Request a Free Assessment
German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America - and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!
Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience and personal protection training programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.
Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly. The professional training of Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.
If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.
In-Home German Shepherd Training
Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.
Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.
Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
Empowering Owners
We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
Supportive
We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
Involved
We work with all members of the household.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Be Consistent
Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Get Plenty of Exercise
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Positive Reinforcement
Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne 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.
The Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne 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 of Fort Wayne’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today!
Se habla español!
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
Clint, Nathan, and Janella were wonderful in training our GSD, Betty. They trained in our home and neighborhood, which was great for observing Betty in her natural environment. We regularly receive compliments on Betty’s manners and impulse control. For our previous dog, we used another local trainer for a 5 day boot camp at their facility. We found Dog Training Elite to be much more effective and have seen better results. We would definitely recommend them.— Kurt Beuchel
Posted April 28th 2024
Dog Training Elite is phenomenal. Clint and Nathan provided in home dog training for our 5 month old pups, Sami & Sofi. They were professional yet genuine in their training and methods. They made it an environment that was fun yet structured. As pet owner’s for years - we learned so much from them (as did our pups). This was one of the best investments we could have ever made, not only for our pups, but for us. The change has been truly amazing!— Jodi & Don Rowlands
Posted April 26th 2024
Clint is awesome. He listens as well as ensures your understanding of the method and why. Follow his training and you will have a dog that is adjusted and able to in public. No embarrassment from your fur buddy. You will not regret the call, unless you don't make it today. It's never to late or early to start training your dog.— *
Posted March 15th 2024
We started training with another trainer and it just wasn't working. Our girl wasn't catching on and she wasn't happy. We met a very happy Dog Training Elite customer and after their glowing review we immediately signed up. In just a few weeks Clint helped us take our girl from 'not so trained' to walking in a heel OFF leash! Her behaviors went from "meh" to 'what a well behaved dog!". She is happier and more confident. We couldn't be more pleased. Clint came and worked with our girl and taught us how to do the same. We put in the work between sessions and now we have a great dog! We highly recommend Dog Training Elite!— Alicia Scott
Posted April 24th 2024
I love Fort Wayne DogTraining Elite! Clint is very thorough and clear when it comes to communication! He gives excellent examples to learn from! We also had Nathan and Janella work with our dog and did an excellent job! I love learning from each of them and happy to be on the team! 😊— Zandra Kemp
Posted April 22nd 2024
BEST TRAINERS EVER!!!! Thank you to Hope and Clint making her an ELITE dog through your program!!— Janella Benitez
Posted April 20th 2024
Clint helped to train our two dogs and wow… they have never behaved so well! We will be going to dog training elite for every dog we own!! More than worth it!— Chase Twibell
Posted April 20th 2024
I highly recommend Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne if you're looking for a well behaved friend. Our dog's change in behavior was very noticeable during the first session. He listened, paid attention, and was responding to instructions very well. Cooper has become more confident and well behaved. We can take him anywhere without worrying about him. Clint is the best!— Gary
Posted April 19th 2024
I cannot begin to say enough good things about Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne. From day one of training, we noticed a huge improvement in our Rottweiler\blue heeler puppy. Our puppy’s trainer, Nathan, is so helpful, knowledgeable, and a fantastic trainer. Our puppy looks forward to seeing Nathan each week. We are so pleased with the results we have had so far and look forward to our puppy’s journey on his way to becoming an Elite Dog. We owe it all to Nathan and Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne. I highly recommend them if you are looking to train your puppy or your dog. Truly amazing!!!— chris rimmel
Posted April 19th 2024
DTE is a wonderful family owned/veteran owned dog training company that exceeded our expectations. The in-home training started when our puppy was 5 1/2 months old. We are so thankful we started her young Clint has a real gift with animals training and customer service. Our puppy went from Jumping on everyone, play biting, face licking and chasing grandkids to being very well behaved. At Seven months old the grandkids can walk/give her commands, she helps round up the chickens without chasing them or barking at them. She goes to work with me and sits in “place” for an hour at a time when told to go to place. We are working so Hope will become a therapy dog and possibly dual purpose service dog for me for a medical condition. We cannot say enough good things about Clint and his company. We highly recommend them for any type of training.— Stacy Lyn Boggs
Posted April 18th 2024
Dog Training Elite Fort Wayne is phenomenal. Nathan is fantastic. Our puppy Beefy looks forward to seeing Nathan each week.— Nicole Freeman Procise
Posted April 18th 2024
Nathan is an excellent trainer. Our dog Dolly is extremely shy and normally hides if someone she doesn't know comes to our home. After 2 visits, Dolly would welcome Nathan. Her training has helped us immensely. She's even starting to trust some strangers. Would highly recommend Dog Training Elite for anyone who wants their dog to be more obedient and easier to handle— Larry Bergman
Posted April 9th 2024
Nathan is absolutely wonderful. He is very calm mannered and informative. My dog Leo looked forward to working with Nathan each week, it showed in Leo's excitement when Nathan arrived at our home. The training was educational and fun for Leo every session.— Stacy phillips
Posted April 5th 2024
Clint and Nathan are amazing! They are so patient. Jake, my dog, learned from them with ease. I would recommend their program to everyone. Thanks guys for all your hard work! You are appreciated.— Tori Franklin
Posted April 3rd 2024
If you are looking for the best experience and training for your dog then look no further. Clint and Nathan are the best around! They provide you with the tools and training to set you and your dog up for success!!!— David Reynolds
Posted March 17th 2024
Clint and Nate are amazing! We have two bully breed puppies that have completed in home classes and graduated to become the best puppies! I highly recommend them for all your training needs. We chose the platinum package, which includes a variety of different options for more than just obedience training and unlimited group classes which we will be attending as often as we can!— Lisa Reynolds
Posted March 16th 2024
Excellent knowledge of dogs. Provides positive reinforcement and guidance. Would highly recommend.— Donna Vanvlerah
Posted March 15th 2024
I worried my dog would be too old (almost 2) but Nathan was great with him and the foundational skills he taught us have made a huge difference in his behavior. As a large dog, having these manners in place has been a game changer for our pet and everyone else in the family, and I appreciated in-home lessons, which felt more applicable to our everyday struggles.— Courtney L
Posted February 29th 2024
I wasn’t sure there was any hope to train my very stubborn German shepherd. Nathan and Clint taught me how to walk my dog and work through his doggie temper tantrums. Now I can enjoy walking my dog and I am so proud of him. He looks so handsome as we walk through the neighborhood. I now have confidence to give my dog the happy life he deserves thanks to Clint and Nathan!— Beth Ann Hargrove
Posted February 27th 2024
We have a feisty Rottweiler ( year and a half old) and have been through several trainers. Dog Training Elite has given us true results. They are the real deal! One thing I really have appreciated is the consistency in training. Part of the time we worked with Clint, the owner— and he is fantastic, but then we also had Nathan, and we didn’t miss a beat. Nathan is every bit as well-versed and it helped having different people working with our dog.They are firm, caring, compassionate and knowledgeable.It is well worth the money. Don’t go cheap. Go Elite.— Gregg Hermance
Posted February 22nd 2024
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne works with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.