You love your dog, but you also want them to behave well and listen to you. That’s why you are looking for the best dog trainers in Erie, PA, who can help you train your dog in a fun, effective, and positive way. In this page, you will find a list of the most qualified and reputable dog trainers in Erie, PA, who offer a variety of services to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you need puppy training, obedience training, agility training, or anything in between, you will find a trainer who can help you and your dog reach your full potential. Check out each trainer’s credentials, and their testimonials from happy clients.
Best Dog Trainers in Erie, PA
1. Lake Erie K9
Lake Erie K9 is a veteran-owned and operated dog training business in Erie, PA. They offer a variety of services, including:
- Basic obedience
- Spec ops (advanced obedience courses)
- Behavior modification
- AKC Canine Good Citizen course
- K9 Bootcamp (group puppy/dog obedience class)
- Tac maneuvers (beginner agility)
- Therapy dog training/testing
They have a team of experienced and certified trainers, led by Mike A., a former Air Force Security Forces/Dept. of Defense k9 handler and k9 trainer. Mike A. has also worked as a civilian police k9 officer and trainer, a military police training instructor, a tactical firearms instructor and a defensive tactics instructor. Tony D., another trainer, is a retired civilian police k9 officer and trainer with over 20 years of experience. Gary S., another trainer, has an agility dog named Yoshi who is quickly becoming an agility star as a Pitbull. Jessica D., the newest trainer, is currently in the trainer apprentice stage.
Lake Erie K9 has a training center in Lawrence Park, where they conduct their group classes and private sessions. They also provide in-home training and behavior modification for clients who prefer that option. They are committed to exceeding their clients’ needs and expectations, and they have a loyal following of satisfied customers who have shared their positive reviews on their Facebook page.
Some of the benefits of choosing Lake Erie K9 are:
- Positive reinforcement and humane methods to train dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes.
- Flexible scheduling and affordable prices for their services.
- Military discount for active duty and veterans.
- Referral program that rewards clients who refer new customers to them.
- Shopping consultation service that helps clients choose the best products for their dogs.
- Scheduled delivery service that delivers products to their clients’ homes or workplaces.
Address: 4204 Main St, Erie, PA 16511
Phone: (814) 602-8273
Website: https://www.lakeeriek9.net/
Highlights
- Veteran-owned and operated
- Experienced and certified trainers
- Variety of services for different needs and goals
- Positive reinforcement and humane methods
- Flexible scheduling and affordable prices
- Military discount and referral program
2. Countryside Agility
Countryside Agility is a 34,000 sq ft, climate-controlled, indoor facility with rubber in-fill turf located in Erie, PA. They specialize in dog agility training, competitions and services. They offer group and private lessons for all levels of agility, from beginners to masters. They also host USDAA and AKC trials, provide trial secretary services, and rent out their facility, equipment and pool.
They have a staff of qualified and passionate instructors, led by Denise Thomas, the owner and founder of Countryside Agility. Denise is a USDAA judge, a USDAA World Team member, and a multiple-time national finalist. She has over 20 years of experience in dog agility and has trained and competed with various breeds, including Border Collies, Shelties, Papillons and All Americans. She is also a certified canine massage therapist and a certified canine fitness trainer.
Countryside Agility has a state-of-the-art facility that features:
- A 100 x 100 ft main ring with regulation equipment
- A 50 x 50 ft secondary ring for classes and warm-ups
- A heated indoor pool for hydrotherapy and conditioning
- A spacious crating area with rubber mats
- A fully stocked snack bar and vending machines
- A large parking lot with RV hook-ups
- A fenced outdoor area for potty breaks
- A retail store that sells agility equipment and apparel
Some of the benefits of choosing Countryside Agility are:
- Positive and fun methods to teach dogs and handlers the skills and strategies for agility
- Variety of classes for different needs and goals, such as foundation, handling, sequencing, contacts, weaves, distance, etc.
