In-House Payment Plans Available to Help Fund your Dog's Education
A happy, well trained dog from Dog Training Elite, your trusted source for dog training in Phoenix, AZ
Elite, Award-winning

Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ

Arizona's leading dog trainers!
Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Dog Training Services in Phoenix, AZ

Obedience Training

We believe sustained obedience comes from empowering owners and their dogs to build strong, lasting bonds through training.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Service Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

Built on 40+ years of experience, Dog Training Elite proudly leads the way in professional service dog training tailored to your needs.

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

Empowering Owners


We work with dogs of any breed, size or age - and we empower owners with lifelong skills to continue successes.

  • Leash Walking & Heel Training

  • Barking Issues

  • Aggression & Reactivity 

  • Separation Anxiety

  • Jumping & Hyperactivity 

  • Sitting & Stay Commands

  • Destructive Chewing & Digging

  • Recall Training (Come When Called)

  • Boundary Training (Off Furniture or Beds)

  • Vehicle Behavior

  • Training for Specific Tasks

  • And More

Dog Training Elite Phoenix

Arizona's leading dog trainers!

We offer in Home & Facility Training Options
2909 S Dobson Rd
Unit 15
Mesa, AZ 85202
Dog Training Elite Phoenix
3 dogs sitting outside on a bench
Hear from Our Owner!

Dog Safety in the Arizona Heat

Pet safety should be top of mind in the Sun Cities

Despite the triple-digit temperatures, pet exercise — both physical and mental — are important, but safety must be a priority. Owner and trainer, Neal Mestas, gives tips to keep your pup safe during the summer heat.

Read More

An image of a news video clip about keeping dogs safe in the summer heat.

AZ Family Dog Days of Summer

Need tips for keeping your pup safe and active through summer heat?

Check out this recent video with advice from Owner of Dog Training Elite Arizona on how to keep your dog entertained while staying cool indoors during the summer months.

Watch Now

An image of a news video clip with a dog barking.

Fox 10 National Dog Rescue Day!

Dog Training Elite Arizona's Megan Kelley offers tips on bonding with newly adopted rescue dogs through training, confidence building, and patience.

Watch Now

Training Programs

Flexible & Customized for your Pet

At Dog Training Elite, we go beyond basic obedience and train dogs to excel in real-world situations. Our dog training in Phoenix, AZ produces dogs that are prepared for real-world challenges and enrich your daily life. We focus on creating lifelong bonds of love and trust, helping your dog become a confident, trusted family member.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Dog Obedience Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE

Obedience Training

Our obedience training for dogs in Phoenix, AZ is designed to teach essential commands and reinforce good behavior, ensuring your dog is well-mannered in any situation.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Puppy Training in Phoenix, AZ. Dog Training Elite

Puppy Training

Our puppy training in Phoenix, AZ builds a strong bond between you and your new puppy by focusing on early socialization, basic commands, and good behavior.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Service Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

Our Phoenix service dog training turns dogs into dependable companions, trained to perform tasks like retrieving items, providing stability, or alerting to medical conditions.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Anxiety & Aggressive Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ

Anxiety & Aggression

Our Phoenix aggressive dog training targets and corrects behaviors driven by anxiety and aggression, helping your dog stay calm and well-behaved in challenging situations.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Therapy Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ

Therapy Dog Training

Our Phoenix therapy dog training equips dogs with the skills needed to provide comfort and emotional support in various settings. These trained dogs help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve the overall well-being of their owners.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Personal Protection Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ

Personal Protection

Our Phoenix protection dog training transforms dogs into loyal companions and reliable guardians, teaching them to respond effectively to threats and protect your home and family.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Group Class Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE

Group Training

Our group dog training classes in Phoenix, AZ offer a structured environment where dogs can learn and practice essential skills while socializing with other dogs and their owners.

DTE Arizona - Phoenix Team Bailey
Dog Training Elite Phoenix blue star icon.

Our Story

Dog Training Elite Phoenix

In 2014, Neal Mestas opened the first Dog Training Elite (DTE) franchise outside of Utah, driven by a lifelong passion for dogs and training. His journey began as a bird boy training hunting dogs, ultimately leading to DTE Arizona. Alongside him was Bailey, the Belgian Malinois, who became Neal’s Service and Protection Canine. This partnership laid the foundation for DTE's success.

