Dog training can be difficult to approach because all dogs learn at different paces. Luckily, there are experts out there who can help get the ball rolling when it comes to learning new skills.
In the following article, we listed down the best dog training services in Dublin to help owners find the best resources for their furry friend.
How much does dog training cost?
Dog trainers and training centers can provide different types of classes when it comes to learning new skills. Commonly, these classes can teach abilities like agility and loose lead walking.
Below is a list of price estimates for different types of dog classes.
Top Dog Training Services in Dublin
We assessed the dog trainers based on the following criteria:
1. Dublin Dog Training
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
With a process and selection that is as straightforward as their namesake, Dublin Dog Training offers owners and their companions a curated yet personalized training experience.
What we like about them is their well founded list of qualifications. They are headed by John Ward, who has previously worked with dogs of varying ages and breeds since 1982.
Dublin Dog Training does only offer two types of classes, which is comparatively more limited than other facilities. However, we can appreciate that they take a fun, yet hands-on approach when it comes to teaching.
Customer testimonials praise how understanding and caring the staff are as well as their use of positive reinforcement during sessions. This explains why many customers return frequently to them for dog training.
Agility lessons are one of the class types they offer. What we like about these sessions is that they are offered all year round and the price per class is also very affordable.
Additionally, owners can choose different difficulty levels. We like this a lot because they cater different owner objectives.
Owners can opt for beginner classes if they want their dogs to learn for fun while owners who are preparing their dogs for competitions can choose the advanced sessions category.
The other class type they offer is their obedience training sessions. Similar to their agility lessons, we like that they offer both levels of beginners and intermediate.
What’s great about their advanced classes is that it includes training for entry into the Good Citizens Award by the Irish Kennel Club. However, it would be best to plan for their obedience lessons ahead as they are only seasonal, running from April to October.
Pros
- Extensive background of trailer
- Fun approach and staff have a great understanding of dogs
- Offer different levels of agility sessions
- Affordable lesson prices
Cons
- Seasonal obedience classes
- More limited options for training
Customer Reviews
Fantastic Trainer
The trainer John at DDT is absolutely fantastic. He has years of experience dealing with dogs of all ages, breeds and backgrounds. John uses only positive reinforcement with dogs so that every dog that walks through his gate enjoys every aspect of training. The equipment is competition standard and the arena is sand so you can train the dogs all year round. Highly recommended. -Aisling Murtagh
Fun Agility Training
Highly recommend. Excellent, intuitive and fun agility training (for both dog and owner!). John clearly has a deep understanding and empathy for dogs. -Liv B
2. Pawfection Dog Training
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Pawfection Dog Training certainly has the resources and knowledge to help owners who are struggling to connect with their dogs on a behavioral level.
Their behaviorist, Kevin Garaghty, has a BSc Hons in Canine Training and Behavior. He also has a background in rescue training, working with dogs with nervous or fearful temperaments.
We appreciate that this type of expertise is able to help out owners who have a hard time approaching their pets. This makes them an excellent choice if you’ve recently rescued a dog and are struggling to bond with them.
Many clients we’ve spoken to point out how helpful Pawfection Dog Training is in providing advice. This training centre also has a great approach to puppies and first time dog owners.
We also like that their range of classes works in tandem with teaching puppies valuable foundational skills. They offer both a puppy playschool and manners classes which can help dogs develop their recall, focus, and toilet training.
We do however forewarn that these classes are each limited to 5 week courses.
Besides classes, they also have a training and behavior category. We were very impressed with how extensive these unique packages were. Not only does it build the knowledge of the owner, but the dog’s skills as well.
For example, they have behavior consultations which helps in devising training plans for dogs with behavioral issues. Make sure to check the prices of each of their offerings as some classes are more costly than the average dog training session.
