In-House Payment Plans & Financing Available to Help Finance your Dog's Education
A happy, well trained dog from Dog Training Elite, your trusted source for dog training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC
Elite, Award-winning

Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham - Dog Training Services in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

Obedience Training

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

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham - Service Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Dog Training Elite

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.

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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

At Dog Training Elite, we go beyond basic obedience and train dogs to excel in real-world situations. Our dog training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC produces dogs that are prepared for real-world challenges and enrich your daily life. We focus on creating lifelong bonds of love and trust, helping your dog become a confident, trusted family member.

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham - Dog Obedience Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE

Obedience Training

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

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham - Puppy Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Dog Training Elite

Puppy Training

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

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham - Service Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

Our Durham and Chapel Hill 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 NC Triangle - Durham - Anxiety & Aggressive Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

Anxiety & Aggression

Our Durham and Chapel Hill 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 NC Triangle - Durham - Therapy Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

Therapy Dog Training

Our Durham and Chapel Hill 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 NC Triangle - Durham - Group Class Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE

Group Training

Our group dog training classes in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC 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.
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Our Story

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham

At Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle, we believe every dog has the potential to become outstanding. For over 45 years, Dog Training Elite has been helping families and individuals unlock that potential, transforming dogs into well-behaved companions, trusted service animals, and compassionate therapy partners.

We understand that life with a dog isn’t always a picture-perfect scene of wagging tails and joyful walks. Many of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure about how to manage their dog’s behavior, how to deal with their crazy and lovable new puppy, or how to turn their dog into a life-changing service companion. That’s where we come in. As a local, family-owned, and woman-owned business, we combine the personal care of a close-knit team with the expertise of a nationally recognized training company. Our approach is rooted in decades of experience and a deep passion for strengthening the bond between humans and their dogs. Whether you need help with basic manners, advanced obedience, or specialized service dog training, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Our training programs are tailored to your dog’s unique personality and your family’s needs, and they often take place in your home—the environment where your dog spends the most time and where behavior matters most. We believe in walking beside you on this journey, equipping you with the tools to create lasting change in your dog’s behavior and in your life.

For families seeking a service dog, our work goes beyond training. We help you prepare for a partnership that can profoundly improve your daily life. Service dogs empower individuals with disabilities, bringing independence, safety, and companionship. Witnessing the life-changing impact of these partnerships is at the heart of what we do, and it inspires us every day.

We welcome dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. Whether you’re looking to address behavioral challenges, enhance your dog’s obedience, or train a life-changing service companion, we’re here to help. At Dog Training Elite, we’re not just trainers—we’re problem solvers, dog lovers, and community builders.

Let us help you and your dog discover a happier, more harmonious life together. Reach out today to start your journey to a better life with your best friend.

About Us

Our Team

Cindy Skocik - Owner - DTE NC Triangle
Cindy Skocik
Owner - DTE NC Triangle

Cindy’s love for dogs runs as deep as her passion for helping people. Growing up in the countryside of southwestern Pennsylvania, Cindy had a tender heart for every stray she encountered, often carrying them home and then crying when her mother wouldn’t let her keep them all. Her childhood dog, Sunshine, was her best friend, a source of joy and companionship as they danced together to “You Are My Sunshine,” a memory that still warms her heart today. Cindy spent decades in corporate leadership roles. Her true fulfillment always came from work that allowed her to connect her head and heart to a greater purpose. Her most meaningful role was with a company dedicated to treating eating disorders, where she saw firsthand how compassion and dedication could change lives. Mental health challenges touched her own family, deepening her empathy and commitment to making a positive impact on others with similar challenges.

After leaving corporate America, Cindy decided to follow her lifelong passions, founding Dog Training Elite in the NC Triangle. Here, she can combine her love for dogs with her drive to help people overcome challenges and live fuller, happier lives.

Cindy and her team really care about every client’s journey, treating each dog as if it were their own and every family as part of their extended community. Cindy is passionate about helping dogs find their place—whether as cherished family members, service animals, or therapy companions—and empowering owners to communicate with and understand their dogs in a way that brings peace and happiness to their lives.

When you work with Cindy, you’re not just hiring a dog trainer—you’re gaining a compassionate partner and a trusted guide, committed to helping you and your dog live your very best life together.

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Roxie - Co-Owner
Roxie
Co-Owner

Roxie was born in Rougement, North Carolina on October 15, 2021, about 20 miles from her current home. She is a moyen poodle (“moyen” is French for medium) and she's about 50 pounds. She looks like a doodle because of her haircut (mom likes her fuzzy face!), but she's a poodle.

