Rated on Google

Dog Training in Los Angeles

Looking for the best dog training in Los Angeles, CA? Here’s what you get with Pawcific Dog Academy.

  • A dog that listens to every command
  • No more bad behaviors
  • Help with any problem or goal, big or small
  • Lifetime support and guidance

Click the button below and fill out a quick form to get started with a free consultation ↓

Pawcific Dog Academy Los Angeles team with dogs
🏅Certified Trainers
❤️Positive-First Methods
🏆Thousands of Dogs Trained
📍Serving Greater Los Angeles

Check Out Our Reviews

★★★★★
Rated 5.0 by Los Angeles dog owners on Google
J
Jessica AlexanderRecent
★★★★★

I can't say enough great things about James and his team at Pawcific Dog Academy! James is incredibly knowledgeable and patient, he took the time to explain his methods clearly and made sure we felt confident practicing the techniques at home. My dog Cali responded so well to his guidance, and we've already seen huge improvements in her behavior, focus, and confidence. Highly recommend Pawcific Dog Academy to anyone looking for a skilled trainer who delivers real, lasting results!

C
Cierra GonzalesRecent
★★★★★

James was very knowledgeable and knew exactly how to handle my dog Joy not even 5 minutes after us being there for our consultation. She is a very reactive dog so for him to be able to befriend her and have her listening to him so quickly was truly remarkable. 10/10 recommend! His programs are very reasonably priced and he is honest with results he can provide as well as estimated time lines.

C
Catherine Yavorsky1 month ago
★★★★★

I've had great experiences with trainers James and Jack. It's almost magic the way they have worked with my dog. What's wonderful is that they have taught me and my dog the techniques for creating that magic. I am also appreciative of Jack's help with pool exit training.

M
Melissa Irani2026-03-15
★★★★★

Do you have a reactive dominant territorial dog? i DID. but thanks to James, my 5yr old male boxer with all those issues has transformed before my very eyes in only THREE 1hr in-home sessions. for years i could not have people in my home, could not walk him on a leash, or have him in site of other dogs - within session 1, hour 1, my dog was walking past James & his large male K9 inside our own home off leash with ZERO reactivity! session 2 we walked in the neighborhood loose leash with another dog. 2 days later, we went to one of James’s group sessions and were able to walk past tons of other dogs and people on a leash (all his biggest triggers) without issue. i cannot stress enough how life-changing signing up for his training program has been not just for my dog but for me. James is knowledgeable, patient, compassionate, hilarious, confident, and passionate about helping both owners and their dogs. do NOT feel hopeless or helpless if your dog has behavior issues - just call Pawcific Dog Academy & talk with Chessa about signing up for training. most amazing transformative decision i have made and could not thank or recommend them enough.

E
Eric DeSobe2026-03-15
★★★★★

Can't thank James and his team enough for their training of my 7 month old Sheltie. She was struggling mightily with reactivity to other dogs, which was preventing us from doing any real walks in our neighborhood (due to all the other dogs) and just being out in the world.My pup did 3.5 weeks of board and train with James and his team and now we're out and about everywhere with the most minimal amount of one off barking at other dogs (which is easily managed through leash work and/or a vibration on the e-collar). What a huge relief that we can now bond and be out in the world together.I'm excited to keep working with James and his team on more training to tighten up recall, learn more about the e-collar, and being an even more well-trained best friend.

S
Suzanne Norris2 months ago
★★★★★

I have an 18-month-old American Bulldog who is a jumper, very, very exuberant! She's also 75 pounds and still growing. Brooklyn spent 3 weeks at the PDA board & train program. Her handlers, Jack and Caleb, worked a miracle!

H
Homebound Hounds2 months ago
★★★★★

James is a great trainer. We have sent him a few rescues who needed a little bit of help. All of the dogs are now thriving in their forever homes!

