FAQs. DTE in Charlotte, NC

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FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Charlotte, NC

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Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is involved with a free assessment?

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.

How do your services differ from your competitors?

We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.

Will I (or my family) be involved with the training?

Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.

How often are the training sessions?

Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Charlotte.

I just have a few issues with my dog, can we cover those issues only?

To effectively resolve specific issues, we need to start with a solid foundation in obedience. This approach helps you become a confident leader for your dog, which is key to addressing and preventing behavioral problems.

Can you train husbands, wives or kids?

Nope. Those are dangerous grounds to tread upon. We'd much rather train a vicious dog!

Do you train all breeds, shapes and sizes?

We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Do you work with aggressive dogs?

Yes. Working with and controlling aggression is one of our specialties in Charlotte.

What kind of service dogs do you train?

We focus on training companion dogs for veterans and individuals with PTSD and other psychological conditions. In addition to service animals, we also train therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes, and treatment centers.

What kind of temperament does my dog need to have to be service trained?

To be a service dog, your dog needs to have an even temperament. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, etc. typically have a great temperament for service work. For some types of service work, your dog will need to have AKC certifications (such as Canine Good Citizen or Community Canine) which we are able to certify. As always, we would be happy to assess your dog's aptitude for service work for free!

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About Dog Training Elite Charlotte

Dog Training Elite Charlotte - Meet Our Elite Team. Dog Training Elite in Charlotte

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

Kieu USA

Nov. 15, 2025

Dog Training Elite Charlotte is an absolutely fantastic organization! Kimberly , Angela and Sharon are 100% professional, accommodating, friendly, and all around wonderful people, I can't thank you enough because they are the one who trained my dog to be a service dog and I can take her everywhere I thank you
Sarah Nijman

Nov. 13, 2025

Angela is phenomenal! She knows exactly what she is doing. My fur baby and I love her . This program has given me and my fur baby the confidence to navigate through life . The results were instant for my fur baby . Of course it takes time and overtime my fur baby has the confidence to thrive. Im so grateful I decided to get training through this program. It’s been 4 months and there is a major difference.
Courtney Scott

Nov. 13, 2025

My 2 pups have come SO FAR already! Trainer Kimberly is patient and kind, helping me learn better how to communicate with them. I am having more fun than ever with my pups and excited to continue building our skills. Thank you to the DTE team for making obedience training a reality for us! I did a ton of research and would choose them again, no doubt.
Jane Miller

Nov. 13, 2025

Sharon and Angela helped my girl go from an 8-week old baby to a certified service dog in under a year. The puppy training videos and 24/7 support were incredibly helpful in the beginning to establish house rules and teach basic skills, but more importantly to lay a foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship and connection between me and my dog. The program is set up perfectly to have 1x1 time with the trainer as well as multiple group classes to provide socialization with all kinds of dogs, many of whom are further along in the program and showcase good behavior that you are working towards. They provide you with all of the tools you need (tangible and intangible) and it is 100% worth it if you are willing to commit your own time and effort into practicing with your dog. Angela is patient but persistent; she gives the dog positive reinforcement and encouragement and creates an environment where they are eager to please and don’t want to give up- understanding that different dogs are motivated by different things. I recommend the program to anyone who wants to give their dog the best quality of life! Not only does the training make your life easier, but it strengthens your connection with your dog and builds their confidence and trust in you. DTE could not have been more supportive and influential throughout the process. Sharon was also very flexible with scheduling and was always available to answer any questions.
Lauren

Oct. 26, 2025

I’ve had such a great experience working with Dog Training Elite Charlotte! They’re patient, knowledgeable, and really take the time to understand my puppies’ personalities. I’ve seen such a positive change in Charlie & Ozzie — more focus, better leash manners, and less reactivity. Angela and Sharon have not only helped my puppies make huge progress, but also gave me the confidence and tools to manage situations calmly. Walks are so much more enjoyable now — I can’t recommend them enough!
Ainsley Stollar

Oct. 21, 2025

My dog Huxley went through two other trainers before we found Shawn and his team and thankfully that’s the last trainer he’s ever needed. By the end of the first day, he was fully off leash trained and his obedience was better than the work with the past two trainers combined. Almost three years later, he maintains the level that he was trained at and I am always complimented on how well behaved he is. Since our training sessions, Huxley has gained confidence, has had no behavioral issues, and is my dream dog. He was also so loved by Shawn and his family that it made me feel so good to know I had a trainer that cared. I recommend Elite to everyone I meet and cannot stress enough how important proper training is for your pup!
Caitlin Rattigan

Sep. 15, 2025

Dog Training Elite is fantastic!!! If I could give 10 stars I would. I don't know how I could have done it without Sharon, Shawn, and Angela with training our first puppy- aged dog, Scout. They all are incredible in what they do and have been amazingly kind and patient with our adopted puppy (and with us as new puppy parents) lol. They really made things understandable, fun, and practical for how to navigate life with a new puppy and they were available to support us anytime along the way if any new questions popped up. I strongly encourage them if you are looking for training for therapy dogs, service dogs and in general. It is so special seeing how the dogs trained are helping families and their communities every day with the skills they learned through Elite. :)
Adrienne Morris

