Request a Free Assessment
Training is key to creating a safe, loving environment for your canine companion. Dogs are great learners and always eager to please their owners. With the right techniques, a little patience, and consistency from the whole family, Fido can learn just about anything.
Besides teaching your dog respectful behaviors (like no excessive barking and no begging from the table), training keeps your dog:
-
Safe
If your dog knows to come on command, or “stay” in place, both of you will be safer when outdoors. Untrained dogs may dart off into the road, or become distracted by their surroundings and get lost. -
Smart
Consistent instruction is mentally stimulating and improves your dog’s cognitive health. Learning also prevents boredom and the destructive habits that result from it.
-
Happy
Dogs thrive on positive, loving relationships with their human family members. A dog that doesn’t know proper behavior is unlikely to have a positive relationship with the people around him. By teaching your dog what behaviors are acceptable, you establish a comfortable and loving environment.
Effective training is key to a positive dog-owner relationship. Learning how to communicate with your canine companion is difficult without assistance, however. If you’ve been struggling with your dog’s behavior, it may be time to find a professional dog trainer near you.
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.
Silver
$1,295
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 8 sessions
- Come
- Heel (walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture when desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Place(go to bed)
Gold
$1,695
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 5 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 24 Sessions
- Train Owners Leadership Skills
- Lifetime phone support
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Get into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Chewing
- STOP Digging
- Additional 1-on-1 classes available for purchase
- Additional group classes available for purchase
Platinum
$2,295
Most Popular Package
Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.
LIFETIME GROUP CLASSES
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 8 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions Unlimited
- Train Owners Leadership Skills
- Lifetime phone support
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Build Confidence
- Get into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Chewing
- STOP Digging
- Choose to Address Advanced Concerns: - Calm Anxiety
- Control Aggression(dog & human) - Or Choose One Tailored Skill Below: *Specialized training options based upon your dog's abilities. - Therapy dog training See Details - Emotional Support Dog Training
- Ride on a Golf Cart, Skateboard, or Wagon
- Stay with You on Jog, Hike, or Bike Ride
- Other Custom Command Approved by Trainer - Additional 1-on-1 classes available for purchase
- Additional group classes available for purchase
Finding Professionals In An Unregulated Industry
There is no regulating body or licensing process for professional dog trainers. Anyone can advertise themselves as a trainer, whether they have the necessary skills and knowledge or not.
Navigating through this unregulated industry can be tricky. As a dog owner, you want a qualified trainer that will:
- Respect you, your dog, and your family.
- Stick to your schedule.
- Use positive training methods.
- Never harm your dog.
- Address your dog's unique needs and behaviors.
- Teach you how to better communicate with your dog.
- Provide ongoing support and check-in after training sessions.
- Train in various settings, environments and stages.
- Empower you to build a healthy, loving bond with your dog.
It takes years of experience and education for trainers to be able to offer all of the above. So how do you find a professional that fits your and your dog’s needs?
Se habla español!
"Pawsitive" Indicators of a Good Dog Trainer
Some things to look for when searching for a Fort Wayne dog trainer include:
Training Technique
There are various training methods out there, but the most effective is positive reinforcement. According to the American Kennel Service, positive reinforcement techniques “are based on the science of animal learning and have the bonus of strengthening the dog-owner bond.”
- “Alpha Dog” or dominance-based training techniques. Dominance theory is based on incorrect assumptions of dog and wolf behavior. Dog behaviorists have proven that positive techniques are the only healthy way to communicate with dogs. Dominant, punishment-based training causes anxiety, fear and aggression.
- Trainers that use choke-chains, shock collars, sprays, and other punishment tactics.
Stay Away From:
Personality
You want to enjoy the time spent with your trainer, so find someone with a happy, exciting personality. You’re looking for a professional, of course, but we are all dog lovers here, so light-hearted attitudes are important. Your dog must connect well with a trainer for efficient learning, so pay attention to how your dog reacts to your chosen trainer.
- Trainers that make you feel bad about your relationship with your dog or your dog’s behavior.
- Rude, dismissive attitudes, and trainers that are too uptight.
- Trainers that use harsh words and aggressive tactics.
Stay Away From:
Empowerment
A dog trainer is truly a teacher at heart, and their goal is to teach you how to better communicate with your dog. You need a coach who helps you connect better with your pet, empowering you to build a strong bond. When the trainer is gone, you’ll be the one giving the commands, so make sure you find someone that is understanding, patient, and committed.
- A trainer that does not want to involve you and your family members in the process.
- Programs that only offer board and train -- effective training involves various settings, including classes and inside the home.
- Trainers that cannot explain how dogs learn and cannot teach you how to communicate with your dog.
Stay Away From:
Credentials
Dog trainers do not need a license, but there are various education programs available. Look for a trainer that can prove their credentials with experience, education, and certifications. If you have a specific need, such as personal protection or service training, be sure to find a trainer that is experienced in that area.
At Dog Training Elite, our dog trainers are educated and experienced with training dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages. All locations are registered with the Professional Retriever Trainers Association, the International Association of Canine Professionals, and the American Kennel Club.
Trainers that cannot prove their education, experience, or background.
Stay Away From:
Customization
All dogs have unique personalities and life experiences that shape their behaviors. A well-qualified trainer offers customizable programs tailored to the unique needs of each client and dog. In-home training approaches are preferred, so the trainer can observe your dog in his home environment (where he feels most comfortable acting naughty!).
You should also look for a trainer that covers both basic obedience and advanced programs.
- Trainers that can’t teach more than basic obedience commands.
- A trainer that diagnoses medical issues as reasoning for problem behaviors. Trainers are not licensed veterinarians and should never diagnose a dog. If a medical issue is suspected, a qualified trainer will recommend you speak to a vet.
Stay Away From:
Good References
References and consumer reviews are key to finding a reliable trainer. Ask around at the dog park for good references, and research each trainer or company. Read through customer reviews and take a look at how professional their website appears.
- Trainers that have no website or online references, or trainers that have poor reviews.
- Trainers with reviews that mention aggressive tactics, fear-based techniques, and punishment-based theory.
Stay Away From:
Se habla español!
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.
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.
Trust Your Gut
Choosing a trainer is an important part of being a dog owner, and in the end, you want to choose the professional you feel comfortable with. This is someone that you’ll be inviting into your home and spending plenty of time with! A dog trainer with credentials, experience, and a friendly personality that makes your dog’s tail wag is most likely a great choice.
You also want to make sure you get your money’s worth, so choose a trainer that is invested in you and your dog. At Dog Training Elite, we follow up with our clients even after training sessions have ended. Our goal is to help clients build strong relationships with their pets, and that takes consistent effort. Our professional dog trainers are some of the best in the Fort Wayne area. We cover training programs such as obedience, personal protection, anxiety, aggression, and service dog.