Every dog owner knows the feeling: your pup is adorable, loving, and the best part of your day — but also stubborn, excitable, or maybe just plain destructive when bored. Traditional training methods can feel harsh or outdated, and obedience classes aren’t always practical or affordable. That’s where Brain Training for Dogs, created by professional CPDT-KA trainer Adrienne Farricelli, caught my attention. Instead of focusing on punishment or dominance, this program is built around positive reinforcement and mental stimulation. The promise is simple but powerful: when your dog’s brain is engaged, bad behaviors fade, good habits stick, and your bond grows stronger.
A Different Way to Look at Dog Training
The central idea is that many behavior problems come from under-stimulated, under-challenged dogs. A bored mind finds trouble, whether it’s barking at every leaf, chewing the sofa, or pulling like a sled dog on walks. Rather than “fixing” bad behavior after it happens, this program flips the script — it teaches you to channel your dog’s energy into fun games and structured problem-solving exercises. In other words, your dog gets smarter, calmer, and happier because they finally have an outlet.
This approach makes a lot of sense. Dogs are working animals at heart. Even our cuddly lap dogs have instincts that need engaging. By providing tasks and puzzles, you replace destructive outlets with constructive ones. The result? A dog that wants to listen, because training has become a game.
What’s Inside the Program
Brain Training for Dogs is not a single video or PDF — it’s an entire system. It’s divided into seven modules, each like a grade in school, from “Preschool” to “Einstein.” Every level introduces new exercises and builds on the last, so your dog keeps progressing instead of plateauing.
Here’s a taste of what you’ll find:
- Games for obedience: Teach sit, stay, come, and heel in ways that are fun and rewarding.
- Puzzle activities: The “muffin tin game” and “shell game” sharpen problem-solving.
- Impulse control drills: Perfect for dogs who jump, bark, or can’t resist lunging at food.
- Bond-building games: Exercises that make you the focus of your dog’s attention.
- Behavior problem fixes: Step-by-step methods for issues like excessive barking, separation anxiety, leash pulling, or aggression.
You also get video demonstrations, written guides, troubleshooting tips, and access to a private forum where other dog owners share experiences. It’s surprisingly comprehensive — almost like a digital dog training school you can attend at your own pace.
Why I Think It Works
What I really like is that Adrienne’s methods are force-free and science-based. Positive reinforcement isn’t just trendy; it’s proven. Dogs learn faster and retain behaviors longer when rewarded rather than punished. This makes training more enjoyable for both you and your dog, and it removes the guilt or frustration that often comes with harsher techniques.
Another big strength is accessibility. You don’t need fancy equipment, just everyday household items like muffin tins, cups, or tennis balls. The instructions are clear and approachable, and the videos show exactly how to do each step. Whether you’re working with a stubborn puppy, a rescue dog with quirks, or even an older dog, the program adapts to their pace.
And it’s not just about obedience. The mental games genuinely tire dogs out. A few minutes of puzzle-solving can calm an energetic pup better than a long walk. That’s a lifesaver if you live in an apartment or have a busy schedule.
The Benefits I See
- Stronger bond: Training becomes playtime, and your dog looks to you as the source of fun.
- Happier dog: Mental stimulation reduces anxiety and destructive habits.
- More control: Everyday frustrations like leash pulling or barking are easier to manage.
- Convenience: You train at home, on your schedule, without paying for weekly classes.
- Risk-free trial: With a 60-day money-back guarantee, there’s little to lose in giving it a shot.
Things to Keep in Mind
No program is perfect. To be realistic, results depend on you. You’ll need consistency and patience, especially with deeply ingrained behaviors. This isn’t a magic wand — but it is a powerful toolkit. If you’re willing to follow through, the odds of success are high.
Some people may also feel overwhelmed at first, because there’s a lot of material. My advice is to treat it like dog school: start with the first “grade” and move step by step. Don’t rush, and let your dog master each stage before advancing.
Final Thoughts
Brain Training for Dogs is one of the more complete and thoughtfully designed online training programs I’ve seen. It avoids the pitfalls of harsh methods, focuses on building a loving bond, and provides an impressive library of games, solutions, and support. If you want a calmer, smarter, and better-behaved dog — and you’d prefer to achieve that through kindness and play rather than punishment — this program is a solid choice.
Buy Brain Training for Dogs HERE
Is it worth it? In my opinion, yes. For the price of a single in-person training session, you get an entire curriculum you can revisit anytime. With the guarantee in place, the only risk is not giving it a try.
If your dog is more than a pet — if they’re family — then training them with a method that builds trust, intelligence, and joy is one of the best gifts you can give. And that’s exactly what Brain Training for Dogs delivers.
