We're a 2026 Best of Austin® Critics Pick

Every Dog Behavior and Training has been named a 2026 Best of Austin® Critics Pick by the Austin Chronicle, taking home the award for Best Contribution to Canine Mental Health and Interspecies Understanding. It's one of only 230 winners selected across 247 categories in the Chronicle's 36th annual Best of Austin awards, out of more than 850 total finalists.

The Chronicle's critics picked us for a reason: they specifically called out our experienced trainer team and specialized class offerings, our pro bono work supporting local shelters, and our free webinars and financial assistance program. They described Every Dog as a resource for the dogs and the humans trying their best to understand them.

Why This Award Matters for Austin Dog Owners

Best of Austin Critics Picks aren't a popularity contest — they're chosen by Austin Chronicle writers based on quality, creativity, and community impact. That distinction matters if you're searching for the best dog training in Austin and trying to sort real expertise from marketing copy.

Austin has one of the highest rates of dog ownership of any U.S. metro, with more than 70% of households owning a pet and the city ranking among the most dog-obsessed in the country. With that many dogs in the city, the gap between good training and good marketing is wide.

What Makes Every Dog Different

A few things the Chronicle called out, and that we hear from clients constantly:

• We're unique! There are no other nonprofit organizations doing this work.

• A full range of specialized services. From basic manners and puppy kindergarten to reactivity, fear, and aggression cases.

• Pro bono work with shelter dogs. We regularly support dogs from the Austin Humane Society, Austin Pets Alive, and Austin Animal Services.

• Free webinars. Ongoing education for dog owners at no cost, no strings attached.

• A real financial assistance program. Dog training shouldn't be gated behind a premium price tag. Our assistance program means help is available regardless of income.

• Force-free, evidence-based methods. While it wasn't mentioned by the Chronicle, this is a difference for Every Dog! No shock collars, no prong collars, no intimidation-based training. We train dogs the way modern behavior science says actually works and actually sticks.

Looking for Dog Training in Austin?

If you're comparing dog trainers in Austin, here's what we'd suggest you actually check for: award or no award:

1. Are their methods force-free and backed by current behavior science, or do they rely on aversive tools and correction-based training?

2. Do trainers hold real certifications and pursue ongoing education?

3. Can they handle behavior cases like fear, aggression, reactivity or help you with your brand new puppy?

4. Is there a path to help if cost is a barrier?

We built Every Dog around "yes" to all four. That's the work the Austin Chronicle recognized, and it's the same work we'll keep doing with every dog and every owner who walks through our door.

Ready to get started? Reach out to Every Dog to talk about your dog's training needs, browse our class schedule, or ask about financial assistance.

Every Dog Behavior and Training is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing force-free dog training and behavior services in Austin, TX.