She’s a sweet ginger girl who loves making new friends, both canine and human. She is happy that she will have a modern life with both a career and her family. She is excited to be the co-owner of Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle, where her primary responsibilities will be demonstrating how a good dog behaves and spreading happiness. Her hobbies are taking hikes, traveling, and playing with friends, leaves, and pinecones. She loves a good ear rub and a bully stick.

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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

  • Gabrielle Johnson
    Oct. 27, 2025
    We are so grateful to have found this company! Kyle is a knowledgeable, patient, and calm trainer. His guidance and help has changed our dog for the better. Our dog is so so well behaved now and can heel on and off leash. Our dog’s manners have increased and so has his confidence! He helped with problem behaviors too. I recommend Kyle and dog training elite highly! The group sessions are also so helpful!
  • Libs B
    Oct. 18, 2025
    How can I start to explain how amazing this training group is? I honestly have zero complaints or negatives about them. They are hard working, helpful, patient, considerate, and actually care so much. As a disabled individual, one thing I really enjoy that I haven’t seen as an option from other places is they come to your house for most sessions. They also work with your schedule- you and your pup come first. I feel like they genuinely care and don’t treat everyone like “one size fits all”, they treat you as an individual and meet you where you are at. I’m going to them for service dog training, started with obedience and at first was really worried about the financial part because I don’t make a lot and some of these companies have quoted me a ridiculous amount. Dog Training Elite isn’t like that though. They worked with me with a payment plan and like other things they meet you where you are at in a compassionate and caring way. They are really down to earth and empathetic and I haven’t met someone I hadn’t liked from there. Elliot, my dog, has come such a long way and I’m so proud of him. They make training fun and effective for the both of us through clear communication, patience, and kindness. I will say one thing that might have people on the fence at first is the use of a training collar- I was worried about it too - however it’s not what you think at all. There is a misconception it’s for correction and it’s not- it’s kind of like one of those training clickers , it’s a marker. They explained to me how it worked and even had me try it on my hand so I could see for myself what it felt like and it really put me at ease. They also include praise and treats and have you and your pups best interest at heart. In conclusion, I know this is a long read, I can’t fit all my gratitude and appreciation for these people in a singular post- I really truly felt heard, seen, and supported. I hope you give them the chance to do the same for you!!
  • Vinicius Mariani
    Sep. 3, 2025
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite has been fantastic. We adopted a very extroverted and excited pittie, Jobim, from a shelter back in late January. We realized that we would need professional help to provide Jobim the best environment. We contacted Dog Training Elite. We started dog training early in April --so over 4-5 months ago. Jobim's improvement has been outstanding. Kyle is a fantastic trainer. His patience, knowledge and commitment have expedited Jobim's learning and improvement. Kyle is also helping us to be better owners by teaching us several concepts of dog ownership. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite services and Kyle!
  • Cheryl Fuller
    Aug. 8, 2025
    Fantastic experience with Elite Dog Training! Very organized with paperwork, expectations, scheduling and support. Kyle is a like a “dog whisperer” and worked so well with both of my dogs: Koda a young, full of energy, give me attention now and Barnaby my sweet, elderly but stubborn you can’t make me dog. This has been a rewarding and effective experience and I highly recommend Kyle and the company to anyone who wants a better managed fur baby experience!
  • Mandy Lilley
    Jul. 2, 2025
    Our dog Boomer was a shelter rescue and wild boy. We started with Elite after a couple of months of chaos. Within 6 months he became an NC registered Service Dog. Elite not only tailored his training to match his & my needs but fully assisted me to be able to use his training despite my disabilities. With balance disorders U can't just look down & up to watch him as he trained. They facilitated to my abilities, my wants and needs. Especially helping me use his and my skills in any enivornment. E.g. outside the dog park going in things were out of control in the past so I had anxiety to go. Having support for me to use skills in my home and places I chose was priceless! Ive done alot of at facilities training with my other dogs and that worked fine as long as I was there. In home training means my dog and me learnt and used skills in my real world with my real limitations. Eg my neuro disorders means I can lose ability to speak. We both learnt non verbal signs and I can communicate my needs to Boomer in silence. Boomer is trained to meet my needs and his abilities now go WAY beyond not just to stay in place and not run out front door (I never managed that before with any of our dogs that were in other training programs). Lastly I cant say enough about how Elite changed my life with my dog! Responsible, kind, experienced and compassionate about meeting the individual's needs. Told him to sit on couch at the vets lol
  • Todd Defren
    Jun. 25, 2025
    Our Newfoundland was 6 years old when we called Dog Training Elite: we weren’t sure he’d have the drive to become a service dog. Thanks to our trainer, Kyle, our big old boy did great. The approach is kind, fun, and firm, and the trainers are patient communicators - with both canines and their owners.
