The Best Dog Training in Huntsville, AL

Huntsville was recently ranked the 7th best place to live in the United States, and it’s no surprise why. The city is home to rich greenways, scenic natural surroundings, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Of course, there are also plenty of dog-friendly parks and amenities throughout the city, making it the perfect spot for pups, too!

Whether you currently live in Huntsville or are considering moving there, you’re probably wondering what dog training options are available. That’s where we come in — we’ll provide an overview of the best dog trainers in Huntsville, AL, below. 

While you can definitely train your dog yourself, the expert advice of a trainer (or online course) will set them up for success. Hiring a dog trainer to polish up your pup’s leash manners is particularly important in Huntsville. The city has leash regulations in place, and roads can get busy at peak times.

A Quick Look at the Best Dog Training in Huntsville, AL

Here’s a quick overview of the best dog trainers in Huntsville, AL. We’ll provide a more detailed review of each option later in the article. 

Online Vs. In-Person Training in Huntsville, AL

Online and in-person training both have their fair share of pros and cons, each better suited to different training needs and budgets. In-person training comes in the form of group classes, board and train, or private one-on-one sessions. Online dog training usually consists of self-guided courses or video call consultations. 

In-person training is well-suited to dogs with more complex needs since the trainer can work with your dog directly and ensure they’re going at a pace that’s safe and effective. They’ll also be able to get a better sense of your training approach and if you’re implementing the measures correctly.

Of course, the downside is that in-person training can be costly, especially when you factor in travel expenses. You’ll also be restricted to the trainer’s schedule and availability.

Online training allows you to train your pup from the comfort of your own home and is generally more affordable than in-person training. Self-guided online courses are also flexible, making them an ideal choice for people who lead busy or unpredictable lifestyles. However, they do require you to be comfortable with technology, and they won’t provide socialization opportunities. 

Some trainers — like Dog Academy — do offer both online and in-person training. Combining both approaches creates a consistent training environment, which will set your pup up for success.

Perks of Online and In-Person Training in Huntsville, AL

Below, we’ve compiled a table that highlights the perks of both training approaches for ease of comparison:

The Best Dog Training in Huntsville, AL

The dog trainers in Huntsville specialize in all different kinds of training. Below, we’ll take a close look at some of the best options for pup owners:

Dog Academy

• Online or In-Person: Online and In-Person 
• Types of Training Courses: Obedience Classes, Behavioral Issues, Puppy Training, Psychiatric Service Dog Training, Emotional Support Animal Training, Specialty Classes (e.g. Canine Confidence, Separation Anxiety)
• Price Range: $49.99 – $349.99
• Link to Website: Dog Academy Basic Obedience Training Program
• Phone Number: (605) 223-1971

Dog Academy is the best all-round choice for dog training in Huntsville, AL, thanks to its versatility. They offer a vast range of affordable online training courses, covering essentials like Basic Obedience and Dog Tricks for Beginners to specialty courses like Psychiatric Service Dog Training. Each course uses reward-based measures and has been carefully developed with AKC-certified trainers. 

Dog Academy also has a network of experienced trainers offering virtual consultations and in-person training services throughout the US, including in Huntsville. This means they can easily connect you with a trainer in your area who specializes in your dog’s specific needs. Trainers are professional and fully vetted, so you can rest assured your pup will be in safe hands. 

Such A Good Dog

• Online or In-Person: In-Person
• Types of Training Courses: Kindergarten, Elementary, Fast Track, Middle School, Junior High, Field Trips, Single Sessions, CGC Training Classes, AKC Trick Novice, Private Individual Training, Board and Train
• Price Range: $35 – $199
• Link to Website: Such A Good Dog
• Address: 517 Jordan Ln NW, Huntsville, AL 35805, United States
• Phone Number: (256) 890-1234

Such A Good Dog specializes in in-person dog training. They provide group classes and individual sessions and can even arrange home visits if you aren’t able to travel to their facilities directly. 

Their trainers are CPDT-KA certified and have experience working with various breeds, sizes, and behavioral issues. They’re also one of the few training organizations in the area to offer Canine Good Citizen (CGC) training classes.

Follow My Lead

• Online or In-Person: In-Person 
• Types of Training Courses: Obedience, Behavioral Management, Puppy Training, Housebreaking, Socialization, Introduction to Training Equipment
• Price Range: Schedule a Free Phone Consultation for Pricing 
• Link to Website: Follow My Lead 
• Address: Serves Huntsville and Surrounding Areas 
• Phone Number: (256) 631-5112

Follow My Lead is a training organization that delivers high-quality in-home training for dog owners of all experience levels. They offer a diverse range of programs, including Obedience, Puppy Training, Socialization, and Behavioral Management, and can also assist with other aspects of pet care, such as providing vet referrals and product recommendations. 

You can learn more about their services and the costs involved by scheduling a free phone consultation. 

Island Dog Training

• Online or In-Person: In-Person 
• Types of Training Courses: Group Classes, Puppy Socialization, Family Manners, Speciality Classes (e.g. Gymtastic Tricks, Playground, Stage Tricks), Agility, Rally-O, Reactive Dogs 101
• Price Range: $45 – $4,000)
• Link to Website: Island Dog Training
• Address: 131 Export Cir NW, Huntsville, AL 35806, United States
• Phone Number: (256) 270-7762

Island Dog Training doesn’t just boast a team of expert trainers who will be there to support you throughout your dog’s journey; it also offers a 4,000 sq. foot training facility specially designed to set your pup up for success! The training facility can comfortably accommodate group classes, and there are also dedicated individual training rooms. 

What’s more, Island Dog Training also offers a wealth of specialty training classes, including agility, stage tricks, and tactile classes for deaf and blind dogs. They can even help with service dog training. 

Finding the Right Dog Trainer for Your Pup

We’ve provided a range of dog training options available in Huntsville, AL, each specializing in different areas and accommodating various budgets and needs. The trainers above have years of experience under their belts, meaning your pup will be in safe hands, and they’ve also received glowing reviews from dog owners in the area.

Dog Academy is a good choice for people who want a combination of both in-person and online training, as they offer a wide range of training services, including online courses, virtual consultations, and in-person private sessions. 

Such A Good Dog is a great all-around in-person training choice, particularly if you’re interested in CGC Prep. Their trainers are also CPDT-KA certified. Follow My Lead is well-suited to owners who want in-home training, while Island Dog Training offers a facility to accommodate advanced training like agility and service dog training. 

That said, always carry out your own research before booking your pup in for a training session. You want to be confident that their training approach aligns with your pup’s needs. Consider arranging an initial consultation with the trainer before moving forward, as this will give you an opportunity to ask questions, learn more about their services, and get a sense of their personality.