Today, our team specializes in basic and advanced obedience, service and therapy dog training, behavior modification and personal protection. Helping families build stronger bonds with their dogs through expert guidance and care. Even though Bailey is no longer with us, her legacy continues through every dog we train.

About Us

Our Team

Neal Mestas - Owner & Trainer - DTE Arizona
Neal Mestas
Owner & Trainer - DTE Arizona

Neal has been training dogs his entire life, participating in his first competition at the age of 9. With a lifetime of dog training experience, he can read dog body language with ease. Neal is a patient trainer, his approach to teaching and training is enhanced by his passion for what he does, whether it be basic or advanced training, he loves it! He specializes in just about everything, from basic and advanced obedience, reactivity and aggression control, calming anxious or fearful dogs, protection work, temperament testing, and service dog training. Neal has two Belgian Malinois’ of his own, a 13 year old retired demo dog named Bailey, and Chewbacca, or “Chewie”. According to Megan, “Neal is ok ".

Close
Karen - Trainer
Karen
Trainer

With credentials from Animal Behavior College, Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers, and over 10 years of professional dog training experience, Karen joins the DTE family. Karen can do it all, from service and obedience training, to titling dogs in AKC tricks, Schutzhund, French Ring, Canine Good Citizen, and so much more! Dog training runs in the family, as her father trained Search and Rescue and protection dogs. Karen’s first rescue Border Collie, Amy, was trained in agility, Frisbee and therapy work in 2002. Her 8 year old Belgian Tervuren, River, is a Confirmation champion, and holds titles in AKC tricks, CGC, Rally and Schutzhund. Her youngest Belgian Tervuren, Xeno, passed his Brevet in April of 2023. Karen enjoys the outdoors, taking her dogs on hikes, and overall, has love for animals!

Close
Azure - Trainer
Azure
Trainer

Azure was introduced to dog training by their mother who trained service dogs herself. They’ve been training dogs for over 5 years, and has recently joined our Arizona DTE family. As our lead service dog trainer, Azure is focused, determined, relationship-oriented, with a heavy focus on body language training. Azure specializes in obedience training, Canine Good Citizen testing, American Kennel Club Trick Dog testing, service training, and group park class management. Azure also has experience training disabled animals such as deaf and three-legged furry friends. Azure has a 14 year old Border Collie / Blue Heeler mix named Dash who has earned a novice trick dog title, and a Red Heeler puppy named Adrenaline, who Azure is currently training.

Close
Alexa - Trainer
Alexa
Trainer

Alexa checks all the boxes: patient, compassionate, caring, determined, dog lover. Everything you’re looking for in a dog trainer, Alexa is. She has experience with obedience and behavioral modification training. She is the owner of Gunner, the gentle giant, and Fudge Pop, the Frenchie with attitude.

Close
Megan - Operations Manager
Megan
Operations Manager

Megan makes the Arizona DTE company go ‘round. As our operations manager, Megan handles all things Dog Training Elite, from making sure our clients have what they need when they need it, filling in for trainers and office staff on sick days, handling the chaos of business, to making her employees laugh. Her introduction to DTE as a client in 2016 quickly transformed into employment, where she jumped around from state to state for the business. Megan currently resides in Arizona with her two dogs, Mazie the Belgian Malinois who does protection work, and Blue the super-mutt who is service trained. According to Neal “She’s pretty good”.

Close

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!

Giving Back

How Dog Training Elite Phoenix strengthens the community

Dog Training Elite Phoenix military and veteran discount.

Military & Veteran Discount

We proudly support our military members and veterans with discounts on our dog training services. Thank you for your service; let us serve you and your loyal companion.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix teachers and educators discount.

