Quick Verdict
Brain Training for Dogs is the online course we'd recommend to a new or moderately experienced pet parent who wants a structured, positive-reinforcement framework that moves at their own pace. The 21 mental games are genuinely well-designed. The main weakness is the marketing around it, which oversells the "problem dog transformation" angle. Run it with realistic expectations and it's a solid program.
Check the CourseWho Adrienne Farricelli Is
Adrienne Farricelli is a certified dog trainer (CPDT-KA) with a genuine background in positive reinforcement methods. Her credentials check out, which is more than can be said for a lot of online dog trainers. The course has been around since 2014 and has been updated several times.
What You Get
- Preschool (7 games teaching focus, attention, and impulse control)
- Elementary, High School, College, University, Graduation (progressively harder mental games)
- A behavior troubleshooting module covering common problems (barking, leash pulling, digging)
- Video demonstrations of every exercise
- Written walkthroughs with expected timelines
How We Tested
We ran the course on two dogs simultaneously: Rusty, a four-year-old reactive rescue with leash barking issues, and Piper, a nine-month-old border collie mix still working on basic obedience.
For Piper the puppy, the course was genuinely great. For Rusty the reactive rescue, it moved the needle but it wasn't the "miracle" the sales page implies.
What Worked Well
For the Puppy
The Preschool module was exactly what Piper needed. The games built focus in short sessions, which matched her attention span. By week three she could hold eye contact for 10 seconds, come when called through mild distractions, and wait at the door before going out. This is standard obedience, but the framework made it easier to stick with.
For the Reactive Rescue
The impulse control games in Elementary were the most useful piece for Rusty. "Look at that" and the airplane game gave us structured ways to rebuild his reactions to triggers. Did it fix his reactivity in 30 days? No. It did measurably reduce the intensity of his leash barking.
What Didn't Work as Well
The Marketing vs the Reality
The sales page heavily implies that the course will transform a severely aggressive or anxious dog. That's oversold. For a dog with serious behavioral issues, you need a qualified in-person trainer or veterinary behaviorist. The course is a useful supplement, not a replacement.
The Delivery Format
The course interface feels a little dated. Video quality is fine but not polished. None of this affects the content quality, but if you're used to modern online courses (Masterclass, etc.), Brain Training for Dogs will feel older in presentation.
Considering the course?
The Brain Training for Dogs full course comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, which is long enough to actually test it on your dog.
Get Brain Training for DogsPros and Cons
Pros
- Real CPDT-KA credentialed trainer behind the content
- Positive-reinforcement methodology throughout
- 21 well-designed mental games
- Strong fit for puppies and young dogs
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- One-time payment, no recurring subscription
Cons
- Marketing oversells the "problem dog" transformation angle
- Course interface feels dated compared to modern LMS platforms
- Not a substitute for an in-person trainer for severe issues
- Community / support is minimal
Who It's For
Pick Brain Training for Dogs if:
You have a puppy or young dog, you want a structured at-home framework for foundational training, and you prefer positive-reinforcement methods. Also good as a supplement to in-person training for a more complex dog.
Alternatives Worth Considering
For a more guided, video-heavy approach with a stronger community, Doggy Dan's program is worth a look. See our head-to-head comparison.
Want the full at-home training framework?
Brain Training for Dogs is one payment, lifetime access, 60-day money back. For a new puppy household this is an easy experiment.
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