John PerryOkay, confession time—I’m a little intimidated by dogs. Not in the dramatic “run for my life” way, but let’s just say I vibe better with cats. Then I met my friend’s dog, who’s so calm and well-behaved it honestly blew my mind.
That’s when I realized the magic isn’t just in the dog, it’s in the training. So, we went digging into some of the best dog trainers in Philadelphia to see how they turn wild zoomies into peaceful walks.
Think of this as just an outsider’s guide. It’s the kind of research you’d share with a friend who just wants their pup to listen without the stress.
How much do dog trainers charge in Philadelphia?
Dog trainers in Philadelphia charge between $50 and $150 per session. However, prices vary based on factors like the trainer’s methods, the length of training, and whether you choose private lessons or group classes.
1. Opportunity Barks
Address: 38 S 3rd St, PA 19106
Contact Details: +1 267-571-1231
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday-Monday: Closed
Opportunity Barks is the service that trained my friend’s dog. I’ve seen the results firsthand, and wow, what a difference.
They specialize in positive reinforcement and make training unlike “boot camp” and more like teamwork.
What I love is how they don’t just train the dog, they even teach owners too. Yes, as a matter of fact, my friend raves about how the trainers explained every step so clearly. It made it easy to keep the progress going at home.
I honestly like that the training sessions are less about commands and more about communication.
One standout feature is their Farm Dog Adventure Days. City pups get whisked away to wide open spaces to run, sniff, and play. It’s like a vacation with training perks, which is not many Philly trainers offer.
If there’s one drawback, it’s that they’re super popular, so spots can book up fast.
Happy, tired, and thriving at Opportunity Barks
“My dog Kelce has received training at the center city facility and the Farm dog program in Sellersville. You can tell right away that the trainers love the dogs. I feel great about leaving Kelce in their care for the day and she loves going and seeing her human and dog friends! She comes home happy and exhausted. I highly recommend Opportunity Barks.”
- Paul Lutton, Google Review
From insecure rescue to confident, calm companion
“We’ve been taking our dog to Opportunity Barks ‘Farm Dog’ program for almost two years and she loves it! We were referred to Opportunity Barks for training. Their approach was very gentle but effective. We learned that Bailey actually was insecure and lacked confidence; likely from her unstable home arrangements in the past. She had been dropped at a shelter as a puppy and then was placed with a couple during covid; only to be abandon at a boarding facility less than a year later when the couple broke up. Opportunity Barks were able to diagnos the issue and then help us to build her confidence while at the same time gain her trust. She has become such a calm and happy pup; and we owe that in large part to the team at Opportunity Barks.”
- Tom Porter, Google Review
2. SoozyPooch
Address: 800 N 2nd St, Suite 199, PA 19123
Contact Details: +1 717-201-6290
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
If you’re after quick and consistent results, SoozyPooch might be the one for you.
Their approach stands out because their training isn’t about endless drills; it’s built around fun, interactive games that actually teach both you and your dog how to communicate better.
It may feel really personal. They design game plans that zero in on your dog’s quirks, whether that’s pulling on the leash or testing boundaries at home. It’s simple, flexible, and easy to follow.
Plus, I can’t help but notice the variety. With dozens of games to rotate through, sessions never feel repetitive, and the home-based training makes it extra convenient for busy owners. Dogs learn in their real environment, which makes progress stick.
However, it can feel less formal than a structured obedience class, especially since the focus is on playful games rather than strict repetition.
Helped me understand dog language effectively
“I’ve worked with Susan multiple times- with my own dog and also foster dogs. Susan is warm, friendly, and I leave every session with her feeling confident in my skills to implement what I have learned. Susan has helped me work with my dog to learn heel on a walk (and not yank me down the street), helped a foster pitbull get over her fear of vaccums, taught me how to properly introduce dogs, and in general helped me understand dog language and how to effectively communicate with dogs. I have worked with many dog trainers and Susan is hands down the best!”
- ellen balkovec, Google Review
Expert training with patience and a family-friendly approach
“Soozy Pooch is a Most Knowledgeable Dog Trainer! Her Expertise and Kindness were Above and Beyond Expectations! Soozy has tremendous patience and enthusiasm! We have two young boys and she was Amazing with her communication and understanding from a child’s point of view. We Highly Recommend Soozy to anyone who wants the top most competent dog trainer for their pet.”
- David Maslow, Google Review
3. DareDevil Dog Training
Address: 3222 Latona St, PA 19146
Contact Details: +1 610-800-2372
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For those looking for a truly customized solution, I’d recommend DareDevil Dog Training.
Led by head trainer Alyssa Craig, CPT, their programs are designed for city dogs that require more than the basics, such as obedience, reactivity, or even aggression management.
Their Board & Train option stands out right away. A 12-day jump-start is perfect for quicker results, while the 28-day Perfect Pup program digs deep into behavior challenges.
Plus, every package includes follow-up lessons and a go-home session. This shows that training continues long after the stay.
What impressed me the most was the environment. Training happens in the trainer’s home instead of a big kennel, which creates a calmer, more personal setting. I like that they even offer boarding refreshers for graduates.
But the problem is that availability can be tight. Because Alyssa and her team keep the programs immersive and hands-on, spaces fill quickly.
