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

Elite, Award-winning

Dog Training in Cleveland, OH

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Elite K9 Training in Cleveland, 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 Cleveland Metro - Elite Service Dog Training in Cleveland, 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

Dog Training Elite Cleveland
Serving the Greater Cleveland, OH Metro Area
Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio

Offers In-Home Training
Offers Facility Training
Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland

Offers In-Home Training
Offers Facility Training

Training Programs

Flexible & Customized for your Pet

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Dog Obedience Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Obedience Training

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

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Elite Puppy Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Puppy Training

Our puppy training in Cleveland, 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 Cleveland Metro - Elite Service Dog Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Service Dog Training

Our Cleveland 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 Cleveland Metro - Aggressive Dog Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression

Our Cleveland 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 Cleveland Metro - Therapy Dog Trainer in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Therapy Dog Training

Our Cleveland 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 Cleveland Metro - Top Protection Dog Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Personal Protection

Our Cleveland protection dog training transforms dogs into loyal companions and reliable guardians, teaching them to respond effectively to threats and protect your home and family.

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Top Group Dog Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Group Training

Our group dog training classes in Cleveland, 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 Cleveland Metro

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 Cleveland today!

About Us

Our Team

Andrea Johnson - Owner & Trainer
Andrea Johnson
Owner & Trainer

Hello and welcome to our website! My name is Andrea Johnson, I am an owner and trainer here at Dog Training Elite of Northeast Ohio. I was born and raised in the Cleveland, Ohio area, and I am proud to call this home. I have always had dogs as pets, have always adored and admired them for their unconditional love and loyalty. I am excited to be able to help others strengthen their bond with their pets through training and service, excited to enhance others’ lives.

I am a retired Dental Hygienist/Assistant, entered the dental field in 1991. I had an extremely rewarding career, thoroughly enjoyed helping make peoples’ smiles to be bright and healthy.

Married to Kevin Johnson since 1996, we have three wonderful children, two adorable Yellow Labs.

I enjoy traveling, swimming, reading, theater, and spending time with family and friends.

Thank you for considering us for your dog training needs. We look forward to meeting you and working with you!

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Kevin Johnson - Owner & Trainer
Kevin Johnson
Owner & Trainer

Hello, my name is Kevin Johnson and I want to thank you for considering Dog Training Elite of Northeast Ohio. I was born in North Carolina and raised on a farm where we bred and trained hunting dogs. I’ve always enjoyed working with dogs to enhance the lives of their human families. I left North Carolina when I joined the Air Force where I served at the Pentagon and Andrews Air Force Base for 7 years. I met my wonderful wife and business partner, Andrea, in 1994. We have 3 great children and two energetic Yellow Labradors. We have a passion for improving the bonds between families and their K9 family members through greater communication and consistency. We look forward to improving the bond you have with your dog.

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Jimmy Morelli - Trainer
Jimmy Morelli
Trainer

Hello, my name is Jimmy Morelli. I was born in Cleveland but grew up in South Florida. I moved around a lot my adult years before returning home to the Cleveland area when I retired in 2016. I retired from The Department of Homeland Security where I proudly served and protected my country at home and abroad. In my retirement, I have taken on a new passion which is fostering dogs in need. With the help of North Coast Boxer Rescue, I have rescued and found loving forever homes for multiple foster dogs. It is sad (in a way) to see them go but it is so rewarding to know you helped them find a forever home and get to help a future rescue dog. Most of my foster dogs have had heartworms or other medical issues so it’s extra rewarding to know you helped them back to good health. My buddy Scooby is my current foster dog but he is gonna be staying with me for the long haul.

In my spare time I enjoy attending live sporting events, traveling, cooking, and gardening. I am a season ticket holder for all the local sports teams. I have traveled extensively throughout the United States and overseas.

I grew up around dogs and love them for their loyalty and unconditional love. I look forward to working with you and your “best friend”.

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Josh Lopez - Owner / Lead Trainer
Josh Lopez
Owner / Lead Trainer

Josh is a military veteran, whose dog training journey started long before he decided to become a DTE Franchisee. He began training military working dogs (MWD) in 2009 and in doing so has deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom with his MWD Valdo. Upon completion of his military service, he also trained dogs for the Department of State in support of diplomatic operations. In his spare time Josh enjoys camping, spending time with his family and anything outdoors

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Deacon - Training Dog - Yellow Labrador Retriever
Deacon
Training Dog - Yellow Labrador Retriever

Hi! My name is Deacon. I am an 8yr old Yellow Labrador Retriever. I live with my family in a home with a nice big yard and a pool and I love to romp and swim. Some of my other favorite things to do are eat, sleep, and snuggle! I am a very laid-back kind of guy, and I prefer sneaking up onto the couch whenever I can.

