online vs. In person Training
Online vs. In-Person Training: What’s the Real Difference?
There’s a lot of confusion about whether virtual dog training can be “as good” as in-person. The truth? Both options work — but they work differently, and each has its strengths. What matters most is choosing the format that gives you the right coaching, the right understanding, and the right follow-through for your situation.
Here’s an honest comparison so you can see what fits your goals.
Online Real-Time One-on-One Training
Why it works so well:
Train from anywhere — no travel, no rushing, no limitations.
Your dog stays in their own environment, which lets me see the real behaviour, not a watered-down version.
Fewer distractions means clearer communication and faster learning.
You become the handler your dog needs, instead of relying on me to do the work.
Flexible and convenient for busy households.
Extremely effective for: reactivity, leash issues, anxiety, guarding, puppy training, multi-dog homes.
Replay your session if you choose to record it.
What to consider:
You need a stable internet connection.
Owners must actively participate — virtual training is hands-on for you.
Not suitable if someone expects the trainer to physically take over (not how behaviour actually changes, but some people still assume it).
In-Person Training
Where it shines:
Helpful later on when you’re ready for real-world proofing or practicing distractions.
Good if you need hands-on help adjusting equipment or fitting tools.
Some owners feel more comfortable starting with the trainer physically present.
Limitations:
Travel time, traffic, weather, logistics.
Dogs often act differently in a new place, which can hide the real issues.
Harder to assess home structure, multi-dog dynamics, guarding, puppy chaos, or routine-related problems.
Too much stimulation for anxious or reactive dogs.
Owners may expect the trainer to “fix” the dog hands-on, which doesn’t create lasting change.
The Bottom Line
Virtual training isn’t a lesser version of dog training — it’s just a different approach, and for most behaviour issues, it’s actually more effective.
If you want fast clarity, real coaching, and help where the behaviour actually happens — your home — then online training gives you everything you need.
If you want to add real-world distractions later, in-person can help fine-tune your progress.
Both can work beautifully.
What matters is having the right trainer with the knowledge, clarity, and experience to guide you — no matter where you live.
I am waiting for you, click the link below and lets get started.
Contact
Questions about what your dog is saying to you in certain situations or just about your dog’s behaviour?
Reach out to angie@royalk9.ca Angie’s always happy to help guide you in the right direction.
