Brain Training for Dogs review: is it right for your dog?
Brain Training for Dogs — at a glance
- Created by
- Adrienne Farricelli, CPDT-KA certified trainer
- Method
- 100% force-free, reward-based, built on mental stimulation games
- What you get
- 7 progressive modules, 21+ brain games, 7 trick videos, obedience lessons, 100+ behavior articles, puppy section, members' forum
- Best for
- Everyday problems (barking, pulling, jumping, chewing, not listening), puppies, bored or high-energy dogs
- Price
- $67 one-time at the time of writing (no subscription)
- Guarantee
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Covered by a 60-day money-back guarantee — try it risk-free
Short version: Brain Training for Dogs is built around one idea — that many behavior problems come from boredom and a lack of mental stimulation. Instead of drilling commands, it teaches obedience and fixes common problems through games that make your dog think, using only gentle, reward-based methods. It's a strong fit for owners who want a structured plan they can follow at home, at their own pace.
Who created it?
The course was created by Adrienne Farricelli, a professional dog trainer certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA). According to her official bio, her work has been featured in USA Today, she has run a board-and-train business, and she has trained service dogs for military veterans. She is a vocal advocate of force-free training. That matters: many online dog training programs are created by people with no professional credentials at all.
What independent reviewers say
- Dogster, one of the largest dog publications in the US, named Brain Training for Dogs the "Best Value" pick in its 2026 roundup of dog training courses, rating it 4.5/5. Its main criticism: the official sales page is "a bit salesy".
- A veterinary advisor at petMD is quoted on the official site praising the course as a clear, practical answer to boredom-driven problems.
- Certified credentials: CPDT-KA is an independent certification that requires hands-on experience and passing an exam — something few online course creators have.
We agree with Dogster about the sales page — it's very enthusiastic. That's why we've laid out the plain facts here, so you can decide calmly.
Inside the course, module by module
The main course is organized like a school, from the basics up to advanced "genius" tricks. Each module adds new games that build on the skills from the one before:
| Module | What your dog works on |
|---|---|
| 1. Preschool | The foundation: paying attention to you, eye contact and target training (touching a target on cue). |
| 2. Elementary | Using the nose and senses — scent and search games that relieve the boredom behind many problems. |
| 3. High School | Patience and impulse control, including how to settle down quickly after getting excited. |
| 4. College | Concentration and body control — including staying calm with an open door. |
| 5. University | Confidence and focus, including a game to reduce barking at people or dogs seen through the window. |
| 6. Graduation | Advanced skills: following your movements closely and learning toys by name. |
| 7. Einstein | "Genius level" tricks like tidying up toys and stacking rings. |
On top of the seven modules, members also get:
- Obedience 101 — sit, down, stay, heel, come and "drop it", plus how to fade out food rewards so your dog listens without treats.
- 7 trick training videos (bow, shake, roll over, play dead and more).
- A library of 100+ articles on specific behavior problems, plus a dedicated puppy section (potty training, crate training, socialization and bite inhibition).
- Bonus course: Behavior Training for Dogs, focused on whining, digging, barking, chewing and jumping.
- Support: a way to submit questions, and a private members' forum.
See every module and the bonus course on the official site.
View the full course60-day money-back guarantee
Is it worth the price?
At the time of writing, the full course costs $67, one time. For comparison:
| Option | Typical cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Brain Training for Dogs | $67 once | Lifetime access to all modules, articles and bonus; repeat lessons anytime |
| Group obedience class | Usually more, per multi-week course | A fixed schedule; good for socialization |
| Private trainer | Often $100+ per session in the US | Hands-on, personal help — best for serious issues |
With the 60-day money-back guarantee, the real risk is low: if the approach doesn't suit you or your dog, you can ask for a refund.
Pros and cons
What we like
- Created by a certified professional trainer
- 100% force-free, reward-based methods
- Tackles boredom — a root cause many programs ignore
- Clear step-by-step progression across 7 modules
- Works for puppies through adult dogs
- One-time price, 60-day guarantee
Keep in mind
- Online only — no trainer watching your dog in person
- Results depend on short, regular practice; it isn't a quick fix
- The official sales page is very hype-heavy
- Serious aggression or severe anxiety needs a vet or behavior professional
Who it's a good fit for
- Owners dealing with everyday problems like barking, jumping, pulling, chewing or not listening
- New puppy owners who want a clear plan from the start
- High-energy or very smart dogs that get bored easily
- Anyone who prefers gentle methods over punishment
Who should skip it
- Owners of dogs with serious aggression toward people — start with your vet and a qualified behavior professional
- People who won't set aside a few minutes a day to practice
- Anyone who wants in-person classes or one-on-one coaching
Still comparing options? See our roundup of the best online dog training courses.
Frequently asked questions
Does online dog training actually work?
For everyday behavior problems, yes — as long as you practice. You are the one training your dog either way; a good course gives you a clear plan, demonstrations and troubleshooting. For aggression or severe anxiety, in-person professional help is the better choice.
Will it work for an older or stubborn dog?
Dogs can learn at any age. Older dogs may need shorter sessions and more patience, and "stubborn" dogs are often simply under-motivated or bored — which is exactly what the game-based approach targets. Check with your vet first if your senior dog has health or mobility issues.
How much time do I need each day?
Short sessions work best — a few minutes, a couple of times a day. Many of the games can be fitted into normal daily routines.
Do I need special equipment?
Mostly treats and everyday household items, like a muffin tin, a few cups or balls. Some of the advanced tricks use simple toys.
Is it good for puppies?
Yes. There's a dedicated puppy section covering potty training, crate training, socialization and bite inhibition, and the early modules are a great start for young dogs.
What if I don't like it?
The course comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. The purchase is processed by ClickBank, which handles refund requests.
Is it a subscription?
No. At the time of writing, it's a one-time payment that gives you access to the members' area.
Our verdict
If your dog's problems are the everyday kind and you're willing to practice a little each day, Brain Training for Dogs is a solid, humane and well-structured option from a credentialed trainer — and independent reviewers agree it's one of the best values available. Its focus on mental stimulation tackles a root cause many other programs ignore. If you're dealing with serious aggression, invest in in-person professional help instead.
Not ready to buy? Try a game in the style of the course with our free 5-minute focus game, take our 1-minute behavior quiz, or start with our free guides on barking, leash pulling and puppy biting.
Ready to try it? See the full course details and current price.
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