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Over the past decade there has been a rise in the number of people with Emotional Support Animals. This has caused some confusion around what it means to have a service, emotional support or therapy animal . Here, we explain briefly the differences between each of these animals, the training required for each different type, and debunk some common myths. Read on to learn the differences between each type of animal, which one might be right for you or your loved one, and how Dog Training Elite Upstate SC can help.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Upstate SC location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
ESA vs. Therapy vs. Service Animals: What's the Difference?
Service Animals
Service animals are animals that have been trained to assist individuals with tasks specific to their needs.
- Redirecting attention when an individual is beginning to feel overstimulated
- Reminding owners to take medication
- Waking someone who is having a nightmare
Service dogs are valued in the mental health, health care and disability community and are protected under ADA laws which allow owners to take their service dog with them everywhere they go. Dog Training Elite Upstate SC trains dogs to serve individuals with autism, diabetes and PTSD.
Dog Training Elite Upstate SC trains autism service dogs to benefit and assist children with autism. Autism service dogs can be trained to track their child in case of wandering and redirect a child’s behavior when they are starting to become overwhelmed.
PTSD service dogs help ground owners to reality, especially in public settings. These service dogs can also be trained to recognize signs of a panic attack and regulate emotional responses through pressure.
Diabetic service dogs can alert their owners to their low blood sugar and provide stability, safety and support.
Visit our individual web pages to understand more about the differences and benefits of autism service dogs, PTSD services dogs and diabetic service dogs.
Emotional Support Animals
Although all dog owners may feel the emotional benefits of owning a dog, the dog needs to be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional to a person with a disabling mental illness such as anxiety or depression to legally be considered an ESA. Emotional Support dogs can be of any age and any breed whereas service dogs usually begin training as puppies.
In addition to being prescribed by a mental health professional, owners may wish for their dog to undergo more specific training. If you are looking for emotional support dog training in your local area, Dog Training Elite Upstate SC has you covered.
The professional dog trainers of Dog Training Elite Upstate SC are experienced with training various types of therapy animals. Trainers work with a dog’s natural temperament to ensure a strong, loving bond between dog and owner. Training can be personalized to fit the needs of the owner.
It is important to note that Emotional Support Animals are meant for just that - emotional support. Dogs trained to assist with specific tasks that may be associated with a disability are service animals. Training a dog to be an Emotional Support Animal or a therapy dog is less intensive than training to be a service animal.
Therapy Animals
Therapy Animals are very similar to Emotional Support Animals, except that they are often used to bolster the mental health and wellbeing of a community, as opposed to just an individual. Therapy dogs are often seen serving in hospitals, rehabilitation or care centers with their owners.
Owners who feel their dog may be a good fit for this kind of community service can have them receive top-notch training from Dog Training Elite Upstate SC.
The most important thing to note as a difference between Emotional Support Animals, Therapy and Service dogs, is service animals are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act which states service animals must be able to accompany their owners wherever they go. Emotional Support and Therapy animals do not have the same protections and public establishments may have their own rules about ESA and therapy dogs.
Whether you’re ready to get a new lease on life with the help of a service dog, or strengthen the existing bond with your dog, Dog Training Elite Upstate SC has the experience and resources you need.
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!
