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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 Northern Utah apart from any other dog training service.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Northern Utah location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Service Dog Training FAQs
What makes a dog a service dog?
Service dogs are dogs that have been specially trained to assist their handler or owner with specific tasks. Dog Training Elite Northern Utah trains dogs to assist people with epilepsy, diabetes, PTSD, autism, and various mental illnesses.
Who are service dogs for?
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.
What kind of training does a service dog need?
Service dog training begins with puppies. Dog Training Elite Northern Utah’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 Northern Utah 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 Northern Utah trains dogs to de-escalate anxiety, wake handlers experiencing night terrors, and so on.
Do service dogs require special certification?
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.
Why should I train my service dog with Dog Training Elite Northern Utah?
Dog Training Elite Northern Utah 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 Northern Utah does not use punishments or shock collars to break bad habits. Instead, Dog Training Elite Northern Utah 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 Northern Utah is that while most dog training programs train dogs at their own facilities, Dog Training Elite Northern Utah 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 Northern Utah is there every step of the way. With Dog Training Elite Northern Utah, 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.
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.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
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!
Totally thrilled with the training our first pup has received. She is learning rapidly and we feel more confident daily about her ability to respond appropriately in a wide variety of scenarios. Including the endless quick feedback and tips we get via texts.— Kaiden Kelly
Posted July 22nd 2024
A few months ago I brought our puppy a Frenchie and Boston mixed Arlo to be accessed. I wanted to know if he would make a good service/therapy dog for my PTSD as a combat veteran. Colleen the owner met with me and Arlo that day. She did the assessment and showed us what kind of discipline we could expect from the training with another of her dogs. I was pleased to find out Arlo had the right temperament for the training. He was still a bit young so we had to wait some months before he would be mature enough for the training to be effective. Colleen and her team worked with me on the costs and a payment plan. They stayed in touch and reached out when Arlo was old enough. We started to schedule his training for 3 weeks there at the center. Our situation changed and so we are moving to Florida in about a month. Colleen felt that although we could get his training at the center done in 3 weeks. The ongoing support and additional group training would not be enough time. She reached out to another franchisee in Florida where we are moving and made sure we could start the training there with them and be able to have the close community and ongoing support. I really appreciate her taking the time to make sure mine and Arlo's best interest were put first over closing a sale. I appreciate the respect and courtesy given to me in my situation. I hope these remarks help someone with their decision to place their trust in this company and Colleen. Thanks So Much For Everything! Jeremy W.— Jeremy Willes
Posted July 11th 2024
We have nothing but good things to say about Dog Training Elite. We had two dogs trained here, one as a service dog, one as a companion. We are so pleased with the results. 100% recommend this service for anyone with a dog.— Chas McClure
Posted June 25th 2024
We can’t thank Dog Training Elite enough for the amazing work they’ve done with our dog. From puppy training to becoming a certified medical alert service dog, their journey with us has been nothing short of incredible. From day one, the trainers at Dog Training Elite were fantastic. They made us feel comfortable and confident, even when we didn’t know what we were doing. Their patience and knowledge made all the difference. Our daughter Rainey, who has autism and epilepsy, has found her best friend in our service dog. The bond they share is beautiful, and it’s changed Rainey’s life for the better. Seeing them together brings us so much joy and peace of mind. The trainers didn’t just train our dog - they trained us too! They made sure we were prepared for everything that comes with having a service dog. Their support and encouragement have been amazing, and we always felt like we could reach out with any questions. Dog Training Elite has given us more than just a service dog. They’ve given us security, independence for Rainey, and a whole lot of happiness. We are forever grateful and can’t recommend them enough to anyone looking for top-notch dog training. Thank you, Dog Training Elite, for everything. Our lives are so much better because of you!— Brittany Joseph
Posted May 25th 2024
We can’t thank Dog Training Elite enough for the amazing work they’ve done with our dog. From puppy training to becoming a certified medical alert service dog, their journey with us has been nothing short of incredible. From day one, the trainers at Dog Training Elite were fantastic. They made us feel comfortable and confident, even when we didn’t know what we were doing. Their patience and knowledge made all the difference. Our daughter Rainey, who has autism and epilepsy, has found her best friend in our service dog. The bond they share is beautiful, and it’s changed Rainey’s life for the better. Seeing them together brings us so much joy and peace of mind. The trainers didn’t just train our dog - they trained us too! They made sure we were prepared for everything that comes with having a service dog. Their support and encouragement have been amazing, and we always felt like we could reach out with any questions. Dog Training Elite has given us more than just a service dog. They’ve given us security, independence for Rainey, and a whole lot of happiness. We are forever grateful and can’t recommend them enough to anyone looking for top-notch dog training. Thank you, Dog Training Elite, for everything. Our lives are so much better because of you!— Brittany Joseph
Posted May 25th 2024
Love the process my dog has made! Deidre has been a great teacher to both me and my dog, have noticed a huge difference in her personality since starting training! Would recommend elite dog training to anyone looking for consistent progress in their pup!— Mariana Hincapie
