The use of apps for training dogs has expanded rapidly as owners look for accessible and affordable ways to teach their pets. According to Business Research Insights, the global dog training apps market was valued at USD 1.23 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 5.76 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5%.
Many top dog training apps now provide structured obedience lessons, step-by-step trick tutorials, and guidance on everyday behavior problems such as barking, leash pulling, and recall. They also include progress tracking, reminders, and interactive features that help owners stay consistent at home.
With so many options to choose from, the the decision can feel overwhelming. This dog training apps comparison reviews five of the best dog apps 2025.
Can Dog Training Apps Provide Effective Training?
The best dog training apps teach consistency at a lower cost than traditional group classes. Most subscriptions are priced under $40 per month, making them pretty accessibe when compared to the real results you get. Structured lessons, reminders, and progress tracking make it easier to keep routines in place at home.
Evidence from dog training app reviews shows clear results when sessions are done daily. Pet parents often describe how structured routines paired with guided exercises help turn short lessons into lasting habits.
Reported benefits include:
• noticeable gains in obedience, with faster response to basic commands
• stronger recall and steadier leash manners, especially when apps provide step-by-step feedback from real experts
• improved impulse control during mealtimes or walks
• quick success in teaching new tricks, particularly for puppies who learn best through short, engaging lessons
Interactive features like streaks, reminders, and progress badges have become standard in the top rated dog training apps. PawChamp, Puppr, GoodPup, Dogo, and Pupford all build on these tools but differ in how they balance theory, live guidance, and trick-based learning.
PawChamp app
PawChamp opens the rating of the best positive dog training apps. Although it’s a newcomer, launched in early 2025, the app has quickly gained attention for its thoughtful, user-first design.
It is built around the needs of busy owners and emphasizes positive reinforcement, consistent routines, and strengthening the bond between owner and dog. PawChamp ask a dog expert feature is available 24/7 to support with questions arising in the process.
It combines theory and practice through short videos and written guides. Lessons cover obedience, daily routines, physical activity, and games. Each section includes step-by-step instructions to follow at home.
| PawChamp review | |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Pros | Science-backed content from certified dog trainers and behaviorists 24/7 ask dog trainer app Flexible command training with a clicker at your own pace Clear step-by-step guides on every dog topic Extensive video library 100+ commands and fun games to try out with your dog Built-in AI assistant for immediate answers |
| Cons | No live video sessions Consistency depends on self-motivation |
| User reviews | 4.1/5 on Trustpilot (over 10k reviews) 4.1/5 on App Store and Play Market |
For users wondering “Is PawChamp legit and worth it?”, Anastasiia Kramarenko, IAABC-Certified, CSAT, and Dynamic Practitioner, has this to say:
“PawChamp is a wonderful app for petparents! It offers not only practical exercises to master specific skills but also a solid theoretical section with detailed explanations of such important aspects for a dog as daily routine, balancing physical activity, and various games. I recommend it both for those who have just welcomed their first dog and for pet parents who already have one and want to strengthen their bond.”
Puppr
Puppr is one of the apps for dog tricks that has gained popularity for its simple training approach. It offers a wide library of visual tutorials, making it a strong option for owners who enjoy teaching fun behaviors in addition to basic obedience.
| Puppr app review | |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Pros | Trick tutorials for every taste Visual guides for easier understanding Built-in clicker tool Simple interface |
| Cons | Focuses more on tricks than on behavior correction Limited guidance for problem behaviors |
| User Reviews | No Trustpilot account 4.8/5 on App Store and 4.1/5 on Play Market |
GoodPup
GoodPup stands out in the field of virtual dog training with live interaction with professional trainers. Its weekly video call format gives owners real-time accountability and guidance, similar to private lessons but at a lower cost.
| Goodpup app review | |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Pros | One-on-one trainer sessions Personalized training plans Focus on obedience |
| Cons | Higher subscription cost than competitors Requires commitment to live calls |
| User Reviews | No Trustpilot account 4.8/5 on App Store and 4.7/5 on Play Market |
Dogo
Dogo combines structured lesson plans with feedback on uploaded videos, making it one of the more interactive dog obedience apps. It’s especially appealing to owners who want daily challenges and steady progress tracking.
| Dogo app review | |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Pros | Interactive challenges Trainer video feedback Milestone tracking |
| Cons | Limited depth for advanced goals No live sessions |
| User Reviews | No Trustpilot account 4.8/5 on App Store and 4.9/5 on Play Market |
Pupford
Pupford focuses heavily on obedience, behavior basics, and puppy care while also giving the option to unlock more advanced material. Pupford offers a free foundation course covering recall and impulse control. It is often compared in PawChamp vs Pupford discussions around price versus content depth.
| Pupford app review | |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Pros | Free 30-day course for new owners Covers basics like recall, leash walking, and crate training Built-in progress tracker Access to behavior videos and eBooks |
| Cons | Advanced courses locked behind paid upgrades Some lessons seen as too general Technical issues like video playback problems, app crashes |
| User Reviews | No Trustpilot account 4.8/5 on App Store and 4.6/5 on Play Market |
How to Choose the Best Dog Training Apps
When you’re wondering whether PawChamp vs Dogo is the right fit, or comparing Puppr, GoodPup, and Pupford, the decision usually comes down to simple criteria.
Training style
Some dog training tools apps focus on trick tutorials and gamified lessons. These are useful for owners who want fun, fast assignments. Others provide structured obedience programs more suitable for solving daily behavior issues like barking, pulling, or recall.
The best apps like PawChamp and Dogo, for example, explain routines in theory sections and behavior science and combine them with short video guides focusing on quick application.
Dog’s age
The best puppy training app usually starts with foundation skills. These include recall, crate training, and housebreaking. Puppies learn better through short, repeated lessons, so digital puppy training apps with reminders and step tracking can help.
Adult dogs often benefit from impulse control programs. Senior dogs may need slower-paced modules focused on calmness, healthcare and mobility.
Level of guidance
If you want structured programs that reinforce sit, stay, and heel, the best app for dog obedience will usually be one with step-by-step routines and trainer input. Owners who prefer accountability should choose apps that include live calls or video feedback. They also reduce mistakes in timing or handling. The best approach for busy people is a dog training via smartphone through self-guided learning with live dog expert guidance via in app chat.
Technology features
The app must include many tools to support consistent learning. Most digital dog training tools use trackers to show training frequency and pinpoint weak areas. Reminders help owners stay on schedule, which improves long-term results. Progress badges and streaks boost motivation.
Some apps offer video upload for trainer feedback. Others offer clickers or sound cues to guide commands without extra equipment. These tools work together to make at-home training more efficient and reduce the need for in-person sessions.
Bottom Line: Are Dog Trainer Apps Worth It?
The availability of online dog training apps has reduced the cost of structured training compared to in-person classes. They are not replacements for addressing severe aggression but are effective as apps to train puppies, teach your dog basic manners and routines. Many people like training dogs with apps to reinforce obedience and improve behavior at home.
For first-time pet parents, the best dog apps for new owners are those that combine free entry lessons with clear instructions and a supportive interface. In this regard, chose the one that has become a strong option for those who want a mix of theory, bonding exercises, and practical training in one platform.
As the market for app-based dog training programs grows, more apps are expanding beyond obedience. Many mobile apps for dog owners now include features for nutrition, physical activity tracking, and care reminders, helping owners manage every part of their dog’s well-being through a single solution.
