Is Dog Training Worth It? An Honest Look from a Professional Trainer

A lot of people wonder how important professional dog training really is for their dog’s well-being. There are many skills you can successfully teach at home, and some of those same skills are covered in dog training classes. (Do you really need a trainer to show you how to get your puppy to sit?) You might ask what a class truly offers and whether the investment in your dog’s education is worth it.

As someone who owns a dog training business, I decided to write a guide on the topic. While I believe dog training benefits all dogs (you knew I was going to say that), I also know that some dogs gain more from classes than others—and that if you do sign up, a few simple strategies can help you get the most from it.

When People Ask Me If Dog Training Is Worth It

When someone asks me if dog training is worth it, I want to share every story about what training has done for me, my dogs, and my students. But the truth is, everyone has different reasons for wanting to train. Whether dog training “works” for you depends on your goals. Sure, I’m enthusiastic about training, but I’m a trainer! To get the most out of training, there are a few things you can do.

Your goals aren’t the only thing to consider. The way you include micro training moments outside of the academy, the types of classes you choose, and how you use your class time all influence your results.

Let’s First Look at Your Training Goals

Goal setting is valuable, but it can also create some challenges. Before we get into those, let’s talk about the benefits of setting goals and how to include them in your dog’s training journey.

When I’m working with a dog, I always have a goal. A session goal might be something like sending the dog to a place 15 feet away. There are even micro goals within that session—like having the dog move away from me to reach the target spot, a distance concept. Each goal connects to a bigger purpose. The larger goal might be teaching the dog not to greet guests at the door but to wait calmly on a place until released.

Setting goals helps you maintain direction. If you’re investing in professional training, goals allow you to measure progress and adjust. Maybe you realize you’re not reaching them, which tells you to practice more or change your at-home routine.

If you can set both short- and long-term goals, you’ll set yourself up for success. Goals should be realistic and appropriate for the type of training you’re doing.

Sometimes, though, goal setting can cause problems. If you focus too much on one goal, you might overlook smaller behaviors that contribute to it. Your goal might be to stop leash pulling, but a trainer may notice other behaviors feeding the problem. Your dog might need to build a stronger working relationship with you first to reduce pulling.

My advice: set goals, but stay flexible. Don’t get so fixed on one outcome that you miss the micro skills your dog needs to succeed. This is where an experienced trainer can help.

And if you have no idea what you want to train, that’s okay too! Maybe you just want to train for fun or to give your dog mental exercise. In that case, your goal can simply be: “I want to train my dog for fun.” Goals don’t have to be before-and-after scenarios. Sometimes the process itself—the new habits and connection you build—is the goal.

Takeaway: Have a general idea of what you hope to gain from training, but stay open to adapting and taking trainer feedback. A good trainer will help you identify the smaller steps you need to reach your bigger goals.

An Important Tip About Training Moments

If you only think about dog training during class once or twice a week, you’ll greatly limit your results.

Have you ever bought an online course and never finished it? Or bought art supplies you never used? I have! Life gets busy, and even with the best intentions, plans change. But dogs keep learning, whether or not we’re “training.” They’re always paying attention and learning from us.

Don’t panic—there’s an easy fix. You don’t need to train for hours. A few short practice sessions sprinkled throughout your week can make a big difference. The purpose of class is to carve out focused time with your dog, but outside of class, weave training into daily life.

Set small reminders in visible places. If you have a favorite picture of your dog in class, make it your phone wallpaper or print it for your desk. Use a leash reserved only for training and hang it by the door as a visual cue.

Every time you interact with your dog, you’re teaching something, whether you realize it or not. If your dog jumps and you pet him, you’re reinforcing jumping, which will cause more jumping. Consistency matters.

Training shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Once you start fitting small training moments into your regular routine, you’ll create a new habit and see results faster.

The Types of Classes You Choose

Choosing the right class is important. Flexible schedules are ideal because you can catch up if you miss a week or drop into a similar-level class.

One thing I notice is that people often improve their technique the most in classes they least expect. Cross-training between manners and Trickovation® can be eye-opening. Tricks can deepen your understanding of training principles—it’s not just about what you teach but how well you understand the process, so you can continue at home.

Can I Train My Dog Myself?

Yes! There’s a lot you can accomplish at home. In fact, I offer an online academy and a community to support people with at-home training.

But getting your dog out to train in a new environment has real value:

• You’ll learn to work around distractions.
  
  

• You’ll meet new people and dogs.
  
  

• You’ll have professional feedback and encouragement.
  
  

It’s especially important for puppies to attend appropriate puppy classes for socialization and early learning.

Conclusion

There’s a lot you can (and should) do at home, but training classes help you and your dog succeed with a range of goals while providing structure, feedback, and community support.

Working with your dog between classes is essential—set reminders, build routines, or join a supportive space like our Trickovation® Circle to stay consistent.

Have questions or thoughts? Reach out here—I’d love to hear from you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Trying to decide if dog training is worth it? Here are some answers to questions people commonly ask.

• 1. Can I train my dog myself?

  Yes! You can teach many skills at home with consistency and clear communication. Still, a good training class gives you structured guidance, real-world distractions, and support from a professional who can help troubleshoot quickly.

• 2. How long does dog training take?

  Every dog learns at their own pace, but with short, focused practice sessions, most people start to notice progress within a few weeks. Staying consistent and building small habits between classes makes the biggest difference.

• 3. What type of dog training class should I choose?

  That depends on your goals. Group classes are great for socialization and working around distractions, while private lessons give you one-on-one coaching. Many of my students do a mix for the best results.

• 4. How can I get more out of dog training classes?

  Practice small training moments at home, stay patient, and keep training fun! Training shouldn’t feel like homework—it should strengthen your connection with your dog.

• 5. Are dog training classes worth it for experienced dog owners?

  Yes! Even if you’ve trained dogs before, every dog is unique. Professional classes can challenge you to refine your timing, learn new games or techniques, and keep training fresh for both you and your dog.