Charlotte Dog Training & Behavior Counseling

Charlotte Dog Training & Behavior Counseling

At the Humane Society of Charlotte, our training philosophy is based on behavioral science, positive reinforcement and strengthening the human animal bond. We offer a variety of classes that teach you how to communicate with your dog through training methods, engaging their brain and having fun.

If you have any questions about dog training in Charlotte, contact our Behavior and Training Team at training@humanecharlotte.org.


What Can I Expect From Dog Training?

The goal of any training class is to help you forge a healthy and harmonious bond with your pup. Dog training classes afford insight into how your dog’s mind works, allowing you to understand how to encourage positive behavior.

The following vaccines are required to attend training classes: DHPP, Rabies, and Bordetella. Email vaccine documentation to training@humanecharlotte.org, or bring them to your first class.

NOTICE: HSC’s training sessions are not suitable for dogs that excessively bark at other dogs or people, exhibit extreme fear, or show signs of aggression. We are unable to address exclusively in-home behaviors such as potty training, crate training, separation anxiety, chewing/destruction, or territorial behaviors. For assistance with these specific issues, please seek the help of a force-free, in-home trainer. To find a qualified trainer, click here.

At the Humane Society of Charlotte, we offer:


How Much Does Pet Training in Charlotte Cost?

Pet training is an investment in both you and your dog’s future. How much pet training costs depends on whether you opt for group classes or private, one-on-one training sessions. 

At the Humane Society of Charlotte, you can expect to pay:

  • Dog Basics for Everyone – FREE
  • Specialty Focus Group Class – $40
  • Private Training Lessons – $60 for one private session or $150 for a package of three 
  • Puppy Power – $20
  • Six-week group classes – $185
  • Canine Good Citizen Preparation Class – $185
  • Canine Good Citizen Evaluation Only – $20

If you are experiencing financial hardship and are unable to afford pet training in Charlotte, contact our Pet Help Team at pethelp@humanecharlotte.org.


Meet Our Dog Trainer – Olivia Smith, CPDT-KA

dog and dog trainer in a dog training class

Hello everyone! My name is Olivia, I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed. I am a Charlotte area resident with my dog, Yuki. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a strong passion for animals. I have over 5 years of personal and professional experience training dogs. Through my experience, I’ve gained exposure working with dogs of all ages and temperaments.

My mission is to spread my knowledge of dog training and behavior to benefit both pup and parent. I believe that having a thorough understanding of your dog’s behavior will increase your ability to train, therefore strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Through using force-free and positive reinforcement methods, I believe any dog is able to make significant progress with the right techniques. 


Charlotte Pet Training FAQs

What are the benefits of pet training?

Training can boost your dog’s confidence and help address behavior issues you are experiencing. Pet training can also strengthen the human-animal bond.

Is my dog too old for pet training?

No! Even an old dog can learn new tricks.

How old does my dog have to be to start pet training?

Puppies can start training when they are eight weeks old. We require puppies to receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least two weeks before the first class. All dogs are required to have the following vaccines to attend training classes: DHPP, Rabies, and Bordetella. Email vaccine documentation to training@humanecharlotte.org


If you have any questions about pet training with HSC, contact our Behavior and Training Team at training@humanecharlotte.org.