  • Elizabeth Jackson
    May. 7, 2025
    Elite Dog Training deserves an outstanding review because: Transparent, Effective, & Timely in their Communications: Elite Dog Training were always prompt in their communications, keeping me informed with any and all changes. They explained complex things in training in a very clear and easy-to-understand manner, ensuring I felt confident and informed throughout training my pup. Committed, Determined, & Dedicated to the Success of the dog handler: Elite Dog training went above and beyond to advocate for both me and my pups interests and needs. Their unwavering commitment to my case were remarkable. They were available to answer my questions and address my concerns in a timely manner. Skilled & Knowledgeable Representation on behalf of me and my pup regarding Service work : (they offer other services too but this is what I used them for). Elite Dog Training possesses a wealthy plethora of both knowledge of training literature, materials, & instruments, and they precisely execute training by utilizing this knowledge and experience in their area of expertise in dog training. They were able to identify the personality, characteristics, and strengths and weaknesses in areas that we were working and developed a strong action strategy that’s innovative & is tailored to the needs of me/my pup. Professional, Ethically Compliant, & Respectful Conduct: From the initial evaluation appointment to the final resolution, Elite Dog Training treated me & my pup with the utmost respect and professionalism. They listened attentively to my concerns and always treated me with dignity, and like family. Positive & Stress-Free Experience & Flexible: Despite the stressful and overwhelming nature of certifying a Service Animal, Elite Dog Training made the entire process as smooth, and as seamless as possible. Their calm and reassuring demeanor helped me to navigate the ins and outs of Service Animal training policies with confidence. & Excellent Results: (Also, I found the price to be extremely reasonable with how much I will be able to utilize my pup training in both public and private settings.) Ultimately, Together, Elite Dog Training, me, & my pup achieved so much. I am incredibly grateful for their hard work and dedication, which resulted in a very successful & fulfilling resolution, & future for me & my pup. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Elite Dog Training to anyone seeking Dog Training Services (including Service work, not limited to that though). Their passion and drive to meet their clients wherever they anre struggling with their pups are truly outstanding. Special Shoutout to Cindy. I am not willing to divulge into the entire details but they made me feel super special because they made an exception for me, and that is priceless. I just want to mention that so their deserved recognition doesn’t go unmentioned in that regard. Warmest Regards from me & my Belgian Malanois/German Shepard Pup 🐾❤️
  • Shalyn and Anthony
    May. 4, 2025
    We were genuinely struggling with our 6-month-old German Shepherd—he was constantly biting us to the point we couldn’t even relax on our own couch. We were worried he was heading down a bad path and couldn’t fix it on our own. Kyle and Cindy completely changed that. Their training didn’t just stop the biting—it transformed our dog into the most well-behaved, loving pup we always hoped for. We are beyond grateful for their help, this service is worth every penny!
  • James Fox
    Jan. 13, 2025
    Outstanding experience with DTE! Attention to detail and up-front with their services and pricing. We spent 2 hours on initial assessment and review of services, pricing, and expectations. The expectations were clear and we began training right away. We were training our 4-year old female German Shepherd, who we trained to be very friendly with people and particularly kids, to be a service dog for me and other Armed Forces Veterans. Cindy was excellent in explaining how we needed to get "Skye" to distinguish between "working" and "play" or being super friendly to others. They (Cindy and Nina) worked with us to help Skye understand the difference and she picked it up quickly. Cindy and Nina made themselves available so we had a good battle rhythm with consecutive training sessions. They also didn't repeat learned behaviors, i.e., if she "got it" and mastered the skill, they moved on quickly to more complex functions vice wasting time on mastered behaviors. Skye was well trained to begin with so Cindy/Nina moved quickly into "public access" training and really got her "real-life" repetitions. So, Skye got up to speed quickly and passed her evaluation with flying colors, distinguishing between work and play, when to be friendly and when to take care of me or a Vet. They helped me and Skye to learn to think and work together to be a great service dog...while maintaining her friendly demeaner towards all people.
  • Chris Williams
    Sep. 19, 2024
    Alexx and Cindy are just great! Blue, our 4yr old Australian Shepherd is very reactive around other dogs and unfamiliar situations and we have let her world become very isolated as a result. After working several sessions with basic commands, Cindy's husband brought their very sweet doggo to the house allow Blue and I to practice our techniques to keep her focused on her job and me rather than worry about the other animal. He even shouted into his phone pretending to have an argument when approaching to provide us with a different situation to manage. I was so touched that they have such dedication to have ALL THREE trainers at once help us work towards achieving our goal of taking her where we go and visiting the brewery where my husband works, feeling safe and confident as owners. She recently went to her first group session with my husband who is less confident with Blue. They supervised her closely and were ready to step in if necessary but gave him space to work with her - it went great! The team at Dog Training Elite is truly dedicated to our success and have been genuinely joyful with the accomplishments we have made thus far. We know both our and Blue's ingrained behaviors will take time to change and feel confident we will have their support now and in the future.