A
Abraham Ramirez2026-02-15
★★★★★

Previously, I had already taken my dog through puppy training, so I already had built a good foundation with him. HOWEVER, as my dog has fully grown. I was having two specific issues with my dog that I needed addressed quickly. These were howling and boundaries with other dogs. I attended one of James’s free group classes and actually saw him correct how I was walking my dog, and I saw immediate changes. I talked to James after the class about my issues and he recommended board and train since the boundary issues required “pack correction.” The free group class gained my trust, and I decided to enroll my dog in James 3 week board and train program.After picking him up, I saw immediate changes in my dogs obedience and boundaries. He’s more attentive to my commands and when he’s hanging around our smaller dogs. He has learned to leave them alone when they don’t want to play. Additionally, James recommended the appropriate tools to help my dog with his specific issues. I’m still working with James and his team on an individual basis, so that I can continue to learn and carry over the training that my dog learned in board and train. Highly recommend 10/10.

J
Jenifer Catalano2026-02-15
★★★★★

My Lab/Husky mix is an adventurous, funny, easy-going dog… until she has an object she thinks is hers. Then she turns into a terrifying, growling, teeth-baring menace. It is not a good feeling to be randomly afraid of your own dog. One morning she was resource guarding what was essentially a piece of trash and she bit my other dog, a dachshund, and bit my hand when I tried to intervene. I felt stupid, guilty, hopeless and overwhelmed. Then I called Pawcific Dog Academy LA and I met James. I keep telling him, he is truly life changing. Within ONE lesson, ONE!, and with some instruction and humane tools, James put me back in control of my household. I am still on the journey with my dog, and we have things to work on, but I now have the knowledge, tools and training to immediately end any aggression. If you are worried and unsure, please, please do yourself a favor and call them. James really knows what makes dogs tick, but tailors his advice to your situation and you and your dog’s needs. He is intelligent, compassionate and is so fantastic at explaining what your dog might be thinking and how to change it to restore peace of mind in your home. I initially felt prices were reasonable but now I feel like James is undercharging because he gave me such a valuable gift, understanding, control and a whole lot less fear of a dog who I love.

S
Stephanie Chase2026-02-15
★★★★★

We’re so grateful we found James and Pawcific Academy.We’ve been working with James for both private and group classes for almost two months now, and the improvement in our dog, Daisy, has been incredible. She’s a tough one to crack, but commands are finally clicking. She’s more confident and noticeably less anxious, even our vet told us that training would be the best thing for her anxiety, and she was absolutely right. James picked up on her fearfulness immediately and has been not only helping us with structured walking, commands, etc. but also plans to socialize her around other dogs and humans so she can be a normal, happy dog.We actually discovered James on Instagram and decided to check out one of his free classes, hands down the best decision we could have made. His police and military K9 background is impressive, but what really sold us was watching him confidently work with a full group of reactive dogs (including ours). Seeing that in real time made us feel completely comfortable trusting him.James’ pricing is very reasonable and affordable. We had looked into another trainer in the OC area, and the pricing wasn’t even comparable.

J
Jessica Silver3 months ago
★★★★★

I would highly recommend James and Pawcific Dog Academy to anyone looking for a dog trainer. His incredible understanding of how dogs communicate has really helped me connect with my dogs effectively. James helped Eleven work through fear-based reactivity and supported Theo from puppyhood, and it has made a real difference in both of their lives.

J
Jennifer Trejo3 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience and amazing trainers helping us with our rescue pup. Within the first session we already have made huge progress toward potty training and major wins with obedience and safety. Not only do you get tips, tools, and progress, but real, caring support throughout the journey.

L
Libby Gittelman2026-01-15
★★★★★

I reached out to Pawcific about my reactive dominant dog, they offered us a free group training session where our dog was evaluated and we got to see exactly how James works with dogs. James and Amanda are awesome and clearly talented and skilled! I really enjoyed the class and really look forward to working with them!

