Does Online Dog Training Work? Here’s Why It’s Worth the Investment

What Is Online Dog Training?

Online dog training is all about getting solutions for your dog's behavior through the internet. Instead of meeting professional dog trainers in person, you'll learn by watching videos, reading articles, and getting information online. While you might get some personal help, like chatting in a forum or a video call, it's all done virtually.

The main difference is that with online training, the trainer can't physically work with your dog. You won't see them demonstrating exactly what they mean with your specific dog in your home environment. But don't worry, it's becoming incredibly effective as online programs get more and more advanced!

Common formats you'll find for online dog training sessions include:

• Pre-recorded courses and videos that let you learn at your own pace.
• Written guides indicating training cues in an easy-to-read format with bullet points.
• Live video calls for more direct interaction, sometimes one-on-one or in a group.
• Handy tools for learning on the go.
• YouTube videos
• Membership sites that offer a wealth of information and often a community.

Comparison to Traditional In-Person Training

When you work with a trainer in person, being able to watch them with your dog can really help you understand their methods. You'll see exactly how your dog responds and how to fine-tune your approach. It's also great for a trainer to see your dog's behavior right in your home or in the actual situation where issues arise.

With online training, we give you general guidance on how things will likely develop, covering all the possible outcomes. Even in those very rare, extreme situations, you can still reach out in an online forum, and we can point you to an example or explain what's happening.

Now, from my almost two decades of working with people both online and in person, I've noticed something interesting. Sometimes, working with someone one-on-one in person can feel more fun and enjoyable. However, that doesn't always mean you'll get a better result.

What I mean is, a person can be very entertaining, and you might really enjoy talking and sharing stories with them. But when you're just talking and sharing, you're not always truly learning. I've seen it many times – someone's having a blast chatting, and I realize they're not actually taking in the information I'm trying to share!

Compare that to someone who watches a very clear, instructional video that tells them exactly what to do. They might not enjoy it quite as much, but it's far more helpful and gets a much better result! And that's often what happens with online dog training. You'll often get a far better result, even if it means a little more focused work on your part.

THIS FREE WEBCLASS WILL HELP BRING BACK THE CALM TO YOUR DOG

Does Online Dog Training Actually Work?

The short answer is a big YES, it absolutely can work! But here's the important part: it really depends on the training you use and, most importantly, your commitment to it.

Think of it like this: imagine you have a stiff or sore arm. You hop online to research what might be going on and what stretches or exercises could help. If you find the right exercise for a simple muscle pull or tightness, you could feel better in just 5 or 10 minutes! Of course, if you get the wrong advice or misdiagnose the problem, you won't see results.

It's the very same with dog training. The key is to get the right diagnosis for your dog's behavior and then find the right type of training that fits their needs. When you do that, you can definitely fix things very easily, often for a fraction of the cost of other options.

Now, here's something super important to remember: You have to put the training into action! No matter how amazing the solution you discover, if you don't actually follow through and put it all in place properly, you won't get those fantastic results.

From my many years of experience, almost every single time someone has told me, “Oh, Doggy Dan, I'm really struggling, it's not working!” when I've gently asked if they're actually doing the training, nine times out of ten, they're not quite putting it into practice as they should be. They just need a friendly reminder to stay consistent!

So, you do need to have a little bit of awareness and check in with yourself: “Am I really doing what I'm meant to be doing?” For some reason, we sometimes think we're doing something perfectly, but a quick double-check can show us where we can fine-tune. That's why, sometimes, an in-person trainer can spot those little things, but with clear online guidance, you become your dog's best trainer.

Pros of Online Dog Training

Flexibility and Convenience

First off, you get amazing flexibility and convenience. This means you don't have to stick to a set schedule. You can train at 9 PM on a Thursday or 6 AM on a Sunday!

If you need to hit pause because the doorbell rings or something comes up, no problem — you can just pick it up right where you left off. The lessons are always there for you, even if you want to review them months down the road. Plus, you can easily share the training with everyone in your family. No more long drives to a training facility!

