A happy, well trained dog from Dog Training Elite, your trusted source for dog training in Cincinnati, OH

Elite, Award-winning

Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Elite K9 Training in Cincinnati, OH. Dog Training Elite

Obedience Training

We believe sustained obedience comes from empowering owners and their dogs to build strong, lasting bonds through training.

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Elite Service Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE

Service Dog Training

Built on 40+ years of experience, Dog Training Elite proudly leads the way in professional service dog training tailored to your needs.

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Empowering Owners


We work with dogs of any breed, size or age - and we empower owners with lifelong skills to continue successes.

  • Leash Walking & Heel Training

  • Barking Issues

  • Aggression & Reactivity 

  • Separation Anxiety

  • Jumping & Hyperactivity 

  • Sitting & Stay Commands

  • Destructive Chewing & Digging

  • Recall Training (Come When Called)

  • Boundary Training (Off Furniture or Beds)

  • Vehicle Behavior

  • Training for Specific Tasks

  • And More

Training Programs

Flexible & Customized for your Pet

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Dog Obedience Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE
Obedience Training

Our obedience training for dogs in Cincinnati, OH is designed to teach essential commands and reinforce good behavior, ensuring your dog is well-mannered in any situation.

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Elite Puppy Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE
Puppy Training

Our puppy training in Cincinnati, OH builds a strong bond between you and your new puppy by focusing on early socialization, basic commands, and good behavior.

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Elite Service Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE
Service Dog Training

Our Cincinnati service dog training turns dogs into dependable companions, trained to perform tasks like retrieving items, providing stability, or alerting to medical conditions.

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Aggressive Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression

Our Cincinnati aggressive dog training targets and corrects behaviors driven by anxiety and aggression, helping your dog stay calm and well-behaved in challenging situations.

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Therapy Dog Trainer in Cincinnati, OH. DTE
Therapy Dog Training

Our Cincinnati therapy dog training equips dogs with the skills needed to provide comfort and emotional support in various settings. These trained dogs help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve the overall well-being of their owners.

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati - Top Group Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE
Group Training

Our group dog training classes in Cincinnati, OH offer a structured environment where dogs can learn and practice essential skills while socializing with other dogs and their owners.

A well trained dog and their owner posing in front of a Dog Training Elite wall.

Our Story

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati

Our programs are flexible and designed to meet the needs of each client’s schedule and their dog’s unique behavior, home environment, and situation. We are a family-owned, professional dog training company with over 40 years of experience specializing in strengthening the bond between you and your dog.

We provide in-home dog training, covering everything from basic obedience to advanced skills, along with specialized programs such as Service Animal and Therapy Dog training. Regardless of your dog's breed, size, or behavior challenges, the team at Dog Training Elite is ready to assist. Reach out to our expert dog trainers in Cincinnati today!

About Us

Our Team

Scott & Jennifer Joyce - Owners
Scott & Jennifer Joyce
Owners

Jennifer and I met at Ohio University thirty years ago and moved to the Cincinnati area following the wedding. We have lived in Ohio our entire lives and have three children: Jeremy, Justin, and Kelsey and two dogs: Bailey and Loki. The opportunity to work together, in our community, and continue the proud DTE tradition in Ohio, is truly a blessing. 

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Diane VanWeelden - DTE  Cincinnati CEO / Owner
Diane VanWeelden
DTE Cincinnati CEO / Owner

Diane’s love of dogs started early with her first dog, Puddles, a Beagle, and continued as she grew up surrounded by animals of all kinds on her family’s farm. Over the years, the loving companionship of her many dogs has been an important support to Diane at every stage of life. Most recently, Beau, a darling micro mini Goldendoodle, joined the family and their bond is already unbreakable!

Diane is excited to bring her professional experience in business development, strategic planning, marketing communications and life coaching to her newest venture with Dog Training Elite Cincinnati East. Making a positive impact on people’s lives is Diane’s life mission and adding dogs to the mix makes it so much sweeter.

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John VanWeelden - DTE Cincinnati CFO / Trainer
John VanWeelden
DTE Cincinnati CFO / Trainer

John grew up in a dog family as well, with Lizzy, a Schnorkie, by his side. His lifelong love of animals was magnified when their son, Alex, embraced frogs, rats, snakes, lizards, birds, cats, turtles, fish, and of course DOGS as family pets. John is a gifted teacher by nature and has always loved to train his dogs. He now truly appreciates using DTE’s proven methods and enjoys helping families experience the full potential of their dogs as a part-time trainer.