Pros
- Extensive background on canine behavior and fearful dogs
- Excellent choice for first time dog owners or puppy owners
- Great at providing owners with advice
- Fantastic range of classes and training sessions
Cons
- Classes are limited to 5 week courses
- Prices slightly more costly
Customer Reviews
Taught Us so Much
We contacted Kevin to book a 1-1 training session with him. After our 1-1 training session we decided to do his 5 week puppy training classes too. Kevin was amazing. He’s taught us so much as first time dog owners and I can’t thank or recommend him enough. Professional, super friendly and definitely knows his stuff. Kobi is absolutely flying after all his training. 🙂 -Leanne Kane
Shows you How to Use Training in a Fun Way
We’ve brought both our dogs to Kevin as pups and couldn’t be happier. Kevin shows you what to do, and how to use the training for a fun way to bond with your dog and use the training behaviours in all kinds of situations with homework and practice. We even got a head start on our training with our new pup because we could apply all the basics we’d learned with our first from day 1 and now he’s just the best behaved boy! Highly recommend! -Orlagh Smith
3. Golden Perfection
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
While Golden Perfection runs on a smaller scale compared to other dog trainers, they do provide an excellent tailor fit experience perfect for those looking for a wide range of individual classes.
It is owned by Orla McDonnell who has a background in zoology, animal behavior, dog grooming and first aid. She has previously worked with all kinds of animals from dolphins to sting rays but now focuses Golden Perfection on dog behavioral care.
What stands out to us is their flexible and personal approach with each canine they care for. Orla highlights her use of the positive reinforcement method, and on top of this, we like how her process closely observes the dog’s daily lives
She pays attention to the dog’s body language and potential stressors in order to tailor fit a plan of action. Many clients we’ve spoken to praise how attentive and knowledgeable she is when it comes to their pet’s behavior.
We highly recommend her services if you’re curious about your dog’s patterns and you would like a very personalized assessment.
In terms of Golden Perfection’s specific services, we really like that there is a wide range for 1-2-1 sessions, which includes puppy training, behavior modification and solo time training for separation anxiety.
However, we do note that compared to other dog training services, she may be more limited on options for group classes.
Pros
- Flexible and personal approach
- Owner’s background in zoology and animal care
- Also offers grooming
- Great selection of more individual type training
Cons
- Limited options for socializing classes
- Grooming hours and office hours are limited to weekdays
Customer Reviews
Helped Improve Our Dogs’ Individual and Social Behavior
Orla has really helped improve our dogs behaviour, both individually and their relationship together. She provides tailored training plans following sessions and adjusts these as the dogs progress. She is very knowledgeable and makes time to respond to questions between sessions if required. On a personal level she is also a delight to deal with. -Emma Howard
Very Attentive and Provided so much Knowledge
We have been going to Orla for almost a year and have availed of grooming and training services. She is very attentive and takes great care to consider our dogs behaviour and concerns while being groomed. She is always on hand to offer advice and tips for aftercare. We also did a number of 1:1 training sessions and we were provided with so much knowledge and tips to implement ourselves. We saw great progress with our puppy as a result of our time spent with Orla. She is lovely to deal with and very responsive, highly recommend Orla for her services! -Naoise Moloney
4. Positive Dog Training
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Positive Dog Training aims to foster a friendly atmosphere to provide dogs with a fun yet educational experience during their stay.
They were founded in 2011 by Liz McDonagh who has an array of qualifications including a membership at the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers. Since then they have grown their staff to ensure that all of are both qualified and insured.
What we like about them is that customers can know that their dogs are in good hands as all of their personnel are trained in first aid, should any accident arise.
Positive Dog Training also impresses us with the range of services they have to offer. Looking at their training classes and sessions, we like how these include both group classes and private training.
Owners can avail of classes like puppy preschool where they can teach your pooch the basics, or a 4 week manners course designed for teenage to adult dogs to learn skills like emergency stops and focus exercise.
It’s a solid selection of courses that can cater to dogs of any age. We would like to mention however that these classes vary from time and can be filled up due to the high demand.
Another note of highlight is that Positive Dog Training also offers other services that greatly complement dog training. We like that customers can also have their dogs pampered and bathed through their grooming services.