High-drive shepherd transformed with care and skill
“Alyssa had my dog (Ben) for a board and train whilst I had to undergo a medical procedure. His stay with her was quite long at 3 weeks. Although quite well trained from a conventional perspective, Ben is a high drive and highly strung (some would call “difficult”) 90 lb working line German Shepherd involved in dog sports. Alyssa brought out the best of him during his stay and I got back a healthy, happy and calmer dog in the house. She has special qualities as a dog trainer: very calm herself, precise and with an amazing repertoire of training skills – quite honestly the best dog trainer I have come across, and I have met and worked with many! Perhaps as importantly, Alyssa is extremely attentive to detail and takes the time to understand the dog’s particular needs, especially when boarding – whether that is a medication protocol or a special diet, or exercise or play preferences. To summarize, I am lucky to have found Alyssa and Daredevil. If you want your dog to be trained to the highest of standards and be WELL CARED FOR (particularly if board and train), look no further. I would have no hesitation in recommending Alyssa whatever your dog’s issues might be – She really is the best of the best!”
- zahed subhan, Google Review
Detailed, personalized training that delivers results
“Alyssa was fantastic. She gave me a free consultation to learn about me and my dog and what our situation was. Afterwards she paired me with an available trainer to work with us in private lessons on the specific issues we were having. Sami is still my trainer, and she is wonderful. So knowledgeable and thorough. After a each session, she provides a very thorough lesson plan based on that day’s topics and our goals, with detailed instructions and recommendations regarding schedule changes, exercises and games we can do, equipment/tools we may want to get, etc. The program is worth every penny, my border collie Ripley is so much more well behaved, and she is finally mastering how to relax in the house and turn off that motor with that endless border collie energy lol. 😆🐶”
- Casey Lorimer, Google Review
4. All Canines Academy
Address: 4143 Main St, PA 19127
Contact Details: +1 267-651-8821
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday, Sunday: Closed
When it comes to dog training in Philly, All Canines Academy pops up again and again. Locals swear by head trainer Mike Purcell, CPDT-KSA, and it makes sense. He’s got the credibility and the community trust to back it up.
The setup is flexible. My friend was able to book private lessons, join group classes, or participate in their dog-free courses. All of these taught her the basics before the pups got involved.
Their membership model also deserves a nod. Ongoing sessions, resources, and direct trainer support make it feel more like a partnership than a class. Packages are there too, if you want something short and simple.
Yet, the membership style might not be for everyone. If you prefer a one-and-done approach, it may feel like too much commitment, as it’s best suited for those who opt for steady progress.
Patient trainer who keeps owners involved
“We absolutely loved working with Mike. He has a welcoming training approach and was so patient with our dog. He also quickly showed us that our pup is trainable. We loved how Mike had us be very involved during sessions so that we could continue training on our own at home. He also has a texting line making it convenient to check in between sessions. We highly recommend Mike for all your doggy training needs!”
- Ariana Schofield, Google Review
Stronger communication and lasting results
“I have golden retriever puppy, who I was having difficulty communicating with, she would sometimes follow commands. Following Mike’s program I was able to better understand the behavior my dog was displaying and how best to deal with it. We developed a better way to communicate with recall and engagement through play. I had several puppy training classes with other organizations and nothing was worked as well as All Canines. The classes are a bit pricey but well worth the expense, the relationship I now have with my pup is so much better and I look forward to her continued growth. Can’t thank you enough!!”
- Lisa G, Google Review
5. Dognify
Address: 1245 S Bonsall St, PA 19146
Contact Details: +1 267-269-0260
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
What makes Dognify unique is its focus on behavior. Instead of rushing into lessons, they start with a detailed behavioral assessment that digs into the root of the problem. It’s honestly a smart move that sets them apart from the one-size-fits-all trainers.
The follow-up sessions are straightforward. Each treatment session costs between $100 and $150, which keeps pricing transparent and easy to plan for. It’s not about flashy extras here; it’s about clarity and consistent results.
I also appreciate how simple the service menu is. No overwhelming packages or endless class lists, just assessment and treatment tailored to each dog.
However, the narrow range of services may not appeal to everyone. Since Dognify focuses almost entirely on assessments and behavior treatment, it won’t be the best match for owners who want group classes or puppy socials.
Knowledgeable and patient trainers
“Dignify and Jonathan have been transformative for our dog Patty and our family. We enlisted help for some behavioral issues with Patty and not only got a better behaved dog in the process but learned how to direct her energy and gained a skill to help her through any future issues. Jonathan is so knowledgeable, patient and kind and he is a pleasure to work with. We’ve also had Patty enrolled in weekly walks and runs and she has learned so much as a member of the Dognify pack!”
- Jenna Pizzi, Google Review
Structured guidance for lasting dog-owner harmony
“It was amazing to have Amora and Nutella with Jonatan. His work is amazing and super structured, with many reports, tips and suggestions to work better with them at home. He helped me to understand better the dogs (and respect them) and my relationshipwith them, helping me to create a calmer and secure walk. He also helped me to note and understand their individual needs and accept that everything is a process, some days better than others (which helps with the feeling of frustration during training and day by day). My dogs love him and are really happy every time they see him. Having Jonathan with us was an important and crucial part in our adaptation process with the dogs in another country and still helps us because having dogs is a continuous process of learning and adapting.”
- Carolina Seleguini Person, Google Review