John brings invaluable business experience to Dog Training Elite Cincinnati East. As founder and principal of VanWeelden Financial Group, John spent over twenty-five years advising clients on retirement, utilizing a truly holistic planning process. He knows what it takes to own and operate a successful small business and is motivated to apply his experience to Dog Training Elite.

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Alex VanWeelden - Lead Trainer
Alex VanWeelden
Lead Trainer

Alex was born with a deep love for all animals. From the time he could walk, he was outside exploring the living creatures and bringing them inside as “pets.” Alex also enjoyed raising pigs, goats and chickens on his grandfather’s farm and showing them at the Butler County Fair, with much success. But, no matter how many wild or farm animals Alex had, dogs have always been at the top of his list! Alex's first dog was a YorkiePoo, Bella, followed by a Poodle, Boo, and his newest addition, a Goldendoodle, Buddy.

Alex’s extended family refers to him as a dog whisperer, due to his innate ability to connect with even the most reactive dogs. Working full time as Lead Trainer for Dog Training Elite Cincinnati East is Alex’s dream job. He loves helping people learn the skills to improve communication and relate to their dogs in more meaningful ways.

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Juno VanWeelden - Operations Support
Juno VanWeelden
Operations Support

As a member of this dog-loving, family, Juno is no different. She picked and named our first family dog, Bella, at a very young age. Juno is joining our team remotely from her home in Brooklyn, New York, where she lives with her feline favorite, Oscar, (named after Oscar Wilde not Oscar the Grouch!) As our Client Service Specialist, she schedules consultations & trainings and supports business operations.

Juno is currently a graduate student at New York University in Drama Therapy. She is fueled by a passion for learning and creating meaningful connections, seeking to cultivate joy and open-heartedness wherever she works and plays. When she has a break from her work and studies, you'll find her absorbed in a book or art project, experimenting in the kitchen, or exploring New York City.

