FAQs

Policies

  • Because we’re a small training facility with limited class spots, we are not able to offer make-up classes for missed sessions.

    If you do miss a class, we’ll send a written recap so you can review everything that was covered and stay on track at home. We also offer a 30-minute private session with your trainer ($50) — either virtual or at our facility — if you’d like extra help going over the material.

    If a class ever needs to be cancelled by us, we’ll always provide a make-up class or another solution. We encourage students to sign up for sessions when they’re able to attend consistently, since regular practice week to week makes a big difference in training progress.

    Thanks so much for your understanding and supporting our small business!

  • Kids over 8 years old are welcome in classes (aside from Reactivity class) as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

    A maximum of 2 people can attend class per dog, please! We have a small space and like to have plenty of room for their pups and humans to move around and feel safe.

  • We require all dogs to be up to date on vaccinations (Rabies, bordatella, DHPP/DA2PP) prior to starting training.

    For puppies:

    We require only the first two rounds of vaccinations for bordetella, distemper and parvo. 

  • Private Sessions/Packages:

    We ask for 24 hour notice for session cancellations, barring emergencies. We are unable to offer refunds for sessions canceled within 24 hours.

    Packages cannot be refunded after the first session has been used.

    We require that packages and private sessions be used within one year (365 days) of purchase date. Sessions are booked directly with your trainer.

    Group Classes:

    We ask for 48 hour notice for class cancellations, barring emergencies. We aren’t able to offer makeup classes at this time. Copilot Dog Training reserves the right to cancel a class if the minimum enrollment is not met two days before the class begins. If your class is cancelled, contact you to offer enrollment in another class or a full refund. Cancellations requested by the client within 48 hours can be refunded to your card with a 5% processing fee or in full for credits for a future training service.

  • We require payment in full 24 hours prior to the start of your initial session.

    If you end up booking a package, we will prorate the amount of your first session.

  • We ask for 48 hour notice for class cancellations, barring emergencies. We aren’t able to offer makeup classes at this time.

    Copilot Dog Training reserves the right to cancel a class if the minimum enrollment is not met two days before the class begins.

    If your class is cancelled, contact you to offer enrollment in another class or a full refund.

Services

  • All kinds. Puppies, rescues, reactive dogs, anxious dogs, goofy teenagers—we’ve seen it all.

    Whether your dog needs basic manners or more complex behavior support, we’ve got a plan that fits.

  • Yes!

    Our obedience training programs focus on real-life skills like walking nicely on leash, coming when called, staying calm around distractions, and more. We teach these skills through kind, positive, reward-based methods that work in real-world situations.

    We serve the north and west sides of Chicago. Depending on availability, we are occasionally able to visit nearby suburbs. We also offer virtual sessions.

  • Yes! We run puppy classes for young dogs who are just getting started, plus private puppy sessions for families who want more focused support.

    We cover potty training, socialization, crate comfort, and calm behavior in a busy world.

  • Yes, and we love them 🩷

    Many of our Chicago dog training clients are recent adopters who want to help their rescue dogs settle in, build confidence, and work through things like reactivity, anxiety, or resource guarding.

    We also partner with CACC for low-cost community classes and with our rescue partners to give their pups slots in our classes.

  • Definitely. We specialize in working with dogs who bark, lunge, freeze, or just have big feelings.

    Our training helps them feel safer and more in control, using gentle, reward-based methods designed to build trust and confidence.

  • Prices vary based on the type of training you need. We offer private sessions, group classes, and behavior support.

    • Group classes — Start at $180

    • Private training — Starts at $135/session or $675 for 5 pack

    • In-home day — 3 weeks for $1080, 4 weeks for $1320

    • Drop-off training — Full day for 4 weeks for $1650 or half days for $1210

  • Not sure? That’s totally okay.

    We can talk through your dog’s behavior, history, and goals, then recommend a training path—like private sessions, puppy classes, or behavior support—that makes sense for your life.

About Copilot

  • We believe positive reinforcement is the most effective and the kindest way to train.

    This means we use treats, encouragement and environmental rewards to help you and your pup meet your goals.

    We don’t use prong collars, shock collars, or choke chains and are happy to work with you to transition to other gear.

  • We’re based in Chicago at :

    3266 N. Elston Ave in Avondale

    For private sessions, serve many surrounding neighborhoods on the North and West sides.

    We also offer virtual sessions and may travel to nearby suburbs depending on trainer availability.

  • Email is our preferred method of communication. Customers who book packages are welcome to email in between sessions for questions and updates.

  • Easy!

    Just fill out our contact form or book a free consult.

    We’ll talk through your goals, learn about your dog, and match you with a trainer and training option that fits your life.