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their classes and trials
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or classes
- Email list that provides news and updates about their trials and events
- Friendly and supportive community of agility enthusiasts
Address: 2321 W 38th St, Erie, PA 16506
Phone: (814) 315-6668
Website: https://www.countrysideagility.com/
Highlights
- Climate-controlled, indoor facility with rubber in-fill turf
- Qualified and passionate instructors
- Variety of classes for all levels of agility
- Heated indoor pool for hydrotherapy and conditioning
- USDAA and AKC trials and trial secretary services
- Retail store that sells agility equipment and apparel
3. Scholars in Collars Academy
Scholars in Collars Academy is a dog training business in Erie, PA that offers courses and services for dogs of all ages and stages. They have a variety of programs, including:
- Group classes: Attend group classes for five weeks with other pet parents and their dogs. Four levels from beginner to therapy dog.
- Day school: A five week program of Tues/Thurs all day training, socialization, and outings tailored to your specific goals.
- Board and trains: Let them do the work for you! Dogs spend 2-3 weeks as members of their house working on individual training goals.
- Private sessions: Get one-on-one attention and customized training for you and your dog at your home or their facility.
They have a trainer, Nikki McGaughey KPA CTP, SDC, who has been training canines in the Erie, PA area for over ten years. Nikki has a biology degree from Gannon University and graduated from Karen Pryor Academy with perfect scores. She is a Service Dog Coach with Cooperative Paws and a Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dogs United evaluator. She also has a team of assistants who help her with the training programs.
Scholars in Collars Academy has a facility that features:
- A large indoor training area with rubber flooring
- A fenced outdoor area for potty breaks and playtime
- A cozy home environment for board and trains
- A variety of toys, treats and equipment for training and enrichment
Some of the benefits of choosing Scholars in Collars Academy are:
- Positive reinforcement and science-based methods to teach dogs and owners the skills and behaviors they need
- Range of programs for different needs and goals, such as puppy training, obedience, manners, tricks, agility, etc.
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their programs
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or programs
- Email list that provides news and updates about their programs and events
- Merch shop that sells t-shirts, tote bags, sweaters, leggings, and more with their logo and agility themes
Address: 8321 Hamot Rd, Erie, PA 16509
Phone: (814) 299-6701
Website: https://www.scholarsincollarsacademy.com/
Highlights
- Positive reinforcement and science-based methods
- Range of programs for all ages and stages
- Qualified and experienced trainer
- Cozy home environment for board and trains
- Merch shop that sells agility themed apparel
4. Puptopia Training and Trims
Puptopia Training and Trims is a dog training and grooming business in Erie, PA that specializes in behavior and standard training for dogs of all ages. They offer a variety of services, including:
- Group classes: They offer puppy, obedience and sporting group classes to enrich and help your pet grow. They have classes for different levels, such as beginner, intermediate and advanced.
- Private sessions: They offer private sessions for dogs who need more individual attention or have specific issues, such as aggression, anxiety, reactivity, etc. They can come to your home or meet you at their facility.
- Online courses: They offer online courses for owners who want to learn at their own pace and convenience. They have courses for different topics, such as crate training, leash walking, recall, etc.
- Grooming: They offer grooming services for dogs of all sizes and breeds. They have a full-service salon that provides bathing, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, etc. They also have a self-service wash station that allows you to wash your own dog.
They have a team of certified and experienced trainers and groomers, led by Jessica Lancia CPDT-KA, the owner and founder of Puptopia Training and Trims. Jessica has over 15 years of experience in dog training and grooming and has a passion for helping dogs and owners live in harmony. She is also a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Puptopia Training and Trims has a facility that features:
- A large indoor training area with rubber flooring
- A small outdoor area for potty breaks
- A full-service salon with professional grooming equipment
- A self-service wash station with tubs, shampoos, towels, dryers, etc.
