Group Sessions

Please Note: Group Classes are for Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts Clients Only

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts offers private dog training classes after obedience training is completed and only once a puppy is fully immunized. Dog obedience classes are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our dog obedience training classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds), so that you can train your dog to obey you... regardless of the many distractions screaming for their attention!

Our group class schedule is coming soon...

Our Group Classes Could Help:

Improve Socialization Skills

Foster a Supportive Community

Strengthen the Dog-Owner Bond

Reinforce Basic Obedience

Prepare for Real-World Distractions

Offer Personal Attention in Private Groups

Please Note: Group Classes are for Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts Clients Only

Expert Group Training Classes

At Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts, our group classes offer an engaging and supportive environment for dogs and their owners. These sessions create an interactive setting where your dog will learn to focus with distractions and develop essential social skills beyond basic obedience training. You can expect a mix of practical training exercises, guidance from experienced trainers, and a strong sense of community with fellow dog owners after signing up for a class.

Our group classes are a perfect blend of structure and socialization, making them an enjoyable experience where dogs can thrive and build lasting skills. Whether you're looking to refine your dog's behavior or simply enjoy a shared learning experience, our group dog training classes in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA provide the perfect opportunity.

Please note: Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.

See Training Packages

A calm, obedient dog outside on a leash at a Dog Training Elite's group dog training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA.

Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?

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Dog Training Elite knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.

It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?

We offer dog training classes near you for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.

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!

Call 978-480-6298 Free Assessment

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.!!

Reviews & Testimonials

A group of dogs and their owners building community at a Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts group training class.

Building Social Skills and Community

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Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, and we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing.

We are building a community and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog Owners look forward to their once a week group training sessions.

Three dogs sitting on a bench who are ready for group training with the experts at Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts.

Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training

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Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:

Your Dog is Destructive: Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
Your Dog is Aggressive: Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash: Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful: If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
Your Dog Ignores You at the Park: Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.

Additional Training Programs

Obedience Training

Learn More

Puppy Training

Learn More

Service Dog Training

Learn More

Anxiety & Aggression

Learn More

Therapy Dog Training

Learn More

A happy, well-trained dog and their owner at an outdoor obedience class from Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts.

Group Dog Training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA

The DTE Difference

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Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite training method is the same. We focus on “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown this approach as more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.

We do not use harsh punishments or shock collars and instead pair balanced training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.

Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. 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. Our method nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.

Don’t wait! Join a Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts group dog training class today.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Call 978-480-6298 Free Assessment Package Details

Benefits of Group Classes

Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have.

Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:

Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.

Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.

Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.

In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.

Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.

Group Sessions