  • Evie Rocko
    Sep. 13, 2024
    Alexx and Cindy are amazing! They listened to us and acknowledged all our concerns for my dog and have worked with us to achieve all our goals! For context when we adopted our pittie, we’ve had hopes of having her become a service dog. We started with obedience training and after seeing the amazing difference that all the training with them has made we are so excited to have our pup be an amazing service dog! They truly care and love what they do and it shows very much!
  • Ellen De La Garza
    Jul. 5, 2024
    When Cindy and James came to see my Annie, I was nervous. I didn’t want Annie to misbehave, even though they were there to train her. They made me feel so comfortable as well as Annie. After the first visit, Alexx started coming weekly to teach my Annie good manners. With her patients and professionalism, Annie was improving and was eager to impress which made me proud. I would recommend anyone who needs help with their pet, big or small, to train with this company. I would pay double the price with the results my Annie and myself have received. Thank you Cindy, Alexx and James for your love and compassion!!!
  • Adrianna Tozier
    Jul. 9, 2024
    They are absolutely amazing so kind and willing to work with u the vibe they give off can calm any dog and make them fall in love with the training and trainers very knowledgeable and amazing to work with i cant say enough great things about them
  • Barbara H
    Jun. 15, 2024
    Great experience with Dig Training Elite. Cindy, the owner, is very service oriented. Worked with good trainers, Alex and James (and Cindy). Our puppy has made incredible progress in two months.
  • Jonathan Forman
    Feb. 15, 2024
    I was thoroughly excited with Cindy and her colleague to visit my baby dog Daisy may. They spent two hours listening to my story’s and wants of Daisy. They are a compassionate company from my observation. The only thing I would have liked is if they had more experience in time but I also understand a person can have desire and drive for perfection. So they brought their sweet dogs and showed me their lab. I have to say I was impressed none the less and because of our conversation and seeing a confident dog in action is why I decided to go with them. I’m looking forward to working with them and will write a review based off my experience after that is done. They left me feeling confident in their abilities as trainers that take their job seriously in like other. So I will update this review with images of the success and support that the company provides. Sincerely, Jonathan
  • Sarah Hardin Gustafson
    Nov. 16, 2023
    I am so grateful to have the privilege of working with Alexx to train my sweet and curious puppy to be the perfect service animal. Alexx is an amazing listener and draws in humans and animals alike with her empathy and genuine personality. She always patiently answered all of my questions and helped my dog through even his most stubborn phases. We can't thank Alexx enough for everything!
  • Rebecca Cook
    Sep. 18, 2023
    While I am just starting my journey with Dog Training Elite, I could not be more impressed. The owners are patient and kind and go above and beyond to answer any and all questions. They are very knowledgable and flexible and have gone above and beyond in the initial interviewing process. I will be training my service dog with them and can't be more excited!
  • Kisha Williams
    Aug. 17, 2023
    Alexx was awesome with training my daughter with her dog Xena. She was patient with them and gave my daughter the confidence to train and be consistent with Xena. Xena learned not only obedience but task to help my daughter function when anxious. Awesome job!!!
  • Margaret Skillman
    May. 12, 2023
    Alexx helped me train my 4-7 month old German Shepherd to be my psych service dog. He is so amazing thanks to our work together. Because of her amazing instruction I felt confident and supported in the process. She is kind, personable, and empathetic which I found very important when working with her to help my dog help me. I have really loved learning from her and feel that I gained a friend. Can’t imagine learning from anyone else. We love Alexx!
  • Janet Sanchez
    Oct. 12, 2022
    Alexx has been a tremendous trainer. She is so patient, easy-going, and direct with her steps to train my dog. She equips me with the tools and knowledge to tackle on each week's focus. I would recommend Dog Training Elite to any friend, family, or stranger. They will come to your house and work with you and your dog.
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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.

Local Dog Training Services in Durham and Chapel Hill

And Surrounding Areas


Cary
Chapel Hill
Clayton
Durham
Garner
Holly Springs
Knightdale
Millbrook
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Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

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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 a balanced 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 Durham and Chapel Hill Dog Trainers

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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 Durham and Chapel Hill, NC area for lasting, meaningful results.

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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
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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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