- A retail store that sells dog supplies and accessories
Some of the benefits of choosing Puptopia Training and Trims are:
- Positive reinforcement and force-free methods to train dogs and owners the skills and behaviors they need
- Range of services for different needs and goals, such as group classes, private sessions, online courses and grooming
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their services
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or services
- Email list that provides news and updates about their services and events
- Loyalty program that rewards customers with points for every dollar spent
Address: 2141 Ebco Dr #214, Erie, PA 16506
Phone: (814) 860-4900
Website: https://www.puptopiadogs.com/
Highlights
- Positive reinforcement and force-free methods
- Range of services for all ages and stages
- Certified and experienced trainers and groomers
- Full-service salon and self-service wash station
- Loyalty program that rewards customers with points
5. Off Leash K9 Training, Erie
Off Leash K9 Training, Erie is part of the highest-rated dog training business in the United States, with over 130 locations nation-wide. They specialize in dog obedience training, puppy training, nosework, and therapy dog training. They offer several different packages, such as:
- Basic obedience: 4 private lessons that teach your dog “come”, “sit”, “extended sit”, “place”, “extended place”, “heel”, “down”, “extended down” and “off”.
- Advanced obedience: 4 private lessons that teach your dog off-leash obedience and advanced commands, such as “watch me”, “through”, “stand”, etc.
- 2-week board and train: A 14-day program where your dog stays with them and learns all of the basic and advanced commands, as well as socialization and manners.
- Therapy dog development: A 6-week program that prepares your dog for the Therapy Dogs International test and certification.
- Nosework: A 4-week program that teaches your dog how to use their nose to find hidden scents and objects.
They have a team of professional and certified trainers, led by Lyn Trapuzzano, the owner of Off Leash K9 Training, Erie. Lyn is a lifelong lover of dogs and animals, and has a bachelor’s degree in biology and a MBA. She has served as a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, a director of a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center, and has worked with a variety of exotic animals. She has a passion for helping owners to recognize and understand the wisdom, spirit and individuality that they share with dogs.
Off Leash K9 Training, Erie has a facility that features:
- A large indoor training area with rubber flooring
- A fenced outdoor area for potty breaks and playtime
- A cozy home environment for board and trains
- A variety of toys, treats and equipment for training and enrichment
Some of the benefits of choosing Off Leash K9 Training, Erie are:
- Positive reinforcement and proven methods to train dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes
- Packages for different needs and goals
- Guarantee a 100% obedient, 100% off-leash, and 100% distraction-proof pup at the end of their program
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their packages
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or packages
- Email list that provides news and updates about their packages and events
Address: 1936 W 8th St, Erie, PA 16505
Phone: (814) 580-6800
Website: https://eriedogtrainers.com/
Highlights
- Highest-rated dog training business in the United States
- Professional and certified trainers
- Variety of packages for obedience, therapy and nosework
- Guaranteed results for off-leash obedience
- Cozy home environment for board and trains
6. Canine Connection
Canine Connection is a dog training business in Erie, PA that offers in-home behavior consultation, training and coaching. They teach owners how to be the pack leader and correct unwanted behavioral issues, such as:
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Barking
- Chewing
- Digging
- Jumping
- Leash pulling
- Nipping
- Separation anxiety
- And more
They have a team of experienced and professional trainers, led by Eileen K Murdock, the owner and founder of Canine Connection. Eileen has over 38 years of experience in working with and handling dogs, and has learned from some of the best trainers in the area. She is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and an AKC sanctioned Hunt Test Judge. She is joined by Sabrina Lane, who brings additional services to their clients, such as:
- Basic, intermediate and advanced obedience training
- Canine Good Citizen training and certification
- Therapy dog training
- Board and train program
Canine Connection operates in Erie, PA and they come directly to your home for behavior consultation and hands-on training. They are willing to travel outside of Erie and the surrounding area based on the client need. Their rate is $85.00 per hour; The average session is approximately 3 hours. Travel fees, if necessary, are happily discussed prior to consultation.
Some of the benefits of choosing Canine Connection are:
- Positive reinforcement and pack mentality to train dogs and owners the skills and behaviors they need
- In-home training that addresses the specific issues that occur in the home environment
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their services
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or services
- Email list that provides news and updates about their services and events
- Lifetime support guarantee for their clients
Address: 1020 S Hill Rd, Erie, PA 16509
Phone: (814) 864-3144
Website: https://canineconnectioneriepa.com/
Highlights
- In-home behavior consultation, training and coaching
- Experienced and professional trainers
- Pack mentality and positive reinforcement methods
- Flexible scheduling and online registration
- Lifetime support guarantee
7. Petco Dog Training
Petco Dog Training is a dog training service offered by Petco, a leading pet retailer in the United States. They offer positive dog training classes for dogs of all ages and stages, from puppies to seniors. They have a variety of classes, such as:
- Puppy level 1: A 6-week introductory group class that focuses on proper socialization and teaches desired behaviors and cues, such as potty training, chewing, digging, etc.
