Back to About Us

FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Frequently Asked Questions

General
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 Fitchburg / Leominster.
To effectively resolve specific issues, we need to start with a solid foundation in obedience. This approach helps you become a confident leader for your dog, which is key to addressing and preventing behavioral problems.
Nope. Those are dangerous grounds to tread upon. We'd much rather train a vicious dog!
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.
Yes. Working with and controlling aggression is one of our specialties in Fitchburg / Leominster.
We focus on training companion dogs for veterans and individuals with PTSD and other psychological conditions. In addition to service animals, we also train therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes, and treatment centers.
To be a service dog, your dog needs to have an even temperament. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, etc. typically have a great temperament for service work. For some types of service work, your dog will need to have AKC certifications (such as Canine Good Citizen or Community Canine) which we are able to certify. As always, we would be happy to assess your dog's aptitude for service work for free!

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!

About Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Meet Our Elite Team. Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts
Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Customer Reviews. Hear from Happy Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts Clients
Reviews
Our testimonials showcase the success stories of dogs and their owners who have benefited from our training programs. From basic obedience to advanced service dog training, see how Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Careers. Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts
Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Our Gallery. Dog Training Elite in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA
Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Local Dog Trainers in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA. DTE
In the Community
At Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Hoff Stauffer
    Feb. 12, 2025
    He was very helpful. She will walk on a leash now. 🤗
  • Mr. Kelly Kim
    Feb. 6, 2025
    Marcus is friendly and quite accommodating to my communication needs. He was very thorough when explaining the programs and he gave some light training which was fun!
  • Kitty Desharnais
    Jan. 17, 2025
    Buddy really responds well with the training, Matt does a good job and is very knowledgeable.
  • Ronna Northrup
    Jan. 23, 2025
    Patrick was amazing! He answered all our questions explained everything in depth, a lot of info, but very informative.
  • Mara Simon
    Jan. 30, 2025
    Patrick was very helpful on our evaluation with Hercules today. Answered all our questions and already knew off bat what Hercules needed to work on. Thank you for your time Patrick!! Highly appreciated.
  • Mike Corrado
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Patrick is top notch!
  • Franny Osman
    Jan. 25, 2025
    First visit with Patrick from Elite and we and Poppy learned a lot. It was very successful!
  • Ilene Holman
    Jan. 23, 2025
    Marcus is a great trainer. I am very happy with all of the trainers.
  • ZE ze
    Jan. 9, 2025
    Five stars! We were fortunate to have started and completed most of our training sessions with Matt Keefe who is key to the transformation of our anxious 3-year-old cockapoo Noodles (prone to aggressive barking and growling). Matt is the ultimate professional dog trainer. He is extremely knowledgeable and patient. In the beginning, he carefully explained and outlined the plan which convinced us to sign up for the Platinum Obedience Training. He tailored each session to Noodles’ needs (i.e., overcoming stranger anxiety especially toward male strangers). We transitioned gradually from training inside the house, to outdoors and then to public spaces in a comfortable pace. We learned so much from him during each session. He would always ask if I had any specific concerns or questions and I appreciate his step by step directions and demonstrations on what to do for different scenarios. The group sessions were very helpful too, for the exposure to other dogs and simulation of different types of situations. This is probably the best testament to our dog’s positive transformation: when we brought Noodles to a holiday party after 3 months of training, my brother-in-law asked if we “sedated” our dog prior to the party because Noodles was not barking at all and was so well-behaved. Thank you to Matt K and the entire staff of Dog Training Central Massachusetts.
  • Verda Abulaf
    Jan. 2, 2025
    Matt is amazing, patient and knowledgeable. We have already started to see progress throughout the second meet, I am very happy. Highly recommended
  • Ilene Holman
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Marcus was great!
  • Brianna LaGuardia
    Sep. 17, 2024
