement and guidance. With Jason’s services, you will have everything you need to create a well-behaved and obedient dog. Contact Jason today to get started on your path to dog ownership success!

Business Information:

whostrainingwho.ca
JAYISADAWG@GMAIL.COM
+16474660404
2663 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 1G7, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“I mean if 10 stars were possible I would give that. Jason is great, he gives practical solutions for common and some uncommon puppy behaviours. He doesn't make you feel crazy for not being able to manage a new puppy. He is available in between sessions for a quick call or text to solve an issue. So far everything he has recommended or taught has worked. Walking nicely on leash, pottying in the right spot, nipping and chewing were all things we were able to correct in literally a few days. Thanks Jason!”
“My husband and I reached out to Jason for help with our 2.5 year old Sheepadoodle pup, Benji. We had just had our first baby and moved back to the city, so we were going through a lot of big changes at once. Benji was having issues with pulling really badly on walks, properly interacting with other dogs, and barking every time someone would come in or out. Jason knew exactly what we needed. He was very hands on and direct. By the end of our first training session, we already had a handful of tools that we could start applying immediately. We are now finished our training and feel very confident to continue working with Benji on our own. 10/10 would recommend!”

Pros

  • Offer lessons based on your availability and can work around your schedule
  • Has trained 1000s of others from tiny tea cups to 220 lb Mastiffs

Cons

  • Closed on weekends

12. When Hounds Fly

When Hounds Fly is a dog training center that believes in positive reinforcement – meaning they will only use methods that focus on rewarding good behaviour, in order to change behaviour. 

They offer private, group, and service dog training sessions (the latter coming with additional sensitive training), as well as the option for virtual training sessions. There are various locations you can choose from for your sessions, or you can opt to do them remotely. 

Overall if you are looking for a training center that conveys a positive attitude and training methods to dogs, this is a must-visit place as they will take very good care of your dog.

Business Information:

whenhoundsfly.com
info@whenhoundsfly.com
2010 Yonge St Lower Level, Toronto, ON M4S 1Z9, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“Roberta was friendly and facilitated class very well; helping us recognize our dog’s shy tendencies in play, and teaching us how to properly introduce new objects to him. We loved how she facilitated play when our dog was feeling shy at first. She was knowledgeable, and professional. Can’t wait for more classes for our pup, Kraber, at When Hounds Fly!”
“We had our first class yesterday at the Yonge & Eglinton location with Billie. It was such a great experience, learned so much. She was very helpful and great at correcting us. Overall, we were very impressed and can't wait to go back. I would highly recommend signing up. Great value and support. We are excited for our next class.”

Pros

  • A commitment to positive reinforcement
  • Start anytime programs – Unlike other schools that have rigid start dates and requires committing to a single day and time week after week

Cons

  • Closed on Fridays

FAQs About Dog Trainers

Most experts recommend that you train your dog for at least 15 minutes per day. However, this can vary depending on the age and attention span of your dog. Puppies, for example, may need shorter training sessions more frequently, while older dogs may be able to handle longer sessions less often.
Yes, you can train your dog yourself! However, it is important to keep in mind that not all dogs will learn at the same pace. Some may pick up on commands quickly, while others may need more time and patience. If you feel like you’re not making progress after a few weeks, it may be helpful to consult a professional trainer.

Most dogs can start training as early as 6 weeks old. However, it is important to make sure that your dog is physically and mentally ready before starting. Puppies, for example, may need a few extra weeks to mature before they are able to focus on training. Signs that your dog is ready for training include:

  • paying attention to you when you talk
  • responding to their name
  • following basic commands like sit and stay

If you’re not sure if your dog is ready for training, consult a professional trainer for help.

The length of time it takes to train a dog depends on a number of factors, including the age and attention span of your dog, the methods used, and the amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to training. Generally speaking, most dogs can be trained in 3-6 months. However, this can vary depending on the individual dog. Some may learn quicker, while others may need more time.

Final Thoughts

So, if you’re looking for a Toronto dog trainer who will help your pup learn some essential obedience commands and make sure they stay out of trouble, any one of these twelve trainers should do the trick. Keep in mind that different trainers specialize in different areas – so be sure to read their bios carefully to find the right fit for both you and your furry friend. 

And don’t forget, no matter how great your dog trainer is, it’s important to always be consistent with training commands and rewards (or punishments), as this will ensure that your pooch learns quickly and stays on track. 

Have you had success with one of Toronto’s best dog trainers? Let us know in the comments!

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