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Dog Training Elite

German Shepherd Dog Training in Charlotte, NC

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Our German Shepherd Training Could Help:
Excessive barking
Aggression
Separation anxiety
Destructive chewing
Leash pulling
Over-protectiveness
Resource guarding

German Shepherd Training in Charlotte, NC

German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America—and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!

Dog Training Elite has years of experience with German Shepherd training in Charlotte, NC and has developed obedience programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.

Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly.

With our targeted and specialized breed training programs, Dog Training Elite Charlotte can help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.

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An image of multiple german shepherd puppies - our Charlotte german shepherd trainers ensure you pup is ready to be the best companion possible.

German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults


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Dog Training Elite recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.

If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite Charlotte offers adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.

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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!

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!
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Charlotte, NC with Dog Training Elite today.

In-Home German Shepherd Training

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Dog Training Elite offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues.

Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Charlotte offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.

Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.

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German Shepherd Training Tips

German Shepherds are loyal and intelligent dogs that require a thoughtful approach to training. They are eager learners, but they also need structure and clear guidance to reach their full potential.

Here are some essential training tips for German Shepherds.

Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.

Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental stimulation they need.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Charlotte.
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Victory Begins With Elite Education

An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for Charlotte german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Charlotte, NC

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on balance and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.

The Dog Training Elite training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite’s training methods nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Contact Dog Training Elite today for professional German Shepherd training in Charlotte, NC!