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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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Tammy Lynn Morgan
    Dec. 14, 2024
    I cannot express enough gratitude for Alex and his incredible service dog training program. From the very first meeting, it was clear that Alex is not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about his work. His patience, dedication, and understanding of both dogs and their handlers are truly exceptional. Our service dog, Ryker, has undergone a remarkable transformation under Alex's guidance. The training sessions were well-structured, informative, and tailored to meet our specific needs. Alex took the time to understand our goals and challenges, and he provided us with the tools and techniques necessary to succeed. The results speak for themselves. Ryker, while already a smart doodle, is even more well-behaved, confident, and a highly reliable service dog. The positive impact on our daily lives is immeasurable. We feel more independent and secure, knowing that we have a highly trained companion by our side. I highly recommend Alex to anyone in need of service dog training. His professionalism, expertise, and compassion make him a standout in the field. Thank you, Alex, for everything you have done for us! You aren't 'just our dog trainer', but you're now a family friend in our household, including your dog Buddy! You're welcome at our home anytime just to visit or for a playdate with Ryker & Buddy. Much Love Jeff & Tammy Morgan
  • J Kaster
    Dec. 12, 2024
    Alex did an amazing job training me to train our dog. I saw an immediate difference after just the first session and the week following of short (5 min) daily training sessions. She is much less anxious and has learned to follow our commands. I couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Shannon Rokey
    Dec. 11, 2024
    After finishing all of my one-on-one trainings with Trainer Alex, I feel so much more confident in my ability to work with my dog’s reactivity. Alex helped me navigate my dog’s food aggression and helped me grow in my confidence around redirecting my dog and correcting unwanted behavior. My dog and I are so much happier and healthier for it! Dog training, elite helped bring out the best in my dog and taught me how to use the appropriate tools for each of these challenges.
  • takeitha lawson
    Dec. 2, 2024
    I couldn't have chosen a better establishment to help my dog become a service dog. The professionalism and care demonstrated throughout the training process were excellent. It is clear that the trainers are true experts when it comes to dogs, and it's evident that they genuinely love them.
  • Annie Venerable
    Dec. 2, 2024
    Very helpful teaching me how to get my rescue to walk on a leash.
  • Kim
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Wow. Just wow. I can not say anything but amazing things about Dog Training Elite! We were looking to get a service dog for our little girl but were running into the issue if the extreme cost of it so we decided to go a different route and get a puppy and get it trained as a service dog. We searched for the best of the best and we stumbled upon Dog Training Elite and boy were we happy we did. After sending in an interest form we were contacted within the day and set up for a FREE in home consultation! We were wowed by everything they had to say and the price was not too bad for all we got! We signed up right on the spot! From the first visit to the last visit our trainer was amazing with our non verbal 4 year old daughter and the dog and our dog learned so so fast. They are not only there for your dog but to train YOU to train your dog when they aren’t there! If you are ready to take the time to invest life long strategies and skills for your dog… click to get more information. You will not regret it!
  • Kawartha Ohio
    Nov. 22, 2024
    We engaged Dog Training Elite to help with our young German Shepherd puppy, Rolo. Because we had owned and trained dogs previously Rolo already had many basic commands but we had issues with reactive barking and with getting him to focus on us instead of whatever was getting his attention. Because of his reactivity calm leash walking was a problem. We worked with Scott, who introduced us to the slip leash, the e-collar, and several new commands. With these new training aids we gained a much greater level of control over young Rolo and gained a lot more confidence in our ability to walk him. Scott was wonderful to work with. He soon made a friend of Rolo, who greeted Scott's arrival each lesson with great enthusiasm. Scott was clear in communicating with us too so we understood how to apply the training to Rolo. We also appreciate the group training sessions which help us work on Rolo's behavior around other dogs. We highly recommend Elite Dog Training, and Scott in particular.
  • Kody Pierson
    Nov. 19, 2024
    We are truly grateful for Scott and Jen. when we moved here , our dog was anxious, unruly, and struggled with listening to us. After just a couple training sessions we saw a remarkable improvement. Training with Scott has not only helped our dog learn to relax, but also strengthened our bond. I highly recommend Scott and Jen to anyone looking for exceptional dog trainers.
  • Kody Pierson
    Nov. 19, 2024
    We are truly grateful for Scott and Jen. When we moved here, our dog was anxious, unruly, and struggled with listening to us. After just a couple of training sessions, we saw a remarkable improvement. Training with Scott has not only helped our dog learn to relax but also strengthened our bond. I highly recommend Scott and Jen to anyone looking for exceptional dog trainers.
  • tim tuttle
    Nov. 17, 2024
    We recently re-homed a 4-year-old border collie named Alfie, who, although smart and active, had issues with reactivity both in the house and on the leash. Truthfully we were scared when Alfie was acting out. Alex from Dog Training Elite was a game changer for us. His patience and expertise not only helped Alfie but trained us as well. He introduced us to an e-collar, which became an invaluable tool in managing Alfie's behavior. In just a few weeks, Alfie developed great recall and would quickly go to 'place' even during reactive episodes. Alex also taught us proper leash-walking techniques, putting an end to Alfie's leash-pulling. The e-collar helped keep Alfie focused and discouraged his reactive behavior. What stands out the most is the confidence we now have in handling Alfie, knowing he's becoming an integral part of our family. Alex was always punctual, incredibly nice, and patient, and Alfie loved his visits. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite and Alex for anyone in need of professional dog training assistance.
  • Jillian Hegemann
    Nov. 12, 2024
    I cannot say enough good things about our experience just that I wish I did this sooner! I truly thought my dog was untrainable, I was scared to let him outside in our fenced in yard because he’d charge the fence and don’t get me started on walking him. We got to the point where only my husband could walk him. After training all of that has changed! I feel like I know how to control my dog in the yard and on the leash. And I can tell my dog is way more relaxed! Like he knows I’ve got it under control for the first time. We worked hard with our dog because we needed him to be successful! We have a baby and live by an elementary school and it was worth it!! The time, energy and resources are worth it for you and your dog!
  • Madeline Rieman
    Nov. 4, 2024
    Hands down the best decision I’ve made is choosing Cincinnati Dog Training Elite. The depth of knowledge I’ve learned & applied over the course of our training sessions has been incredible. I’ve seen my one year old puppy transform in so many positive ways & it goes without saying how impactful the Training Elite team has been, ensuring we are focusing on areas of concern I had at the beginning & tailoring the courses to fit my (and Boo Radley’s) needs all throughout. Huge shout out to our favorite dog trainer, Alex (who we now call Uncle Alex 😊), he’s so incredibly knowledgeable and patient with not only Boo Radley, but me as well. You’re in tremendous hands & you will see immediate results even after session #1. If your new puppy parent, or even want to brush up on overall training techniques for an existing pet, you will not regret making this decision. It’s well worth every penny, I promise!
  • Kylie Champagne
    Nov. 4, 2024
    An amazing program very helpful and patient did an amazing job working with my dog. I highly recommend there services.
  • Jeff Caldwell
    Nov. 2, 2024
    From the initial evaluation of the situation with our dogs through the final training session, Scott and DTE have been excellent. The thorough assessment from DTE resulted with us switching which dog needed the training. As training progressed, we included both dogs with wonderful results. Scott, thanks for the expertise, experienced handling and insight you provided us. I would definitely recommend DTE.
  • Sean Cox
    Oct. 24, 2024
    Our family’s dog learned so much in our sessions. My confidence as an owner increased and it has changed the relationship I have with my dog. I highly recommend this staff. Everyone involved is very professional.
  • Jim Swift
    Oct. 23, 2024
    Dog whisperers! Great in house training for our two terriers.
  • Lauren McRae
    Oct. 16, 2024
    My pup and I have had the best time working with everyone at Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati! Responses are always timely, at-home training and group training have been informative, and scheduling has been easy. They also go above and beyond ensuring that training, even at group class, works for me and my pup. We’re getting close to achieving a leash-less life in every scenario that we can. Pup pics included for fun
  • Shiann Massie
    Oct. 12, 2024
    The trainers were great! Worked with me for my crazy schedule and a payment plan! Very helpful. My dog is behaving and listening much better!
  • Holly Gooch
    Sep. 23, 2024
    Elite Cincinnati East was amazing! We had Alex as our trainer and he was wonderful! We bought our puppy for our daughter to eventually become a service dog for her. Alex was able to teach us the skills and work with us to train our puppy to perform the basic commands and have a strong foundation for further service dog training. Alex did more than show us how to work with our puppy; he taught us about how to read our puppy’s actions/body language and the best ways to communicate with our puppy what behavior we expect from her. Thanks to Alex we were able to figure out what was the best approach for training our puppy to get the best results. I would highly recommend Elite Cincinnati East and Alex!
  • Shelby Looper
    Sep. 11, 2024
    My partner and I recently moved in together. My dog and her dog did not get along very well with my dog being the main aggressor. We did 5 training sessions with Alex and couldn’t be happier. We can live in peace knowing that we have the tools in hand to keep our dogs living together happy and in peace. Great program to fit a lot of different needs that your dog might have.
A child with their happy, obedient dog with training from Dog Training Elite.