Unfortunately, my brother Cooper passed away in 2020 and I was very sad. My family brought a new puppy into our home, another Yellow Lab, and they named her Minnie. I was not too sure about her at first, but now we are best buddies! I love to romp and swim and play with her now and hope to teach her all I know about eating, sleeping, and snuggling.

I am very excited to be a DTE dog and can’t wait to meet you!

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Minnie - Training Dog - Yellow Labrador Retriever
Minnie
Training Dog - Yellow Labrador Retriever

Hello! My name is Domenica Angela Rose, but you can call me Minnie. I am still just a puppy, six months old, but I am one smart Yellow Labrador! I was born in Salt Lake City as a Tattle Tails Diabetic Alert Dog (DAD), now I live with my family in Northeast Ohio where I work as a DTE demo dog. In my free time, I love to play fetch and swim and run all around our big backyard.

I am very curious, playful, and I can run really fast! Deacon can’t catch me! I love learning new tricks, training and being a demo dog. I am excited to help other dogs and puppies train and learn new tricks, too! Hope to meet you soon!

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Scooby - Training Dog - Boxer
Scooby
Training Dog - Boxer

Hi! My name is Scooby. At best guess, I am about 4 years old. You see, I didn’t have the best life early on. I was found as a stray running the streets in Cleveland and then captured and entered into the system (dog pound!). Yeah...I did some time. That is until this great company, North Coast Boxer Rescue, found me and sprung me from the clink. I went to live with Jimmy Morelli as a foster. I was heartworm positive at the time so he set up treatment for me but before I could begin that treatment they found a mass on my hind leg. It was the dreaded “C” word (Cancer). We had the mass removed and I stayed with this fellow during my recovery. Then we tackled the heartworm issue. I must have made an impression with Jimmy because I have been with him ever since.

I am a typical boxer. I am a lovable goofball with lots of energy. I do love my naps though. I live with my fur sister Bonne. She is a hound/boxer mix who was also a rescue pup. We have a big fenced-in backyard to play in. Which is great because I get to run and wrestle with her. I love people so I am excited to be a part of the Ohio DTE Team.

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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!

Giving Back

How Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland strengthens the community

Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland military and veteran discount.
Military & Veteran Discount

We proudly support our military members and veterans with discounts on our dog training services. Thank you for your service; let us serve you and your loyal companion.

Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland teachers and educators discount.
Teachers & Educators Discount

As a token of our appreciation for the dedication of teachers and educators, we offer special discounts on our training programs. It's our way of giving back to those who shape the future.

A DTE trained dog - we are a proud veteran owned business!
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro veteran owned badge.

