Pupford Review (Why I Decided Against Buying it in 2025)

Last Updated on February, 2025

Mm… GUESS WHAT?

Pairing Pupford Training Rewards with Pupford Academy worked miracles for my dog, and it even positively impacted my cat, who typically dislikes feeling left alone.

Here’s a breakdown based on my experience!

The Good

Accessible on any smartphone or computer, the app offers 25 courses (7 FREE) and treatment recommendations. Their content includes interchangeable video and written resources.

The Not So Good

Lacks individualized support and requires a subscription to access most content, limiting user assistance.

The Bottom Line

While most dog owners are highly satisfied with their service, there is room for improvement in providing individual attention for a better overall experience.

About The Pupford Training

Pupford Academy logo

Pupford is more than a platform. WHAT? Yes, it’s a dream to empower every pup parent with the BEST training resources and nutrition products.

This isn’t about quirky ideas for homemade solutions. Instead, Pupford has a team of experts and professionals with the same vision to enhance dogs’ lives.

What I love about Pupford is their videos, which excel in both clarity and sound quality. They effectively demonstrate various approaches to success designed for individual dogs, considering their personalities and interests.

Their training advice is accurate and current!

Yukiko is a co-founder of Pupford and a dog enthusiast. Based in Utah, she’s a pet lover and a passionate foster parent, having nurtured over 20+ dogs in the last three years.

Their mission is clear.

It is to prepare these dogs for adoption by focusing on three crucial elements – companionship, nutrition, and training.

  • Companionship: Both humans and dogs thrive on meaningful relationships. This is foundational to the pup’s well-being.
  • Nutrition: Proper daily nutrition can work wonders for a dog’s physical and mental health, making it an essential aspect of preparation.
  • Training: Proper obedience isn’t just about good behavior. It’s a tool for mental stimulation and building trust.

And their goal is SIMPLE – to offer dog lovers the tools they need for a stronger bond with their pets!

Have questions? The Pupford team is ready to assist dog lovers and pet owners like you to ensure a great experience. 

However, while Pupford promotes a positive mission for dog well-being, potential drawbacks may include limited transparency on training methodologies, and potential concern in nutrition product recommendations.

Prospective users should thoroughly research and assess the platform’s approach.

Trainers in Pupford

Trainers? Well, you don’t have to worry about that!

Pupford’s approved trainers are experts dedicated to increasing your connection with your furry friend through effective and humane training.

Meet Pupford’s trainers!

  • Zak George: He is YouTube’s #1 Dog trainer with 20+ years of experience. Zak is a celebrity dog trainer, author, and a star of TV shows. He teaches the ’30 Day Perfect Pup Class’. 
  • Traci Madson: She is a CPDT-KA and CBCC-KA trainer with 20+ years of experience. Traci specializes in shy/aggressive dogs, rescues, and therapy dogs.
  • Amber Aquart is a CPDT-KA certified animal trainer and pet expert with 10+ years of experience. Her unique training includes engagement, trick training, separation anxiety courses, crate training, and traveling with pets.
  • Caitlin Castillo: She has an ABCDT with a specialization in shelter dogs. Caitlin is a certified positive reinforcement dog trainer. She focuses on early socialization and understanding canine body language.
  • Trevor Smith: He is a CPDT and CCFT Dog Trainer with 20+ years of experience. Trevor specializes in dog sports, canine fitness, and tricks. He is certified by AKC and the University of Tennessee.
  • Nicole Ellis: She is a CPDT-KA Celebrity Dog Trainer.Specializes in trick training, puppy training, and service/therapy dog training. She was featured on The Pack and major TV shows.
  • Jocelyn Walls: She founded Muttineer Dog Training with over 10 years of experience. Jocelyn specializes in reactive dogs, online dog training, and puppy training. Plus, she is also a behavior Consultant for the ASPCA’s Anti-Cruelty Behavior Team.

Pupford’s trainers seem great, with impressive backgrounds, but make sure their training methods match what you want for your dog. Also, their programs might not be super flexible for different dog needs.

Pupford Free Courses

Pupford Free course page screenshot

TRUST ME. Pupford’s free training programs made me pay attention to learning more about their services (which even pushed me to enroll in their paid courses).

