Dog Training
Keeping it Positive
At Mud Puppies, training is built on positive reinforcement, because we believe your relationship with your dog is based on trust – not fear. You won’t find shock collars, prong collars or intimidation in our training courses! Instead, we focus on positive reinforcement to not only build confidence, but reinforce effective communication between you and your dog. Better yet, unlike our many of our larger competitors, we have dedicated, talented trainers on staff.
Training Available at Both Locations
SEVEN-TIME Best of Austin Winner
My pup has been coming here quite a bit as we’ve had a ton of pre-scheduled travel before adopting her. I feel good knowing Mud Puppies will take great care of her. I have gotten several grooms there and my most recent was the best yet! The groomer Meg checks in with me to get my opinion on what I want every time. Thanks Mud Puppies!
Emma Armer
I highly recommend Mud Puppies! My golden doodle is crazy & very high energy. I tried taking him to other places and they would say that he doesn’t stay still, and would only bathe him and still charged me a ridiculous amount. Mud puppies was actually was able to bathe Dexter get him fully groomed, and now I am a loyal customer. Dexter has improved & he loves his groomer Lance! 10/10
Marisa Hernandez
Was my first time using Mud Puppies and will be back with my other pups! They did such a great job with my sweet old lady❤️
Kendra Marino
The best! We checked out a few other daycare / boarding spots in Austin and we liked Mud Puppies the best. Everyone that works there is awesome, our dog liked going there more than he liked hanging with us, and they have a bunch of useful services we ended up using (like their grooming).
Elizabeth Burkly
There are so many great things about Mud Puppies! The entire staff is so welcoming (to both me and my big furbaby), and most importantly, he always wants to go play. I never worry about him when I leave him because I know he gets top notch care. The groomers are outstanding and he gets many compliments on our walks in the neighborhood.
Eleece Moffatt
Love the staff and groomers they always work well with my dog, she has separation anxiety so they always make her feel comfortable and welcome when they groom her!
Bellissima Rahmeier
Literally the BEST place to bring your dog for all of yours and theirs daycare, boarding, and grooming needs. Everyone is super helpful and friendly, and the whole place has a fun and energetic atmosphere. Don't worry though, if you have a senior fur baby they cater to them too. There is absolutely no other place I will trust more than the wonderful staff at Mud Puppies!
Alex Robinson
Training at Mud Puppies
Pricing & Packages
| Train & Play 6-Day Package including Playcare |
$390 |
| Behavior Modification 6-Day Package including Playcare |
$5 |
| Puppy Socialization | Contact us to learn more |
Private Sessions
| Initial 45-minute Consultation | $75 |
| Thereafter, per Session | $125 |
| Five-Session Package | $565.50 |
Save More with a Mud Puppies Membership!
Frequently Asked Questions
What training methods does Mud Puppies use?
Mud Puppies uses positive reinforcement exclusively. No shock collars, prong collars, or intimidation-based techniques. Training is built on trust and communication between you and your dog. Positive reinforcement builds lasting confidence and a stronger bond without fear or pain.
How are private training sessions structured at Mud Puppies?
Private training sessions are conducted in your home by a Mud Puppies trainer and can be purchased individually or as a package. In-home training lets your dog learn in their own environment, which often leads to faster results. Sessions are scheduled around your availability at either north Austin location.
Can you help with a reactive or anxious dog?
Yes. Mud Puppies offers private training sessions and a dedicated behavior modification program for dogs with reactivity, anxiety, resource guarding, or other complex behavioral challenges. These start with an initial consultation to build a structured, customized approach for lasting change.
Do you offer puppy socialization classes?
Yes, Mud Puppies has dedicated puppy socialization classes for dogs between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. These classes provide safe, supervised introductions that build confidence and foundation skills during the critical developmental window. Early socialization also helps puppies transition smoothly into daycare.
How old does my puppy need to be for training?
Private training lessons can start as early as 8 weeks old. Training combined with daycare begins at 12 weeks, once your puppy has received Bordetella, Rabies and at least one DHPP vaccination. Starting early during the critical socialization window is important for building confidence and good behavior habits.
How much does dog training cost at Mud Puppies?
Training is available as individual private sessions or as a package of six sessions that combines playcare days with private training. Puppy socialization classes and behavior modification consultations are priced separately. Established clients can add individual training sessions to daycare or boarding reservations. Contact us for current pricing.
Can I combine training with daycare at Mud Puppies?
Yes, and it is one of the most effective approaches. Mud Puppies offers a training package that includes six playcare days combined with six private training sessions. Your dog practices skills in a real social environment, reinforcing lessons through daily play group interactions. Established training clients can also add sessions to a boarding stay.
Best Friends Understand Each Other
A better relationship with your dog starts with better communication – and that’s what training is all about.