If you’re looking for a trainer that can provide dogs with a fun space to roam and be supervised then Positive Dog Training might be a great option.
Pros
- Highly qualified staff
- Offers both group and private classes
- Has a shop for harnesses and toys
- Their facilities have a daycare and grooming service as well
Cons
- Available classes vary from time to time
- Facilities are more limited to indoor spaces
Customer Reviews
Friendly and Patient
It was an incredible trip and all the staff were very friendly and patient with the furry children. Videos will also be sent after the course to help us train at home, highly recommended 👍🏻👍🏻 – 阿甜阿
Very Attentive Staff
A great place to get your dog meet other dogs. Our dog Zeus attended a 6-week behaviour training when he was about 4 months old and we are happy with the result. We bring him to puppy social hour too every Saturday so he will get used to other dogs. It’s 10 euro for 1 hour and you get a free coffee/tea/hot choco and pastry! 😀 The staff are very attentive to all the dog’s needs and they know how to deal with every dog behaviour which is very reassuring! -Jann Lucille Loncio
5. DSPCA Dog Training
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
If you’re looking for an academy that has a very comprehensive and thorough list of training options, then we highly recommend DSPCA Dog Training as your best bet.
Over the years, they strive to rehome, save and rehabilitate animals who are ill or face any mistreatment. They won the Animal Health and Wellness award back in 2018 for their efforts
Located in Rathfarnham, we like that they have a very spacious facility for training dogs both indoors and outdoors. These areas can greatly accommodate the various types of workshops and classes they offer.
Speaking of these sessions, we really like that their selections offer different levels of advancement as well as very specific skill development. It allows owners more freedom in customizing a program that fits their dog.
For example, dogs can participate in scent classes which can teach them how to retrieve specific items based on following its smell. They can also opt between level one and level two training classes, each with different difficulty skill degrees.
Take note however that the handlers during their classes must be 18 years old and above to participate.
A standout to us about DSPCA Dog Training, is that they also offer a substantial amount of classes for people to learn more about dogs and dog training. It’s not something that is usually offered in any training facility.
People can learn more about canine behavior as well as what you should do when your dog meets your baby for the first time.
They are surely an excellent choice when it comes to both training and dog owner education.
Pros
- Has a pet hotel and doggie daycare
- Also offers classes for owners to learn about dogs
- Have sizeable indoor and outdoor facilities
- Great selection of dog training sessions
Cons
- Handler of the dog needs to be 18+ years old
- 48 hour cancellation window for private sessions
Customer Reviews
Our Puppy had an Amazing Time
Brought my puppy Blue to her first of four puppy classes today and she had an amazing time! She struggled at first with being a little overwhelmed but Suzanne really took her time helping Blue feel comfortable and by the end blue was having the time of her life, learning new things and making friends. The exercises were fun and engaging for the puppies and didn’t overwhelm or overstimulate them, while keeping their attention. 10/10 can’t wait for out next class! – Eimear Mulligan
Our Puppy Learned Loads
Just finished puppy training and it was wonderful. My puppy got lots of socialisation and she learned loads in just four weeks. I never could have trained her that well that quickly. The classes were small – 4 puppies and there were always either 3 or 4 trainers so it was essentially a 1-2-1 course. Lots of tips and helpful info via emails, I would highly reccomend for training your puppy in the correct way fast. -Shannon Hope
6. Give That Paw
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Next up on our list are training professionals who have successfully worked with grown dogs and puppies in the past: Give That Paw.
Aoife of Give That Paw has a long history with animals, particularly dogs, given that she worked as a kennel and vet assistant for a year before moving on to a doggy day-care center, where she managed over thirty dogs regularly and even trained some of them.
Now, there are many things we like about Give That Paw aside from Aoife’s experience handling dogs professionally. For one, they offer in-home consultations, allowing Aoife to better understand the dog’s temperament and behavioral patterns. They also offer dog behavioral training as well as puppy training for pet owners in Dublin.
