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Reviews & Testimonials
Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio
Hear From Our Customers
Barbara Barresi
Sep. 22, 2025 - google
Kevin and Andrea at Dog Training Elite, plus their team, helped us reach our goal to have Tucker become a therapy dog!
Margaret Sohnlein
Aug. 21, 2025 - google
Our puppy Charlie had an amazing experience at Dog Training Elite! We can’t believe how much he learned in his two week training camp. Thank you to all of his wonderful trainers!!
Laycee Wojo
Aug. 15, 2025 - google
Loved this experience and getting to learn more about my dog and train her the correct way, working with Dog training elite has brought me closer to my dog and understanding the correct methods on how to train them without hurting them. Thank you Dog training elite for a wonderful experience!
Colette Bukowski
Jul. 25, 2025 - google
This team is amazing. I can’t say enough about Kevin, Andrea, Dennis and the rest of the crew. I first worked with them with my puppy and was so pleased, I had them work my older dog. They take a personal interest in your dogs and your family, really wanting you to achieve your training and behavior goals. They build a positive relationship with your dog and really get to understand them. They are so much more than dog trainers. The group classes are so helpful, providing some structured time for skill reinforcement and help you continue to gain confidence handling your dog in a variety of situations. 100% recommend if you are looking for some training.
Robin Strong
Apr. 24, 2025 - google
My three year old Aussie went through their in person Platinum Elite Training Camp, she is dealing with a lot of reactivity and aggression and the whole team has made such an impact on her. Kevin, Andrea and Dennis were all so helpful with my dog Nova’s training, and mine! Nova is very selective with the people she likes and she gets excited whenever she sees any of the team from Dog Training Elite. I know we will have support when needed in the future and really look forward to ongoing group classes to help keep Nova properly socialized, obedient and happy.
jen
Apr. 20, 2025 - google
We can’t say enough about this training facility. Catie and Louie loved attending class daily- and we were so impressed by both the facility itself and the training staff. We would highly recommend. Money well spent!
- Barbara and Ron Sherman
Barbara
Apr. 19, 2025 - google
A huge Thank You to Kevin, Andrea and Dennis of Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio for what they were able to accomplish in training
my 5 month old pup Trace. In a very short amount of time all of my
serious concerns were addressed. Their expertise was evident but
more importantly to me was the kindness and care showed to both
Trace and myself. I am so happy to have found them!
Guido Carbone
Mar. 25, 2025 - google
Guido and I are So happy we chose Dog Training Elite. It's Amazing how 2 weeks of Dog Training with our 4 or 5 month old boxer mix. Andrea, Kevin, Dennis, Agent K....everyone there love their profession and are Great at it! 🩷🩵🩷🩵
And their support doesn't end there. Do you And your Pup and learn these methods!
Jody
Jennie Eckenrode
Mar. 15, 2025 - google
I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite program! The trainers were patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. They didn’t just train my dog—they taught me how to communicate better with him, which made all the difference.
Before training, Rolo really struggled with reactivity around other dogs. Taking him in public was unpredictable, stressful, and honestly kind of embarrassing. I couldn’t take him anywhere that had dogs that he didn’t know. He would bark, growl, lunge, and completely lose focus any time we saw another dog. I felt overwhelmed and didn’t know how to help him.
That all changed when we started this training program. The trainers immediately understood Rolo’s behavior and worked with so much patience and care. They gave us practical tools and techniques that made sense, and more importantly, they worked. Throughout the training, Rolo became more calm, focused, and confident—and so did I.
Now we can pass other dogs on walks without chaos, and I finally feel like I can enjoy time outside with him. It’s been an incredible transformation. I’m so proud of Rolo, and so thankful for the team that helped us get here. If your dog struggles with reactivity, don’t give up—this training truly makes a difference!
Jennifer Morelli
Mar. 2, 2025 - google
The staff and trainers were great to work with. Very knowledgeable! Highly recommend!
Candice Parr
Feb. 4, 2025 - google
Elite training is top-notch. I interviewed several facilities before we decided on Kevin & Andrea and their incredible team. We have been through a few trainings so far and see such a difference in our Brutus already! After we committed to Elite we mentioned it to a friend and she said her Pup had gone through the training and went above and beyond praising Elite and their caring staff. If you want someone with years of experience and treat both yourself and your Pup(s) with respect you want Elite. I procrastinated too long so as they say, just do it, and you will never look back!! A+++++++
david silberstein
Feb. 2, 2025 - google
David my German Shepherd Zeke would highly recommend Dog Training Elite Kevin , Andria are awesome really are compassionate about training Zeke is really making amazing progress very satisfied highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
Sean Hartnett
Jan. 20, 2025 - google
Kevin was an incredible trainer for my dog, very patient & kind. Learned my dogs temperament fast & adjusted training for his personality which worked great!
Veronica Issac
Jan. 18, 2025 - google
Great team of trainers! I have been skeptical of the use of e-collars for training but we needed something different to help with reactivity. The owners are wonderful. They come to you. They sat with me during our evaluation to understand what my pup needed. As a single person with a job with long hours, the yrainers have been very flexible with scheduling. They have been so patient with our training, working through real world scenarios. My pup has made such progress. And best of all, we have access to training for the life of my pup. I'm so grateful to have found Dog Training Elite Northeast OH. It has been such an enjoyable experience.
