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Dog Training · Alexandria, VA/Updated June 13, 2026

The 9 Best Dog Trainers in Alexandria, VA

Finding the right dog trainer can make all the difference in your pet's behavior. Here are the best options in Alexandria, VA to help you get started.

Editorially independent9 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceUnleashed Abilities: Coaching People, Training Dogs
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 9 Alexandria-metro dog training businesses evaluated, top 9 ranked by Vetted Score.

Dog training is essential for building a harmonious relationship with your pet in Alexandria, VA. With a variety of trainers available, it’s crucial to choose one who understands your dog's unique needs and your training goals.

We evaluated nine local providers based on their customer reviews, ratings, and overall service offerings, compiling a list that reflects the best options for dog training in the area.

9dog trainers evaluated in Alexandria
4.83average rating across the field
876customer reviews analyzed

Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.

How much does dog training cost in Alexandria? See the price breakdown →

Our top picks

At a glance · three categories
★ Editor's Choice
96Score

With a perfect 5-star rating from 134 reviews, Unleashed Abilities: Coaching People, Training Dogs excels at helping both pets and their owners build strong bonds.

Read full review
Best Value
94Score

My Dog Listens LLC

★★★★★4.9(138 reviews)

My Dog Listens LLC holds a strong rating of 4.9 from 138 reviews, making it a reliable option for dog training in Alexandria.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
93Score

Pack Leader Help

★★★★★4.9(135 reviews)

Pack Leader Help has earned a rating of 4.9 from 135 reviews, indicating a strong reputation among dog owners in Alexandria.

Read full review

All 9, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
96Score
5.0★★★★★
134Comprehensive training for both dogs and owners
2
94Score
4.9★★★★★
138Affordable and effective training solutions
3
Pack Leader Help
Pack Leader Help
Most Reviewed
93Score
4.9★★★★★
135Supportive training for various dog temperaments
4
89Score
4.9★★★★★
68Obedience and behavior training
5
85Score
4.7★★★★★
258Diverse training options for all skill levels
6
84Score
4.9★★★★★
49Positive reinforcement training
7
80Score
4.9★★★★★
30Flexible training schedules
8
78Score
4.8★★★★★
21Foundational training for new pet owners
9
78Score
4.5★★★★★
43Holistic training approaches
Methodology

How we evaluated all 9 dog trainers.

To create our rankings, we analyzed 876 combined reviews from Alexandria dog training businesses, focusing on their ratings and the volume of feedback. Each provider was evaluated without any influence from paid placements, ensuring an unbiased list.

Our evaluations are updated monthly, keeping the rankings relevant and accurate for anyone seeking dog training services in Alexandria. Each business's Vetted Score reflects its performance and customer satisfaction.

The Vetted Score: six weighted factors

Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%

Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.

Full reviews

The rankings · in order
1
★ Editor's Choice

Unleashed Abilities: Coaching People, Training Dogs

★★★★★5.0(134 reviews)
96Score

With a perfect 5-star rating from 134 reviews, Unleashed Abilities: Coaching People, Training Dogs excels at helping both pets and their owners build strong bonds. Clients appreciate the personalized approach and effective training methods. However, availability can be limited due to high demand, so early booking is recommended. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is comprehensive training for both dogs and owners. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $150 to $300 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited availability and higher pricing.

Pros

  • Personalized training programs
  • Highly rated by clients
  • Experienced trainers

Cons

  • Limited availability
  • Higher pricing
Best forComprehensive training for both dogs and owners
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$150 to $300
2
Best Value

My Dog Listens LLC

★★★★★4.9(138 reviews)
94Score

My Dog Listens LLC holds a strong rating of 4.9 from 138 reviews, making it a reliable option for dog training in Alexandria. Clients commend the friendly trainers and practical techniques that yield quick results. One note of caution: the smaller training space may feel cramped during sessions. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is affordable and effective training solutions. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $100 to $250 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited space and less variety in training options.

Pros

  • Friendly trainers
  • Effective training techniques
  • Affordable rates

Cons

  • Limited space
  • Less variety in training options
Best forAffordable and effective training solutions
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$100 to $250
3
Most Reviewed

Pack Leader Help

★★★★★4.9(135 reviews)
93Score

Pack Leader Help has earned a rating of 4.9 from 135 reviews, indicating a strong reputation among dog owners in Alexandria. Many praise the trainer's expertise and the supportive environment created during classes. However, some clients have noted that the approach may not suit every dog's personality. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is supportive training for various dog temperaments. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $120 to $280 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are not every method works for all dogs and some reviews mention inconsistent follow-up.

Pros

  • Expert trainers
  • Supportive environment
  • Flexible scheduling

Cons

  • Not every method works for all dogs
  • Some reviews mention inconsistent follow-up
Best forSupportive training for various dog temperaments
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$120 to $280
4

Core Canine

★★★★★4.9(68 reviews)
89Score

Core Canine has a solid rating of 4.9 from 68 reviews, attracting dog owners who appreciate its structured training programs. Reviewers often highlight the emphasis on obedience and behavior modification. However, some clients feel that the training may take longer than expected to see results. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is obedience and behavior training. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $110 to $260 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are longer time to see results and smaller training facility.

