The Best Dog Training in Wilmington, NC

Wilmington is a gorgeous port city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant dining scene, and photogenic gardens. But best of all? Wilmington is a total paradise for dog lovers! Several of the beaches, parks, and gardens accommodate canine companions, and there are plenty of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants throughout the city, too. 

When it comes to dog training in Wilmington, NC, there is an equally wide range of options to consider. Each trainer is unique and better suited to certain budgets, preferences, and training goals. 

Below, we’ll highlight some of the best dog trainers around and provide a quick overview of their services. You’re sure to find a trainer that works for you, whether that’s to brush up your pup’s leash manners or get them ready for a fun day out at the beach. 

A Quick Look at the Best Dog Training in Wilmington, NC

Here’s a quick summary of the best dog trainers in Wilmington, NC. We’ll provide a more detailed overview of each trainer later in the article, so keep reading.

Online Vs. In-Person Training in Wilmington, NC

Both online and in-person can be effective training approaches, but it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and the support your pup requires.

In general, online training — think video consultations or self-guided courses — is ideal for people with unpredictable schedules since it can be done anywhere and at any time that works for you. You also won’t need to travel to a dedicated training facility, making it a convenient option for people with transport limitations. 

Online training is particularly beneficial for reactive or sensitive dogs, who may find visiting a training facility overwhelming and stressful. Just be mindful that online training does require you to be confident with technology. You’ll also need to have a stable internet connection.

In-person training is more expensive than online training, but it offers more opportunities for socialization (e.g. puppy group classes). The trainer will also be able to work with your dog directly and gain a better grasp of their reactions, behavior, and training progress. This can make it well-suited to dogs with complex needs or more severe behavioral issues.

Perks of Online and In-Person Training in Wilmington, NC

Here’s a quick comparison of online and in-person training styles. This should give you a better idea of which option is right for you: 

The Best Dog Training in Wilmington, NC

Finding the right dog trainer isn’t an easy feat. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best dog trainers in Wilmington, NC. We cover each trainer’s approach, services, contact information, and pricing to ensure you’re fully informed.

The dog trainers below have received stellar reviews from fellow dog owners in the area, but always make sure to carry out your own research before proceeding. 

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 offers both online and in-person training for all kinds of experience levels and needs. The in-person professional trainers on the platform are fully vetted, have years of experience, and are spread throughout the US, with many based in Wilmington, NC.  

The online training courses are also worth considering and are a budget-friendly option. Each course is comprehensive and developed with AKC-certified trainers. There’s also a whole range to choose from, including specialized programs like ESA training.

Pawsitive Pup Training

• Online or In-Person: In-Person
• Types of Training Courses: Obedience and Manners, Puppy Training, Behavior Modification (Aggression and Fear), Dog Boarding and Training, Dog Training for Parents and Kids
• Price Range: $100 – $900 for Training Packages, $125 Initial Consultation Fee
• Link to Website: Pawsitive Pup Training  
• Address: 2517 Park Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28403
• Phone Number: (910) 228-9184

Pawsitive Pup Training’s main objective is to strengthen the bond between you and your pup and teach you how to communicate in a safe, positive manner. 

Training is conducted in person, either at their dedicated facility or through in-home visits, and programs include Obedience and Manners, Puppy Training, and Behavior Modification. They also offer a unique family-tailored training course that teaches you how to prepare your pup for the arrival of a new baby.

Cape Fearless Dog Training

• Online or In-Person: In-Person 
• Types of Training Courses: Beginner Package, Advanced Package, Expert Package, Group Puppy Classes, Group Obedience Classes, Cooperative Care
• Price Range: $250 for Group Class Packages; Contact for Private Session Pricing
• Link to Website: Cape Fearless Dog Training
• Address: 314 Pine Grove Dr, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
• Phone Number: (910) 518-6469

Cape Fearless Dog Training has a track record for providing thorough reward-based training. There are several group class packages available, each accommodating different experience levels and needs, and one-on-one sessions are also provided for pups with more complex behavioral concerns.

Cape Fearless Dog Training also offers a unique Cooperative Care training course, which helps your dog become accustomed to common handling procedures — a must for dogs who see the grooming brush as their worst enemy!

Positive Outcomes Dog Training 

• Online or In-Person: In-Person 
• Types of Training Courses: Canine Associate’s Degree, Canine Bachelor’s Degree, Canine Master’s Degree, Canine Doctorate Degree
• Price Range: Contact for Pricing
• Link to Website: Positive Outcomes Dog Training
• Address: 2209 Splitbrook Ct, Wilmington, NC 28411, United States
• Phone Number: (910) 320-8538

Positive Outcomes Dog Training, founded by certified dog trainer Indi Hopkins, has over a decade of professional training experience. The organization specializes in private training programs and offers four packages to choose between, ranging from the Canine Associate’s Degree ( basic obedience) to the Canine Doctorate Degree ( severe behavioral issues). 

Each package includes weekly private training sessions, training supplies, and a doggy diploma upon completion. You’ll also gain unlimited access to your trainer through phone and email during and after training, giving you peace of mind.

Clever K9 Dog Training 

• Online or In-Person: Both 
• Types of Training Courses: AKC Tricks, AKC Basic Obedience, AKC Advanced Obedience, Drop-Off Training Days (Socializing, Potty Training, Handling, Leash Training), Private Lessons, Virtual Dog Training 
• Price Range: $50 – $175, Initial Consultation Fee $125
• Link to Website: Clever K9 Dog Training 
• Address: 106 Station Rd, Wilmington, NC 28405, United States
• Phone Number: (910) 620-8295

Clever K9 Dog Training specializes in AKC certification preparation, offering training guidance for tests such as the Canine Good Citizen test and S.T.A.R Puppy test. Their accredited trainers can also assist with behavioral issues through in-person private sessions or video consultations. 

Another noteworthy service they provide is Drop-Off Training Days, where you drop your dog off at their dedicated facility for a day of play, training, and socialization.  

Find the Right Dog Trainer

Wilmington, NC, is home to plenty of dog trainers, each unique in their training approach and the services they offer. Whether your pup needs a helping paw with basic obedience or is experiencing more severe behavioral issues, you’re sure to find a trainer who can help. 

To find the right dog trainer, take into account factors such as your schedule, preferred training methods, and budget. You should also be mindful of your dog’s individual needs. Ensure the trainer you pick has plenty of experience working with your dog’s breed, size, and (if relevant) behavioral concerns.

If you’re still finding it hard to narrow down your options, don’t be afraid to ask for initial consultations. Many trainers do offer these for free, and they serve as a great way to get to know more about them and find out if you click with their training approach and personality.