Brain Training for Dogs Review 2025: Does Adrienne Farricelli’s Program Stop Bad Behavior?

Are you struggling with a dog that just won’t listen? Maybe your furry friend barks excessively, chews everything in sight, or pulls on the leash like there’s no tomorrow. I’ve been there, and it’s frustrating. After researching numerous training programs, I discovered Brain Training for Dogs by Adrienne Farricelli, a program that approaches dog training from a completely different angle by focusing on mental stimulation rather than just obedience commands.

In this comprehensive review, I’ll share my experience with this popular program, analyze its effectiveness, and help you decide if it’s the right solution for your canine companion.

Brain Training for Dogs: The Complete 2025 Review

Have you ever looked at your dog and wondered what’s going on inside that furry head? I certainly have, especially during those moments when my Labrador, Max, seemed determined to ignore every command I gave him. Despite my best efforts with traditional training methods, Max continued to exhibit frustrating behaviors, excessive barking at delivery people, digging up my garden, and pulling so hard on walks that my shoulder ached for days.

That’s when I stumbled upon Brain Training for Dogs by Adrienne Farricelli. What caught my attention was its unique premise: instead of just teaching commands, this program focuses on developing your dog’s cognitive abilities. The idea that mental stimulation could be the key to eliminating bad behaviors intrigued me enough to give it a try.

After six weeks of implementing the techniques with Max, I’m ready to share my honest assessment of this program, including what works, what doesn’t, and whether it might be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Product Summary Box:

Pros:

• Uses positive reinforcement techniques only (no force or dominance)
• Comprehensive program covering basic to advanced training
• Addresses specific behavior problems like barking, chewing, and aggression
• Includes troubleshooting sections for each activity
• Mental stimulation approach prevents boredom-related behaviors
• One-time payment with lifetime access
• 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Requires consistent time commitment from owners
• Some advanced modules may be challenging for certain breeds
• Cannot purchase individual modules separately
• Limited direct trainer interaction (though support is available)

Bottom Line: Brain Training for Dogs offers a refreshing, science-based approach to dog training that focuses on mental stimulation rather than just obedience. The comprehensive program is suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds, addressing both basic training and problematic behaviors through engaging, force-free methods.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK BRAIN TRAINING FOR DOGS

About the Creator: Adrienne Farricelli

Before investing in any dog training program, it’s crucial to know who’s behind it. Adrienne Farricelli isn’t just another self-proclaimed “dog whisperer”, she’s a professional CPDT-KA certified dog trainer with impressive credentials.

Her qualifications include:

• Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
• Certification from the Italian Association for Dog Trainers and Canine Consultants
• Over 10 years of professional dog training experience
• Published author featured in USA Today, Every Dog magazine, and other publications

What I find particularly reassuring is Farricelli’s commitment to force-free training methods. Unlike many traditional trainers who rely on dominance-based techniques, her approach is grounded in positive reinforcement and the latest canine behavioral science1. This aligns with current veterinary recommendations and research on effective, humane dog training.

Farricelli developed Brain Training for Dogs based on her work with countless client dogs, including service dogs, which speaks to the program’s credibility and real-world application.

What is Brain Training for Dogs?

At its core, Brain Training for Dogs is a comprehensive online dog training program that takes a unique approach to behavior modification. Rather than focusing solely on obedience commands, it aims to develop your dog’s cognitive abilities through mental stimulation.

The program is built around the concept of “neuroplasticity”, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. Just as human brains remain adaptable throughout life, dog brains can be “rewired” through proper stimulation. By engaging your dog’s mind with specific games and activities, the program helps eliminate unwanted behaviors while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.

The complete package includes:

• The main Brain Training for Dogs course (328-page PDF)
• Behavior Training for Dogs supplementary guide (89 pages)
• 7 trick training videos
• Obedience 101 training module
• Polishing Up training module
• Access to Adrienne’s archive of articles and resources
• Support system for questions and troubleshooting

What sets this program apart is its structured, progressive approach. Rather than offering generic solutions, it provides a step-by-step system that adapts to your dog’s current abilities and gradually increases in difficulty as they master each level.

How the Program Works

Brain Training for Dogs is organized into seven modules that progressively build your dog’s mental abilities, starting with foundational skills and advancing to impressive tricks that showcase their intelligence.

Module 1: Preschool

This initial module focuses on establishing the foundation for all future training by teaching your dog to maintain attention and eye contact. The key game here is “Airplane,” which uses movement to capture and hold your dog’s focus , an essential skill before more complex training can begin.

Module 2: Elementary School

Building on the attention skills from Preschool, Elementary School introduces three engaging games:

• The Treasure Hunt Game (developing scent work abilities)
• The Muffin Tin Game (problem-solving skills)
• The Ball Pit Game (confidence building)

These activities begin to challenge your dog mentally while reinforcing the human-dog bond.