    Marcus was great! Training was something I had debated doing for a long time, especially since my dog was 4 but I’m so glad I did and so glad I chose Dog Training Elite. From the beginning, there was no judgement and they were flexible and accommodating. My dog has come a long way and I have so much more trust in him than I did before. I also appreciate being able to email questions and notes and get feedback that way (outside of our sessions). Overall, I’m very happy with the service provided and would highly recommend!
  • Kathy Friberg
    Sep. 9, 2024
    Dog Training Elite Marcus came today and explained everything to us! We have a Parson Jack Russell who is out of control they will help us get Maggie trained and be a better dog.. we can’t wait for training to begin.. They showed us another dog who was trained it was a real treat to watch Duncan. We are hoping Maggie will do as well as Duncan ( there’s hope)
  • Michael Shannon
    Sep. 6, 2024
    Our experience with this company has been truly exceptional, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. Matt Fennell, in particular, was an outstanding trainer and exceeded all of our expectations. It's important to note that the trainers focus on equipping you with the skills to effectively train your dog, and Matt excelled in this regard. As someone who has always had a deep connection with dogs and grown up with them, this was my first time seeking professional training. The results have been so amazing, and the bond I now share with my dog is stronger and more rewarding than ever before. If you are committed to following the guidance provided by Matt or any of the trainers, and are willing to put in the effort both during and outside of the training sessions, you will notice the same results I did. Such a great experience!
  • Lisa Blanchard
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Matt was informative and helpful!
  • Courtney Tompkins
    Sep. 4, 2024
    Marcus and Patrick were amazing. They helped us train our lab puppy. She had a lot of energy and was a bit of a challenge compared to our last pups. The trainers are very knowledgeable and helpful. If we had questions in between sessions we could just reach out and they would guide us on whatever challenges we were having. They accommodated my work schedule which was a huge help. We feel it was definitely worth the money and highly recommend them!
  • Nichole McIvor
    Sep. 4, 2024
    I have been very happy with the services both Marcus and Matt have provided me and my family while working with my 6-year-old German Shepherd, Whiskey. She is so smart but very high strung and constantly in overdrive and they are committed to leading my partner and me in navigating her training while helping her to meet her full potential! I’m excited to continue with them!
  • Sarah Geller
    Jul. 31, 2024
    DTE and especially Marcus are THE BEST. No one I’ve ever met knows and works with dogs like Marcus at dog training elite. We call him the “dog whisperer” but in truth mostly he has to train me, the handler, as much as my dog Wally. He has a really clear and consistent way of communicating which has transformed Wally from a nippy jumping puppy into a dog who is about to pass his public access test for service dog work. The company in general is excellent and all the staff and trainers are really responsive and work with me and Wally to make the best training sessions around my schedule, meeting at our house or public places to practice his service work. I would absolutely recommend Dog training elite and Marcus to anyone who wants to properly and seriously train and develop their relationship with their dog and is willing to put in the time and energy! Wally is learning so much so fast and is doing great. Thank you!! Update: Wally just passed his public access test!! Thanks so much Marcus for everything you’ve taught us both!!!
  • Christine Fuller
    Sep. 4, 2024
    Patrick was friendly and knowledgeable, great experience so far!
  • This is Life
    Jul. 29, 2024
    You guys are amazing! We are learning so much, we’re making a lot of progress I’m so thankful.!!

Our Team

Michaela Macchia - Owner / Lead Trainer
Michaela Macchia
Owner / Lead Trainer

Michaela decided to take her passion for building relationships with animals to the next level by opening her own Dog Training Elite business. She has two dogs of her own, Quinn and Tiki. Their favorite activities are hiking, swimming, and cuddling in bed.

Michaela is excited to help others connect with their dogs by fostering relationships and building confidence.

Close
Marcus DiBenedetto - Owner / Lead Trainer
Marcus DiBenedetto
Owner / Lead Trainer

Marcus has always been around pets from having dogs, cats, rabbits, and chickens. Marcus has spent the previous 3 years as an outreach counselor for individuals with mental health illnesses and has seen the impact being connected to ones community can do for people. His passion for training dogs comes from seeing the bond between dog and handler deepen as they continue to work together.

Close
A well-trained DTE dog on a surfboard.
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Unleash Your Dog's Potential

Photo Gallery

See An Elite Dog in Action