The Best Dog Training in Asheville, NC
Asheville is known for its bustling cultural scene, top foodie spots, and breathtaking nature. While this can make the city a fantastic place to live, it does come at a cost: The main areas are often crowded with tourists and can be difficult to navigate when you have a furry friend in tow.
This is especially the case if your pup hasn’t yet quite mastered their leash manners. However, you don’t have to navigate their training (or the hectic sidewalks) in Asheville alone. At Dog Academy, we provide owners with all the knowledge, resources, and guidance required to set their pups up for success.
Our training approach is also built on fostering the loving bond between you and your pup. Our certified trainers strictly practice (reward-based) training measures, which puts the emphasis on what your pup is doing right rather than punishing their mistakes. Our self-paced online training programs follow the same approach — and they’ve even been created under the guidance of American Kennel Club (AKC) approved trainers.
Dog Academy: The Best Dog Trainer in Asheville, NC
Dog Training Services We Offer in Asheville, NC
At Dog Academy, we provide both in-person and online training options for those based in Asheville. Each option has its differences and fair share of perks, but you can rest assured that no matter which route you pick, you’ll be given the support needed to help your pup meet their training goals.
At Home Dog Training Services
If you opt for in-person training, you’ll be paired with a professional trainer who has hands-on experience with the Asheville area. The trainer will be fully vetted and will strictly use positive reinforcement measures. They will also work with you to create a personalized training plan that accommodates your dog’s specific needs and goals.
Training sessions start from $95 and can be held within public dog-friendly spaces and greenways throughout Asheville, like Hummingbird Park, or within the comfort of your own home.
Many people opt for a mix of both. The home environment can help pups feel at ease and become accustomed to the training experience, while outdoor sessions give them a chance to test out their new skills in different environments and situations. Outdoor sessions can also provide opportunities for socialization, which can be a great choice for pups who feel wary around unfamiliar people or other animals.
Featured Local Dog Trainers in Asheville, NC
Professional Dog Trainers
Online Dog Training Courses
We also offer online training courses for those in Asheville who prefer to train their dogs themselves. Our courses start from $39 and are self-paced, so you’ll have the freedom to work through lessons in your own time and schedule, and they’re easy to follow even if you’re a novice owner. You’ll also be granted lifetime access. This means you can always refer back to the lessons if you ever need to recap what you’ve learned (and yes, there are no “hidden” fees involved!).
On our platform, you’ll find a range of courses. Some are more general, like our Basic Obedience Program, and others are more specialized, like our Reactivity Program. With dozens of courses to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding a program that works for you and your pup. As we touched on earlier, our courses strictly follow positive reinforcement methods and have been made in collaboration with American Kennel Club-certified trainers. Each lesson will also consist of helpful video demonstrations that show you how to put each step into practice.
Opting for online training doesn’t mean you’ll have to navigate your pup’s training journey completely alone. If you do encounter any difficulties while working through lessons, our customer support team (aka team of canine experts) will be happy to assist and guide you. They can also help evaluate whether in-person training may be better suited to your needs and refer you accordingly. They can even recommend locations in Asheville that can serve as secure, safe training grounds for your pup.
Online vs. In-Person Training in Asheville, NC
Both training approaches can transform your dog into a well-adjusted canine citizen who can confidently navigate Asheville’s bustling streets and expansive parks like Richmond Hill Park. However, each approach has its fair share of perks and cons to consider.
Online training works well for those who have unpredictable, busy schedules and value the flexibility of being able to learn anywhere and at any time. Online training can also be a good option if your dog is still getting to grips with the basics. They’ll feel comfortable around you, and you’ll also have more control over their environment. Just be mindful that you’ll need a reliable internet connection.
In-person training in Asheville is less flexible than online training. However, it provides socialization opportunities and direct feedback from a professional trainer. In-person training can also be a great choice for dogs with more specialized needs or behavioral concerns, as a trainer will be able to read their behavior and make sure the lesson pace isn’t too overwhelming.
Perks of Online and In-Person Training in Asheville, NC
Both online and in-person training can give Asheville families useful ways to improve their day-to-day lives with their dogs. Online, remote training offers more flexibility, while in-person training is ideal for those seeking expert hands-on guidance or opportunities for socialization. Below, we’ve summarized the perks of each training approach for ease of comparison:
FAQs for the Best Dog Training in Asheville, NC
While we’ve outlined the key details of our dog training services in Asheville, you likely still have some remaining questions. To ensure you know what to expect before you get started with us, we’ll cover the most frequently asked questions below.
Do You Offer Dog Training Services Outside Asheville?
Yes, we don’t just cover the Asheville area. We have vetted trainers in every state and virtually every major city and town, making it easy to find a trainer nearby who can work with you and your pup. This means you’ll still be able to access training with us, even if you do relocate outside of Asheville. It’s best to contact our customer support directly to learn more about our availability and whether we service your location.
Can Your Dog Trainers Come to My Home in Asheville?
Yes! Our trainers are more than happy to travel to you and conduct the training sessions within your home. Many dogs appreciate learning in a comfortable, familiar home environment, with minimal distractions around. This is especially the case for dogs who struggle with reactivity and may need more time to adjust before starting training in public spaces.
Is There an Extra Fee for Traveling to Places Like West Asheville, Oakley, or Haw Creek?
There typically isn’t an extra travel fee if the location is within 20 miles of downtown Asheville. However, if you’re situated outside of this range, there may be travel fees involved.
At Dog Academy, we don’t believe in “hidden fees” and are transparent about our pricing structure. If you’re looking to book your training with us, we’ll make sure to discuss travel charges with you before scheduling any sessions.
Do You Offer Weekend Training Sessions in Asheville?
Yes! Weekend training sessions are available to families in Asheville. You can also choose the location and arrange to have these sessions at any time that suits you, whether morning or night. This ensures you can maintain a consistent training routine with your pup, even if you have a busy day-to-day schedule.
Are Your Trainers Familiar With Local Dog Parks and Training Spots in Asheville?
Yes! Our trainers have worked with families in practically every corner of Asheville, including popular spots like Pack Square Park and quieter, more remote greenways. Our trainers will be more than happy to leverage their expertise and advise you on some of the best training spots near your home, taking into account your dog’s confidence, background, and temperament.
Can I Switch From In-Person to Online Training If I Move Out of Asheville?
Yes, if you relocate and move out of Asheville, you can easily switch to online training. We offer various self-paced courses to choose from, and your in-person trainer will be happy to advise you on which course is best suited to your pup’s training goals.
Remember that we also have in-person trainers located throughout the US. This means you can also choose to continue your pup’s training with another trainer if you still prefer in-person guidance.