- Puppy level 2: A 6-week intermediate group class that expands on the behaviors and cues learned in puppy level 1, introducing the concept of establishing behaviors as routines and fun games to keep your puppy’s mind active and engaged.
- Adult dog level 1: A 6-week introductory group class that is designed to help you better communicate with and train your dog. Dogs will learn behaviors and cues, such as “leave it”, “wait”, “loose leash walking”, etc.
- Adult dog level 2: A 6-week intermediate group class that expands on the behaviors and cues learned in adult dog level 1, introducing more advanced and complex training techniques and commands, such as “watch me”, “through”, “stand”, etc.
- AKC Canine Good Citizen: A 6-week advanced group class that prepares your dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test and certification, which is a nationally recognized program that evaluates dogs on their manners and obedience.
- Therapy dog: A 6-week advanced group class that prepares your dog for the Therapy Dogs International test and certification, which is a volunteer organization that provides therapy dog visits to hospitals, schools, nursing homes, etc.
They have a team of certified and experienced trainers who use positive reinforcement and fun methods to teach dogs and owners the skills and behaviors they need. They also offer online dog training classes for owners who want to learn at their own pace and convenience.
Petco Dog Training has a facility that features:
- A large indoor training area with rubber flooring
- A spacious crating area with rubber mats
- A fully stocked snack bar and vending machines
- A large parking lot with RV hook-ups
- A fenced outdoor area for potty breaks
Some of the benefits of choosing Petco Dog Training are:
- Positive reinforcement and fun methods to train dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes
- Variety of classes for different dog ages
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their classes
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or classes
- Email newsletter for news and updates about their classes and events
- Loyalty program that rewards customers with points for every dollar spent
Address: 1960 Edinboro Rd, Erie, PA 16509
Phone: (814) 864-9256
Website: https://stores.petco.com/pa/erie/dog-training-erie-pa-1810.html
Highlights
- Positive reinforcement and fun methods
- Variety of classes for all ages and stages
- Certified and experienced trainers
- Online dog training classes available
- Loyalty program that rewards customers with points
8. PetSmart Dog Training
PetSmart Dog Training is a dog training service offered by PetSmart, a leading pet retailer in the United States. They offer positive dog training classes for dogs of all ages and stages, from puppies to seniors. They have a variety of classes, such as:
- Puppy level 1: A 6-week introductory group class that focuses on proper socialization and teaches desired behaviors and cues, such as potty training, chewing, digging, etc.
- Puppy level 2: A 6-week intermediate group class that expands on the behaviors and cues learned in puppy level 1, introducing the concept of establishing behaviors as routines and fun games to keep your puppy’s mind active and engaged.
- Adult dog level 1: A 6-week introductory group class that is designed to help you better communicate with and train your dog. Dogs will learn behaviors and cues, such as “leave it”, “wait”, “loose leash walking”, etc.
- Adult dog level 2: A 6-week intermediate group class that expands on the behaviors and cues learned in adult dog level 1, introducing more advanced and complex training techniques and commands, such as “watch me”, “through”, “stand”, etc.
- AKC Canine Good Citizen: A 6-week advanced group class that prepares your dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test and certification, which is a nationally recognized program that evaluates dogs on their manners and obedience.
- Therapy dog: A 6-week advanced group class that prepares your dog for the Therapy Dogs International test and certification, which is a volunteer organization that provides therapy dog visits to hospitals, schools, nursing homes, etc.
They have a team of certified and experienced trainers who use positive reinforcement and fun methods to teach dogs and owners the skills and behaviors they need. They also offer online dog training classes for owners who want to learn at their own pace and convenience.