Posted May 8th 2024
From the very first day I expressed interest in training my goldie, Ry, to be a service dog, this wonderful team has made the process nothing but positive. I can’t recommend them enough. I am wholeheartedly SO grateful for this training center and what they do. Ry has already made immense progress and I can’t wait to continue his training with DTENU :)— Dresden Chamberlain
Posted May 1st 2024
I can’t thank them enough! My wild first experience was with my unruly husky mix who didn’t care to listen. After they helped us I am excited to take him out and about, he loves the attention he gets by showing off. And we now have our Great Dane in their training program and I’m so happy with the improvement we’ve seen. Thank you!— Tristen Topham
Posted March 1st 2024
We sent our collie here to a week of training and from the first day I could not believe the change in her. Everyone is great and they are training us to continue what she learned. I was referred from a friend who sent her dog here for training. I highly recommend the training. Every dog who attended with our dog did great as each dog showed what they learned at the end of the week. Spectacular!— Debbie Hollberg
Posted January 20th 2024
As soon as my wire haired pointer started training it was a noticeable difference and at the end of the first week it was night and day difference like she was a completely different dog. They do absolutely fantastic with their training and keep very good communication with everything and anything you could possibly need! 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking to get their pup trained!— Jacob McNiven
Posted February 7th 2024
These guys rock! They helped me get my girl finished up in her training, are super responsive to messages, and are always encouraging us and looking to help. When I saw how they cared for my girl during her day camps every bit of anxiety over her being there melted away, and Eir was excited every time she went. I would absolutely anyone I know looking for dog training go to DTE Northern Utah!— Chet Showalter
Posted January 29th 2024
These guys rock! They helped me get my girl finished up in her training, are super responsive to messages, and are always encouraging us and looking to help. When I saw how they cared for my girl during her day camps every bit of anxiety over her being there melted away, and Eir was excited every time she went. I would absolutely anyone I know looking for dog training go to DTE Northern Utah!— Chet Showalter
Posted January 29th 2024
I enthusiastically recomend Elite Dog Training Northern Utah!! I was not sure if a mobility service dog was for me, but my daughter was concerned about me and dragged me into my first interview. What a wonderful day that was!! They found me a dog, and now Clyde and I have finished our first year together. The team is fantastic and I was skeptical. They truly work miricles and have taken the time to listen to me and my disability and make it work for me. They took a puppy and have turned him into a champ at going anywhere with me. I look forward to the next year and working with them. Thanks for making me a believer in what a service dog can do.— Marlene Hyndman
Posted January 29th 2024
I am so happy I chose this company to help me train my dog! Lexi and Trevor are the two trainers we had come out and they are the best! You can tell they care about your dog and know what they’re doing. I thought my dog was already good but after training he’s like a new dog with how well he listens- he loves training everyday! We’re excited to keep advancing his training through this company!— Shelby Barber
Posted January 18th 2024
These guys are truly wonderful to work with. They helped me train my German Shepherd as a PTSD service animal. They also had a lot of one on one sessions with my dog and then again with my dog and I. They have taught me a lot during the training sessions. I would highly recommend this company from just basic obedience training to what ever service animal you may need.— Mike-Wazowski
Posted January 15th 2024
What an awesome group of trainers! Mac is an awesome diabetic alert dog and we paid a lot less going this route instead of buying an already trained dog. Dan and Hailey helped us train Mac to alert and also to obey simple commands. They give you 110% dedication to help train your dog. This was a much better and cheaper solution to getting a service animal. I am at ease knowing that Mac is capable of saving my son’s life if he needs to. If you are considering a company for dog training go with Dog Training Elite, They Rock!— Dana Wellard
Posted December 7th 2023
I can’t thank Hayden and Dog Training Elite. I got Molly, a seven month old Belgian Malinios. She was beyond a handful. After trying to train her for over a year I came to realize this was beyond my capabilities. After she chased the neighbors cows through a barbed wire fence and knew I had to make a choice, either rehome her or get professional help. I saw a veteran with his service dog and asked where he had been trained and I was told Elite Dog Training. I contacted them and met Hayden the next day. We started training and with a lot of patience and really a minimal time. After several weeks of training I decided I wanted her to become a Service Dog. We then went on to the specialized training program. It took a while but she was finally able to get her training and became my service dog. Fast forward to now. I recently had to move up to Northern Utah because of my 94 year old father health issues. Because of Molly’s training I can take her with me anywhere. My dad is in the VA Rehabilitation Center in north Ogden and Molly and I ago see him at least 3-4 times a week. She not only brings joy to my dad but also to a lot of the other Veterans who are there. She is my constant companion and I would be lost without her. She still has her quirks, she is a Malinios after all. Because of Hayden and Elite Dog Training I am so grateful.— LaRae Widmeyer
Posted November 22nd 2023
DTE has done a great job with my pup Milly! They are very attentive and always available to answer any questions or concerns. I always receive a ton of compliments about how well behaved Milly is!— Elizabeth Collins
Posted November 20th 2023
We are so impressed with this service. Everyone we have worked with has been so kind and professional. They are all highly trained and very knowledgeable. We were never made to feel like we were being judged by our lack of experience and our questions were always answered with a great deal of respect. We would highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone looking for the best training anywhere!— Kathy Porter
Posted November 12th 2023