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro is a

Proud Veteran
Owned Business

As a proud veteran-owned business, we bring the values of discipline, commitment, and service to our dog training programs. We are especially committed to supporting fellow veterans and their families. Our background drives us to deliver the highest standards in training, focused on building strong, trustworthy bonds between dogs and their owners.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Joseph Schafer
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Great experience very thorough and knowledgeable. Very detailed made our experience and handling our dog a breeze
  • Nicole Scholl
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Josh and his team of trainers are absolutely the best. Their professionalism, caring and knowledge made our family and dog training a breeze. In 2 weeks we had an amazing obedient dog!
  • Tracy
    Dec. 19, 2024
    Lexi and Josh were amazing to work with! The staff at Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland demonstrated exceptional patience, empathy, consistency, and affection throughout our training sessions, providing a professional and supportive environment that allowed our dog to thrive. With the expert guidance of our Dog Trainer, we saw significant improvements in our dog's behavior and obedience, making them a top-notch choice for Basic obedience lessons and beyond. If you stick with the program your pup will learn so much!
  • Mindy Gerstenfeld
    Dec. 13, 2024
    Josh was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and professional. The most important thing was my dog loved him. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
  • Dave Chudowsky
    Dec. 6, 2024
    Can’t say enough how much my family thanks and recommends Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland! Josh and his team are true pros and fantastic people - Amazing! The work they did with our puppy Navy Belle was a Game Changer!
  • Jeff Moran
    Dec. 3, 2024
    Lexi, our trainer, made it very easy for me to understand how to relate to my dog. Charley has made great strides in his behavior and he just loves showing off his understanding of commands. I can take him anywhere and he is very well behaved
  • Marissa Razzante
    Dec. 2, 2024
    Josh was incredible to work with! We did in-home sessions to help my resident dog adjust to adding another dog to the home. Josh clearly explained the method behind everything and helped me to feel comfortable working with the dogs. A key area of focus was resource guarding that led to aggression by my resident dog. Josh created a safe environment to induce the resource guarding so we could work to correct it. He brought other dogs and trainers as needed to help create different scenarios. This was a great experience that helped us correct negative behaviors!
  • Ryan Savage
    Nov. 29, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is AWESOME! The owners are the nicest people, they really know what they're doing. If you need dog training, DTE is definitely the way to go. They offer service dog, therapy dog, and obedience training. Great guys overall.
  • Lynn Dutsch
    Nov. 23, 2024
    We were at our wit's end with our puppy but Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio changed our lives for the better from the very first lesson. We have truly enjoyed our experience and have even been able to use the same techniques with our 5 year old dog. We absolutely recommend Kevin, Andrea, and the entire team for any dog or puppy that needs training. It has been such a pleasure to go from one semi-behaved dog and a crazy puppy, to 2 very well behaved dogs with happy owners! Thank you Kevin, Andrea, and the entire team.
  • dominick lesinski
    Nov. 14, 2024
    Thanks DTE Northeast Ohio!
  • kim pintar
    Nov. 12, 2024
    Kevin and Andrea were amazing with our very anxious and nervous Louie. They helped him work through a lot of his fears with an extreme amount of patience and reassurance. They also taught us how to train our dog in a way that was the best for him and build our confidence. What meant the most was how Kevin and Andrea cared when we lost our other dog, Margo. Great dog trainers!!
  • Abby Atkins
    Nov. 12, 2024
    I am so grateful for Kevin, Andrea, and Jimmy! They were so patient as we navigated training two dogs. My pitbull has skin issues so they worked with me on making sure the collar we used didn’t affect his skin. They were all so encouraging and gave my pups so much love. It was a great experience and I’m looking forward to continue the training with the pack walks.
  • Tiffany Brock
    Nov. 12, 2024
    AMAZING STAFF! We are so thankful to have connected with this group. They go above and beyond. We have a pack for life ❤️ Kevin and Andrea have been such a great resource, even before I had my pup! Andrea spoke with me for an hour or so about where to start in looking for a puppy as my service dog. We connected again after finding the best pup ever (thanks to Andreas expert advice on breeder selection). We got to work training and it just seemed like such an easy process, even with all the hard work! We had the tools, knowledge, and support to get where we are today!
  • julz vern
    Nov. 11, 2024
    Really happy with Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio I am disabled and suffer from PTSD my doctor referred me to get a companion and or Service Dog My son purchased this beautiful German Shepard not only for Emotional Support, but for Protection as well. We love that we can count on Élite for training Baby Girl we see the changes in her every day. We love that it is a life time program if we should need it and the extra touch is the get togethers at the park with other dogs and their owners. We also love the Crew and the Owners they really take pride working with the dogs everyday, you can see the results at the end of the day when its time to teach the owners LOL
  • Bernard Agin
    Nov. 11, 2024
    Marley is a 7 year old cavachon. Happy dog. But a gleeful barker at dogs and people. A leash puller!! Still happy as can be. Walks like a champ. Even ignores those chatty squirrels and swarms of deer. Marley is becoming a trained PSA. And we owe it to Kevin, Andrea and Elite.
  • I P
    Nov. 11, 2024
    I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite Team. If you are looking for a practical approach to obedience training, look no further. The platinum dog training program set the foundation for success for our 1yr. Old Bully. He was reactive towards people and animals, making walks and community outings difficult. Kevin and Andrea, take the time to understand your needs. One-on-one sessions offer a better understanding of dog behavior and proper technique. I especially enjoyed the Doggie Day camps. Unlike board and train programs, our boy spent the day training and playing with new friends. Then, he was allowed to come home at the end of the day, where we completed our homework(Practice)! The entire staff at the training facility is knowledgeable, caring, and dedicated to helping your pup be all it can be. Be assured that when you partner with the DTE team, they will be committed to the long-term success of your fur baby.
  • Leslie McIntyre
    Nov. 10, 2024
    Very clear and positive way of dealing with issues your pup may have. The trainers are encouraging no matter what happens, or how stubborn your dog is. They figure out ways to solve all problems. Extremely happy to have hired them
  • Kaleigh Hunt
    Nov. 10, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has forever changed our lives. I got my first puppy, Vienna, and while I loved her, I struggled through the puppy stage and remember feeling overwhelmed. That changed once we started training with Kevin and Andrea. Now, Vienna is incredibly well-behaved and receives compliments wherever we go. We’re so grateful for the work they put into helping us with our dog. Their family-run facility makes you and your pet feel like family too. We’ll definitely be going through Dog Training Elite for our next puppy!
  • Danielle Manzeo
    Nov. 2, 2024
    Josh, Lexi and Hayley were amazing to work with! After completing the 4 week dog therapy camp, I feel confident bringing my pup to work with me on a daily basis. The support after camp was over is also really impressive and helpful. I couldn’t be more pleased and I would recommend them to anyone.
  • Amanda Mitchell
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Josh did an amazing job working with our German Shepard-husky mix, Bear! I liked having a combination of in-home, outdoor, & public location sessions for training. You have to make sure you are willing to put in the time, but the results are great, and it’s so worth it!
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 Cleveland, 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 Cleveland, 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 Cleveland, 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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