Lower Cost Compared to In-Person

Another huge pro is the lower cost compared to in-person training. I've seen people spend literally thousands of dollars on training, only to end up with no real results and still struggling.

They might have tried everything, even harsh methods like shock collars. Then, they come to my online program and get amazing results for just a fraction of that cost, sometimes for around $100!

When you find the right training, the price difference can be massive. While a good in-person trainer might cost you close to $100 per hour, you can often get a complete online solution that you own for life, with much more information, for that same price.

Re-watchable Lessons

As I mentioned before, the lessons are re-watchable, and this is a really big deal! This is especially helpful for things like puppy training, which takes months because puppies change so fast — a 5-month-old is very different from an 8-month-old! And some behavior issues just take more than a couple of weeks; they can take months.

With online lessons, you can keep going back, checking that you're doing it right, recapping, and reminding yourself. It's much more effective, efficient, and gives you better value for your money.

Access to Top Trainers Worldwide

One of the challenges with traditional dog training is that while you might have many trainers in your area, they might all use the same approach that just isn't working for your dog. Or maybe there aren't many experienced trainers nearby. With online dog training, you can literally work with some of the best dog trainers in the world, no matter where you live! This means you get access to the best of the best.

Comfort of Training in a Familiar Home Environment

Finally, you get the comfort of training your dog in their familiar home environment. You don't have to take your dog to a training facility, leave them there, or even get in the car and drive anywhere. You can do it all from your living room! Your dog can stay in the environment where the issues actually happen, whether that's inside your home or on your street.

This is super beneficial for both you and your dog. If you have to drive your dog an hour and a half out of town, everything changes, and your dog might behave totally differently. But then, when you get home, the problem often returns. Training where the issue occurs just makes sense!

Cons of Online Dog Training

Now, let's talk about the downsides or “cons” of online dog training, because it's important to be aware of these too.

Not Ideal for Serious Behavioral Issues

For super serious, highly aggressive “red zone” dogs, especially large, powerful breeds that you can't physically control, online training isn't enough. These situations are as much about physical safety as they are about dog psychology. You absolutely need other dog training methods so it's best to seek in-person professional help to manage the situation safely. Sometimes, a change in environment or a different handler can also be beneficial for highly stressed dogs.

No Real-Time Correction (Unless Live Coaching Is Used)

A significant downside is the lack of real-time correction in most online training formats. On a related note, I strongly advise against shock collars, e-collars, or correction collars. Having helped thousands of dogs, I can tell you they're unnecessary and carry a high risk of misuse. Using such forceful tools without in-person guidance is dangerous and, in my view, irresponsible. It's like learning to use a gun or drive a car online – the risk is simply too high.

Owner Must Be Self-Disciplined

Finally, online dog training requires you, the owner, to be self-disciplined. You have to actively put the training into practice, take notes, follow the videos, and apply what you learn. While some may find this challenging, remember that your commitment directly impacts your results.

What Types of Dog Behavior Can Be Trained Online?

You know, almost any dog behavior can be trained online! I say this because my own program has helped over 100,000 people, from folks with 8-week-old puppies to those dealing with serious leash reactivity, jumping, and pulling. There's really no dog training challenge that we can't help someone with online.

One of the big reasons for this, I believe, is that most dog behavior issues ultimately come back to the relationship the owner has with their dog. That's why I truly believe the best dog training is actually owner education, and that's exactly what I focus on in my training – what you can change. I'm delivering powerful information directly to owners online, and that's why it's so effective!

Let's go through some of the main areas where online dog training can absolutely make a huge difference:

Basic Command Training

When it comes to basic obedience training like teaching “sit,” “stay,” “recall,” and all those fun tricks, online training is incredibly powerful. It's easy to show you exactly what to do with a video. You can just watch, follow along, and get clear tips. It's a fantastic way to master these foundational skills.

