Professional

Dog Training in Grand Rapids


Behavioral Training in Dogs in Grand Rapids

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Contact Dog Training Elite West Michigan

Or Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

616-600-1393


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Dog Training Elite can help with behavioral training in dogs in Grand Rapids.

Behavioral Training in Dogs in Grand Rapids

Is your dog chewing things? Peeing indoors? Does your dog reactively bark and have a hard time calming down? If you said yes to any of these questions, your dog needs behavior training, and Dog Training Elite West Michigan is here to help. Request a free in–home assessment and get started today!

The professionals at Dog Training Elite have years of experience with correcting unwanted behaviors in dogs and are well–equipped to handle any problems your dog might be causing at home. We can address and correct things like:

  • Biting
  • Digging up the yard
  • Not coming when called
  • Peeing indoors
  • Chewing household items
  • Leash pulling
  • Barking
  • Jumping
  • Anxiety and Aggression

Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite West Michigan location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


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.


Dog Training Elite West Michigan is the top company near you that uses professional positive dog training methods.
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.

See Our Pricing

Types of Dog Training Programs


There are many types of dog training programs used to create different outcomes. Some of the dog training programs you’ll find at Dog Training Elite include:

  • Obedience Training: This teaches your dog new verbal commands and skills like sit, stay, heel, come, and more. While obedience training is most commonly taught to puppies, dogs of any age can benefit from obedience training.
  • Behavior Training: This addresses and corrects specific problems a dog has. This training can be for anything from housetraining problems to anxiety and aggression.
  • Service Training: This training helps dogs learn to perform tasks and become companions for individuals with special needs or a disability. Service training requires a highly intelligent and obedient dog.
  • Therapy Training: Therapy dogs provide comfort and calmness in people’s lives. Outside of the home, they are utilized in hospitals, nursing homes, and even schools.
  • Personal Protection Training: This teaches a dog to protect its owner and to attack on command. You can train your dog to protect your family in many situations.

Understanding what type of training program you and your dog need will allow the professional dog trainers at Dog Training Elite West Michigan to help you and your dog in the best way possible.

Behavior Correcting Techniques


There are many techniques for behavior training. Here at Dog Training Elite, we employ positive reinforcement. With a positive training method, we focus on only giving positive feedback through treats or praise when your dog performs a correct behavior or task. We never use shock collars, negative feedback or other forms of punishment when training. Here are a few more techniques we use in addition to positive reinforcement.

  • Clicker training: When your dog performs the desired task or behavior, we use a device to make a small click sound, signaling your dog that it did the right thing. They are also then rewarded with a treat.
  • E–collar: At Dog Training Elite, we often use electronic collars, which are very different from shock collars. A shock collar sends an uncomfortable shock to your dog when they are behaving incorrectly and is used as a punishment. An E–collar sends a gentle vibration to get your dog's attention and refocus them on the task. It is never used as a punishment and does not hurt the dog.
  • Model training: This training involves using a model dog within a group. The trainer will work with the model dog to show the other dogs the correct behavior. The model dog will get praise and rewarded for performing. Since dogs often learn by observation, your dog will see this and attempt the correct behavior.
  • Relationship–based training: This technique strengthens the bond between dog and owner. A strong and deep connection with your furry friend will encourage obedience and help training happen more smoothly and faster.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Elite Dog Training in Grand Rapids All Breeds. All Sizes. All Ages.

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Professionals for Behavioral Problems

Addressing unwanted behaviors and behavior problems with your dog can be challenging to do by yourself. When your dog acts out and shows unwanted behaviors, it usually stems from anxiety or fear that they are experiencing. Getting to the root of that fear is hard to do on your own.

Having a professional dog trainer from Dog Training Elite by your side will make getting to the root of your dog's problems and helping correct them much easier. They have the skills and experience you and your dog need. With our specialized in–home training programs, we’ll help address your dog’s behavioral problems away from other distractions. In–home training is particularly useful when the issues have to do with your home too!

If you're looking for help with behavioral training in dogs in Grand Rapids, look no further! Find a Dog Training Elite West Michigan trainer in Grand Rapids and get the help you need today!

This cute beagle loves their behavioral training with Dog Training Elite.

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!

