Thinking about dog training in Austin? You’re definitely not the only one. Whether you’ve got a stubborn shepherd, a brand-new puppy getting used to city life, or you’re just wondering how we handle training in Austin’s extreme summer heat, you’re in the right spot.
Below, our local trainers answer the most common questions we get from Austin dog owners, things like how much it costs, when classes run, how we keep dogs safe, what kind of results to expect, and more.
Tip Top K9 Austin board & train programs are tiered based on duration and training intensity, from basic/obedience up to multi-week, behavior-focused rehab. Many programs offer manageable installment plans.
Yes, those are company-wide policies. If your dog doesn’t meet agreed-upon goals in private lessons, training fees are refunded, and if board and train goals are not met, we keep on training until they are met. Further, graduates can attend group classes for life.
All Austin Board & Train sites are indoor, climate-controlled areas, plus shaded outdoor yards. Dogs are worked early mornings and evenings when temperatures are lower than the intense mid-day heat.
Training pauses during lightning; dogs relax in quiet, insulated rooms with white-noise machines and counter-conditioning games to keep them calm.
Training sessions are typically shifted to early mornings and evenings, with mid-day work moved indoors or paused during extreme heat. Austin’s summer heat can be intense, so we prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort
Yes, if storms roll in, classes are either moved indoors or rescheduled depending on the severity and available facilities.
After completing your training package, your trainer will send you a link to our group class schedule and the location where group classes meet. They are held outdoors, but will be turned off when the heat does not allow training outside.
*Package must include group classes
Yes, evening lessons are a common request throughout our Austin locations and can typically be scheduled after sundown to avoid high temperatures and heavy traffic on I-35 or MoPac.
Rabies, Bordetella, and DA2PP vaccines are required for Board & Train, and in-home training can begin shortly after your vet confirms those are up to date.
Most puppies are ready for structured obedience training around 4-6 months of age, once their core vaccines are complete.
Tip Top K9 trainers complete a rigorous apprenticeship program and ongoing training, with credentials varying slightly by location and instructor.
At Tip Top K9 Austin, we use a balanced training philosophy focused on clear communication, consistency, and mutual respect between dog and owner. Our methods combine positive reinforcement with fair correction to shape behavior gently and effectively. We customize each program to fit your dog’s personality and needs, always prioritizing your dog’s emotional well-being and using techniques that build trust and confidence.
Yes, we work with all breeds and temperaments, including dogs that have struggled with past training or have strong-willed personalities.
Most private training programs last 2–4 weeks, and if your dog needs more time, we keep working until the agreed-upon goals are met.
Our Austin location serves the greater Austin area, including Georgetown, Leander, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, and Lakeway.
E-collar training is often effective for high-drive breeds like huskies and Australian Shepherds, and we always adjust session timing and pacing to stay safe in the heat.
Rehabilitation for leash-reactive dogs is one of our specialties, and most cases show solid progress in 3–6 weeks.
Yes, we regularly train dogs in high-rise and apartment settings. Our trainers can incorporate potty spot routines, elevator manners, front-desk greetings, and calm hallway behavior into your program. We’ll help your dog succeed in shared spaces and stay confident navigating apartment life.
We use distraction-proofing drills and urban exposure exercises to help dogs stay calm and focused around high-traffic areas. With gradual training near real-world triggers like scooters, cyclists, and foot traffic, we teach your dog to tune out the chaos and follow your lead, even in downtown Austin.
Yes. We’ll work on calm settling behavior, polite greetings, and impulse control so your dog can join you confidently at dog-friendly patios. Many clients specifically request brewery or restaurant-readiness, and we’re happy to include this in your private or in-home training plan.
Our local Austin trainers are ready to help. Reach out for a free phone consultation, or ask your question during your $1 first lesson. We are here to make training clear, effective, and tailored to life on the Gulf Coast.
