A golden retriever holding a grocery bag, our obedience training for dogs in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA can help with these daily tasks.

Professional

Dog Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts

Booking Request


Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts online booking

Request Free Assessment

Booking Request


Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts online booking

Request Free Assessment

Our Obedience Dog Training Could Help:

Basic commands
Improved behavior
Socialization
Leash manners
Bonding
Mental stimulation
Confidence building
Impulse control
Good manners in public

Dog Training Elite

Obedience Training for Dogs in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA

While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.

Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts’s programs, including in-home training!

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A golden retriever puppy laying on the floor with its owner, contact us today for dog obedience training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA.

In-Home Training


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Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.

Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, down, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.

Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.

Trainers from Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.

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!

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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 Fitchburg / Leominster.
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

  • 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.!!
  • Russ Morris
    Aug. 9, 2024
    Barbara was awesome. Matt was awesome Marcus was awesome
  • Lisa Dipadua
    Aug. 30, 2024
    Matt is very knowledgeable and completely honest about training our dog. I am grateful and hope to be able to Train myself and my husband to train our dog and help him to live a healthy happy life.
  • Amy B
    Aug. 29, 2024
    My reactive dog, Shelby (6) and I were paired with Matt as our trainer and he changed our lives! I will admit I was intimidated at first hearing all the expectations but I wouldn’t trust anyone else but Matt with Shelby. I can’t even find the words to express how thankful I am for his help and guidance. He was encouraging and always thorough in his explanation. Most importantly he made me more confident with Shelby. Shelby is now able to be around other dogs and strangers. A month ago she would bark, growl, lunge at them. Now she is able to do group training since we are done with private training and I was so proud of how well she did around others. The only regret I have is not doing this sooner! Shelby has been in two other training programs and never did this well. If you’re reading this and on the fence, do it! It is the best money I ever spent. Thank you so much Matt for changing our lives! Also thank you Michaela for helping me in the decision process and not making me feel pressured to buy the most expensive plan and to do what works for me. I have already recommended DTE to 3 people!
  • erin morvan
    Aug. 28, 2024
    Patrick was very polite and knowledgeable. Great with meeting our dogs!
  • Megan Burgess
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Always gives such good advice to help me and my service dog grow!
  • tamea smith
    Aug. 9, 2024
    I want to give a huge thank you to all of the trainers that helped Marlo and I. Before the training sessions we were experiencing trouble on basic commands, dog on dog aggression, and pulling on walks. It was so bad that my partner and I were almost at our breaking point due to the safety of others. Most people looked at him as just a typical Pitbull who was “aggressive” and could not be saved. But The trainers always came with a positive mindset, gave him a lot of love and praise, and showed me how this statement was untrue. As a whole everyone was very hands on with Marlo. They even set a great example for Marlo by introducing their dogs to him and helped teach him how to behave properly. Overall, I learned how to be more confident with Marlo which helped reflect on his behavior. We now have a happy behaved pup ready to take on this world stress free!
  • soo wang
    Aug. 2, 2024
    Love it! Matt handled my aggressive dog so well. I’m glad that I reached out to them.
  • Susan Purcell
    Jul. 29, 2024
    Barbara is an excellent trainer. She explains things clearly, demonstrates and then has me do it. I am so excited seeing the progress my dog is showing.
  • Sharon Lindsay
    Aug. 8, 2024
    Barbara was the trainer that came to my home. She was a wealth of experience and knowledge. She had the patience of a saint. She really got my 10-month-old Rottie to blossom. He had a lot of fear issues which she helped him to over come and got him to listen to commands. She was very prompt in arriving to my home and gave me the full hour I paid for.
  • Esther Hering
    Aug. 1, 2024
    Really enjoyed working with Barbara. She catered our training sessions to the needs of our dog. Dog training elite was very responsive when I reached out asking for additional training advice. Would highly recommend.
  • Wendy Castagna
    Jul. 24, 2024
    Matt was great with Pepper. Very patient!!!
A Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts owner smiling with his dog in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts, MA

Our Difference

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There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.

  1. Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
  2. Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
  3. Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts never resorts 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.

A golden retriever playing with its owner during a Fitchburg / Leominster dog obedience training class.

Effective Training Through Positive Reinforcement and Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts

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The Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts training theory 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. Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA. DTE
Classical Conditioning Training

Classical conditioning dog training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA, also known as Pavlovian or respondent conditioning, is a dog training method that involves creating automatic responses to specific commands. This approach taps into a dog’s natural reflexes, making training more effective and instinctive.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA. DTE
Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement dog trainers in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA focus on rewarding dogs for good behavior to encourage them to repeat it. Using treats, praise, or play, these trainers help your dog learn quickly and happily, building a strong bond and creating a well-behaved, motivated companion.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Puppy Obedience Training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training

Taking advantage of our Fitchburg / Leominster puppy obedience trainers is crucial for setting your puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Early training helps instill essential commands and good behavior, preventing future issues and strengthening the bond between you and your puppy.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts - Off Leash Dog Training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training

Our off-leash dog training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA, helps your dog achieve complete freedom and control, even in distracting environments. With expert guidance, we’ll teach your dog to follow commands confidently without the need for a leash, giving you both greater flexibility and trust in your dog's behavior.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts -
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

While we don't offer formal agility dog training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA, our basic obedience training can significantly enhance your dog's agility. By focusing on essential commands and improving coordination, speed, and focus, your dog will develop the skills and discipline that naturally improve their agility and overall physical abilities.

A godlen retriever at a show demo with Dog Training Elite in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA.

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts

Shelter Rescue Dog Obedience Training

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With a little extra love and care, a shelter or rescue dog can be a great addition to your family. While not every dog that comes from a shelter has a traumatic past, there is really no way to know what your new dog has been through. You will need to be patient as your new pet adjusts to his new environment. It is common for shelter or rescue dogs to display aggression, anxiety, and/or disobedient behaviors. If you’re having difficulty training your new pet, a professional training program can help make the transition easier for both you and your dog. At Dog Training Elite in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA, we offer aggressive dog training and other programs designed for shelter or rescue dogs. Our personalized home training programs are developed to solve the particular behavior issues that your pet has. We work directly with you and other members of the household to ensure bonding and positive training sessions. From basic dog obedience training to customized programs, Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts offers the most professional dog training services in the area.

Dogs from a shelter or those that have been rescued from a bad situation can still lead healthy and happy lives. As a rescue dog owner, it is up to you to ensure that your new pet feels comfortable in your home.

Contact us today to learn more about our dog obedience training for rescue animals.

A Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts owner with her black lab dog, our obedience training for dogs in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA can help strengthen your bond.

Start Your Obedience Dog Training in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA Today

Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts

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Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.

Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite in Fitchburg / Leominster, MA today to start your dog obedience training!

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

Common Questions About Obedience Training

Still have questions about obedience training? We’ve got you covered! Below are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify any remaining concerns you have. At Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts, we're here to ensure you and your dog have the best training experience possible.

The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
Besides basic commands, dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.