I have used dog training elite for BOTH of my dogs’ training. I have a Bernese mountain dog and a German shepherd. The trainers are so so patient not only with the dogs but with their humans too. My second dog just “graduated” his obedience training today! I love having the confidence to be able to take both my dogs on a walk and know that they know what to do. Training has also helped get my GSD’s endless energy out, which has been so great! I would recommend DTE to anyone who has a dog!— Lindsey Deligny
Posted April 29th 2024
10/10 would recommend. I was a skeptic with what I was convinced was a hopeless "tough case" German Shepard /Bernese Mtn Dog. Hyperactive, barked at guests, barked at us, wouldn't recall, chased the cat, picked on our other dog, actually ate more than one steak off the counter.. etc. Treats or food were the only thing this dog would cooperate for. And don't get me started on leash pulling. DTE helped my dog trust me and build up his own confidence; while teaching me how to guide him and love him the whole way. I cannot tell you how satisfied we are with his progress. Our dog is WAY calmer, holding commands and learned a few new ones. It's improved all of our lives. We are so grateful for Dog Training Elite Update SC. If you don't think you have time.. I promise you do, and your dog will love you for it.— Gabby Kreiger
Posted April 26th 2024
Great trainers who know what they are doing, They know how to get the best dog out for the best life of the dog ! Had only 3 lessons so far with astonishing results for my German Shepherd ! Looking forward to the seemly unlimited capabilities.— T TM
Posted April 23rd 2024
We adopted a 4 yr old 86lb labradoodle this past summer. Trevor had been abandoned by his first family. He was full of love but had no boundaries! I was walking through downtown Greenville about 3 months ago and passed by 2 gorgeous golden retrievers taking place on a statue. I turned around and saw Danny, the trainer, from a distance. I asked, “are you a dog trainer?” I called Dog Elite the next day. Hands down, THE BEST investment we have made. Trevor has soared in his training! The dog we swore would ruin our home and maybe our marriage has become an absolute delight! Danny, Casey, McKenzie and Sydney are knowledgeable, easy to work with and crave to see success with your pet. We did the in home program which helped us in our own environment. Thank you Dog Elite! Trevor has manners and boundaries now! We are a MUCH happier family.— CHRIS THOMAS
Posted April 5th 2024
Unbelievable how much our dog has improved! You get what you pay for. They are the best!— Zach Molter
Posted March 9th 2024
This dog training program was life-changing for us and our dog Maple. Maple's main issue was recall. We would spend an hour just trying to catch her at a dog park to leave. We were skeptical at first because we felt we had tried everything and we didn't think anything would improve her recall but we were pleasantly surprised. After 6 home visits with Dog Training Elite, Maple is like a whole new dog. She gets more confident everyday, she will come, place, sit, stay, and heel. This experience has given us more peace of mind and her more freedom. Huge thank you to Mackenzie and Sydney for all they did for us and Maple. They were so professional and kind and we could tell they enjoy what they do. We can't wait to bring Maple to group classes. Thank you Dog Training Elite!— Camille Ouzts
Posted March 2nd 2024
Dog training elite is absolutely amazing. Each of the trainers were always so excited to work with Nala. They were very supportive and wanted Nala and myself to be successful. Always had quick and helpful responses to texts. 100% would recommend to anyone who wants to train their dog. Worth every penny. Nala was so happy when she graduated obedience training.— Michael Adams
Posted February 29th 2024
I have experienced multiple ways to train my dogs. With my two now, a Border Collie and GSD, I wanted to try something different in order to work on unique training needs. My Border Collie was having behavioral issues and my GSD was just a puppy still, he's trained but needs help with distractions. I reached out to DTE to have a different experience, instead of a formal training or boarding. I was intrigued by DTE because they explained to me of having multiple options. We did day boarding camp, where you got to drop off and pick up your dog, so you still got to bond nightly, then we did in home training and we are soon starting group training. Day boarding allows the trainers to focus on your dog then teach you what they learned, and you know they are working your dog as they only have a handful of dogs at the facility that time. In home is nice because you are able to have your normal day to day distractions and environments, allowing the dog to feel comfortable but also know they need to execute the task at hand. My GSD loves to bark at the neighbors dog and we were training while the dog was out, giving him that big distraction and getting corrected in real time. The other benefit of in home is the DTE trainers bring their own dogs, allowing a new unique dog to be added to the mix. My Border Collie is not good with other dogs coming up on him in public, so we were able to experience that in a walking scenario to work through real life actions. After a few weeks of working my border collie with other dogs and his brother the GSD i have seen his anger issues calm, he is realizing whos the boss and he doesn't have to have a chip on his shoulder. We are soon starting group classes to continue training. Still more to work on with both but because you get so many sessions in your package we will be continuung our training in the weeks to come. DTE is not just the cookie cutter classes or experience, if you want to work with a team that cares and is willing to work with you and your dog this is the team to use.— Christine Rowland