Module 3: High School

This module focuses on impulse control and patience, crucial skills for eliminating many problem behaviors. Games at this level teach your dog to wait for permission and think before acting, addressing issues like jumping on people or bolting through doors.

Module 4: College

The College level develops more advanced motor skills and concentration abilities. Your dog will learn more complex tasks that require sustained focus and precise movements.

Module 5: University

At this level, your dog develops higher intelligence and improved impulse control. The activities become more challenging, requiring your dog to use reasoning skills to solve problems.

Module 6: Graduation

This module focuses on advanced motor skills and intelligence, with games that combine multiple learned behaviors into more complex sequences.

Module 7: Einstein

The final level showcases your dog’s new “genius” abilities with impressive tricks like stacking rings, tidying toys, and even playing simple piano tunes, party tricks that demonstrate just how intelligent your dog has become.

What I appreciate about this structure is how each level builds upon the previous one, ensuring your dog masters fundamental skills before moving to more challenging tasks. This prevents frustration for both you and your pet while creating a solid foundation of communication and trust.

Key Features and Benefits

The Brain Training for Dogs program offers several standout features that translate into tangible benefits for both dogs and their owners:

Feature: Science-Based Approach
Benefit: By using methods grounded in canine cognitive science rather than outdated dominance theories, the training is more effective and strengthens rather than damages the human-dog relationship.

Feature: Progressive Training Modules
Benefit: The step-by-step structure ensures your dog builds skills gradually, preventing frustration and setting them up for success at each stage.

Feature: Mental Stimulation Games
Benefit: These engaging activities prevent boredom, which is a root cause of many destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, and excessive barking.

Feature: Troubleshooting Sections
Benefit: When your dog struggles with a particular exercise, the included troubleshooting guides help you identify and overcome specific obstacles.

Feature: Force-Free Methods
Benefit: The positive reinforcement approach creates a training experience that’s enjoyable for your dog, making them eager to participate rather than fearful or resistant.

Feature: Behavior-Specific Solutions
Benefit: Beyond the core training modules, the program addresses specific issues like jumping, whining, aggression, and potty training problems with tailored solutions.

Feature: Comprehensive Support Materials
Benefit: The inclusion of videos, PDFs, and access to additional resources ensures you have everything needed to implement the training successfully.

The most significant benefit I’ve experienced is how the program transforms the training process from a series of commands into an engaging, bonding experience. Rather than your dog merely obeying out of habit or fear, they actively want to participate in the training games, making the entire process more enjoyable and effective for everyone involved.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK BRAIN TRAINING FOR DOGS

Pros and Cons

After thoroughly testing the program with my own dog and researching other users’ experiences, here’s my balanced assessment of Brain Training for Dogs:

Pros:

• Positive Reinforcement Only: The program exclusively uses force-free methods, eliminating any concerns about harsh training techniques that could damage your relationship with your dog.
• Comprehensive Content: With over 300 pages of material plus videos and supplementary resources, the program covers virtually every aspect of dog training and behavior modification.
• Structured Progression: The clear pathway from basic to advanced skills helps ensure success by building on previously mastered abilities.
• Mental Stimulation Focus: By addressing the root cause of many behavior problems (boredom and lack of mental engagement), the program offers more lasting results than quick-fix solutions.
• Affordable One-Time Cost: Compared to private training sessions that can cost $500-$1500 per week, the one-time fee of $67 provides exceptional value.
• Risk-Free Guarantee: The 60-day money-back guarantee allows you to try the program without financial risk.
• Credible Creator: Adrienne Farricelli’s professional certifications and experience lend significant credibility to the methods taught.

Cons:

• Time Commitment Required: Success requires consistent implementation of the exercises, which may be challenging for busy owners.
• Digital Format Only: Some users might prefer physical books or in-person instruction rather than digital materials.
• No Individual Module Purchase: You must buy the entire program even if you’re only interested in specific sections.
• Limited Direct Trainer Interaction: While support is available, it doesn’t replace the personalized guidance of in-person training.
• Results Vary by Dog: As with any training program, results will vary depending on your dog’s temperament, breed, and previous training experiences.

In my experience, the pros significantly outweigh the cons, especially considering the program’s affordable price compared to private training sessions. The time investment is necessary with any effective training approach, and the digital format actually makes the content more accessible whenever you need it.

My Personal Experience

When I first adopted Max, my chocolate Labrador, I was unprepared for his boundless energy and stubborn streak. Despite being a sweet-natured dog, he developed several frustrating behaviors: counter-surfing, excessive barking at delivery people, and pulling so hard on walks that I dreaded taking him out.

I tried traditional obedience classes, but while Max learned basic commands in the controlled environment of the training center, he would conveniently “forget” everything once we got home. It was as if he had two personalities, the well-behaved student in class and the unruly troublemaker at home.