Dog Training Elite, specifically our trainer Carrie, has provided amazing customer service, dependability, solutions, and empowerment 100% of the time. Carrie has been working with us and our dog Panchito for the last month or so and all I can say is, “wow!” Her experience, wisdom, and patience shows every session. Our anxious and nervous rescue pup has come so far so fast. Although this is a costly service, the mental sanity that is provided with her direction and guidance is priceless. Every day still has its challenges, but we see improvements day after day with Panchito. His confidence has risen and anxiety is melting away. I would 100% recommend DTE to others and would happily call upon their services again if needed.
— Mitch Mileski
Posted March 23rd 2024
google
Our dog Echo and our family had an amazing experience with Dog Training Elite. Carrie's expertise and dedication to helping Echo learn and grow were truly impressive. She took the time to understand Echo's unique needs and tailored the training sessions to suit her and us perfectly. Under Carrie's guidance, Echo made significant progress in her puppy training. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite and Carrie to anyone looking for exceptional dog training services."
— Meghan Arnson
Posted March 19th 2024
google
Wallace, my nine month old English Cream Golden Retriever, and I just completed all of our individual obedience classes with Carrie. Her reassurance and patience is exactly what I need and has helped me learn how best to communicate and guide Wallace. We are excited to continue working with Carrie as Wallace moves into training to become my service dog. It has been worth every penny and I know will change my life forever.
— Josie Van Dam
Posted February 14th 2024
facebook
Wallace, my nine month old English Cream Golden Retriever, and I just completed all of our individual obedience classes with Carrie. Her reassurance and patience is exactly what I need and has helped me learn how best to communicate and guide Wallace. We are excited to continue working with Carrie as Wallace moves into training to become my service dog. Worth every penny!
— Josie Van Dam
Posted February 14th 2024
google
I cannot say enough good things about Dog Training Elite. They have taken our puppy who we recently rescued who was ‘skidish’, food deprived, neglected and locked in a cage for the first 7 months of her life and given her confidence, hope, and inspiration to want to please her humans. It is so sweet to see how happy it makes her to know what is expected of her and the pride she has for her learned obedience. This company is so special. You can see the love and compassion they have for their dogs and their humans! I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who wants to form a special connection with their dog through this training that only this company could have provided for us!!
— Angela Toms
Posted February 2nd 2024
facebook
I am beyond happy with Dog Training Elite West Michigan! My expectations have been met and by far exceeded with this training style. We have 3 dogs, 2 that we “trained” with “traditional” treat based systems and when there’s not treats, there’s no obedience. This style of training is fantastic! Not only does your fur baby learn, you do as well. The bond that you get to have with this style of training is amazing. For anyone that is skeptical or thinks that this isn’t worth the time or money, YOU’RE WRONG! Best money I have ever spent! Not only do you get the expertise with the package you pick, you get care, compassion and understanding to help you through with what you’re trying to accomplish with your dog. After only 4 in home trainings, my family took our fur baby to a crowded, loud, and rambunctious atmosphere, and our pup did amazing. So much so that a ton of people came up to us and complimented how well our pup was doing! The best feeling ever is to be able to take your fur baby with you and not have to worry about anything! There is not enough space or time to say how amazing this company is. Carrie, the owner, takes her time, helps you understand the training, but also tailors each lesson to suit you and your dogs style. Our fur baby has so much confidence, pride and self affirmation, which she has gained through this training process! 10 out of 10 would recommend to anyone who has a dog that wants help with training!!!!!!!
— Drew John
Posted February 2nd 2024
facebook
I am beyond happy with Dog Training Elite West Michigan! My expectations have been met and by far exceeded with this training. We have 3 dogs, 2 that we “trained” with “traditional” treat based systems and when there’s not treats, there’s no obedience. This training is fantastic! Not only does your fur baby learn, you do as well. The bond that you get to have with this training is amazing. For anyone that is skeptical or thinks that this isn’t worth the time or money, YOU’RE WRONG! Best money I have ever spent! Not only do you get the expertise with the package you pick, you get care, compassion and understanding to help you through with what you’re trying to accomplish with your dog. After only 4 in home trainings, my family took our fur baby to a crowded, loud, and rambunctious atmosphere, and our pup did amazing. So much so that a ton of people came up to us and complimented how well our pup was doing! The best feeling ever is to be able to take your fur baby with you and not have to worry about anything! There is not enough space or time to say how amazing this company is. Carrie, the owner, takes her time, helps you understand the training, but also tailors each lesson to suit you and your dogs style. Our fur baby has so much confidence, pride and self affirmation, which she has gained through this training process! 10 out of 10 would recommend to anyone who has a dog that wants help with training!!!!!!!