Not only that, but Give That Paw also offers pet sitting services to ensure your dog will be taken care of while you’re away. This is especially ideal if you have a hard time getting someone to look after your dog while you’re gone or don’t trust kennels with the care of your four-legged friend.
All in all, we would highly recommend Give That Paw if you are looking for dog training sessions in Dublin! Aoife guarantees nothing short of quality results that should help dog owners better understand their furry companions and take steps towards improving their relationships.
Pros
- Over 4 years of experience
- Diplomas of Level 3 in Canine Anxiety & Puppy Training
- Dog sitting services are insured
- Online consultation available
- Can travel all throughout Ireland for dog sitting and training if needed
Cons
7. Barking Up the Right Tree
| Background and experience | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Following up are trainers who follow a unique process when it comes to training dogs: Barking Up The Right Tree.
They caught our eye with their approach to dog training, which is one that we seldom see during our reviews. Instead of handling the dogs, the trainers from Barking Up The Right Tree assist the owners in training their own dogs.
Barking Up The Right Tree believes that the best people to train dogs are their owners since they are in the unique position to understand their dogs better than any other person in the world. They offer in-home training sessions that focus on teaching owners how to reinforce good behaviors and eliminate bad ones in a humane, respectful way.
Additionally, Barking Up The Right Tree offers loose leash walking and walk and train services for owners who want to take their in-home training on the go.
For pet owners in Dublin, Barking Up The Right Tree is a great choice for dog training services. Their in-home sessions and walk and train services can help owners reinforce good behaviors in an effective, humane way. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable, professional dog trainers.
Pros
- Specializes in helping clients train their own dogs
- Provides clear, scientifically proven instructions for owners to follow
- FETAC 6 in Canine Training and Behaviour and qualified through INTODogs
Cons
- Few reviews on Google
8. The Crate Escape
| Background and experience | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Pros
- Wide range of services for dog training
- Qualified IMDT trainer
- Force-free and scientific-evidence based methods
Cons
- Operating hours not listed on website
9. Lucie’s Pooches Dog Training
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Pros
- Qualified Canine Behavior & Training Technician (CBTT) Trainer
- Bespoke training plans
- On-going support even after training
Cons
- Closed on Sundays
10. Fairy Dogmother Dublin
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
When it comes to dog training, you must work with trustworthy trainers to ensure that your beloved pet learns in a safe and healthy environment. That’s why we highly recommend Fairy Dogmother dog training sessions in Dublin.
Fairy Dogmother accommodates dogs of all ages. They offer private training sessions as well as group classes, so they can cater to every dog’s individual needs. With group classes, your dog will have the opportunity to interact with other dogs and learn group socialization skills.
Along with group training sessions, Fairy Dogmother also offers home boarding services where you can leave your pup in a secure environment while you’re away. The trainers are highly experienced and knowledgeable in canine behavior, and they know how to supervise all dogs during their stay.
Fairy Dogmother also specializes in tricks training for pet owners who want to show off their pets’ amazing skills. Whether it’s learning basic commands or more complex tricks, Fairy Dogmother has got you covered!
Ultimately, Fairy Dogmother is one of the best options out there for reliable and quality training sessions in the Dublin area. With their group classes, home boarding services, and tricks training expertise, your pup is sure to benefit from their programs.
Pros
- Many years of experience
- Specializes in working with nervous dogs and rescue dogs
- Training done through positive reinforcement and games
Cons
- May be fully booked and unavailable
11. The Fairy Dogmother
| SERVICES | Training Boarding Woof Club |
| WEBSITE | http://fairydogmotherdublin.com |
| ADDRESS | Dublin 16 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 9 PM |
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Fairy Dogmother Dublin is a specialized canine training and home-boarding business situated in South Dublin that was established by Rachel in 2019.
Although Rachel has been working with dogs professionally since 2012, Fairy Dogmother Dublin was only founded in 2019. They cover all facets of training a companion dog, such as teaching them tricks and teaching them good manners for puppies and dogs. They also include enrichment and confidence-building activities for dogs.