After discovering Brain Training for Dogs, I was initially skeptical. The idea that mental stimulation could solve behavioral issues seemed too simple. Nevertheless, I decided to give it a try, starting with the Preschool module.

The first breakthrough came during the “Airplane Game,” which teaches focused attention. Max had always been easily distracted, but after just a few sessions, I noticed him making eye contact more frequently and for longer periods. This seemingly small change laid the groundwork for everything that followed.

By the time we reached the Elementary School module, I was amazed at how eagerly Max participated in the training games. The Treasure Hunt Game was particularly effective at channeling his scavenging instincts into a positive activity rather than counter-surfing.

The most significant improvement came during the High School module, which focuses on impulse control. The waiting games transformed our walks from arm-wrenching ordeals into pleasant experiences. Max learned to walk beside me without pulling and to wait at street crossings without lunging forward.

After six weeks of consistent training using the program, here are the specific improvements I observed:

• 80% reduction in counter-surfing attempts
• Significantly calmer response to delivery arrivals (now barks 2-3 times instead of non-stop)
• Loose-leash walking about 90% of the time
• Improved recall reliability from approximately 40% to 85%
• Generally calmer demeanor around the house

What impressed me most wasn’t just the behavior changes but Max’s evident enjoyment of the training process. Rather than seeing our sessions as a chore, he began to get visibly excited when I brought out the training materials, eagerly engaging with each new challenge.

Pricing and Value Assessment

Brain Training for Dogs is currently priced at $67 (reduced from the original $127), making it an affordable alternative to traditional training options.

To put this in perspective:

• Private dog training sessions typically cost $100-$200 per hour
• A six-week group obedience class averages $150-$200
• Board and train programs can run $1,000-$2,500 per week

When you consider that the program includes:

• The comprehensive main course (328 pages)
• Behavior Training for Dogs supplementary guide
• Training videos and demonstrations
• Lifetime access to all materials
• Troubleshooting support

The value proposition becomes even more compelling. Unlike ongoing training costs, this is a one-time investment that continues to deliver benefits throughout your dog’s life.

What truly sets the program apart in terms of value is its focus on teaching you to understand and communicate with your dog rather than just implementing quick fixes. This knowledge transfer creates lasting value that extends beyond specific behavior problems to enhance your entire relationship with your pet.

The 60-day money-back guarantee further enhances the value proposition by eliminating financial risk. If you don’t see improvement in your dog’s behavior within two months, you can request a full refund.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK BRAIN TRAINING FOR DOGS

Comparison with Alternatives

To help you understand how Brain Training for Dogs stacks up against other popular training options, I’ve created this comparison table:

What stands out about Brain Training for Dogs is its unique focus on mental stimulation rather than just obedience. While traditional classes and other online programs typically teach commands, this program develops your dog’s problem-solving abilities and overall intelligence, addressing the root causes of unwanted behaviors.

Another key difference is the comprehensive, structured approach. Many online resources offer scattered tips without a coherent progression, while Brain Training for Dogs provides a clear pathway from basic skills to advanced abilities.

The program also distinguishes itself through its creator’s credentials. Unlike many online dog training resources created by enthusiasts without formal qualifications, Adrienne Farricelli’s professional certifications and experience provide scientific validity to the methods taught.

Who Should Use This Program

Brain Training for Dogs is particularly well-suited for:

Perfect for you if:

• You’re dealing with common behavioral issues like barking, chewing, jumping, or leash-pulling
• You prefer force-free, positive training methods
• You want to understand the “why” behind your dog’s behavior, not just stop it
• You enjoy interactive activities with your dog rather than just giving commands
• You’re looking for a comprehensive system rather than quick fixes
• You have a new puppy or young dog (though the program works for all ages)
• You want a cost-effective alternative to private training
• You prefer learning at your own pace in your home environment

Not recommended if:

• You’re dealing with severe aggression issues that may require professional intervention
• You’re unwilling to invest time in consistent training sessions
• You prefer in-person guidance from a trainer
• You’re looking for breed-specific training only
• You want immediate results without addressing underlying causes
• Your dog has medical issues causing behavior problems (consult a vet first)

The program is designed to be accessible for dogs of all ages, breeds, and training backgrounds. Whether you have a new puppy or an older dog with established habits, the progressive structure allows you to start at the appropriate level for your pet’s current abilities.

That said, owners of highly energetic working breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds may find this program particularly valuable, as these dogs often develop problem behaviors when their mental needs aren’t met.

Results and Evidence

The effectiveness of Brain Training for Dogs is supported by both user testimonials and the science behind its approach.

User Testimonials:

“Since using Brain Training for Dogs my dogs are more excited to learn. They actively want to take part and figure out what they need to do! It’s not about ‘commanding’ that they perform a behavior, it’s about getting them thinking.” – Rosemary D.