Teachers & Educators Discount

As a token of our appreciation for the dedication of teachers and educators, we offer special discounts on our training programs. It's our way of giving back to those who shape the future.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Mara Lockwood
    Oct. 31, 2025
    We're 3 weeks in and we had results from the very first session. Azure understood our dog so quickly and she's taught us things about our dog and dogs in general that have gone above beyond my expectations of what we'd be learning. I love how she talks about and to our dog. I also love how she does the initial training each week, tweaks it where needed, repeats it many time, then coaches us through it. This is so worth the investment!!!
  • Tom Brown
    Oct. 20, 2025
    We are in to our 3rd week......so far everyone has been very pleasant to work with....our 5month old puppy will not be the easiest to train however he's doing good for 3 lesson sessions. The training is equal for my husband and me along with our pup Norman. It is hard work but I think well worth it.
  • Christopher Wiltshire
    Oct. 6, 2025
    Exceptional experience with Dog Training Elite! The team has been absolutely amazing helping me train my Belgian Malinois, Sandy. From the very first session, they’ve been professional, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable — and it shows in Sandy’s progress. She just graduated and earned her invite to the group obedience classes, and she’s now advancing toward her Personal Protection Level 2 training! What I really love is that the trainers come to my home each week and always work around my schedule. They’re easy to work with, reliable, and genuinely care about Sandy and me. Every session is productive, positive, and fun — Sandy can’t wait to see them each time. Yes, the training isn’t cheap — but as the saying goes, cheap ain’t good and good ain’t cheap. The results and peace of mind I’ve gotten are absolutely worth it. If you want true professionals who deliver results and help you build an amazing bond with your dog, Dog Training Elite is the real deal. 🐾
  • Leida D
    Jun. 9, 2025
    They have the perfect program for my dog who is a pitti/german/mutt mix. They train you and your dog. My dog responded quickly and we saw changes in his behavior within 2 weeks.
  • Kristen Sanniec
    May. 25, 2025
    Dog training elite has given us the guidance for our Doberman puppy to be a well trained dog. They are available, helpful and are very professional. I would recommend them to anyone who needs puppy or dog training.
  • Karen Clayton
    May. 16, 2025
    We were so frustrated with our rescue-puppy that we were at wit’s end. Within the first week of training, we could tell a difference. It takes practice but we’re all learning and Kobe is so much more enjoyable. It is expensive, but worth the investment.
  • Brent Wood
    Apr. 21, 2025
    I’ve only had a few lessons but the progress I’ve seen in my 9 month old Anatolian Shepherd has been awesome! Money well spent!
  • Nickolas Rice
    Apr. 16, 2025
    Alexa has been amazing training our golden retriever puppy Chloe! No more getting jumped on and chewed like a dog bone!
  • Sandra Lazarus
    Mar. 15, 2025
    We are going enjoying our training sessions with Karen and Alexa. Both are great providing us with excellent training techniques.
  • Julia Crawford
    Mar. 11, 2025
    We just started our dog training for our mini labradoodle . We have had 3 training sessions so far with Azure and Karen. Azure did our first session and provided a lot of good info to get us started. Karen packed so much into our second session. In between sessions someone is always available to answer questions. We are so excited to see our Cooper progress through the trainings.
  • Leah C
    Mar. 5, 2025
    This place is excellent for dog training. It made a huge difference for us, we were at the end of our rope with a rescue from county who had a lot of behavioral issues. We did not know what to do and were desperate for a solution. Karen was our trainer and she was the absolute best. She was so good with our dog and the training. We could not have hoped for a better experience, it solved all of our problems. We have recommended Karen to anyone we know that is looking into dog training. 100% worth the money. Would do it again no question.
  • FaithTravelers
    Feb. 25, 2025
    Love the training. The trainers are patient, experienced, and appear to really care about both the client person and the client dog. Gave a 4 because of the cost and only two levels to choose from.
  • Gail Willmore
    Feb. 21, 2025
    If you are looking for top notch training for your dog I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. They understand behavior and train in a method that is rewarding for both your dog and the owner/trainer. Training can be stressful and the trainers understand that and are responsive to both the need of the dog and the trainer so that it is an enriching and rewarding experience for your dog and for you.
  • Cecilia Listrani
    Feb. 13, 2025
    Jaxon has turned his attitude around thanks to Alexa! She helps us and him with his training and we now feel confident taking him in public settings. Not only does Dog Training Elite help with obedience training, but also with off leash, aggression and reactivity! I would definitely recommend them for your pet!
  • Carol Hernandez
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Our 4 month old German Shepherd has improved since working with Dog Training Elite. We look forward to further improvement with working with Alexa. She’s good with our puppy Sammy.
  • Mindy Holman
    Oct. 2, 2024
    I have been very happy with their training! I feel capable and able to help my dog be successful and confident in what I’m asking her to do. Great people to work with. Highly recommend them.
  • Ryan Roudebush
    Sep. 23, 2024
    These trainers are masters at their craft! With their techniques and training our dog enjoys more freedom and the ability to go camping, hiking or whatever adventure comes our way.
  • Halal W
    Aug. 22, 2024
    Karen & Neil rock at everything. Jax went from zero to hero quickly. I've paid thousands elsewhere with little results. :( Dog Training Elite is the STANDARD of dog training. The real deal. Jax is doing amazing and will continue to be a customer for life.
  • Drevno
    Jun. 27, 2024
    This was a pricey one, but our dog needed help and this was the right place for the job. Our dog was quite reactive when people came over to our house. He really didn't like it and he would act aggressive, to the point where having someone watch him or even just having house guests over was a major ordeal. We went for the platinum package and overall the experience has been great. We've had private lessons with experienced dog trainers, they gave us the tools we need to keep our dog in check. Our dog is happier than ever and more confident, he's begun to play with our other dogs and more importantly we can have guests over without him losing his mind, he still doesn't like them but now we can get him to sit on his bed and calm down much more quickly. He gets over the guests being there and we can have a more normal life. Furthermore we had someone watch him when we went out of town for a few days (someone he's really not familiar with) and we had no issues. This was worth every penny, we got our lives back and his life is better. We're nearing the end of our private lessons but we have lifetime access to group lessons where he can continue to learn and grow. I would recommend dog training elite to anyone with a dog who needs training, and in fact I have recommended them to family.
  • Mari Griffin
    Jun. 15, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is all you need for the dog of your dreams. I have been working with Neal and his staff for 4 months now and I am blown away by how much we’ve accomplished in such a short time. My gorgeous Akita was very well trained by me in obedience but I wanted him to learn protection and socialization. I cannot recommend Neal and his team enough!!! Neal is the real deal!! If you want the dog you see in the movies then all you need to do is call Dog Training Elite.
A dog owner signing their dog up for affordable training classes at Dog Training Elite Phoenix.