M
Marina Landa4 months ago
★★★★★

I went to James with my new rescue German Shepherd having leash reactivity issues. James met with me and immediately provided an effective method to address the issue. I have been attending beginners' classes with my rescue ever since and am very impressed with the progress.

F
Frank Manlove4 months ago
★★★★★

James and his staff at PDA are awesome! I take our rescue dog Larry to group training each week. Larry was a reactive dog with a lot of energy. James's knowledge and experience with reactive dogs has made a huge difference in Larry's behavior and our bond with him.

V
Valeria Rosales4 months ago
★★★★★

I was invited to a free group training with James. I already knew my dog needed far more training than one class, and James helped answer all my questions regarding the program. I am thrilled to start my dog training with him, and I appreciate how welcoming the whole team was.

W
William Coors4 months ago
★★★★★

Fantastic experience with Pawcific! Lady is a Malinois that James helped turn into a professional Service Dog. Lady loves them, I love them, you'll love them.

E
Erin MacDhubhain5 months ago
★★★★★

James and staff are excellent. We have been taking Indy for weekly training here ever since she was only 18 weeks old. She has excelled and really transformed into such a great well behaved and trained up pup. We love James!

L
Leslie Sanchez5 months ago
★★★★★

The trainers at Pawscific Dog Academy have been incredibly friendly since day one. They are incredibly inclusive of all dog sizes and breeds. My dog has become less reactive over time, thanks to drills like the chaos drill. I have gained confidence in walking my dog, and I can't be more grateful for the team. Thanks guys!

A
Amber Mangerino5 months ago
★★★★★

As a first-time pet owner I reached out to James and his team when I realized I had no clue what I was doing! After several private lessons and many group classes my GSP is a new dog. She's happy and I have confidence taking her new places, couldn't recommend the team more highly.

A
Alexis Bennett5 months ago
★★★★★

Love love love the team! Helped me and my pup build confidence when it comes to training. The team is patient, friendly, and accommodating! We look forward to the Sunday group classes and love how easy it is to schedule one-on-ones. 100% recommend.

J
Janet and Kevin Lai5 months ago
★★★★★

We recently took our dog, Bailey, to a free group training session in LA with Pawcific Academy and we were genuinely impressed. James, the lead trainer and a former police and military K9 handler, clearly knows what he is doing, and seeing him work confidently with a full group of reactive dogs in real time made us feel completely comfortable trusting him.

E
Elisa Giaimo5 months ago
★★★★★

I am so grateful to have joined this community! James is very knowledgeable, I saw immediate advances in my dog's behavior. I highly recommend this great resource. The money is worth it!

C
Carrie Rau5 months ago
★★★★★

Excellent group and in-home training. Highly recommend!

P
Pamela Watts5 months ago
★★★★★

Reasonable price and excellent training. Highly recommend Pawcific Dog Academy.

Get a Free Consultation →

Common LA Dog Problems We Fix

City living brings its own challenges. We help with all of them.

✓ Pulling on crowded sidewalks
✓ Barking in apartments and condos
✓ Reactivity toward dogs and scooters
✓ Aggression or guarding
✓ Puppy biting and accidents
✓ Stress when left home alone

Why Los Angeles Trusts Pawcific Dog Academy

Our Los Angeles team works out of West Hollywood and trains dogs across Greater LA. Certified, fear-free trainers, a 5.0 Google rating and support for life on every program.

Pawcific Dog Academy dog training in Los Angeles

How Training Begins in Los Angeles

Your free consultation is where we learn about your dog and your goals, often starting with a phone call. From there we recommend the program that fits.

Many LA families combine formats, like board and train followed by group classes.

Dog in a Pawcific bandana with its owner

Training Built for City Life

We practice on real LA streets, in lobbies and at outdoor cafes, so good behavior holds up where you need it. Rewards and clear structure lead the way, never intimidation.

The Pawcific belt system tracks your dog’s progress from white bandana to black.

