Dog training in Downtown LA, on real city streets
Leash pulling, lunging, barking at scooters, a puppy who won’t settle. FitPals trainers work on it where it actually happens: on the streets of DTLA, several times a week.
- Fully insured & bonded
- Every pack led by a dog trainer
- Max 6–8 dogs per handler
- 5-star rated on Yelp
Leash pulling and reactivity
Pulling and lunging are the top reasons DTLA owners dread walks. Every FitPals pack walk includes behavior guidance for both, so over time you see:
- A loose leash instead of a dog dragging you down the block
- Calmer reactions to dogs, scooters, bikes and people
- Faster recovery after something sets them off
- More focus on the handler and better impulse control
- Walks you actually enjoy again
How we train: routine, consistency, counter-conditioning
Routine. Dogs thrive on predictability. Training on the same days, at the same time, with the same structure lowers anxiety and makes new behavior easier to learn.
Consistency. Every pack leader uses the same cues, rules and corrections. Your dog never gets mixed messages, so progress carries over from walk to walk.
Counter-conditioning. We expose your dog to triggers like other dogs, scooters and crowds at a distance they can handle, and pair each one with a calm, positive experience. Over time the trigger stops meaning “panic” and starts meaning “keep walking.”
For pulling or reactivity, we recommend at least three pack walks a week for 4 to 6 weeks. That’s our 3-walk package at $120.
1-on-1 training for active clients
Already in a FitPals pack? Add private training sessions to target specific goals, and learn how to keep the progress going on your own walks. The behavior holds up with you, not just with us. 1-on-1 sessions are available to active FitPals clients and are quoted after your consultation.
Puppy potty and crate training
A new puppy in a high-rise comes with its own challenges. We guide you through the routines that make apartment life work:
- Potty training schedules that fit elevator and lobby life
- Crate training so your puppy settles calmly when you leave
- Early structure and socialization for city sights and sounds, so they’re ready for the pack later
Start with a consultation
Every training plan starts with a consultation. We learn your dog’s history, triggers and goals, then recommend the right mix of pack walks and training.
What DTLA pet owners say
“Roxie is now confident because of her pack walks with Janriel & Alexandra.”
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We were introduced to FitPals right as Janriel was finishing up a walk with a neighbor's dog. We could tell right away that he is a professional AND expert. I quickly agreed to set up a FaceTime with him and Alexandra, and was extremely impressed with their business; they've been servicing the pups of DTLA for 10 years!
Fast forward a month later, our shy puppy, Roxie, is thriving! Janriel & Alexandra's consistency, tips/tricks, and overall dog knowledge have made a huge difference for us and our girl. Originally she was terrified of going outside; going to the bathroom was out of the question and she shook like a leaf any time a bus or car drove [by]. Roxie is now confident because of her pack walks with Janriel & Alexandra. She is getting proper socialization in a controlled environment, discipline, and affection. As the owners, we are receiving tips on how to help parent that have proven invaluable, especially as Roxie is only 6 months old.
Pack walking is an amazing option for any dog, but especially for those folks who have nervous nellies, like we do. I am so happy I met Janriel that day and we began this journey. We absolutely recommend FitPals 10x over and are looking forward to remaining long-term clients. Thank you for taking care of our girl!
“He is finally fully potty trained to the point where he tells me when he needs to go outside!”
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Finding Fitpals has been one of the best things I could have done for my pup. Living in DTLA can make it very difficult to raise a dog (at least for me I am a new dog mom) from potty training to navigating walking the city with a new curious puppy, it was extremely difficult. I thought I had to do everything on my own and I am grateful I reached out to Janriel & Alexandra. Not only is my very excitable puppy walking confidently in a pack, he is finally fully potty trained to the point where he tells me when he needs to go outside! It has been so wonderful seeing all his progress over these past few months. Finding someone I can trust with the most important little guy in my life is such a gift.
“I noticed my dog go from anxiety-ridden, aloof and distant to well-adjusted, gentle and loving.”
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I'm impressed – FitPals is the best dog walking service I've had the pleasure of using, Hands down.
They're passionate, creative and have your pup's well-being in mind. I met with Alexandra and Janriel (The owners – they're so down to earth and let their work speak for itself) for my meet & greet to make sure my dog is a good fit and was immediately put at ease with their experience and knowledge.
I came close to letting my 4-year-old rescue go, but through FitPals' help (advice, tips, and patience) and walks (3x a week!) I noticed my dog go from anxiety-ridden, aloof and distant to well-adjusted, gentle and loving.
Totally blown away by the overall services they provide. I specifically use them to socialize my pup through their pack walks/dog walking service which can include a tracked map of your dog's walk, photos and, video updates!
Thanks, FitPals – I'm grateful for what you do!!
Frequently asked questions
Do you offer dog training in DTLA?
Yes. Every pack walk is led by a dog trainer with behavior guidance built in. Active clients can add 1-on-1 training, and we offer potty and crate training guidance for puppies.
Can you help a reactive dog?
Yes. Reactive dogs start with a consultation and an assessment walk. We then use routine, consistency and counter-conditioning to help them stay calm around dogs, scooters and people.
How often should my dog train?
For leash pulling or reactivity, we recommend at least three pack walks a week for 4 to 6 weeks.
Do you offer 1-on-1 dog training?
Yes, for active FitPals clients. Sessions target specific goals and teach you how to keep progress going on your own walks.
Do you help with puppy potty and crate training?
Yes. We guide new puppy owners through potty training, crate training and early socialization for city life.