Jul. 20, 2025

We had an amazing experience from the beginning! And we are still actively in training. The team at Dog Training Elite is not only professional and knowledgeable, but also truly passionate about what they do. Their methods are effective, positive, and tailored specifically to your dog’s needs and personality. Our dogs have made remarkable progress in such a short time—something we honestly didn’t think was possible! The transformation has been pretty incredible: better behavior, improved obedience, and overall happier, more confident pups. Angela is an amazing trainer! Sharon is so supportive, communicative, and always available to answer questions or provide guidance. First class all the way! They didn't just train our dogs—they trained us to be better owners too. If you're on the fence, don’t be. Dog Training Elite is worth every penny. We can't recommend them highly enough!
Allie Gaines

Jul. 10, 2025

We can’t say enough good things about our experience with Shawn and Dog Training Elite! Our dog had been struggling with bad reactivity for quite some time, and after trying different approaches on our own, we were feeling discouraged. From the very first session, it was clear that Shawn not only had a deep understanding of dog behavior but also a genuine passion for helping both dogs and their people. What really stood out was how much time he spent teaching us so we fully understood the why behind the behavior and the tools to manage and improve it. Our dog has made HUGE improvements and we feel so much more equipped to handle situations that used to be overwhelming which has made a huge difference in our day-to-day life. We are extremely grateful for Dog Training Elite and highly recommend!
Jordan Raniszeski

Jun. 20, 2025

The team at Dog Training Elite is fantastic and I couldn’t recommend them more highly. Our family are first time dog owners and we were on the struggle bus with our new puppy and starting to lose hope that we could get him to behave. After the first session, we saw improvement and by the third and fourth sessions, he was a different dog. Now our little Benji is so well behaved and is truly a joy. Thanks to the DTE family for all your help!!
Beth McRimmon

May. 2, 2025

The team at Dog Training Elite are wonderful. From the first interaction, they are focused on me and my pet. So friendly, made me feel comfortable and provided so so so much information. I would recommend them to anyone looking for training, at any level.
Mike Kennerly

May. 2, 2025

Dog Training Elite worked with Lily-Lea at my home and it’s unbelievable the difference it has made in her! Very professional, great communications, training methods and great results. So much easier to walk, have visitors to my home and I am truly thankful for their help.
Laura Cole Salas

Apr. 12, 2025

I’m so grateful that we pursued training with Dog Training Elite, it was a great experience for us dog parents and for our 4 year old Pomeranian. Since completing the program we have so much more confidence and trust with our dog, who previously had issues with wanting to run out the door and bolting away (and not listening to come back), not listening in general to come inside from our yard, and overall anxiety/excitement. She is visibly more relaxed and understands that she doesn’t have to be on high alert all the time. It was the best investment we could have made for her and us, I would 100% recommend it to anyone that loves their dog and wants to see them thrive- it would be even better to start this process with a new puppy.
Ashley Samuelson

Apr. 6, 2025

Training with Shawn and Angela has been a true life changer for us and our new family member Finnegan. We rescued Finn from North Mecklenburg Animal Rescue and wanted to give him the best life possible after being in a really horrible situation. Little did we know that golden doodles can be difficult to train. The training is a lot of work for everyone involved but let me tell you it is worth it!! The training is top notch and you will not be disappointed! They are so nice, professional and always available if needed between training sessions. We are now in the group phase of training and Finnegan is doing great! We now can take him places with us and he is loving it.
Rachel Reed

Mar. 24, 2025

Shawn, Sharon, & Angela are the type of people and trainers that immediately put you at ease because you know they have your dogs best interests at heart. When we first met them in February of 2022, the Charlotte team hadn’t trained a mobility support service dog yet, but worked to put together a training package that fit my needs. Before DTE, Landon would barely sit and lay down on command, but now because of them, I have an incredibly well trained and solid mobility support service dog! The only thing Landon struggles with is being in the crate, however this has nothing to do with DTE’s training abilities, and everything to do with me not listening to the importance of crate training. They genuinely have you and your pups best interests and know what they are doing, so use their knowledge and skills -and don’t skip the crate training ;) DTE is like our family and has been since the start. I am forever grateful to and for them! It’s an honor to be a part of the DTE pack!! You won’t regret using them as your trainers!!
Olivia Wolff

Mar. 16, 2025

We used DTE for our dog Bowie and we can't say enough good things about our experience. Bowie is like a different dog (in a good way.) By implementing the DTE method as taught by Shawn, we have seen a dramatic improvement in Bowie's behavior and habits. Not only are we more at ease, but Bowie is visibly less anxious and has been responding well to the leadership, direction and structure we are now providing for him. Thanks so much, DTE CLT!
Erin Souza