Posted February 24th 2024
We got our sweet Bella at 5 months old. She came with high anxiety and no manners having her mom die at 3 weeks old and living most of her time outside with her large litter. Our vet recommended Elite and we are so happy we did it. Bella is a very different dog who continues to gain confidence every day and with each new experience we expose her to. She is well mannered and has become the pup we knew she could be. Jared and each trainer are so very knowledgeable and caring with each dog they train. We are excited to continue in group classes for the next 6 months.— John Thomas (John and Susan)
Posted February 3rd 2024
DTE has been a wonderful experience! We needed help with excessive puppy biting that did not end at the 6-month mark, resource guarding, and pulling on the lead. DTE helped us with all of these things and more. All of the trainers are wonderful with dogs and humans! Their communication was excellent! They were always available to answer any questions or concerns I had. I highly recommend them!— Shannon Papadopoulos
Posted February 2nd 2024
I can not say enough great things about Dog Training Elite - Upstate SC! They worked wonders with, Riley, our high energy and uncontrollable dog that had developed bad habits like opening the dishwasher to reach food on the counter! Jared, Mackenzie, Danny and Sydney are amazing instructors. They were all professional and personable and made us feel at ease leaving our baby with them all day! At the end of each day they gave us a summary from the day and videos of her performing the new commands. Riley has learned so much in just 1 week of training and the behavior changes are amazing!— Paige Hughes
Posted February 2nd 2024
Dog Training Elite of Upstate SC has top notch training options and phenomenal communication!! I knew they were a fit from my first inquiry. Their knowledgeable trainers cultivate an interactive positive learning environment that guided me and our pup back to walks, car rides and outings. Highly recommend to become part of their pack!!— Brandi Bennett
Posted February 2nd 2024
The training with this group was amazing and life changing for our dog and our lives with him. We learned so many important details about how to handle our dog and about dogs’ behavior. We hope to go on to have him become a therapy dog. DTEU exceeded our expectations and all of the personnel were so knowledgeable and professional. We are so pleased and grateful to DTEU!!! Liz Jones— Elizabeth Richardson
Posted February 1st 2024
This was a life saving experience. They literally saved my dogs life. I get very emotional with the progress my Luna has made and I owe it all to dog training elite upstate. I would recommend them to anyone. Don’t give up on your pups they are worth the time and effort. I have learned so much and my relationship with my pup has grown even more!— Rachel Blong
Posted January 26th 2024
I can not say enough great things about Dog Training Elite - Upstate SC! They worked wonders with our high energy and uncontrollable dog that had developed bad habits like opening the dishwasher to reach food on the counter! Jared, Mackenzie, Danny and Sydney are amazing instructors. They were all professional and personable and made us feel at ease leaving our baby with them all day! At the end of each day they gave us a summary from the day and videos of our dog performing the new commands.— Paige Ellenberger Hughes
Posted January 19th 2024
Our therapy dog, Bear, has been a wonderful addition to our office. He wouldn’t be able to bring so many people joy if he didn’t have manners… Thank you Dog Training Elite for our training experience very effective- and fun for both of us!— Mary Hughes
Posted January 19th 2024
We were going to be first time dog owners, so I asked for a recommendation from some friends and landed here at Dog Training Elite Upstate. I absolutely love all of the trainers here and it has been such a great experience. I did the whole den package which was so helpful as it helped us understand our dog and how to work with him. After, I got the gold package to keep the momentum going and it has been a game changer. I am able to walk with my dog off leash around our property and it has helped us with bad puppy behaviors. Everyone has always been so nice and helpful, answering all of my crazy dog mom questions. I HIGHLY recommend this company. They are wonderful.— Wendi Matt
Posted January 18th 2024
My dog Akira was dog reactive and I had tried other trainers before but when I took my dog here it was night and day difference she so so much better now! If your asking yourself is it worth it, yes it absolutely is the team here are awesome!— Kristina Kellogg
Posted January 16th 2024
We love elite! Our pup Rudy is a new man thanks to Danny and Sydney and their pups Denver and Delilah and Indu!!! We are so happy with the service, cost, scheduling, and kindness and results with being able to go everywhere with Rudy. 12/10 would recommend!! They cared about Rudy succeeding and loved Rudy just as much as we did!— Kellie Walls
Posted January 12th 2024
We love our Bernedoodle but his barking and antisocial behavior was putting a real damper on our life. After only a few sessions with the trainers at Dog Elite, it was like we had a new dog.! Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? He is 6 years old and his behavior has turned around dramatically. The trainers have us invaluable information and advice. I’s rate them 50 stars if it was available. I wish we had found them sooner. Worth every penny!!!— Denise Carpentier
Posted January 12th 2024
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite Upstate SC, 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 Upstate SC 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.