— Andrew Tompkins
Posted February 2nd 2024
google
I cannot say enough good things about Dog Training Elite. They have taken our puppy who we recently rescued who was ‘skidish’, food deprived, neglected and locked in a cage for the first 7 months of her life and given her confidence, hope, and inspiration to want to please her humans. It is so sweet to see how happy it makes her to know what is expected of her and the pride she has for her learned obedience. This company is so special. You can see the love and compassion they have for their dogs and their humans! I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who wants to form a special connection with their dog through this training that only this company could have provided for us!!
— Angela Tompkins
Posted February 2nd 2024
google
DTE has been a godsend for our family. Carrie helped transform our stubborn rambunctious Samoyed into an obedient wonderful dog. No more pulling on the leash during walks and less reactivity. She has continued to improve over the course of our training. We would highly recommend DTE!
— Thomas Eusebio
Posted October 28th 2023
google
Carrie and Jessica are AMAZING to work with and know what they are doing. You can tell they love what they do and it came out in the success of our dog Scout. He is a much happier dog which shows when he’s called and comes running to us, the smile on his face says it all. If you are questioning if this is worth it…trust me when I say IT IS!!!. Thank you to Dog Training Elite West Michigan for everything you have helped us with. We will be forever grateful. We have a new dog and new friends 💙 Bob and Kelly
— Kelly Gagnon
Posted September 8th 2023
google
We have a rather rambunctious chocolate lab puppy. We’ve done other puppy training classes but he would only behave when food was being given as rewards. And he was harder and harder to walk the bigger he got. He was jumping on people and just overwhelming. We’ve had five private classes and already a new lab puppy lives with us. Things are so much better and will just keep getting better. We took him to the beach for the first time yesterday. He was very excited but recall was solid and he didn’t jump on anyone! He loves swimming. What a great investment! Highly recommend to anyone who wants a well behaved dog.
— Heather Ryan
Posted August 13th 2023
facebook
The. Change in our dogs behavior is night and day. I once again love having a puppy in the house!
— Heather Ryan
Posted August 9th 2023
google
Love the program and staff. It is clear they enjoy what they do and care deeply for their human and dog clients alike. I would recommend them if you have any interest in learning to train your dog to be safe, obedient, and polite.
— Melissa Powell-Sheppard
Posted August 9th 2023
google
My pup willow just finished her training and she has never been happier! She is more obedient, and is improving daily. I’d recommend DTE to anyone, even if your dog is well behaved!
— Hannah Wallace
Posted August 9th 2023
google
This was an incredible learning experience for our entire family. It has completely changed our dog and makes life more calm around the house. I would recommend them to everyone!
— Jen Hekkema
Posted August 6th 2023
google
Carrie and Jessica are the best! Good boy Jackson is now Very Good Boy Jackson! Invest your time after each class…you will be rewarded.
— Ted Adornato
Posted July 17th 2023
google
Carrie is awesome! She cares about the outcome of your training program and wants to be sure your dog AND you have a positive experience. It seems half of dog training is also training the human! We have a 7 year old Australian Shepherd who did absolutely phenomenal with his e-collar training. Carrie truly cares about your dogs' level of obedience and will treat you as one of your own.
— Donald Castro-Conde
Posted July 12th 2023
google
Carrie is an amazing trainer! We’ve received so many complaints about our dog’s behavior since starting DTE. I would highly recommend the program for anyone who is looking for a caring trainer and program that works with both your dog and you!
— Jonathan Seyferth
Posted June 2nd 2023
google
Carrie is amazing! We have owned a few dogs in our lifetime, but chose to reach out to her with our new puppy while she was still in the beginning phases of her training. Carrie is really responsive over email and text, and walks you through pricing and whatever program you choose. She also breaks down her philosophy and makes sure that everyone in the home is comfortable with her training methods before she starts. Carrie is also just so fun to work with and really makes you understand how to correct bad behavior and bond with your dog. I would highly recommend her to any dog lover who is looking to teach their pup good behaviors!
— Hannah McGowan
Posted April 21st 2023
google
Carrie has done a great job working with us and our dog to become a service dog. In just a short time (2 months) we have come a long way to becoming a great team. If you are in need of dog training then Dog Training Elite are the trainers for you. Jim Dood
— Jim Dood
Posted March 4th 2023
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Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite West Michigan, 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 West Michigan 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.

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