How do I choose a good dog trainer?
Choose a trainer who uses reward-based methods (treats, toys and praise), explains how they train, lets you watch or join and teaches you to practise at home. Avoid anyone who uses pain or fear, such as prong or shock collars, or who guarantees results. If the behaviour started suddenly or involves aggression, see your vet first: pain and illness can change behaviour.
Checklist: choosing a dog trainer
- Reward-based methods. Ask how they teach and correct. Good trainers reward what they want with treats, toys and praise.
- You are part of it. A trainer should let you watch or join sessions and teach you to practise at home.
- Experience with your problem: puppy manners, pulling on the lead, barking, fear or aggression.
- A clear plan and price: how many sessions, what each covers, and what you will practise between them.
- Small classes, so each dog gets attention.
- A trial or a consultation first, to see how your dog responds to them.
Red flags
- Choke chains, prong or shock collars, hitting, or “alpha” and “dominance” talk.
- Guaranteed results, or promises to “fix” a dog in a few days.
- Not letting you watch, or taking your dog away for training with no plan for you to follow.
Start with a vet for sudden behaviour changes
Pain, ear infections, thyroid problems and other illness can make a dog snappy, fearful or suddenly house-soiling. If the change is sudden, or your dog is aggressive, see your vet before training.
By the Pets24x7 team. Updated 13 October 2026.
Dog Trainers & Pet Training on Pets24x7
Pets24x7 lists 389 pet trainers in 33 cities in India.
Pets24x7 lists 2,270 pet trainers in 417 cities in the USA.
| City | Listed | Top-rated list |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 67 | — |
| Bengaluru | 59 | — |
| Pune | 52 | — |
| Mumbai | 49 | — |
| Hyderabad | 36 | — |
| New Delhi | 31 | — |
| Ahmedabad | 28 | — |
| Thane | 9 | — |
| Surat | 8 | — |
| Gurgaon | 7 | — |
Ratings are each business's own Google rating, counted only with its number of reviews. Numbers from this week's listings.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start training my puppy?
As soon as you bring it home, usually at about 8 weeks, with short and fun sessions: name, sit, coming when called and toilet training. Puppy classes with other dogs usually start once your vet says the vaccine course allows it.
How long does dog training take?
Basic obedience usually takes a few weeks of weekly sessions with daily practice at home. Fear, aggression and other behaviour problems take longer and depend on how much you practise.
Is board-and-train a good idea?
It can teach skills quickly, but your dog has to learn to listen to you at home too. Choose a programme that uses reward-based methods, sends you videos and ends with sessions that teach you.
Group classes or private training?
Group classes are good for puppies and basic manners around other dogs. Private sessions suit specific problems, such as fear, aggression or reactivity to other dogs.
How many pet trainers are listed on Pets24x7 in India?
Pets24x7 lists 389 pet trainers in 33 cities in India. Open your city's page to compare them and send a free enquiry.