Puppy Training

For puppy training, online videos are incredibly helpful for so many situations, whether it's crate training, potty training, or socialization. You can get all sorts of tips for how to get your puppy to behave better at home. Again, this is where online training shines because it's not complicated; it's just about transferring knowledge, and watching a few videos can totally transform your puppy's behavior.

Mild Behavior Issues

Next up are everyday behavioral issues. While I mentioned highly aggressive “red zone” dogs (that's literally just 1 or 2% of dogs who are completely uncontrollable and aggressive), almost all other types of barking, jumping, leash pulling, separation anxiety, not coming when called – all of that can absolutely be helped with some very simple online training.

Enrichment and Loving Leadership

And finally, the fourth and probably the most important type of “dog training” that can be shared online, something 90% of other dog trainers completely overlook, and what makes the Doggy Dan method so different: it's what I call loving leadership. This is about how to establish, in your dog's mind, the fact that you are in charge and your dog should be listening to you.

This is what the Doggy Dan code is all about, and it's so powerful because it's truly about your education as an owner. You sit down, watch the material, and you might realize you haven't been doing any of these things. But when you start to put them into place, everything changes because your dog begins listening to you, respecting you, and loving you in a totally different way!

Who Is Online Dog Training Best For?

Considering the various approaches to dog training (correction-based, positive reinforcement, and dog psychology), online training, particularly those focused on dog psychology and “loving leadership,” is highly beneficial for:

• First-time dog owners who are new to dogs and are looking for a training class that features effective, humane methods.
• Busy professionals or families. Its flexibility means you don't have to rearrange busy schedules for in-person appointments. You can all log in and learn when it suits you.
• Dogs with minor to moderate training needs.
• People in remote areas or without access to trainers.

When Online Dog Training Might Not Be Enough

While online training is incredibly versatile, there are specific situations where you might need in-person support:

• Dogs with severe aggression towards humans. If your dog is unpredictable or poses a high risk to young children or others, an in-person assessment is critical for safety. Cases like this one will need other dog training programs.
• Dogs that cannot be physically controlled. Very large, powerful dogs that you cannot manage physically, especially when exhibiting aggressive behaviors, may require hands-on guidance from a professional who can help with physical management tools and techniques.
• Super stressed dogs needing environmental removal or large pack interaction. Some highly stressed dogs benefit from being temporarily removed from their environment or needing exposure to large packs of dogs to help them learn and change their behavior. Doing this at home on your own might not be sufficient.

How to Choose a Good Online Dog Training Program

Choosing the right online program is crucial for success. Here's what to look for:

• Trainer certifications (but be cautious!) Certifications can indicate specific training philosophies. However, be wary of the “dog training echo chamber”, where all trainers in an area may share the same (potentially ineffective) methods. The source text mentions not finding “science-based” or positive-only reinforcement effective in all cases.
• Focus on “loving leadership” or dog psychology. Programs that delve into the underlying psychological relationship between you and your dog, rather than just treating symptoms with treats or corrections, are often more effective. This is about changing your understanding and actions as the owner.
• Look for their program's longevity and proven results. Programs that have been running for a long time (e.g., since 2009, as mentioned in the text) often indicate that people are getting results and are happy with them, leading to referrals.
• Read real online dog trainer review and testimonials. Look for in-depth testimonials or case studies that explain how the program works and what specific changes users saw. While any program can generate some reviews, a large number of detailed, positive reviews over a long period is a good sign.
• Find programs that provide access to trainer support or forums. This is key for getting your specific questions answered.
• Lifetime access to the program. Dog behavior can change over time. Lifetime access means you can revisit the material if old problems resurface or new ones arise.
• Free trials or money-back guarantees: These offer a low-risk way to try out a program and ensure it's a good fit for you and your dog.

Examples of Popular Online Dog Training Platforms

When exploring online dog training, you'll find various platforms. The most important thing is to consider the general approach and whether you like the person behind the training.