Dog training on a Los Angeles street

Getting Started in Los Angeles

Four steps to a better-behaved dog.

1

Free consultation

Share your dog’s story and your goals.

2

Program match

We recommend the right format and length.

3

Training

Sessions with certified trainers, at home or with us.

4

Ongoing support

Handler coaching and lifetime help.

Our Promise to Los Angeles Dog Owners

What every LA training client can count on.

Lifetime Support

Need help months or years later? Reach our trainers any time, free.

Guaranteed Results

Complete your program and the homework, and you’ll see real progress, or our trainers stay with you until you do.

How to Choose a Dog Trainer in Los Angeles

A short buyer’s guide for LA dog owners comparing trainers and programs.

Start With the Problem, Then Pick the Format

Jumping, counter surfing and destructive chewing happen at home, so private lessons in your living room fix them fastest. Pulling and leash reactivity live on the sidewalk, so that work has to happen outside too.

Dogs that ignore you around distractions do well in a group, and serious behavior problems or packed schedules usually point to board and train. Plenty of owners mix two formats over time.

Ask What Happens When a Dog Gets It Wrong

Every trainer says they use rewards. The better question is what they do when your dog makes a mistake. With positive reinforcement, the dog is shown the right choice and paid for it, so it wants to repeat it.

Fear and pain can stop a behavior for a moment, but they teach a dog to shut down or avoid its owner. You want a dog that listens because it trusts you.

Look for Packages Built Around Your Dog

Many trainers sell the same package of sessions to every client. A teenage Lab with zipper-chewing habits and a nervous rescue need very different plans, so ask how the number of sessions or the length of a stay gets decided. At Pawcific Dog Academy that answer comes from your free consultation.

Make Sure You Get Homework Between Lessons

A trainer can teach your dog a perfect sit in an hour, but your dog lives with you the other 167 hours of the week. Good programs send clear homework after every lesson and coach you until your timing and voice match the trainer’s.

Ask how you can reach the trainer between sessions, too. Questions come up on a Tuesday night walk, not during the lesson.

Socialization Is Part of Training

A well-socialized dog has learned that new people, dogs, noises and places are nothing to worry about. Puppies need gentle exposure early, and many adult rescues need it later. Ask any trainer how socialization fits into their plan, because a confident dog is far easier to teach.

Red Flags Worth Noticing

Be careful with anyone who promises a fixed result by a fixed date, refuses to explain their methods or won’t let you watch a session. Real behavior change depends on the dog, and an honest trainer will tell you that up front.

Every Breed, Every Age, Every Starting Point

Chihuahuas, Pit Bull mixes, Doodles, Shepherds and senior rescues all learn, just at different speeds. Adolescents need patience through the teenage phase, and older dogs often surprise their owners. If a trainer turns your breed away, keep looking.

Dog Training Across Greater Los Angeles

Based in West Hollywood, we work with dogs from Santa Monica and Culver City to Pasadena, Burbank, Torrance and Thousand Oaks. See the full Los Angeles service area.

Los Angeles West Hollywood Santa Monica Pasadena Torrance Huntington Beach Thousand Oaks San Bernardino

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost to train a dog in Los Angeles?

It varies by program. Group classes are the most affordable, while board and train includes the most training time. You’ll get exact pricing at the free consultation.

Is it worth paying for dog training?

For most families, yes. Professional training saves months of trial and error and prevents problems from getting worse.

Which program should I choose?

Your free consultation will point you to the best fit for your dog and schedule.

Do you train reactive and aggressive dogs?

Yes. Behavior cases are a big part of our Los Angeles work.

Where is your Los Angeles location?

Our LA team is based at 1325 N Sierra Bonita Ave in West Hollywood.

Do you train puppies?

Yes. LA puppies can join puppy kindergarten from eight weeks, once their first shots are done.

Start Dog Training in Los Angeles

Book your free consultation with our LA team.