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Service Dog Training in Chicago


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Service Dog Training Near You

What makes a dog a service dog? Who can have a service dog, and why? We answer all these questions and more, as well as explain what sets Dog Training Elite Chicago apart from any other dog training service.

Dog Training Elite Chicago offers top rated service dog training near you in Chicago.


Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Chicago location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Dog Training Elite Chicago is proud to have professional service dog trainers near you in Chicago.

Service Dog Training FAQs


Service dogs are dogs that have been specially trained to assist their handler or owner with specific tasks. Dog Training Elite Chicago trains dogs to assist people with epilepsy, diabetes, PTSD, autism, and various mental illnesses.

Service dogs are for any individual dealing with a disability that lowers their quality of life. For example, someone who suffers from epilepsy may avoid going out in public due to a fear of falling or other consequences related to seizures. This may inhibit their independence and sense of well-being.

In addition to improving the lives of individuals, service dogs can bring a sense of security to families, such as families with autistic children. Children with autism can often feel isolated and a service dog becomes a 24/7 companion to share experiences with, connect with and love. They can also help children reintegrate into society and connect with others.

Families who have children with autism experience a decrease in stress as they are more able to engage socially in public settings and experience less anxiety at home. A service dog increases safety and has a calming presence that can minimize emotional outbursts, allowing the family to feel more secure and a child with autism to better participate in family activities.

Service dogs are for all individuals or families that are experiencing a decrease in quality of life due to disability.

Service dog training begins with puppies. Dog Training Elite Chicago’s service puppy training program works with breeders to adopt puppies that are fully obedience trained by six months and are ready to undergo extensive socialization and additional training to ensure they are well-suited for service and therapy needs.

Then, Dog Training Elite Chicago places puppies with families or individuals. Further specialized service training takes place alongside the new handler. It generally takes 1-2 years for a service dog to become fully trained.

Service dog training focuses on two main areas: public access behaviors, and how to “do work or perform tasks” that assist with a disability.

Public access behaviors refer to how a service dog acts in public - well-trained service dogs remain calm in public situations and in turn help their handlers to stay calm, and are attuned to any other handler needs.

As for “do work or perform tasks,” the ADA requires that service dogs be trained to take a specific action when needed to assist the person with a disability.

For example, to assist handlers with PTSD, Dog Training Elite Chicago trains dogs to de-escalate anxiety, wake handlers experiencing night terrors, and so on.

The ADA does not require special certification for service animals. State and local government agencies, businesses and non-profit organizations may not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry. Mandatory registration of service animals in the city of residence is also not permissible under the ADA.

However, service animals are not exempt from local animal control or public health requirements, such as vaccinations, or local dog licensing and registration requirements.

Dog Training Elite Chicago sets itself apart from other dog training methods by focusing on positive reinforcement with a personalized, in-home approach. This method empowers owners and handlers to be an integral part of the process for sustained dog obedience and service training. For service dogs especially, it is important that handlers be present and involved every step of the way.

The positive reinforcement approach, also referred to as “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” model has shown to be more effective with longer lasting results than any other training method.

Dog Training Elite Chicago does not use punishments or shock collars to break bad habits. Instead, Dog Training Elite Chicago pairs positive reinforcement training with a vibration electronic collar. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is used to gain the dog’s attention, similar to a tug on a leash. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.

Another unique aspect of training with Dog Training Elite Chicago is that while most dog training programs train dogs at their own facilities, Dog Training Elite Chicago specializes in in-home training, customizing training to the dog, its owners and its environment for long-lasting success.

Positive Reinforcement Training


Training takes time, commitment and balance and Dog Training Elite Chicago is there every step of the way. With Dog Training Elite Chicago, dogs will learn the highest level of obedience, even in the face of the toughest level of distractions. The positive-reinforcement method focuses on encouraging good behavior through ongoing praise, creating a dog that wants to please from the inside out and creating deep-rooted, sustained obedience as well as a strong bond between dog and owner.

Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


Dog Training Elite Chicago is the top company near you that uses professional positive dog training methods.
Empowering Owners

We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.

Personalized

We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.

Environment Specific

We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).

Supportive

We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").

Involved

We work with all members of the household.

Simplified & Customized

We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.

Continued Training

Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.

Lifetime Investment

We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.

Satisfaction Ratings

Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.

See Our Pricing

We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!