Pupford’s free courses are:

  • 30-Day Perfect Pup.
  • New Dog Starter Course.
  • Train By Behavior.
  • Train Your Dog With Me.
  • Dog Training POV Series.
  • Basic Puppy Nutrition.
  • A Taste Course with Kevin and Ellie for Impulse Control.

Among these, I’ll tell you about the famous courses of Pupford Academy (my favorite, too).

30-Day Perfect Pup

Zak George’s 30-Day Perfect Pup class is a 100% free online dog training experience. 

(Alright, but who is Zak George?). Well, he is renowned for his expertise, as seen on Animal Planet, Fox, Friends, CBS, and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

His 30-Day Perfect Pup course offers a comprehensive approach based on over 15 years of experience.

Zak aims to reduce the alarming statistic – that 96% of shelter dogs lack formal training. This FREE class is a global effort to equip pup parents with essential skills, foster stronger bonds, and reduce shelter admissions.

What you’ll get:

  • Guided videos cover essential skills like sit, down, stay, leash basics, crate training, etc.
  • Daily tips and email guidance.
  • A comprehensive eBook guide outlining key training tactics.
  • Exclusive access to a private Facebook community for support and networking.
  • Access to Q&A sessions in the remote community.

Zak’s class focus:

  • Leave it and look at me (focus behaviors). 
  • Leash walking manners.
  • Lure training for sit, down, and up.
  • Overcoming biting, chewing, and more.
  • Potty and crate training.

Remember! Zak’s 30-Day Perfect Pup class will give you unlimited, permanent access to all course materials on the Pupford app and website. It’s an investment in your pup’s health and happiness and a more harmonious bond between you and your dog.

14-Day Essential Dog Training Course

The Pupford Essential Training Course by Caitlin Castillo is a 100% FREE dog training program designed to help you develop fundamental skills for a stronger bond with your pup.

She is a certified positive reinforcement dog trainer with experience in shelter, rescue, and private settings.

This course focuses on essential behaviors like impulse control (Leave it and wait), lure training (Sit, Down, Touch), potty and crate training, leash walking manners, overcoming biting and chewing, and more.

No credit card is required for instant access!

GUESS WHAT?

One of her participants, ‘Aiko,’ states that her training method is simple yet effective as her dog effortlessly achieved obedience and manners.

Remember! In JUST 14 days, you’ll master essential dog training tips, from basic obedience cues like ‘Sit’ and ‘Down’ to vital skills like ‘Leave it’ and loose leash walking.

What you’ll get:

  • Videos and eBook: Her guided videos and downloadable PDFs cover the skills I mentioned above, like sit, down, stay, leash training, crate training, and more.
  • Comprehensive eBooks: Shopping checklists, dog-proofing your home tips, and other practical guides to ensure you’re fully prepared for your pup’s arrival.
  • Unlimited FREE access: You can access all materials on the Pupford app and website without charges. Plus, you can review course content anytime, anywhere.

Remember! This course is free because millions of dogs enter shelters annually due to a lack of formal training. Pupford offers this course to combat rehoming issues.

This ’14 Day Essential Dog Training’ course addresses the root cause, promoting responsible pet ownership.

New Dog Starter Course

New Dog Starter Course page screenshot

Trevor Smith introduces the ‘New Dog Starter Course’ with Pupford. This comprehensive course draws on extensive dog experience, including certifications like CPDT-KA and being a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer.

What you’ll get:

  • In-Depth Video Modules: Guided videos answering critical questions about getting a new dog. Plus, email tips and guidance.
  • PDF Printouts: Downloadable PDFs to take with you everywhere.
  • FREE access: Unlimited access to all Pupford app and website course materials.

Course Focus:

  • The guidance on whether to get a dog.
  • Preparing your home for a new dog.
  • Detailed schedule for the first 24 hours and a game plan for days 1-5.
  • A list of essentials for your new pup.

It’s not over yet! Here’s the course overview.

Section 1: Before Your Dog Comes Home

  • Should you get a dog?
  • Preparing your home.
  • Buying the essentials.
  • Schedule and expectations.

Section 2: Once Your Dog Is Home

  • First 24 hours schedule.
  • Day 2-5 game/training.

You can SKIP this course. But, you will need clarification about what to do when your dog arrives; your dog may lack confidence in the first few days, leading to long-term challenges and many more.