There are generally three main ways of training:

1. Correction-based: This often involves methods like shock collars, which, as the text notes, effectively “electrocute the dog” to cause pain and stop unwanted behavior. If you're comfortable with this, seek trainers who specialize in it.
2. Positive reinforcement: This sounds good, but it often relies heavily on treats to bribe and shape behavior. While not harmful, it may not be enough for underlying psychological issues. The analogy of using treats to be a great parent highlights its limitations.
3. Dog psychology / Loving Leadership: This approach, championed by the source text's author, focuses on owner education to address the root cause of behavioral issues by establishing a leadership role based on trust and respect, rather than pain or bribes.

When choosing, evaluate if you enjoy the trainer's style, speed, and energy. If you resonate with the concept of dog psychology and “loving leadership” over treat training or shock collars, then exploring programs that align with that philosophy, like Doggy Dan's Online Dog Trainer and the Dog Calming Code program, might be a great fit.

Be aware of pricing structures; some programs sell a cheap entry but require much more expensive upgrades for the core solution. Also, watch out for programs that use “treats in every shot” or are “highly edited,” as these might not be addressing the true underlying issues. For example, stopping barking by electrocuting a dog might solve that symptom, but the underlying stress could lead to other problems, like chewing furniture or escaping. A truly effective program addresses the root cause of a holistically calm and happy dog.

Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

To summarize, yes, online dog training is absolutely a powerful way to train your dog, and it's here to stay. Its effectiveness hinges on finding a powerful method and, crucially, your commitment to showing up and putting the training in place.

The core idea is that online training, particularly programs focused on owner education and dog psychology, isn't just about “training the dog” but about educating the owner. When you learn how to step into a place where your dog listens to and respects you, everything changes.

Consider this: you could spend $10,000 on an in-person trainer who might use methods like electrocuting your dog, only to find you still have issues when the dog returns, and you haven't learned much yourself. Or, you could invest a fraction of that (the text mentions $97) in an online program that provides you with the knowledge — the “right key” — to solve the problem yourself, often in half the time.

Knowledge is indeed key. If a program offers a basic plan, a free class, or a money-back guarantee (like the 30-day guarantee mentioned for the Dog Calming Code, which claims results within days), it's a fantastic opportunity to see if it works for you. The emphasis is on building trust and connection with your dog by addressing the root cause, rather than just “fixing” superficial problems.

FAQs Section

How long does it take to see results with online dog training?

The timeline varies depending on the training approach. Correction-based methods like shock collars might yield fast results, but are often inhumane. Treat training can take a long time and might only be effective when food is present. However, programs focused on dog psychology, like the Dog Calming Code, claim significant results in just 2 to 3 days, with changes cemented within 2 weeks.

Is online dog training better than in-person?

If you find an incredible in-person trainer with an amazing approach who can come to your property, that might be the ultimate solution. However, for many people, in-person training is too expensive, trainers are too far away, or their methods don't align with what you're looking for. In those cases, online dog training can be an incredible next-best solution, offering accessibility and flexibility that in-person options often lack.

Can I train my puppy online?

Absolutely! Puppy training is an excellent fit for online programs. It often requires less complex dog psychology compared to solving deep-seated behavioral issues. Online resources can brilliantly guide you through crate training, potty training, and socialization.

Are free dog training videos enough?

Free dog training videos typically cover basic problems like sit, stay, or simple puppy training. While useful for these easy-to-solve issues, they are generally not enough for serious behavioral problems. Professionals with in-depth knowledge of complex behavioral issues know the value of their expertise and usually offer it through paid membership sites or programs, as they need to earn a living. The best, most comprehensive solutions tend to come from paid resources.

What's the best online dog training program?

Based on the provided text, the author strongly recommends Doggy Dan's Online Dog Trainer, specifically the Dog Calming Code.

The main reason given is the power of its method, which focuses on dog psychology and “winning your dog's mind” through loving leadership. The author believes this approach is far more effective than “the carrot” (treat training/positive reinforcement, which may not be powerful enough for serious issues) or “the stick” (shock collars, which are deemed unnecessary and inhumane). If you want to learn the “secret to winning your dog's mind” and are looking for results in days, it's suggested to check out this program, which also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

~Doggy Dan 🙂