We Train Every Breed

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Each dog breed has different behaviors and personalities due to a combination of genetics, selective breedings, and environmental factors. At Dog Training Elite, we work with every dog. Our team understands canine behavior and the unique challenges of every breed.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we apply specific breed training techniques to bring out the best in your dog. From impulse control in terriers to focused mental stimulation for herding breeds, we’ll work with you and your dog to design a personalized training plan.

Two dog owners with a group of trained dogs.

Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

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At Dog Training Elite, we’ve seen how DIY dog training can lead to inconsistent results and frustration. Our qualified professionals bring the expertise needed to assess your dog’s unique needs and apply methods that work. Choosing experienced trainers makes a noticeable difference in attaining reliable, lasting behavior changes.

We rely on positive reinforcement, a training method that delivers lasting results, even with the most challenging dogs. Our trainers are skilled in addressing any behavioral issue and can help your dog to reach their full potential with encouragement and proven techniques.

An obedient corgi on a leash after recieving training from Dog Training Elite.

Professional Dog Trainers in Cincinnati, OH

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Pet owners often have many options when it comes to dog training, including low-cost, quick-fix programs that claim immediate results. However, our training methods stand apart by focusing on sustainable, long-term success rather than temporary fixes. We provide a high standard of expert dog training that is built to last, ensuring that you and your dog benefit from a deeper, enduring bond and advanced obedience that continues over time.

Investing in effective dog training is one of the most valuable choices you can make for your pet’s health, behavior, and happiness. Our trainers are dedicated to delivering personalized training plans that target your dog’s unique needs, going beyond basic obedience to include specialized behavioral work and service dog training. Our goal is to be the last dog trainers you’ll ever need — bringing advanced training quality to the Cincinnati, OH area for lasting, meaningful results.

A well-trained DTE dog on a surfboard.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Unleash Your Dog's Potential

A dog that has just graduated from Dog Training Elite's award-winning training program.

Award-Winning
Dog Training

With Dog Training Elite


At Dog Training Elite, we are proud to offer training services recognized for outstanding results and effective methods. With skilled trainers dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting relationships, we guarantee your dog receives the best care and guidance.

Our programs cover everything from basic obedience to advanced behavior modification, customized to your dog’s needs. Whether you’re addressing behavioral issues, improving obedience, or strengthening your bond, our methods deliver reliable results.

Experience the difference our award-winning training can make in your dog’s life.

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