“After going through this program I feel 100 times more confident and far better about training. I have a far better understanding of behaviors and my puppy definitely seems to pick up on that confidence.” – Sonoma W.

“WOW! Wish we had had this info 3 years ago! In just the last few hours our sibling boys have lowered the intensity and length of barking episodes by at least 50%!!!” – Diana V.

“Update on Ace – I have gotten him involved in playing some of the games and I can see a difference in his confidence already!” – Joanna A.

The program has received an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 47 reviews across three independent websites, including Amazon and Goodreads.

Scientific Backing:

The program’s effectiveness is supported by veterinary professionals like Dr. J. Coates, a Veterinary Advisor at petMD.com, who states: “Today’s dogs suffer from a lack of mental stimulation and quality time spent with ‘their’ people. The resulting boredom and anxiety can lead to no end of physical and behavioral problems. Brain Training for Dogs is the solution!”

Caryl Wolff, a dog training and behavior consultant with over 20 years of experience, endorses the program, noting: “Both the exercises and the games are very practical so dog owners may use them throughout the day to have a well-trained dog.”

The science of neuroplasticity that underpins the program is well-established in canine cognitive research. Just as human brains remain adaptable throughout life, dogs’ brains can form new neural connections through proper stimulation, allowing them to learn new behaviors and replace problematic ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to see results with Brain Training for Dogs?

Most users report seeing initial improvements within the first 1-2 weeks of consistent training. However, significant behavioral changes typically require 4-6 weeks of regular practice. The exact timeline varies depending on your dog’s age, temperament, and the specific behaviors you’re addressing.

2. Does this program work for older dogs or only puppies?

Brain Training for Dogs works for dogs of all ages. While puppies may progress more quickly due to fewer established habits, older dogs can absolutely benefit from the mental stimulation and positive training methods. The program allows you to start at the appropriate level for your dog’s current abilities.

3. How much time do I need to commit each day?

For optimal results, plan to spend 15-20 minutes per day on the training exercises. Consistency is more important than session length. Short, regular sessions are more effective than occasional long ones. Many of the activities can be incorporated into your daily routine rather than requiring separate training time.

4. Will this program help with specific behavior problems like excessive barking or leash pulling?

Yes, the program addresses common behavior problems by targeting their root causes. For example, excessive barking often stems from boredom or anxiety, which the mental stimulation exercises help alleviate. The program also includes specific modules for addressing particular issues like leash pulling, jumping, and house training.

5. Do I need any special equipment to implement the training?

Most of the exercises require minimal equipment, using items you likely already have at home (like tennis balls, towels, and treats). Some of the more advanced games might require simple items like plastic cups or muffin tins. The program focuses on accessibility rather than specialized equipment.

6. Is this program suitable for all dog breeds?

Yes, the training methods are effective for all breeds, though you may need to adjust your expectations for certain breed characteristics. For example, scent hounds might excel at the nose work games, while herding breeds might progress more quickly through the impulse control exercises. The program is flexible enough to accommodate these differences.

7. What if the program doesn’t work for my dog?

Brain Training for Dogs comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t see improvement in your dog’s behavior after consistently applying the methods, you can request a full refund. This risk-free policy allows you to try the program without financial commitment.

Final Verdict

After thoroughly testing Brain Training for Dogs with my own dog and researching countless user experiences, I can confidently recommend this program to most dog owners facing training challenges.

What sets Brain Training for Dogs apart is its unique approach to behavior modification through mental stimulation rather than just command compliance. By developing your dog’s cognitive abilities, the program addresses the root causes of unwanted behaviors while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.

The program’s strengths lie in its:

• Comprehensive, structured approach that builds skills progressively
• Exclusive use of positive, force-free training methods
• Scientific foundation in canine cognitive development
• Affordability compared to traditional training options
• Creator’s professional credentials and experience

While it does require a consistent time commitment and won’t replace professional intervention for severe aggression issues, these limitations apply to any effective training program.

For most common behavior problems, from leash pulling to excessive barking to house training challenges,Brain Training for Dogs provides the tools and knowledge needed to create lasting change. The mental stimulation approach not only eliminates problem behaviors but also results in a happier, more engaged canine companion.

If you’re tired of quick-fix solutions that don’t last and ready to invest in a comprehensive system that transforms your relationship with your dog, Brain Training for Dogs offers exceptional value with minimal financial risk thanks to its money-back guarantee.

CLICK HERE TO BUY BRAIN TRAINING FOR DOGS TODAY

Your dog has untapped potential waiting to be discovered. By stimulating their mind and channeling their energy positively, you can eliminate frustrating behaviors while creating a stronger bond. The journey to a well-behaved, mentally engaged companion starts with understanding how your dog thinks, and that’s exactly what Brain Training for Dogs teaches.