However, remember – this FREE course, including videos, eBooks, and a private community, aims to build a stronger bond and better communication with your dog!

Pupford’s Other Programs

Ambassador Program

You can enjoy the Perfect Pup Club and a range of exclusive benefits as their ambassador!

Here’s a SIMPLE guide on how it all works:

  • Apply: Complete a quick and easy application to let them know more about you and your pup.
  • Share: You can earn commissions and receive free swag by sharing about Pupford and its products with your friends, family, and others.
  • Get Rewards: As a club member, you can enjoy FREE products and cash commissions and receive a SPECIAL DISCOUNT code to share with your people.
  • Other Benefits: You will also get early access to products, private community access, partner-only giveaways, and many more.

Note: I REPEAT Pupford offers this chance for dog owners like you to apply NOW to join this exciting community and enjoy the benefits of being an Ambassador!

Breeder Program

Pupford Breeder Program page screenshot

Pupford’s Breeder Program is designed to support you in ensuring the success of new pup parents.

Pupford understands that breeding puppies is no easy task, and guiding puppy owners can be even more challenging.

As a member of the Breeder Program, you can be crucial in providing new puppy buyers with the confidence and tools they need to train their dogs effectively.

For me, this program will help us enhance our spiritual well-being. By offering FREE online training classes and treats through Pupford, you can contribute to creating well-behaved pups that find forever homes.

If you want to join this program, the STEPS are simple:

  • Step 1: Fill out the application form at the bottom of this page to ensure the program is a good fit for both parties.
  • Step 2: Once approved, you’ll receive free treats and training access for all your puppies.
  • Step 3: Gain peace of mind as you witness new pup parents confidently using the tools you’ve provided to ensure their puppies’ success.

Do this as a social service – to EMPOWER new owners to build lasting bonds with their dogs!

However, one common issue I noticed among their courses is that their courses lack personalized training plans designed for individual dogs, potentially overlooking specific behavior challenges. 

There’s an in-depth coverage of advanced training methods and troubleshooting guidance for common issues. Plus, their breeders program’s focus on treats may not sufficiently address comprehensive training needs.

Academy+ (Paid Courses)

Here are some Academy+ Courses which you can pay for and enroll. (I’ll discuss the payment method(s) in the following section)

  • Intro to Service Dogs Course: Discover what makes a service dog and learn how to train your dog to become one. Watch video demos to teach your dog different service-related tasks.
  • Dog First Aid Course: Learn preventive care and DIY remedies from a veterinarian. Boost your confidence in handling your dog’s health with detailed videos and PDFs.
  • Advanced Puppy Nutrition (Microbiome Course): Understand how your dog’s gut health affects overall well-being. Gain confidence in your dog’s health with in-depth videos and PDFs.
  • Intro to Dog Sports Course: Explore 10 exercises to lay a foundation for dog sports. In-depth videos cover exercises for improving behavior and communication.
  • At Home Grooming Course: Master the art of grooming your dog at home with detailed videos on brushing, haircutting, bathing, and more.
  • Dog Body Language Course: Decode your dog’s body language with 25+ video modules, helping you understand their communication.
  • Crate Training Course: Teach your dog to love the crate at any age or breed. Learn about the importance of creating, best practices, and proper rules.
  • 21 Impulse Control Games: Play 21 easy games to help your dog control impulses like jumping, leash pulling, and more.
  • Trick Training Course & Trick Training Part 2 Course: Impress guests by teaching your dog fun tricks with step-by-step breakdowns for all ages and breeds.
  • Leash Walking Course: Get practical tips to overcome leash issues, including lunging. Watch in-depth videos on techniques and recommended tools.

And more. 

Pricing and Refund Policy of Pupford

As I said, Pupford Academy offers seven FREE training courses accessible on their app or website.

For additional content, Academy+ is available through three pricing options:

  • Monthly Subscription: $9.99.
  • Semi-Annual (6 months) Subscription: $59.94 (one time) or $40.16 (special offer).
  • Lifetime Access: Originally $199.99, now available for $99.99.

However, each course comprises several modules, each under 10 minutes.

And, GUESS WHAT? Each module is in written overview; you can access training articles and a downloadable PDF for your reference.

