A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist.

Behavioral Solutions

Dog Training Elite

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and balance, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

See Training Packages

Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite - Dog & Puppy Potty Training. Dog Training Elite

Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

Dog Training Elite - Dog Socialization Classes. Dog Training Elite

Socialization

Our dog socialization classes teach dogs to maintain control and obedience around other dogs, people, and various distractions, reducing fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite - Stop Puppy Biting with Dog Training Elite

Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite - Reactive Dog Training. Dog Training Elite

Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training. DTE

Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs. DTE

Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite - Excessive Barking Training. DTE

Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite - Staying and Coming Training. DTE

Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite -

Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

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Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

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Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

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Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

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Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

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Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

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Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

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Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

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Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

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Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

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Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

A dog with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Christopher Soukup
    Aug. 6, 2025
    02 May 2026: As expected, another great experience with the team from DTE. The training focus is not to make the dog a robot on command but to really bond a resource companion with detailed explanation in behavior dynamics. Rhett's many years of experience really shines with every session. 23 Apr 2026: Rhett was absolutely awesome working with my service dog in training. I had a gap in sessions due to medical reasons and he was great with instruction and getting us back on a structured path. Dog Training Elite has gone above and beyond in accommodating me in a rural area by coming out an hour and half just to make sure we are getting the training and resources we need! Watching my dog progress after each session and getting the handler skills needed to continue work between instructor lead sessions is really an amazing to experience. 06 Aug 2025: First day of training was exceptionally informative. Julia was extremely professional and knowledgeable instilling confidence moving forward. I definitely know I made the right choice for my service dog needs. 18 Sept 2025: Fast forward into a few sessions later and still absolutely impressed with the level of professionalism and results
  • Nate Smithson
    May. 2, 2026
    Deidre came out for the consultation and we can’t wait to get started! She did a great job explaining the process and answering our questions. Still a long way to go but we feel like we’ve made the right decision going with Dog Training Elite.
  • Kelly Flynn
    May. 2, 2026
    We purchased the gold training package for our one year old rescue dog, Herman. Working with dog training elite and Taylor has been great! When we started, Herman barely knew how to sit and was reactive towards other dogs. Taylor engaged our entire family, including our senior dog, Ellie, during the at home training sessions which was nice. The personalized at home sessions taught Herman the sit, off, quiet, down, place, and heel commands. Taylor was very flexible with scheduling our sessions which was nice. After the at home sessions, we began group classes. At our first class, Herman was overly excited and had to be calmed down in the painting lot before joining, but by our third class, he was almost non-reactive to other dogs and sits calmly in groups. Though Herman is still a bit stubborn with down and occasionally distracted during heel, I’m amazed at how far he’s come in such a short time. I highly recommend Taylor and dog training elite.
  • Micah Beene
    May. 1, 2026
    We found Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville while searching for dog training near me and couldn’t be happier. The trainers Rob and Brad showed incredible patience, kindness and gentleness. Their experience and understanding made our sessions smooth and effective. Highly recommend for anyone looking for obedience training for dogs.
  • Leticia n James Bollinger
    Apr. 28, 2026
    Absolutely amazing! So patient with all my questions. Very clear with directions and helpful with proper training.
  • Kevin Mallory
    May. 1, 2026
    Charlie and the staff at DTE were awesome with our year old Malamute / Border Collie mix, who was a handful to say the least. He just finished his two-week program. Charlie was so nice and very caring about our dog, and she took great care of him. Our dog has significantly improved his manners, is far less impulsive, and has gotten so much better on walks and runs. We know we still have work to do, but DTE created a great foundation that we will continue to build on and develop from. But the difference they have made in him already is like night and day.
  • Lauren Unger
    May. 1, 2026
    Rhett was fabulous!! Our six month dog had no awareness of his back legs couldn’t jump on the couch. I had to pick him up and carry him into the car. He couldn’t jump down from the couch or off the bed. In one session, Duke learned “place”. He had him jumping on top of picnic tables. Sitting and staying in this place. Took us to the car and trained him getting in and out of the car by himself. I didn’t think Duke could do it and I was so impressed!!! Getting him trained with this company and with him has been absolutely wonderful and highly recommend it. So much gets done in just one session. He talks you through everything. You understand the process of the way the brain works with the dog and the reasonings behind how they’re training them and why they do it that way. Five stars all the way, and if I could give more, I would! Lauren Unger
  • Suzanne Martin
    Feb. 20, 2025
    We absolutely love and appreciate this fantastic business. Kind caring and understanding. Nova has learned so much. She is now attending group sessions on Saturdays
  • Suzanne Martin
    Feb. 20, 2025
    We absolutely love and appreciate this fantastic business. Kind caring and understanding. Nova has learned so much. She is now attending group sessions on Saturdays
  • Sheena Williamson
    May. 1, 2026
    Jeff and all the staff always do a great job with Bella and Bella loves them all, which tells you a lot about how she is taken care of by them. Bella gets so excited when we tell her she’s going to “class” and it’s the only time she will actually cry in the car waiting to get there! She has learned so much and they have taught me so much! I am very grateful for Dog Training Elite!!
  • Andrew Stoddard
    May. 1, 2026
    Everyone we've worked with here has been incredible! Very professional and effective in what they do.
  • Dawn Olsen
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Larissa was amazing and very helpful with our rescue Pittie. Highly recommended DTE for all behavior issues and the continued support!
  • Isabelle Riley
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Justin has been fantastic! We adopted Remy last July and immediately knew there was something special about him. Justin helped us take him from stray shelter pup to a certified hospital therapy dog! We are also reaching out to libraries and grief groups to see if anyone needs a large, silly but calm, dog who is trained to work in therapy settings!
  • Bert Mathews
    Apr. 30, 2026
    They have been prompt and professional. My dog has enjoyed each person. He has been calm and performed well which is hard for an English Bulldog.
  • Heather Smith
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Rhett is great! Very knowledgeable and is helping us tremendously with pur Beagle
  • Marcia Vaillancourt
    Apr. 14, 2026
    Our puppy loves Elijah! He makes her feel comfortable & safe. He doesn’t push her beyond her ability & praises her..
  • Kimberly Logan
    Apr. 30, 2026
    I thoroughly enjoyed working with Reina!
  • Jordan Turner
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Yesterday I got to witness & be part of a training session in my store, Pet Supermarket. The trainer, Rhett, showed incredible knowledge and patience with the dog, as well as the handler involved! I’ve never had the chance to witness public training for a service animal, so I was thrilled they chose my store to hold the session in! I’d highly recommend them after seeing how knowledgeable the trainers are!
  • Oisin O Corragain
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Kyle was outstanding with our dog - patient and clear with instructions and how to improve. A huge improvement seen!
  • Kaylee Ellington
    Apr. 30, 2026
    We’ve had such a great experience with Dog Training Elite Knoxville, and especially with our trainer Rhett. He has been absolutely wonderful to work with—knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in our dog’s progress. From the very beginning, Rhett took the time to understand our puppy’s specific needs and gave us clear, practical guidance that made a real difference. You can tell he truly cares, not just about training dogs, but about helping owners feel confident too. We’ve seen such a positive change in our puppy’s behavior, and it’s made everyday life so much easier and more enjoyable. We’re really grateful for Rhett’s support and would highly recommend Dog Training Elite Knoxville to anyone looking for professional, effective, and compassionate training.

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use proven techniques to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist, Dog Training Elite is the go-to choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!