Elite

Therapy Dog Training


Top Therapy Dog Trainers in Greenville, SC

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864-863-3647


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Contact Dog Training Elite Upstate SC

Or Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

864-863-3647


Se habla español!

What is a Therapy Dog?

A therapy dog is a dog that performs a service for other people. Typical therapy dog tasks are going to nursing homes or hospitals to cheer people up. For your dog to qualify, he/she must be friendly with strangers, and with training, be able to work around a high level of distraction and to understand personal boundaries, such as not jumping up, licking, mouthing, etc.

Research shows that therapy dogs can have a positive effect on a patient’s mood, stress, and pain levels during facility stays. Children, in particular, respond positively to therapy dogs. They are more motivated to participate in treatments, feel optimistic about the future, and experience an overall sense of calm when a certified therapy dog is present.

Therapy dogs can promote social interaction between individuals within communities that may not otherwise experience socialization typically. Therapy dogs offer unconditional love, non-judgmental interaction, reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness and provide an overall positive distraction to ailments.

Goals for Your Therapy Companion


  • Socialization
  • Lower Pain Levels
  • Motivation
  • Provide Comfort
  • Decrease in Stress, Anxiety, and Depression
  • Promote Healing
  • Increase Overall Optimism
  • Ease Loneliness


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.


Therapy Dog

Therapy dog training is based on your dog's abilities.

$3,195

A therapy dog volunteers alongside you, where permitted, and provides comfort to others. Examples include cheering people up at nursing homes or hospitals.

A good therapy dog is naturally friendly with strangers, able to work around a high level of distraction (with training), and able to understand personal boundaries, such as not jumping up, licking, mouthing, etc (with training).

Lifetime Guarantee!

  • Puppy Selection advice
  • Private, one-on-one training sessions in your home and the community 9 Sessions
  • Group Training Classes 1 Year
  • Lifetime support via text/email and in-person support sessions to be scheduled at trainer’s discretion. (No more than once per month, after completing initial program.)
  • AKC Training
  • Therapy bandana, ID Card, and Certificate of Training
  • An exclusive directory of therapy events and locations for you to donate your time
  • Come
  • Sit
  • Down
  • Place
  • Heel
  • Quiet
  • Off, Wait
  • Leash Manners
  • People Manners
  • Load up in the car / kennel
  • Make a friend
  • Choose one personalized greeting (high five, shake, hug, etc.)
  • Top-notch off leash obedience
  • Distraction Training

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.

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!

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
google
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
google
Unbelievable how much our dog has improved! You get what you pay for. They are the best!
— Zach Molter
Posted March 9th 2024
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
facebook
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
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
google
They did a wonderful job of instructing both myself and my dog. Loved working with them and watching my dog grow in her obedience. They can be a bit pricey, but I thought it was worth the cost.
— Danae Ferguson
Posted December 15th 2023
google
Everyone at DTE was great ! Daisy was a little more dog than what I expected when I got her. Should have done my research. Jared helped so much with her. I can't thank everyone enough.
— Steven Kostick
Posted December 15th 2023
google

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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.

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