Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Training in Sydney

30+ Years Experience | Improvement Guaranteed or Your First Lesson FREE

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How much does dog training cost in Sydney?

Our in-home dog training packages start from $100/hr, although prices are higher where more complex issues require greater skills and abilities. We believe quality dog training should be accessible to every Sydney dog owner, which is why we've kept our pricing affordable for over 30 years. Each package includes personalised one-on-one training in your home, customised techniques for your dog's specific needs, and ongoing support between sessions. We also offer our Rescued Dog Rewards program with special discounts for adopted dogs – because every rescue deserves a second chance.

Contact us for your personalised quote

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What areas of Sydney do you service?

We provide in-home dog training in Sydney City and surrounding suburbs, and the Inner West, from Surry Hills to Earlwood, and from Five Dock to Drummoyne. Our trainers travel to you, making it convenient and allowing us to work with your dog in their own environment where they're most comfortable.

Check if We Service Your Area →​

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Why are your prices lower than other Sydney dog trainers despite 30+ years experience?

We're one of Sydney's most experienced dog training companies at an affordable price – here's why that works:

Our Qualifications: We hold Delta certifications, have completed TAFE courses and multiple seminars, and most importantly, have 30+ years of hands-on experience with thousands of dogs. In Australia's unregulated dog training industry, real-world experience matters more than expensive certificates.

Our Mission: We work with dogs because we love dogs and want to make their lives better. That means offering training that's actually affordable. If you can't afford help for your dog, your options are limited – and that's not fair to you or your dog. We've offered discounts for rescued dogs for over 20 years for this same reason.

Our Business Model: We're experienced trainers who've built our reputation on results, not marketing budgets. Our pricing reflects our commitment to helping as many Sydney dogs as possible, not maximising profit per client.

Bottom line: We're in it for the dogs, not the dollars.​

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How long does dog training take to see results?

Most clients see improvements within the 1st session, with issue resolution really being implemented in the 2nd session. However, the timeline depends on your dog's age, the specific behaviours being addressed, and your consistency with the training techniques at home.

Puppy training typically shows faster results as you're building good habits from scratch. Older dogs with established behaviours may take a bit longer to change their habits, but with patience and consistency, dogs of any age can learn new behaviours.

Book Your First Session →​

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My neighbour complained about my dog barking. What should I do?

Before we visit, we recommend sending a note to all your neighbours asking for specific information about your dog's barking:

• What time does the barking occur?

• How long does it last?

• What does it sound like (anxious, bored, alert, aggressive)?

• Is there physical damage as well?

This information helps us understand your dog's behaviour patterns and create an effective training plan. Barking is often triggered by specific situations, and once we identify the pattern, we can address the root cause.

Book a Behaviour Assessment →​​​

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My dog jumps up on everyone. Should I get him desexed?

Jumping up is usually a training issue rather than a hormonal one. Often, owners are unintentionally encouraging this behaviour without realising it! We'll show you exactly how your dog is getting mixed signals and teach you how to give clear, consistent commands.

That said, if you're not planning to breed your dog, desexing is generally recommended for health and behavioural benefits beyond just jumping.

Our obedience training will teach your dog:

• Proper greetings without jumping

• How to stay calm when stimulated

• Impulse control and manners

Learn About Obedience Training →​​​​

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My dog is aggressive toward other dogs. Do you offer group classes?

We don't recommend group classes for dogs showing aggression to other dogs. Dog aggression is often rooted in fear, and putting a fearful dog into a group situation usually makes things worse, not better.

Our approach:

1. Build confidence at home first – We start training in your dog's safe space

2. Master obedience fundamentals – You'll gain better control through commands

3. Gradual, controlled exposure – We introduce other dogs slowly and safely

4. Work at your dog's pace – No rushing into situations they're not ready for

With the right approach, most dogs overcome their fear-based aggression and can enjoy playing at the park. It just takes time and the right training method.

Book a Behaviour Consultation →​​​

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My puppy digs holes all through my garden. Will they grow out of it?

Unfortunately, no – a puppy who digs will usually become an adult dog who digs unless you teach them not to. The good news is that puppy training can prevent this before it becomes a deeply ingrained habit.

Our puppy training covers:

• All basic obedience commands

• Problem behaviour prevention (digging, chewing, jumping)

• Socialisation skills

• Toilet training

• Positive play behaviours

It's much easier to prevent digging than to fix it later!

Learn About Puppy Training →​​​

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We adopted an older dog who doesn't know any commands. Is she too old to train?

Absolutely not! A dog is never too old to learn obedience commands or better behaviours. Older dogs can learn everything a puppy can learn – it just may take a little longer to change established habits.

The key is patience and consistency. We've successfully trained dogs of all ages, from 8-week-old puppies to 12-year-old seniors. Your older dog will do you proud with the right training approach.

Senior dogs we commonly help with:

• Basic obedience (come, sit, heel, etc)

• Leash pulling

• Jumping up

• Barking

• Toilet training ​​​​

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Our 3-year-old rescue dog still isn't toilet trained. Can you help?

Yes! Many rescue dogs have lived outdoors their entire lives and simply haven't learned indoor toilet training. While it may take a bit longer to establish new habits with an older dog, toilet training is absolutely achievable at any age.

We'll teach you:

• How to establish a consistent routine

• How to read your dog's signals

• Positive reinforcement techniques

• How to prevent accidents

• What to do if accidents happen

With patience and the right approach, your rescue dog will be fully toilet trained before you know it.

Get Help with Toilet Training →

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What training methods do you use?

We use positive reinforcement-based training methods that build trust and confidence between you and your dog. Our approach focuses on:

• Rewarding good behaviour rather than punishing bad behaviour

• Clear, consistent communication

• Understanding why your dog behaves the way they do

• Teaching you how to be an effective, gentle pack leader

• Building your dog's confidence and reducing anxiety

We don't use harsh corrections, shock collars, or intimidation. Our 30 years of experience has shown that dogs trained with positive methods are happier, more confident, and more reliable.

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What's your training guarantee?

We guarantee improvement or your first lesson is FREE. We're confident in our methods because we've been successfully training Sydney dogs for over 30 years. If you (and we) don't see progress with our training approach, you won't pay for that first session.

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How do I get started?

Getting started is easy:

1. Contact us to discuss your dog's specific needs

2. Book your session/s at a time that suits you

3. We come to your home so your dog learns in their own environment

4. See results – most clients notice improvements within 2 weeks

Book Your Training Now →

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Still have questions?

We're here to help! Contact Mutts with Manners:

• Phone: 0410626677

• Via our Contact Us form (that way we have the information that we need)

• Areas Serviced: Sydney's inner city and Inner West including Annandale, Tempe, Marrickville, Croydon, Five Dock, Balmain, Ultimo and surrounding suburbs

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Remember: Every dog can learn. Every owner can succeed. Let's make it happen together.

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Mutts with Manners – Sydney's Trusted Dog Training Specialists Since 1994