The best online dog training courses of 2026
Online courses can save you hundreds of dollars compared with private lessons — but quality varies wildly. Some are created by certified professionals; others by marketers with no credentials, teaching outdated punishment-based methods. Here are the options we think are worth your time, and who each one suits best.
Quick comparison
| Course | Best for | Format | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brain Training for Dogs Best value | Everyday problems, puppies, bored dogs | Online course + articles + forum | $67 one-time |
| Ian Dunbar on Udemy Best video depth | Owners who want long, science-based video lectures | Video course | Varies (Udemy pricing) |
| Doggy Dan's Online Dog Trainer Most video examples | Learning by watching real dogs being trained | Video membership | Varies (check plans) |
| Local group classes | Socialization, basic manners | In person | Per multi-week course |
| Private trainer / behaviorist | Aggression, severe anxiety | In person | Often $100+ per session |
Our picks in detail
Brain Training for Dogs
By Adrienne Farricelli, CPDT-KA · $67 one-time · 60-day money-back guarantee
A game-based course that tackles behavior problems through mental stimulation. It moves through seven "school" modules — from Preschool basics like attention and targeting to "Einstein" level tricks — plus obedience lessons, trick videos, 100+ behavior articles, a puppy section and a members' forum. All methods are force-free.
Dogster also named it the best-value dog training course of 2026.
Pros
- Certified trainer
- Force-free only
- Low one-time price
- Clear progression
Cons
- Online only
- Hype-heavy sales page
- Not for serious aggression
60-day money-back guarantee
Ian Dunbar's courses on Udemy
By Dr. Ian Dunbar, veterinarian and animal behaviorist · Video lectures · Udemy pricing
Dr. Dunbar is one of the pioneers of reward-based training and of off-leash puppy classes. His Udemy courses, such as Science-Based Dog Training and How to Train a Puppy, offer many hours of in-depth video. They're excellent if you enjoy understanding the theory behind training. They are lecture-style, so they feel less like a step-by-step program and more like a class.
Pros
- World-renowned expert
- Many hours of video
- Science-based, reward-based
Cons
- Long lectures, less hands-on structure
- Separate courses for puppies and adult dogs
Doggy Dan's Online Dog Trainer
By Dan Abdelnoor ("Doggy Dan") · Video membership · Check current plans
A large library of videos showing real dogs and owners working through common problems. It's a good choice if you learn best by watching. Its framing leans on the idea of the owner as "pack leader" — calm leadership rather than force — which some owners like and others find dated compared with purely reward-based programs.
Pros
- Lots of real-life video
- Covers many problems
Cons
- Membership pricing
- "Pack leader" framing isn't for everyone
When online training isn't enough
Online courses are a great fit for everyday problems. But if your dog has bitten or tried to bite someone, shows intense fear, or panics when left alone, please work with your veterinarian and a qualified behavior professional. Look for credentials such as CPDT-KA, CDBC or a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB).
How to choose the right course
- Check credentials. Look for a recognized certification like CPDT-KA. Be wary of anyone who doesn't list theirs.
- Insist on force-free methods. Avoid courses that recommend shock collars, leash jerks or intimidation.
- Match the format to how you learn. Step-by-step program, long lectures or lots of example videos?
- Look for a guarantee. A money-back guarantee lets you try a course with little risk.
- Be realistic. Every course needs a few minutes of practice a day. No program is a magic fix.
Frequently asked questions
Are online dog training courses worth it?
For everyday problems like pulling, barking, jumping and basic obedience, a good course is often the most affordable way to get a clear plan. You do the training either way — a course gives you the steps and troubleshooting.
Which course is best for puppies?
Brain Training for Dogs includes a dedicated puppy section, and Ian Dunbar has a puppy-specific course on Udemy. Both use reward-based methods.
Which is the cheapest good option?
Of the courses here, Brain Training for Dogs offers the most complete program for a single one-time price, which is why we (and Dogster) rate it the best value.
How we chose
We compared courses on the creator's credentials, training methods (force-free only), how complete and structured the program is, price and refund policy, and what established independent reviewers say. Our descriptions are based on each course's official information and third-party reviews. We earn a commission from Brain Training for Dogs links; we do not earn from the other options listed. See our affiliate disclosure.