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A group of well-trained dogs walking at one of Dog Training Elite's dog training classes in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC.
Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Classes in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

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Two Dog Training Elite experts teaching dogs at one of our expert Durham and Chapel Hill dog training classes.

Dog Training Classes in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

Dog Training Elite offers top-tier dog training classes in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC designed to meet the unique needs of every dog and owner. We use proven techniques to shape your dog into a well-behaved, confident pet.

Our classes cater to dogs of all ages and breeds, providing each dog with personalized attention and care. From puppy training to advanced obedience, our programs help your dog thrive in any environment. Join us and see the difference professional training can make in your dog’s life.

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Our Dog Training Classes

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham -

Camps

Our dog boot camps in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC provides an immersive experience for dogs needing focused training. Perfect for complex behavioral issues, this camp has personalized one-on-one sessions that lead to fast, lasting progress.

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

Puppy Classes

Puppy classes in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC lay the foundation for a well-behaved dog. Focusing on basic obedience, socialization, and good manners, our fun and engaging classes help your puppy develop positive habits early on.

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham -

Schooling Your Pup in Obedience

DTE’s dog training school in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC teaches essential obedience skills, from basic commands to advanced behaviors. These structured lessons help your dog become more responsive and well-behaved.

Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham -

Academy

Our canine academy in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC is ideal for preparing dogs for service work or tackling specific behavioral challenges. With the help of our skilled trainers, your dog will gain the discipline and focus needed to succeed in demanding situations.

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!

A proud, obedient dog with receiving expert training at a Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham outdoor class.

Why Are Dog Training Classes Important?


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DIY dog training often results in frustration and inconsistent outcomes. Without expert guidance, you may unknowingly reinforce bad habits. This can make it difficult to manage stubborn behaviors and leave you with a confused and unruly pup.

Professional training classes offer several benefits, including:

  • Consistency: Professional classes provide a structured environment for consistent dog training sessions. This regularity helps reinforce new behaviors, making it easier for your dog to understand and remember what they’ve learned. With each session building on the last, your dog can develop strong, reliable habits that stick.
  • Expert Guidance: Skilled trainers bring years of experience and understanding of canine behavior. They offer clear, step-by-step instructions and proven techniques to address your dog’s needs. This expert guidance allows you to tackle even the most stubborn behaviors.

Investing in professional training classes sets your dog up for long-term success, helping them grow into a trusted family member.

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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See An Elite Dog in Action

Benefits of Dog Training Classes

Dog training classes offer a range of benefits for both dogs and their owners. Participating in these classes helps improve your dog's behavior, enhances their social skills, and strengthens your bond.

Here are five key benefits of enrolling your dog in training classes:

Training classes teach essential commands and behaviors, making your dog more responsive and obedient in various situations. This improved obedience leads to a more harmonious household and better control in public spaces.
Classes allow your dog to interact with other dogs and people, helping them develop better social skills. This exposure can reduce fear or aggression and promote friendly behavior.
Training classes offer a structured environment where your dog can learn systematically. Routine helps reinforce positive behaviors and ensures your dog receives consistent training.
Working together in a training class strengthens the bond between you and your dog. As you collaborate on learning new skills, you build trust and improve communication with your pet.
Professional trainers provide valuable insights and techniques that may not be available through self-training. Their expertise can help address specific behavioral issues and meet your dog’s needs.
A dog owner from Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham giving their dog positive reinforcement.

Positive Reinforcement Only

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At Dog Training Elite, we use positive reinforcement because it’s the most effective and humane way to train dogs. Rewarding good behavior helps dogs understand what is expected, resulting in faster and more consistent progress.

Punishment-based training, on the other hand, can lead to fear, anxiety, and even aggression. While it might force temporary obedience, it often breaks trust and makes long-term progress harder to achieve. We focus on positive reinforcement to build a safe, supportive environment where your dog can make lasting behavioral changes.

Science-Backed Training Method

Research supports that positive reinforcement is the most effective way to train dogs. Veterinarians and animal behaviorists worldwide recommend this science-backed approach for safe, successful training.

  • Proven Effectiveness: Studies show that dogs trained with positive reinforcement learn new behaviors faster and retain them longer than those trained with punishment-based methods. This approach taps into a dog’s natural desire for rewards and praise, which results in more consistent behavior overall.
  • Reduces Behavioral Issues: Positive reinforcement decreases the likelihood of developing behavioral issues such as aggression, fear, or anxiety. Unlike punishment-based training, which can create or worsen these problems, this method encourages calm and confident behavior by associating learning with positive outcomes.
  • Encourages a Positive Learning Environment: By focusing on rewards rather than punishment, positive reinforcement creates a stress-free environment where dogs are more motivated to learn and participate in training sessions.
  • Supports Long-Term Results: This method teaches specific behaviors while promoting a general eagerness to learn and adapt. Dogs trained this way are more likely to continue behaving well and responding positively to new challenges, resulting in long-term success beyond initial training.
  • Strengthens the Human-Animal Bond: The trust and communication built through positive reinforcement create a strong bond between dogs and their owners. This method makes training rewarding for the dog, leading to a more positive relationship.
A dog with their owner at a Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham dog training class.

Empowering Owners With Durham and Chapel Hill Dog Training Classes

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We empower dog owners with flexible, personalized training programs that fit their schedules and needs. Our training equips you with practical skills to guide your dog’s behavior and tackle challenges, regardless of your experience with dog ownership.

Our approach focuses on clear communication and mutual respect, helping you teach your dog in a way that strengthens your bond. We adjust our methods to fit your dog’s personality and your lifestyle for the most successful results.

As you and your dog progress through our training, you’ll notice a shift in how your dog responds to commands and interacts with you. Everyday situations become easier to manage, walks are more enjoyable, and your home feels more peaceful. The skills you gain will help you and your pup navigate any situation confidently.

Basic Commands That Make Your Life Easier

  • Sit: Teaching your dog to sit on command is one of the most fundamental skills. It helps manage your dog’s behavior during family gatherings, at the door, or in public places, creating a calmer environment.
  • Heel: Training your dog to heel prevents leash pulling and promotes a stronger connection between you and your dog during walks. Your dog will learn to walk calmly by your side, making walks more enjoyable.
  • Come: The come command keeps your dog safe by making sure they return to you when called. Whether at a park or in your backyard, this command prevents your dog from wandering off or getting into trouble.
  • Down: Teaching your dog this commands can help manage their energy levels and behavior in various situations, making them easier to handle during visits, mealtimes, or when you need them to settle down. We train your dog to remain calm until given the appropriate commands like "come", "heel", or "break".
  • Leave It: The leave it command is invaluable for preventing your dog from picking up harmful objects or getting into things they shouldn’t. It helps you keep them safe while teaching self-control.
  • Place: Training your dog to go to a designated spot, like a bed or mat, is useful when you need them to settle down during mealtimes, when guests are over, or while you focus on work.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite NC Triangle - Durham.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

DTE: the Best Choice for Dog Training Classes

Learn How Training Classes Can Improve Your Dog’s Life


Dog Training Elite is your top choice for dog training. We provide the tools and guidance necessary for lasting success, whether you’re aiming to address specific behavioral issues, improve obedience, or strengthen the bond with your pet.

Our expert trainers use proven techniques for lasting behavior improvements. With a focus on balance and personalized training, your dog will learn quickly and retain those skills over time.

Contact us today to start seeing the benefits of professional training!