Last updated: Sep 23, 2025
Discover 5 free dog training resources every pet parent should try, from ebooks to mini-courses, to build trust, confidence & fun with your pup.
Andrea Davis
Human-Canine Brain, Body and Behavior Coach
Training your dog doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
In fact, some of the best resources out there are completely free, and they can help you strengthen your bond, solve everyday struggles, and add a little extra fun to your dog’s life.
Disclaimer: All of the courses listed here are free to access. If you later decide to upgrade or purchase a paid course through our links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
Here are five trustworthy (and free!) dog training courses, resources and tutorials you can dive into today:
1. Canine Principles – Your First Course Free
Canine Principles gives you a choice of three free courses to get started.
You’ll learn about positive reinforcement, understanding your dog’s body language, and simple everyday training techniques.
It’s a gentle, ethical introduction to dog training that any dog parent can follow.
✨ And if you ever decide to explore their paid courses, you can use the code ONESMARTCOOKIE15 for 15% off as a thank-you for supporting our community.
2. TTouch Mini Courses
TTouch’s free mini courses focus on confidence, body awareness, and relaxation.
These techniques are especially beneficial for anxious or reactive dogs.
Or, if you simply want to create more calmness in your dog’s everyday life.
3. AggressiveDogs.com – Free Modules & Webinars
👉 Understanding Dog Aggression
👉 FAT: Functional Assessment Tool
Michael Shikashio, one of the leading experts in canine aggression, offers excellent free resources through his AggressiveDogs.com platform.
These resources help dog owners understand why aggression occurs, what warning signs to look out for, and how to approach challenges safely and ethically.
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4. Fear Free Happy Homes – Behavior Problem Solving
👉 Behavior Problem Solving | Fear Free Happy Homes
Short videos and guides cover common dog challenges, such as leash pulling, reactivity, excessive chewing, nail trimming, and fear of loud noises.
They’re designed for dog parents who want kind, practical tools to make a positive difference right away.
Better yet?
All content is created and reviewed by experts in veterinary medicine, animal handling, and dog behavior, so you can trust that the advice is safe, effective, and humane.
No gimmicks, no harmful methods.
5. One Smart Cookie K9 Services – Free Training eBook (+ Tutorials)
Our very own free eBook is packed with practical tips to help you understand your dog better, build trust, and create calm through connection.
It’s an easy-to-read guide you can keep handy whenever you need inspiration or support.
And if you prefer video, we’ve got you covered.
Our YouTube channel features step-by-step tutorials for fun tricks and valuable skills like:
🔅 Wipe your paws
🔅 Clean up toys
🔅 Walk backwards
🔅 Jump through a hoop
These lessons are perfect for rainy-day enrichment (or when the snow flies!), building confidence, and keeping training fun and positive.
Why It Matters
Learning activates the brain in powerful ways.
Whether it’s a new trick, routine, or pattern, it stimulates growth, builds new neural connections, and promotes long-term brain health for both dogs and humans.
These shared experiences enhance quality of life at every stage and can even help reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
Final Thoughts
These free resources prove you don’t have to spend big to make meaningful progress with your dog.
Start with the one that sparks your interest, keep sessions short and joyful, and enjoy the process of learning together.
And if you’d like to take things even further, we especially recommend checking out the free starter courses from Canine Principles.
It’s an excellent way to dive deeper into positive, science-based training.