Tim & Katie have helped us transform our pup, Winnie! We started to see immediate results after the first home visit and after the 5th, we had a list of items to keep working on to "give Winnie a job". We are now weekly attendees at group class and Winnie loves the structure and interaction. And most of all, seeing Tim, Katie (sometimes their kids!), Pauline and Grace!
— FourteenThirtyNine Westglen
Posted April 15th 2024
google
DTE is awesome!! They have changed the way we understand, interact, and live with our dog. The principles we learned have opened up the ability to enjoy our dog as part of our family, and make his life more enjoyable.
— Mitch Wolf
Posted April 11th 2024
google
Tim and Katie, I cannot say enough wonderful things about the training Charlie has received from your program. You have shown me how to train him so he knows I am in charge and he is so much more confident and happy, partly because you have shown me how not to be frustrated. I never knew training could be this easy. Thank you. Thank you also for being so kind and attentive to all your students even in a group setting. So for anyone that is looking for training for their fur-baby, you can go from school to school, trainer to trainer, but if you are looking for trainers that care deeply about the success of their students and owners, then you need to sign up for training with Dog Training Elite Western Suburbs. It is a great feeling when people stop me and tell me I have such a well behaved boy!
— Karen Hudalla
Posted September 16th 2023
google
We had a wonderful experience with Jeff and Elite dog training. Currently our Goldendoodle “Buster” is almost done with service dog training and his transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. Jeff and his wife came to our house and did a great presentation and they are both very personable and knowledgeable of the training processes. Our Buster was extremely timid and at same time extremely energetic which gave Jeff, self admittedly, doubts about Busters ability to become a service dog. With the EZ educator and Jeff’s guidance we’ve been able to turn our dog into a very successfully trained little ball of awesomeness. Was the best money I’ve spent as the benefits of having a dog that doesn’t need a leash and listens well is priceless. Thanks Jeff and Lara from Mike, Caitlin and Buster!
— Bodhi U
Posted March 18th 2024
google
I was so pleased by the results at Dog Training Elite in Naperville! As a first time dog owner I needed all the help I could get when it came to my 10 month old Golden Retriever. The trainers at the facility were so helpful and friendly! After each day they provided me with videos and homework sheets to teach me how to work with my dog and the skills he learned each day! Pauline's videos made it easy to understand exactly what I needed to do - she was the best! I can't wait to start group training classes soon! Thank you Dog Training Elite!!!
— Megan Murphy
Posted February 14th 2024
google
We had Jessica Arundale work with our Labrador Butch on leash walking as he started to pull a little on his daily walks, and she has hosted him for boarding on many occasions too. She’s really responsive and sweet and nothing is too much trouble. Butch aways gets excited when he goes to see Jessica!
— kealy ditchfield
Posted February 14th 2024
google
Jessica’s great!! We left Hailey to train with her and Hailey learned all the commands well. She also left us “homework” to do so Hailey can reinforce her learning. Highly recommend Jessica as a trainer!!
— Victoria Lee
Posted February 13th 2024
google
Ask for Jess. Awesome, kind and attentive dog trainer❤️❤️❤️❤️
— Calena Winfield
Posted January 24th 2024
google
Katie and Tim are amazing dog trainers. I live in south Naperville and they have done an amazing job with my young German Shephard.
— Julie Talsma-Puls
Posted January 7th 2024
google
We adopted a lab mix from a shelter and after a few weeks, the female dog became dominant and bossy. After 2 weeks of this behavior, my wife and I decided it was either time to rehome the dog or hire a professional to help. Tim and turned our little monster into a great puppy who enjoys training and working to become a better dog. I would consider them friends and they really care for our dog and our family. Great facilities and they come to your house if need be!
— Richard Berg
Posted January 7th 2024
google
This training has been a lifesaver for having my mini bernedoodle listen to me. Walking with her is now a joy. Also, it did not take long for her to learn the come and stay commands in a yard without a fence. It was so convenient and worth every minute spent practicing. Also, the follow up training practice is great for group work and review of skills learned. I would definitely recommend Tim and Katie for training. They are very knowledgeable on what practices work.
— Genie Cross
Posted December 11th 2023
google
Jeff did a fantastic job with obedience training for our energetic, larger than life Newfoundland, Burly. After 6 sessions Burly, successfully mastered sit, down, come, place, heel, and was even able to walk off leash in heel and come when called across a large field. He tremendously improved in his response and listening skills and Jeff taught us how to better train and reward Burly moving forward. Our family was very impressed by his new skills when we brought him home for the holidays. Burly has also loved the one on one time to work on his skills and it is easier to bring him to new places and have visitors at the house with his improved temperament and listening skills. Thank you Jeff!
— Helen Moore