Mar. 14, 2025

Dog Elite Training was wonderful! Maisey and we learned so much! Would definitely recommend.
Kay Swennes

Mar. 9, 2025

Shawn was great helping me work with my rescue puppy Franny. She struggled with a lot of anxiety and we couldn't even walk around the block without her losing it. Franny was scared of just about everything and I didn't know how to help her. Shawn was very patient with Franny (and me) and we now enjoy nice long walks together. Franny gained a ton of confidence and now I have the tools to help her as she experiences new things. The group classes are always something we look forward to and if you have questions at other times DTE is just a text away. I highly recommend them.
Ros Williams

Mar. 8, 2025

All the staff at Elite have been more than fabulous. They worked with my other dogs prior to bringing in our golden doodle puppy to get the house in order. So far the training with our puppy is going great they have taught him so much in a short amount of time while still loving on him. We recently had some problems in house with him and the day I called both Sharon and Shawn came to the house and fixed so many little issues in just one house which made a huge difference. So glad to have them at the other end of the phone.
Krista Sigmon

Mar. 6, 2025

Maggie and I had an awesome training experience with DTE! Shawn is very passionate and excellent at what he does. The support that Shawn and Sharon provide outside of sessions is so helpful. Maggie learned so much and is doing great! She is now a joy to take on a walk and I feel confident taking her to public places. If you are thinking about hiring a trainer, just do it! Everyone in your family will be happier!

Reviews & Testimonials

Our Team

Angela

Lead Trainer

Angela’s passion for dogs started at a very young age showing her loyalty and dedication to caring for them. She has been a trainer for 5 years with DTE Charlotte, teaching and supporting families at their homes and at group class. Her support and knowledge has helped thousands of dogs and their owners in the Charlotte and surrounding area so they are able to live their best lives enjoying everything the world has to offer. You will find her building dog and owner confidence through obedience training, opening communication between dog and owner, working in the Therapy and Service Dog Training Programs and more. She is often found behind the camera and tending to social media for Dog Training Elite Charlotte.

Beyond training, Angela enjoys photography, time with friends and family, and going on adventures and training with her dog, Ryder.

Kimberly

Trainer

Kimberly has been working with animals since the age of six, when she started a dog walking business in the neighborhood. Over the years, that early love for dogs has grown into a lifelong passion that now includes horses, working dogs, and her own pack: a spirited Chihuahua, a loyal German Shepherd Dog, and a driven Giant Schnauzer. Kimberly is dedicated to helping dogs and their humans build strong, balanced relationships—fostering leadership, trust, and communication so both can enjoy a confident and fulfilling life together.

In her free time, she enjoys hiking, spending time with friends and family, and training with her dog Night in agility, rally, and tricks while working toward AKC titles. She also love restoring old trucks with her dad and going horseback riding with her mom, making lasting memories along the way.

Addison

Trainer

Addison has a supportive role within the family business working with puppies and young dogs. She has spent the past 5 years learning a lot through her mom, dad, and sister as well as all the other wonderful trainers they have worked with and dogs that have come through the program.

Beyond training, Addison enjoys spending time with friends, listening to music and quality time with her dogs.

Sharon Gantkowski

Owner, Trainer, Office Manager

Since opening DTE Charlotte, it has been a wonderful journey helping thousands of people establish a more meaningful connection with their dog. She has been committed to improving the lives of dogs and the people who cherish them. She is the supportive voice on the other side of the phone helping people bring out the best in their dogs. Young puppies establishing house training, refining obedience skills, working in Therapy and Service Dog Programs, she is here to help you every step of the way.

Beyond training, Sharon has always enjoyed her family and dogs by her side and time in nature to keep her grounded.

Shawn Gantkowski

Owner, Trainer

5+ years in the industry, thousands of dogs trained, he has seen it all. It has taught invaluable lessons about the animals and life itself. He came into this profession after a personal experience noticing lots of skilled dog trainers, but a huge gap in the industry to connect with and educate people to make the training lifelong for the dogs and families. He is deepening the owners understanding of their dog and their behaviors. Establishing clear communication to foster a more patient and balanced relationship. This helps not only with our canine companions, but with everyone around us.

Shawn said, “Flashy obedience commands may impress online, but most people desire a dog with a great attitude. A confident and trustworthy companion they can navigate the real world with. Seeing a dog going from unsure of the world and full of anxiety and reactive habits to living comfortably and confidently, free from fear, anxiety, and reactivity. There isn’t a greater reward than to see a happy dog enjoying time with their family. They can simply be dogs. Dogs with great attitudes and a clear understanding of boundaries, ensuring their safety in any situation.”

Beyond training, Shawn finds inspiration in the wisdom of great sages and saints, practice Classical Yoga and meditation, and enjoy riding motorcycles and tinkering on projects. Most importantly, he cherishes moments with his dogs, watching them explore the world with carefree confidence, knowing they can trust in him to guide them. He is the leader they need and takes great pride in that role for them.

Meet the Team