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An image of a happy golden retriever - contact Dog Training Elite for your golden retriever training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC.

Professional Training For

Golden Retrievers

Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle

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Our Golden Retriever Training Could Help:

Separation anxiety
Excessive barking
Overexcitement
Destructive chewing
Jumping on people
Pulling on the leash
Uncontrolled digging

Golden Retriever Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC

At Dog Training Elite, we have extensive experience in Golden Retriever training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC, both as puppies and adults. This breed's eagerness to please and high intelligence make them relatively easy to train, whether the goal is basic obedience, therapy work, or specialized tasks. Our training programs are tailored to maximize the breed's natural abilities and ensure effective, lasting results.

By working with our team at Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle, owners can develop a strong bond with their Golden Retriever, guiding them through each stage of their development. We focus on harnessing your dog's inherent qualities, helping you raise a well-behaved, reliable, and loving companion.

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A well-trained golden retriever with their owner - our Durham and Chapel Hill golden retriever puppy training can help your pup be a loving family companion.

Why Golden Retrievers Make Ideal Family Dogs


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Golden Retrievers have long been a favorite choice for families, consistently ranking as one of the top five breeds in America. Their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly disposition make them exceptional companions, especially in households with children. These dogs are gentle, fun-loving, and excel in various roles due to their strong work ethic and adaptability.

Despite their many strengths, Golden Retrievers are not naturally aggressive, which means they may not be the best choice as guard dogs. However, their calm and sociable nature makes them a perfect fit for families looking for a loving and dependable companion.

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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!

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Durham and Chapel Hill.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • 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.
  • Pam Godwin
    Jun. 16, 2022
    We could not be any happier with your company and the wonderful loving staff. Our dog Cody is a 130 pound German Shepard that was Mr Man, ruler of all things in our yard, next door, across the street, in the sky… ha. He chased and barked at everything. Thanks to you guys he now has manners. Everyone that visits can’t believe the difference. People that use to be afraid of him, now visit and compliment us on how sweet he is. He just needed some training and so did we. Thank you!!!! Pam, Tony snd Cody!!!!!!❤️
  • Paul Hearn
    Jun. 16, 2022
    DTE is amazing! Though skeptical at first, I'm now convinced that they are the best and have an awesome dog to show for it! The team is great and I highly recommend!!!
  • Cassie Frank
    Jun. 16, 2022
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite! From their training methods to the care and respect they show towards the dogs and owners, you can’t go wrong!
  • Pablo Riboldi
    May. 31, 2022
    Cindy and her team are so amazing to work with! I'd highly recommend them to anyone looking for the best dog trainer in the Durham/Chapel Hill area.
  • Bruce T
    May. 28, 2022
    A little over a year ago we adopted two rescues from Saving Grace(amazing group). However one was so anxious and scared of everything, even his shadow, would upset him. We tried training with another company and were told he was untrainable since he wasn’t treat motivated. We were running short on options. Dog Training Elite has given us a way to communicate and bond with Henry and appreciate each other. Henry is a happier pup We are enthusiastic advocates for the e collar and Dog Training Elite. Within hours, we are walking Henry with ease and at a comfortable pace. All of our challenges have been overcome and outings with Henry are a great experience. Henry has moved from being very anxious and hard to walk to a pleasure and fun. Henry has progressed so well that we have been able to go to lowes where loud noises and commotion were triggers for Henry and he overcame and interacted in a friendly manner. We are very excited and so impressed with the program. Henry’s growth has been nothing but phenomenal. Dog Training Elite is outstanding! We are very excited and so impressed with the program.
  • Kyle Christie
    May. 17, 2022
    Cindy's passion for business and for animals is unmatched. She is very personable yet professional and she truly cares about driving high quality results for dog training. She and her team will work their tails off to deliver the quality service you sign up for. She's also passionate about community involvement and giving back to the community especially through service dogs. She truly wants to strengthen the relationship you have with your dog. I wish I could give 10 stars, highly recommend!
A well-trained golden retriever posing for a picture.

Durham and Chapel Hill Golden Retriever Puppy Training

Training a Golden Retriever Puppy

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At Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle, we recommend starting dog training as early as possible. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart Golden Retriever puppies do great with early training.

Complete Durham and Chapel Hill Golden Retriever Puppy Training typically takes a few months. We offer specialized in-home training. Working with a Golden Retriever puppy and the owner directly in the home prevents puppies from being distracted and allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual puppies, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a puppy has completed in-home training, we offer puppy group classes for further training.

Beginning Golden Retriever training in the home also helps owners bond with their pup so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. It’s important for owners to be consistent with puppy training and continue it long term.

Training can be great mental stimulation, so a great exercise for Golden Retrievers as they get older is progressing their training. Once your puppy has mastered sitting, for example, train them to maintain the position until released. Once your puppy is a bit older, explore other sports and activities.

Additional Breeds We Train

Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - German Shepherd Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE
German Shepherd
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - Labrador Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Dog Training Elite
Labrador
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - Goldendoodle Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Dog Training Elite
Goldendoodle
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - Beagle Dog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Dog Training Elite
Beagle
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - Pitbull Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE
Pitbull
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - Doberman Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE
Doberman
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - Border Collie Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE
Border Collie
Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle - French Bulldog Training in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. DTE
French Bulldog

Golden Retriever Training Tips

Golden Retrievers are quick learners with a strong desire to work alongside their owners. Their intelligence and willingness to follow commands make them ideal for various types of training, from basic obedience to more advanced skills.

Here are some essential training tips for Golden Retrievers.

Golden Retrievers are considered “sporting dogs” and require at least an hour of daily exercise. True to their name, Golden Retrievers love retrieving things! Golden Retrievers can even participate in obedience and agility events, and they’ll enjoy every minute of it.

A Golden Retriever puppy that doesn’t get enough exercise is likely to develop bad behaviors like digging or chewing. During the first two years of a Golden Retriever’s life, however, make sure to take it easy with exercise as their growth plates are still forming - don’t go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown and try to always opt for grass instead of concrete.

Golden Retrievers can easily become overweight so owners will need to help manage their food intake. Measure out food twice a day instead of “free-feeding” and give treats in moderation.

If you have adopted a Golden Retriever puppy to become part of a family, make sure all kids and adults are on the same page with training and all practice basic tricks with the family dog.

At Dog Training Elite, we have developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible.

Establish house rules for your dog, and then stick to them. If you choose not to let your dog on the couch, don’t ever let them on the couch for any reason. Golden Retriever training can help you establish routines and learn how to be consistent about enforcing them.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle.
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An happy, well manered golden retriever with training from Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle.

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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At Dog Training Elite of the NC Triangle, we use modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. We never resort to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.

The Dog Training Elite training theory for every dog breed is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Our method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your Golden Retriever puppy into a loyal and loving companion? Find a trainer near you today!