Posted December 4th 2023
google
I brought my puppy to start training as a service dog for the initial 7 day drop-off training. He learned a lot and did really well there and he does great at home also. He’ll start the group training classes next. He LOVED going there, was so excited going to the door and was also very excited when he went in and saw the trainers and owners. Pauline did a fantastic job with him in his training and I would recommend them to everyone. They took really good care of him while he was there and even kept his lunch feeding schedule while he was in class. Pauline is an exceptional trainer and I look forward to having him train with her in his future classes.
— Janine
Posted November 29th 2023
google
Jeff is a fantastic trainer. I worked with him on getting my 2.5 year old dog properly trained to be a service dog. I wasn't sure he'd actually get to that point as he still has puppy energy, but within just a few months working with Jeff I saw incredible changes and in less than 6 months my dog was able to pass his public access test. Jeff is extremely helpful and guides you through the training process as an owner, understanding that sometimes we need just as much (if not more) training than our dogs! Jeff was truly a pleasure to work with and I would definitely recommend him for training dogs of all ages.
— Jessica Godt
Posted November 27th 2023
google
Jeff did a wonderful job training my 4-5 month old Australian Shepherd. He helped Westley and myself learn quickly and effectively. Jeff is extremely knowledgeable and able to help with a wide variety of training challenges or issues that arise. This training program is WORTH IT! For a well trained and adjusted dog. You cannot go wrong with choosing this program. Thanks Jeff! Adrienne & Westley
— Adrienne East
Posted October 12th 2023
google
I contacted Katie and Tim at Dog Training Elite Western Chicago before my puppy, Blondie, was ready to start training. They did a wonderful job walking me through all of their training options- very intensive/ hands-on training compared to other places that I had researched. Once the in-home training started, Blondie smoothly progressed (just like they said she would!) and she graduated to group training classes. Katie and Tim are so great with dogs (and people!) that even our group training classes have been wonderful experience for Blondie. Blondie is going to continue on for Support Dog training and I am so relieved we have their help along the way to guide us through all of our necessary requirements! Would recommend their training courses to anyone- and plan to use them again for future puppies!
— Alex Santoro
Posted August 4th 2023
facebook
I have worked with both Katie & Tim. Katie has been our main trainer for 1 on 1 sessions. Our year old Bernese Mountain dog is very loving and a great dog but he’s so big and strong he was impossible to control due to his strength and wanting to just dart & meet everyone he sees. We really needed leash work and for him to control his excitement. He was also less confident in doing some things so they have helped with that too. He walks great on leash now, listens pretty well (for the most part 😂) and is definitely more confident. He went from refusing to step on a raised dog bed to jumping on the concrete round balls you see in front of Target stores!!! He was a very good dog and now he’s a great dog! We also introduced a puppy to our family of the same breed. Katie was always there via text or phone to help with the transition. They are quite accommodating when it comes to continued communication when I needed help. We also began some puppy training WITH our older dog so they were in a more comfortable environment together and learning at the same time. This helped all of us to understand each dogs needs as well. I highly recommend them for any/all of your dog training needs. They are very educated in numerous areas of training and they’ve helped our family tremendously.
— Nikki Ommen
Posted August 2nd 2023
google
Karen is a supportive and patient trainer. We adopted our dog when she was 3, which means 3 years of anxiety to work through. Before working with Karen and DTE, walks were stressful because our dog would react aggressively to any other person out. Now we can enjoy our time out together, keeping her focus on me and not all the other distractions. Thank you, Karen & DTE.
— Gini Griffin
Posted May 19th 2023
google
Jeff did a wonderful job getting my 3 year old Siberian Husky, Che, certified to become an official service animal. It was very challenging to get Che to listen at first, given how stubborn Huskies are as a breed, but with persistence, practice, and some great one-on-one sessions, we were able to get Che over some large hurdles. Che is super obedient now compared to how he used to be, well-behaved off leash, and has successfully traveled on a plane! I never thought we could get here with Che's training and I am very grateful to Jeff and his guidance.
— Juliana Siward
Posted May 16th 2023
google
Our experience with Elite has been wonderful. Our 10 month old Cavapoo has been learning so much and continues to learn. It has been nothing but enjoyable with my puppy Frisco. He is doing amazing and I'm so proud of him. I appreciate everything Tim has done. Thank you so much!!!!!
— Catrina Monroe
Posted April 10th 2023
google

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Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite Chicago, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite Chicago works with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.

Learn More