Pros

  • Structured training programs
  • Focus on obedience
  • Positive reinforcement techniques

Cons

  • Longer time to see results
  • Smaller training facility
Best forObedience and behavior training
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$110 to $260
5

Olde Towne School For Dogs

★★★★★4.7(258 reviews)
85Score

Olde Towne School For Dogs has a commendable rating of 4.7 from 258 reviews. Clients appreciate the variety of classes offered and the dedicated staff. However, some feel that the school’s larger size can lead to less personalized attention during training sessions. A review base that deep is hard to game, and the score barely moves across it, which is the clearest consistency signal we track. Most of what reviewers hire it for is diverse training options for all skill levels. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $100 to $240 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are less personalized attention and potentially crowded classes.

Pros

  • Wide variety of classes
  • Dedicated staff
  • Well-established reputation

Cons

  • Less personalized attention
  • Potentially crowded classes
Best forDiverse training options for all skill levels
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$100 to $240
6

Off Collar

★★★★★4.9(49 reviews)
84Score

Off Collar holds a rating of 4.9 from 49 reviews, appealing to dog owners looking for a more relaxed approach to training. Reviewers appreciate the emphasis on positive reinforcement. However, the limited number of reviews suggests it is still building its reputation in the area. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is positive reinforcement training. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $120 to $250 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are less proven track record and limited reviews.

Pros

  • Positive reinforcement methods
  • Relaxed training environment
  • Individualized focus

Cons

  • Less proven track record
  • Limited reviews
Best forPositive reinforcement training
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$120 to $250
7

Alexandria Dog Training Company

★★★★★4.9(30 reviews)
80Score

Alexandria Dog Training Company has a rating of 4.9 from 30 reviews. Clients appreciate the friendly staff and flexible scheduling. Some reviews indicate that there might be a need for more varied training techniques to cater to different dog breeds and behaviors. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is flexible training schedules. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $100 to $220 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited training techniques and smaller review base.

Pros

  • Friendly staff
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Positive atmosphere

Cons

  • Limited training techniques
  • Smaller review base
Best forFlexible training schedules
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$100 to $220
8

NOVA Canine Academy

★★★★★4.8(21 reviews)
78Score

NOVA Canine Academy holds a rating of 4.8 from 21 reviews, appealing to dog owners interested in foundational training. Clients often mention the supportive trainers. However, the limited number of reviews makes it a promising but unproven option for comprehensive training. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is foundational training for new pet owners. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $90 to $200 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited reviews and less experience compared to others.

Pros

  • Supportive trainers
  • Foundational training focus
  • Positive environment

Cons

  • Limited reviews
  • Less experience compared to others
Best forFoundational training for new pet owners
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$90 to $200
9

Wholistic Hound Academy

★★★★★4.5(43 reviews)
78Score

Wholistic Hound Academy has a rating of 4.5 from 43 reviews, making it a decent choice for dog owners seeking a balanced approach to training. Reviewers appreciate the focus on holistic methods. However, some clients have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of these methods for more stubborn breeds. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is holistic training approaches. It serves Alexandria, VA, with $80 to $180 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are effectiveness for stubborn breeds questioned and smaller training base.

Pros

  • Holistic training methods
  • Focus on overall well-being
  • Compassionate trainers

Cons

  • Effectiveness for stubborn breeds questioned
  • Smaller training base
Best forHolistic training approaches
Service areaAlexandria, VA
Typical pricing$80 to $180
Before you book

How to choose a dog trainer in Alexandria

Selecting the right dog trainer involves asking the right questions to ensure they meet your needs and those of your dog. Here are key considerations to guide your choice.

What training methods do you use?

Understanding the trainer's approach can help you determine if it aligns with your dog's temperament and your training goals.

Can you provide references or testimonials?

A reputable trainer should be able to share positive feedback from past clients, giving you insight into their effectiveness.

What is your experience with my dog's breed?

Some trainers specialize in certain breeds or behavioral issues, so finding one with relevant experience can enhance training outcomes.

What it costs

What dog training costs in Alexandria

The cost of dog training in Alexandria varies based on the trainer's experience, the type of training, and the program length. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay.

Group classes$150 to $300 for a series of classes, typically lasting several weeks.
Private sessions$75 to $150 per hour, depending on the trainer's experience and location.
Board and train programs$1,000 to $3,000 for intensive training, where your dog stays with the trainer for a set period.
Online training$50 to $200 for virtual sessions, making it a flexible option for many pet owners.

Frequently asked questions

How much does dog training cost in Alexandria?

Dog training services in Alexandria typically range from $100 to $300 per session, depending on the provider and the type of training offered.

What types of dog training are available in Alexandria?

Alexandria offers a variety of dog training options, including obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy training classes. Each provider may specialize in different areas.

How often is this ranking updated?

We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.

Our verdict

For most Alexandria dog owners: <strong>Unleashed Abilities: Coaching People, Training Dogs</strong>

If you want the best overall dog training experience in Alexandria, choose Unleashed Abilities: Coaching People, Training Dogs. With a perfect 5-star rating from 134 reviews, they excel in coaching both dogs and their owners. If your dog has specific behavior issues or you prefer a more personalized approach, consider My Dog Listens LLC or Pack Leader Help. Both alternatives share the same 4.9-star rating, but they may offer different training styles or specializations that fit your needs better.