Fund Your Dog’s Education!

Call for details about our payment options

Call 480-277-6659
A child with their happy, obedient dog with training from Dog Training Elite.

We Train Every Breed

Read More
Read Less

Each dog breed has different behaviors and personalities due to a combination of genetics, selective breedings, and environmental factors. At Dog Training Elite, we work with every dog. Our team understands canine behavior and the unique challenges of every breed.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we apply specific breed training techniques to bring out the best in your dog. From impulse control in terriers to focused mental stimulation for herding breeds, we’ll work with you and your dog to design a personalized training plan.

Local Dog Training Services in Phoenix

And Surrounding Areas


Apache Junction
Bapchule
Camelback East Village
Cave Creek
Chandler
Chandler Heights
Fountain Hills
Two dog owners with a group of trained dogs.

Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ

Read More
Read Less

At Dog Training Elite, we’ve seen how DIY dog training can lead to inconsistent results and frustration. Our qualified professionals bring the expertise needed to assess your dog’s unique needs and apply methods that work. Choosing experienced trainers makes a noticeable difference in attaining reliable, lasting behavior changes.

We rely on a balanced training method that delivers lasting results, even with the most challenging dogs. Our trainers are skilled in addressing any behavioral issue and can help your dog to reach their full potential with encouragement and proven techniques.

An obedient corgi on a leash after recieving training from Dog Training Elite.

Professional Phoenix Dog Trainers

Read More
Read Less

Pet owners often have many options when it comes to dog training, including low-cost, quick-fix programs that claim immediate results. However, our training methods stand apart by focusing on sustainable, long-term success rather than temporary fixes. We provide a high standard of expert dog training that is built to last, ensuring that you and your dog benefit from a deeper, enduring bond and advanced obedience that continues over time.

Investing in effective dog training is one of the most valuable choices you can make for your pet’s health, behavior, and happiness. Our trainers are dedicated to delivering personalized training plans that target your dog’s unique needs, going beyond basic obedience to include specialized behavioral work and service dog training. Our goal is to be the last dog trainers you’ll ever need — bringing advanced training quality to the Phoenix, AZ area for lasting, meaningful results.

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

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Unleash Your Dog's Potential

A dog that has just graduated from Dog Training Elite's award-winning training program.

Award-Winning
Dog Training

With Dog Training Elite

At Dog Training Elite, we are proud to offer training services recognized for outstanding results and effective methods. With skilled trainers dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting relationships, we guarantee your dog receives the best care and guidance.

Our programs cover everything from basic obedience to advanced behavior modification, customized to your dog’s needs. Whether you’re addressing behavioral issues, improving obedience, or strengthening your bond, our methods deliver reliable results.

Experience the difference our award-winning training can make in your dog’s life.

Dog Training Elite Phoenix Google Local Service Ads