Even though they are able to deal with all dogs, Rachel has a special interest in helping anxious and rescue dogs gain confidence by using a combination of manners, tricks, and enrichment. Positive reinforcement (rewarding desired behavior while ignoring undesirable behavior) and games are used for all training. Rachel never employs coercion, fear, or suffering.
Based in South Dublin, Fairy Dogmother primarily serves South Dublin and North Wicklow. Please get in touch if you live somewhere other than these locations since Rachel could still be able to come to you or suggest another trainer. On Tuesday nights and Saturday mornings, Rachel instructs group lessons close to Enniskerry. She offers private instruction at your house as well. They also offer free public online classes.
Pros
- Experienced trainers
- Open seven days a week
- Over 10 years of experience
Cons
- Rates are not specified online
Customer Reviews
She was super kind to Bruno and you can see her love for dogs.
“Rachel did 3 one-to-one puppy training sessions with Bruno and she was absolutely amazing. She really knows her stuff when it comes to dog training and also gets to know your dog and what she thinks they need. We worked on various commands, learning to sit nicely and recall. She also sends you detailed notes after each session which is super helpful. I would highly recommend Rachel for dog training, she was super kind to Bruno and you can see her love for dogs.” – Laura Stronge
I’m delighted I found Rachel to take care of Charlie, & would highly recommend her.
“My dog Charlie has stayed with Rachel a few times. He loves it & runs to Rachel when I drop him off. Rachel is great at keeping me updated on how Charlie is doing. When I collect him & bring him home, there are no behavioural issues after leaving him for a while, a sure sign he’s had a happy & contented stay. I’m delighted I found Rachel to take care of Charlie, & would highly recommend her.” – Aoife Griffin
12. Woof Me
| SERVICES | https://woofme.ie/all-services/ |
| WEBSITE | https://woofme.ie/ |
| ADDRESS | Contact for more information |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 087 608 6453 [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Contact for more information |
| Background and experience | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Facilities | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Range of classes | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Skills taught | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer experiences | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Satisfaction | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Staff attitude and approach | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Woof Me was originally founded in 2014 in Greece, and eventually came to Ireland in 2020.
This small business was started by Artemis who has been a professional positive dog trainer for over eight years. She’s received numerous qualifications, attended conferences and is a member of various organizations to further her skills.
She mainly did obedience & puppy socialization and behaviour, but is also experienced in working with dogs with behavioural issues.
The services Woof Me offers include Puppy Training Plans, Dog Training Plans, Individual Lessons and Remote Lessons. Custom Plans are also available.
What we like about their method is that they only use positive reinforcement which has been proven to work and keep both dog and owner happy.
We’ve heard of many successful and pleasant experiences with them from their past clients. They’ve been able to positively change the behaviour of many dogs and we find it very impressive.
We highly recommend!
Pros
- Experienced trainers
- Remote lessons and custom plans available
- Makes use of positive reinforcement
Cons
- Don’t do group classes
Customer Reviews
“Artemis, was absolutely brilliant, focus was put on the owner understanding issues and was able to offer great advice to deal with them. Our puppy absolutely hated her crate and sleep was a struggle at the start. Artemis helped our puppy enjoy her crate which has helped with all other issues such as nipping, chewing of furniture and it gave her a chance to self regulate. I would highly recommend woofme to anyone and it is great value and felt like I had constant support when I was feeling overwhelmed. I’m very grateful for all the advice from Woofme.“
“I chose Woof Me because of the ability to customise the training that your dog needs and I was not disappointed. Artemis is extremely friendly and knowledgable. My dog really liked her and she helped us with toilet training which my dog was struggling with. I highly recommend her services.”
FAQs about Dog Training
Training a dog requires a lot of time and effort but we hope our list helps you out in finding the best resources for your canine friend. If you would like to read more of our articles, we also have one about the best dog grooming services in Dublin.