“How much is this going to cost me?” is the first question I hear on almost every call. Most trainers won’t say until you book a call, so here’s the real dog training cost for Apple Valley, Victorville, Hesperia, Adelanto and the rest of the High Desert.
A few things our dog training programs include:
Private lessons
Six one-hour lessons, one-on-one
- Six one-hour lessons, booked on your schedule with our online calendar
- One-on-one training built around your dog, your home and your goals
- Leash walking, sit, down, stay and recall around real distractions
- Crate and potty training for puppies and new rescues
- Handling drills that make vet visits and grooming easier
- Help with leash reactivity, fear, separation anxiety and dog-to-dog problems
- Bite prevention and calmer greetings at the door
- Exercise games that burn energy in the house and yard
- Service animal training available
- A CPDT-KA certified trainer using positive, force-free methods
- Payment plans through Afterpay
Board & train
4 or 6 weeks, living and learning with us
- Your dog lives in our home and is treated like family, not kenneled
- Multiple short training sessions every day for 4 or 6 weeks
- Two to three times longer than the typical two-week program
- Leash walking, sit, down, stay, recall and crate training
- Help with your dog’s biggest problems: fear, separation anxiety and bite prevention
- Puppy track: potty training, socialization with puppies and people, new places and sounds
- Practice around real distractions before your dog comes home
- Three one-on-one follow-up lessons after pickup so it sticks at home
- Online training videos to keep practicing
- Payment plans through Afterpay
Behavior problems take time. Some dogs need more than six private sessions, and we’ll tell you that up front.
2026 dog training prices at a glance
THE SHORT ANSWER
Private lessons run $650–$750 for six lessons. Board & train runs $2,500–$3,500 for four or six weeks. Payment plans are available through Afterpay.
How we compare: nationally, private lessons average $100–$150 an hour and a two-week board & train runs $3,000–$4,000 (Rover). Our board & train is two to three times longer for a similar or lower price. See every rate on our prices & FAQ page. This creates a huge value for our customers compared to other trainers.
THE RESULTS SPEAK VOLUMES!
With over 120 five star reviews for our program we have proven time and time again our methods work, and it far less expensive than our current competitors.
Private lessons
$650–$750
6 one-hour lessons built around your dog
Board & train
$2,500–$3,500
4 or 6 weeks of daily training, plus 3 follow-up lessons
Group classes
Coming soon
4-week puppy and adult classes
Online training
Coming soon
Learn the basics at your own pace
Get your exact dog training QUote
Every dog is different. Book a free consultation and we’ll recommend the program that fits your goals and budget. Payment plans available.
What moves your dog training cost up or down
- Manners vs. behavior problems. Fear, reactivity and aggression take more sessions than basic manners.
- Your dog’s age. Puppies need potty and socialization work. Teenage dogs (6–18 months) often need a refresher.
- Program length. A four-week board & train costs less than six weeks.
- Where you live. Outside Apple Valley, Victorville, Hesperia and Adelanto, a travel fee applies.
- Practice. 10 minutes a day between lessons means fewer lessons. That part is free.
Cheap dog training vs. the right training
The cheapest training is the kind you only pay for once.
A low price can be a great deal. However, it can also be an expensive mistake, because when training doesn’t work, you pay twice: once for the program, and again to fix what it didn’t. Here’s the difference.
The cheapest option
Credentials
None required. Anyone can call themselves a trainer.
Methods
Often shock collars, prong collars or intimidation.
Plan
One-size-fits-all.
Behavior problems
Often turned away or “fixed” with force.
You
They train the dog and hand it back.
Results
Fade within weeks.
The right trainer
Credentials
Independent certification (CPDT-KA) and continuing education.
Methods
Positive reinforcement that builds trust and lasts.
Plan
A plan built around your dog after a free consultation.
Behavior problems
Reactivity, fear and separation anxiety worked through step by step.
You
They teach you too, with follow-up lessons.
Results
Stick, because you know how to keep them going.
California doesn’t license dog trainers. No state does.
Anyone can print business cards tomorrow. When you compare prices, you’re also comparing who you’re trusting with your dog.
Ask any trainer, including us:
- Are you certified? I’m a CPDT-KA, which requires an independent exam and continuing education.
- What methods do you use? We use positive reinforcement. You never have to hurt or scare a dog to train it.
- Where will my dog sleep, and how will I see progress? Expect a clear answer and regular video updates.
- What’s your plan for heat? High Desert summers top 100°F.
- What happens after? Follow-up lessons should be part of the price.
What waiting can cost you
I started InsideOut because training saves lives. Most dogs surrendered for “behavior” had problems training could have fixed.
Barking complaints
San Bernardino County gives about two weeks to fix a barking problem, then fines of $100, $200 and $500 (County Animal Care).
Fewer places to turn
Apple Valley Animal Services went appointment-only in 2025, and local rescues are full (Town of Apple Valley).
Damage and vet bills
Chewed doors, escapes and dog fights usually cost more than a training package.
Which program fits your dog?
| If this sounds like you… | Start with |
|---|---|
| New puppy, want to learn the basics yourself | Private lessons (online and puppy classes coming soon) |
| Friendly dog who needs manners around distractions | Private lessons (group classes coming soon) |
| Pulling, jumping, reactivity, fear, separation anxiety | Private lessons |
| Busy schedule, big goals, want a strong start fast | Board & train |
Dog training cost FAQ
What is the average dog training cost in Apple Valley?
At InsideOut, private lessons cost $650–$750 for six sessions and board & train costs $2,500–$3,500. Group classes and online training are coming soon.
Is board & train worth the money?
Yes, when you need fast progress or don’t have time to practice daily at first. It lasts when you keep it up at home, which is why ours includes three one-on-one follow-up lessons.
Do you train in Victorville, Hesperia and Adelanto?
Yes. We work with dogs across the High Desert, including Apple Valley, Victorville, Hesperia and Adelanto.
How many sessions does a reactive dog need?
It depends on the dog. Many make clear progress in six private lessons, but behavior problems often take longer. We’ll give you an honest estimate.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Split your program into smaller payments with Afterpay and other online payment-plan services.
Is online dog training effective?
For basic obedience and puppy skills, yes, if you practice. Our online program is coming soon. For aggression or serious fear, start with private lessons.
About the author: Jason Rae is a CPDT-KA certified dog trainer with nearly 24 years of experience and the founder of InsideOut Dog Training in Apple Valley, CA. He also founded Strutmymutt.com, a free training platform for shelters and rescues.