Listen, Pupford Academy’s free courses are a great initiative, but the pricing for Academy+ might be considered high. While the monthly and semi-annual options are reasonable, the original lifetime access cost of $199.99 seems on the expensive side for online dog training, even with the discounted rate of $99.99.

Note: Refund policies should be checked on the official Pupford Academy website.

Customer Testimonials of Pupford

  • Customer Testimonial 1:
“[Before Pupford treats} she was not treat motivated at all. It could be other brands of treats or her dog food it didn’t make a difference to her. So getting her really excited to train was a struggle.
[Now] She gets very excited (maybe a little too excited sometimes) and will hop right into action.”

In Short: Dannie says that, before using Pupford treats, her dog lacked motivation for training, but now the dog is eagerly participating.

  • Customer Testimonial 2:
“She looks forward to the treats! She loves treats overall.
But these treats are so affordable and are the perfect size, and there’s so many in the bag! It’s hard to find this mix!”
Remi
Pupford Customer

In Short: This client says that the Puford’s treats are irresistible – affordable, perfect size and abundant in the bag!

  • Customer Testimonial 3:
“The puppy training course with Zak George was so helpful in training our pup. It was set up well, easy to understand, we were able to follow through with our pup. She (&we) learned a lot & we are aware now of the need to keep working with our little pup every day. Plus all the pups in the video are adorable. I highly recommend this to new dog owners.”

In Short: Nancy says that Zak’s puppy training course was incredibly helpful, easy to follow, and highly recommended for new dog owners.

Pros and Cons of Pupford 

Pros

Training videos of excellent quality
Accurate and secure training guidance
Expert trainers for each course
Comprehensive written materials are also accessible
Receive personalized treatment recommendations
Mark modules as completed at your own

Cons

Individualized support not included
Subscription required to access the majority of contents

Alternative: K9 Training Institute

If you’re looking for a better option, consider K9 Training Institute, a GREAT alternative to Pupford training.

K9 Training Institute is a transformation masterclass headed by seasoned trainers Dr.Alexa Diaz and Eric Presnall – to offer a distinctive approach, teaching crucial matters such as watch and touch.

The course delivers comprehensive, expert-guided training, emphasizing body language and hand signals using service dog training methods.

K9TI logo

They offer different kinds of training:

  • Teaching your dog where to potty.
  • Helping your dog stay focused in distracting situations.
  • Teaching your dog to understand body language instead of relying on verbal cues.
  • Providing comprehensive training beyond basic commands to foster obedience and understanding.
  • Training your dog to alert you to strangers without barking.
  • Leash training and reducing pulling behavior.
  • Ensuring your dog reliably comes when called.
  • Discouraging your dog from jumping on people.
  • Managing excessive barking.

I would say that for dog owners aiming to nurture a well-behaved, attentive canine companion, K9 Training Institute emerges as a highly recommended alternative.

Other dog training program reviews:

Conclusion

Pupford Academy is a great help, whether you’re using it with its treats and tools or on its own. But check out the free stuff first – it might have all you need for a regular pup.

Remember to mark the modules you finish to make picking up where you left off more manageable.

However, if you PREFER an alternative, don’t forget to check K9 Training Institute! (which is my favorite)

FAQs

Yes, Pupford’s training is suitable for all dogs, including any age, breed, and skill level, as it offers adaptable methods and promotes a positive learning environment.

Pupford Academy accepts debit/credit cards, Paypal, or Afterpay.

To access videos from Pupford Academy, visit Pupford’s website or app, watch videos directly, and mark them as finished for tracking.

BETTER ALTERNATIVE
K9 Training Institute
K9Ti Product Image
Effectiveness
Ease of Training
Price

4.9

4.9

5.0

Overall Score

4.9

visa-master-amex-paypal
Pros
The institute has a free online dog training workshop.
Training works well for both puppies and adult dogs.
It is suitable for any type of dog with behavioral issues.
The K9TI offers unlimited personal coaching for specialized training.
Get the BEST PRICE valid until the end of February
Cons
The paid dog training program can be a bit expensive, but there is a free workshop too.

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Author
Bella Diaz
Bella Diaz is a professional pet sitter and has been taking care of animals since she was a child. She has a passion for animals and enjoys spending time with them. She has also contributed lots of reviews to IPetGuides.

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