According to Kalnajs, it is best to include the cost of dog training in the total cost of purchasing a new dog or puppy. According to her, the total cost of training can range anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000 in the first year, depending on where you live and how much training you want.
That total cost goes up if you live in a place where living costs are higher or if you want professionals to do all of the training and provide a lot of support. According to Kalnajs, training of the "Rolls Royce" variety can cost more than $4,000 per year.
Also, bear in mind: We still need to worry about inflation, and there is a lot of demand for trainers. Rates have gone up as a result, including hers.
According to Kalnajs, "there are way more dogs than there are trainers [now]."
Individual sessions will set you back between $100 and $200 per hour in the Midwest, where Kalnajs is based. She charges $140 for each hour of basic training. Again, that is in the Midwest, so you can anticipate paying more in areas with higher living costs.)
RELATED: How to Begin Training Your Dog and Why It's So Important Here are Some Other Training Options, Depending on Your Budget
According to Kalnajs, a group training class in which you and your dog learn to sit, stay, and lie down alongside other owners and dogs can cost between $150 and $200 for several weeks of training with one class per week. However, the price may be higher in areas with high cost of living. Although you won't get as much face time with the instructor leading your classes, that is definitely a more affordable option.
Stay-and-train, also known as board-and-train, is a method in which you leave your dog or puppy with a trainer for several days at a time. The puppy will be able to learn basic commands and house rules in this way. If you don't have the time to train a puppy yourself, this is a good option, but it's expensive. The Blue Dog at Kalnajs costs $3,600. Keep in mind that if you want the results to last, you'll need to keep working out at home.
Another option is consultations for puppies or new dogs. A trainer like Kalnajs will come to your house and give you advice on how to teach and care for your new dog in the best way. The total cost of those sessions at Blue Dog is $395.
You can train your dog with free resources even if you're short on cash because dogs are expensive. Kalnajs suggests Simpawtico Dog Training, JW Dog Training and Behavior, and Dog Training by Kikopup as online trainers.
What to Look for (and Avoid) in a Dog Trainer While choosing the right trainer is essential, price is a factor. Also, if your first trainer doesn't work, do you really want to pay for another one? Fortunately, Kalnajs and we are aware of what to look for and what to steer clear of.
How to Find Credentials:
Does the title of your potential dog trainer include any acronyms? That is encouraging. For instance, a certified professional dog trainer will have the designation CPDT-KA after their name, as Kalnajs does. They have passed an exam and completed hundreds of hours of training. If your dog needs assistance with problem behaviors like reactivity or anxiety, some trainers may also be certified behavior consultants (CDBC, CBCC-KA).
Experience: It is a positive sign if a trainer has continued their own education and presented at conferences or attended them. You can probably trust a trainer who has been in the business for a long time; however, you shouldn't be afraid to hire a younger trainer as long as they are certified and show a commitment to their own education and training.
Is a behaviorist needed?
Using a trainer, you can teach your dog tricks and cues. However, according to Kalnajs, you should consult a behaviorist or behavior consultant if your dog is engaging in unwelcome behavior.
RELATED: How to Train a Deaf Dog What to Avoid: People who claim to be able to fix anything or who promise a quick fix: Those are known as "red flags" by Kalnajs. Dog issues can be difficult to solve or complex at times. Additionally, due to the lack of regulation in the dog training industry, you should be on the lookout for guarantees that appear too good to be true.
Aversive methods-based instructors: Look elsewhere if you see trainers using choke chains, shock collars, or other harmful techniques. Positive reinforcement methods should only be used by reputable trainers.
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