Dog Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA

"Bringing Structure and Connection to Every Dog and Family"

After years of helping dog owners, I’ve come to understand the challenges they face:

• “Our dog is smart, but they just don’t seem to listen to us.”
• “We feel stuck—our dog’s behavior is making everyday life so stressful.”
• “We love our dog, but we need help getting them under control.”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and I’m here to help.

I’m Steve Thompson, Owner and Director of Training. My goal is to help families like yours build stronger, more rewarding relationships with their dogs through proven training methods and a focus on connection, structure, and consistency. Growing up in East Tennessee, I spent countless hours exploring the woods with our family dog, who felt more like a sibling than a pet. My love for dogs grew as I got older, and I carried that passion with me into adulthood. As a young man, I joined the Army, where I learned the value of structure, consistency, and clear communication—all of which are essential in effective dog training. These principles became a cornerstone of my approach, guiding how I work with both dogs and their families.

From Career Shifts to Following a Dream

After a 15-year career in management, I turned to over-the-road truck driving, a move that allowed me to bring my dogs along and train them in diverse environments. This unique experience strengthened my training skills and deepened my understanding of how dogs respond to different settings. Now, living in the Charleston area, I’m living my dream: working with dogs every day. Whether it’s helping clients see progress with their own dogs or mentoring my team of trainers, I’m passionate about creating lasting results.

Family: A Cornerstone of My Life

As a father grandfather, I understand the value of patience, connection, and fostering relationships. My experience as a parent influences my approach to dog training—where building trust and understanding is just as important as teaching skills.

Why Work with Me?

• I bring a lifetime of experience, from my Army days to my unique truck-driving training adventures.
• I’m passionate about helping families transform frustration into confidence and joy.
• I’m dedicated to mentoring my team and providing the best possible training experience for every client.

Ready to Transform Your Life with Your Dog?

Whether you’re struggling with a puppy’s energy or addressing more complex behavioral issues, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll create the calm, structured, and joyful relationship you’ve been dreaming of.

Let’s get started—contact us today!

"Supporting Success Behind the Scenes"

• “We’ve tried everything, but our dog still won’t behave the way we hoped.”
• “I just want to enjoy life with my dog, but their behavior is making it so hard.”
• “How do I even begin to get help with my dog’s challenges?”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and our team is here to help.

I’m Valerie, Owner and Director of Operations at Dog Training Elite. While our trainers are out in the field helping dogs and their families, I work behind the scenes to ensure every part of the process runs smoothly. From creating training materials to supporting our trainers and managing human resources, my focus is on making sure you and your dog have the best experience possible.

A Lifetime Surrounded by Animals

Growing up in Greenville, SC, I was always surrounded by animals. As an only child, I bonded closely with our family dogs, befriended squirrels, and even had a chicken or two as companions. My love for animals continued into adulthood, and my children followed suit, bringing home stray dogs, cats, turtles, rabbits, and even a blue-tailed skink lizard at one point!

A Diverse Career Path with a Focus on Service

Before stepping into the world of dog training, I built a career rooted in customer service. My roles included 10 years at a funeral home and 5 years as an over-the-road truck driver, where I had the incredible opportunity to visit all 48 contiguous states and most of Canada’s provinces. Working with dogs feels like coming full circle—it takes me back to my roots and the joy I’ve always felt being around animals.

Family: The Heart of My Journey

As a mother grandmother, family has always been my foundation. Whether it’s sharing my love for animals with them or supporting their own pursuits, my experience as a parent inspires me to bring patience, empathy, and connection into my work.

When I’m Not Behind the Desk…

When I’m not managing operations, I enjoy spending time crocheting, reading, exploring historical sites and museums, or attending live theater performances. Training our own dogs and supporting our team are passions that keep me connected to the heart of what we do at Dog Training Elite.

Why Work with Us?

• We combine a personal passion for animals with professional expertise to create tailored solutions for every client.
• Our team is dedicated to building strong, lasting relationships between you and your dog.
• I’m here behind the scenes to ensure you receive top-notch support every step of the way.

Let’s Get Started Together

Whether you’re just beginning your journey or need help overcoming challenges with your dog, our team is ready to help. I’m proud to be part of a process that transforms frustration into joy and builds meaningful connections between dogs and their families.

Contact us today and let’s get started!

"Your First Step Toward a Happier Life with Your Dog"

• “We love our dog, but their behavior is running our lives.”
• “We’ve tried everything and nothing works.”
• “This isn’t what we pictured when we brought them home, and we’re not sure what to do next.”

If this sounds like you, I’m here to help you take that first step.

I’m Savana Thompson, your Scheduling Manager and the friendly voice on the other end of the line when you reach out. I’m here to guide you through the process, making it as easy as possible to get started on your journey to a better life with your dog.

A Lifelong Love for Animals

Born and raised in East Tennessee, I grew up with a passion for animals that likely drove my parents a little crazy. From dogs and guinea pigs to birds and even a snake, our house was always full of pets. Today, I share that love with my three kids and our German Shepherd, Chief, who is truly the heart of our family.

Compassion Meets Customer Service

With a background in customer service, I understand the importance of empathy, patience, and clear communication. My experience has given me the skills to support not only our clients but also their dogs as they embark on this journey. My goal is to make sure every client feels understood, valued, and ready for success.

A Balance of Family and Passion

When I’m not working, you’ll find me making memories with my kids, reading a great book, or at the gun range with my fiancé. Family is everything to me, and I’m proud to bring that same sense of care and connection to my work.

Let’s Get Started Together

Taking the first step toward transforming your relationship with your dog can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help. Together, we’ll get you on the path to a calmer, happier life with your furry companion.

Reach out today—I can’t wait to help you get started!

"A Passion for Pets, A Commitment to Connection"

• “We adore our dog, but their behavior is out of control.”
• “No matter what I do, my dog just won’t obey.”
• “We’re at our wit’s end—this isn’t the life we imagined with our dog.”

If this feels like your story, you’re not alone—and I’m here to help.

As a dedicated dog trainer and a passionate advocate for animal well-being, I bring a unique blend of hands-on experience and academic knowledge to every client. Currently pursuing my degree in veterinary technology, I am constantly expanding my understanding of animal behavior and care to offer the best possible solutions for you and your dog.

A Trainer Who Understands the Importance of Patience

As a mother of two energetic kids, I’ve learned firsthand the value of patience, empathy, and clear communication. Whether I’m guiding my children or working with your pup, my goal is to create an environment where learning and growth happen naturally and joyfully.

A Creative, Balanced Approach to Training

In addition to training dogs, I own a tattoo shop where I channel my creativity and artistry. This blend of careers gives me a dynamic perspective: training dogs, much like tattooing, requires skill, a personal touch, and a lot of heart. Every dog—and every client—is unique, and I am committed to tailoring each training plan to your specific needs.

Why Work with Me?

• I combine a strong academic foundation with practical, real-world experience.
• I understand the challenges of balancing family life and training commitments.
• My training methods focus on building positive, lasting connections between pets and their families.

Let’s Make a Difference Together

My ultimate goal is to help families like yours transform frustration into confidence, and chaos into calm. Whether you’re dealing with a wild puppy or a stubborn adult dog, we’ll work together to create a bond that brings joy to both you and your pet.

Before you give up, give us a call.

Let’s work together to transform your frustrations into confidence and connection. I’m excited to help you and your dog thrive.