PetSmart Dog Training has a facility that features:
- A large indoor training area with rubber flooring
- A spacious crating area with rubber mats
- A fully stocked snack bar and vending machines
- A large parking lot with RV hook-ups
- A fenced outdoor area for potty breaks
Some of the benefits of choosing PetSmart Dog Training are:
- Positive reinforcement and fun methods to train dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes
- Variety of classes for different needs and goals
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their classes
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or classes
- Email list that provides news and updates about their classes and events
- Loyalty program that rewards customers with points for every dollar spent
Address: 7451 Peach St Suite B, Erie, PA 16509
Phone: (814) 866-6821
Website: https://stores.petsmart.com/pa/erie/erie/dog-training
Highlights
- Positive reinforcement and fun methods
- Variety of classes for all ages and stages
- Certified and experienced trainers
- Online dog training classes available
- Loyalty program that rewards customers with points
9. Admiral Perry Obedience Training Club
Admiral Perry Obedience Training Club is a dog training club in Erie, PA that is affiliated with the American Kennel Club (AKC). They offer obedience, rally, tracking, agility, and therapy dog training classes for dogs of all breeds and mixes. They also host AKC trials, tests, and matches throughout the year. They have a variety of classes, such as:
- Puppy kindergarten: A 6-week class that introduces puppies to basic obedience commands, socialization, and manners.
- Beginner obedience: A 6-week class that teaches dogs the basic obedience commands, such as “sit”, “down”, “stay”, “come”, “heel”, etc.
- Advanced beginner obedience: A 6-week class that builds on the skills learned in beginner obedience, introducing more advanced commands and exercises, such as “front”, “finish”, “stand for exam”, etc.
- Novice obedience: A 6-week class that prepares dogs for the AKC Novice obedience title, which requires them to perform a series of exercises on and off leash, such as “heel free”, “figure eight”, “recall”, etc.
- Open obedience: A 6-week class that prepares dogs for the AKC Open obedience title, which requires them to perform a series of exercises off leash, such as “drop on recall”, “retrieve on flat”, “broad jump”, etc.
- Utility obedience: A 6-week class that prepares dogs for the AKC Utility obedience title, which requires them to perform a series of exercises that demonstrate their intelligence and versatility, such as “scent discrimination”, “directed retrieve”, “signal exercise”, etc.
- Rally: A 6-week class that teaches dogs how to perform various signs and exercises that are used in AKC Rally trials, which are a fun and challenging way to showcase their teamwork and skills.
- Tracking: A 6-week class that teaches dogs how to use their nose to follow a human scent trail and find articles along the way. Tracking is a natural instinct for dogs and can be used for fun or competition.
- Agility: A 6-week class that teaches dogs how to navigate various obstacles, such as jumps, tunnels, weave poles, etc. Agility is a fast-paced and exciting sport that tests their speed, agility, and confidence.
- Therapy dog: A 6-week class that prepares dogs for the Therapy Dogs International test and certification, which allows them to visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, etc. Therapy dogs provide comfort and companionship to people in need.
They have a team of knowledgeable and dedicated instructors who use positive reinforcement and motivational methods to train dogs and owners the skills and behaviors they need. They also have a board of directors who oversee the club’s operations and activities.
Admiral Perry Obedience Training Club has a facility that features:
- A large indoor training area with rubber flooring
- A fenced outdoor area for potty breaks and playtime
- A variety of toys, treats and equipment for training and enrichment
- A fully stocked snack bar and vending machines
- A large parking lot with RV hook-ups
Some of the benefits of choosing Admiral Perry Obedience Training Club are:
- Positive reinforcement and motivational methods to train dogs of all breeds and mixes
- Variety of classes for different needs and goals
- Host AKC trials, tests, and matches throughout the year
- Flexible scheduling and online registration for their classes
- Competitive prices and discounts for multiple dogs or classes
- Email list that provides news and updates about their classes and events
- Membership program that offers benefits such as reduced fees, voting rights, newsletters, etc.
Address: 9457 Wattsburg Rd, Erie, PA 16509
Phone: (814) 866-5609
Website: https://apotc.org/
Highlights
- AKC affiliated club
- Knowledgeable and dedicated instructors
- Variety of classes for obedience, rally, tracking, agility, and therapy dog
- Positive reinforcement and motivational methods
- Membership program that offers benefits