Michael Conley
Jan. 10, 2025 - google
I'm am so happy that we found DTE. The Johnsons treat every dog like they are one of their own. They go above and beyond to cater to your training needs. Having used other trainers in the past, DTE far exceeded my expectations and highly recommended them. Thank you Kevin, Andresla, Jimmy and Dennis!
Ryan Savage
Nov. 28, 2024 - google
Dog Training Elite is AWESOME! The owners are the nicest people, they really know what they're doing. If you need dog training, DTE is definitely the way to go. They offer service dog, therapy dog, and obedience training. Great guys overall.
Lynn Dutsch
Nov. 22, 2024 - google
We were at our wit's end with our puppy but Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio changed our lives for the better from the very first lesson. We have truly enjoyed our experience and have even been able to use the same techniques with our 5 year old dog.
We absolutely recommend Kevin, Andrea, and the entire team for any dog or puppy that needs training. It has been such a pleasure to go from one semi-behaved dog and a crazy puppy, to 2 very well behaved dogs with happy owners! Thank you Kevin, Andrea, and the entire team.
dominick lesinski
Nov. 14, 2024 - google
Thanks DTE Northeast Ohio!
kim pintar
Nov. 12, 2024 - google
Kevin and Andrea were amazing with our very anxious and nervous Louie. They helped him work through a lot of his fears with an extreme amount of patience and reassurance. They also taught us how to train our dog in a way that was the best for him and build our confidence. What meant the most was how Kevin and Andrea cared when we lost our other dog, Margo. Great dog trainers!!
Abby Atkins
Nov. 12, 2024 - google
I am so grateful for Kevin, Andrea, and Jimmy! They were so patient as we navigated training two dogs. My pitbull has skin issues so they worked with me on making sure the collar we used didn’t affect his skin. They were all so encouraging and gave my pups so much love. It was a great experience and I’m looking forward to continue the training with the pack walks.
Tiffany Brock
Nov. 12, 2024 - google
AMAZING STAFF! We are so thankful to have connected with this group. They go above and beyond. We have a pack for life ❤️ Kevin and Andrea have been such a great resource, even before I had my pup! Andrea spoke with me for an hour or so about where to start in looking for a puppy as my service dog. We connected again after finding the best pup ever (thanks to Andreas expert advice on breeder selection). We got to work training and it just seemed like such an easy process, even with all the hard work! We had the tools, knowledge, and support to get where we are today!
julz vern
Nov. 11, 2024 - google
Really happy with Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio
I am disabled and suffer from PTSD my doctor referred me to get a companion and or Service Dog
My son purchased this beautiful German Shepard not only for Emotional Support, but for Protection as well. We love that we can count on Élite for training Baby Girl we see the changes in her every day. We love that it is a life time program if we should need it and the extra touch is the get togethers at the park with other dogs and their owners. We also love the Crew and the Owners they really take pride working with the dogs everyday, you can see the results at the end of the day when its time to teach the owners LOL
Bernard Agin
Nov. 11, 2024 - google
Marley is a 7 year old cavachon. Happy dog. But a gleeful barker at dogs and people. A leash puller!!
Still happy as can be. Walks like a champ. Even ignores those chatty squirrels and swarms of deer.
Marley is becoming a trained PSA. And we owe it to Kevin, Andrea and Elite.
I P
Nov. 11, 2024 - google
I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite Team. If you are looking for a practical approach to obedience training, look no further. The platinum dog training program set the foundation for success for our 1yr. Old Bully. He was reactive towards people and animals, making walks and community outings difficult. Kevin and Andrea, take the time to understand your needs. One-on-one sessions offer a better understanding of dog behavior and proper technique. I especially enjoyed the Doggie Day camps. Unlike board and train programs, our boy spent the day training and playing with new friends. Then, he was allowed to come home at the end of the day, where we completed our homework(Practice)! The entire staff at the training facility is knowledgeable, caring, and dedicated to helping your pup be all it can be. Be assured that when you partner with the DTE team, they will be committed to the long-term success of your fur baby.
Leslie McIntyre
Nov. 10, 2024 - google
Very clear and positive way of dealing with issues your pup may have. The trainers are encouraging no matter what happens, or how stubborn your dog is. They figure out ways to solve all problems. Extremely happy to have hired them
Kaleigh Hunt
Nov. 10, 2024 - google
Dog Training Elite has forever changed our lives. I got my first puppy, Vienna, and while I loved her, I struggled through the puppy stage and remember feeling overwhelmed. That changed once we started training with Kevin and Andrea. Now, Vienna is incredibly well-behaved and receives compliments wherever we go. We’re so grateful for the work they put into helping us with our dog. Their family-run facility makes you and your pet feel like family too. We’ll definitely be going through Dog Training Elite for our next puppy!
Janice Brown
Sep. 2, 2024 - google
I have a very active 1yr old German Shep. I have tried unsuccessfully to stop Buster from biting, chewing on everything, digging holes in the backyard and pulling on walks. I mean you name it, he does it. I'm a senior and was unable to get him to even listen to me. Frustrated and not sure what to do with Buster, I decided to get him some training. I called Dog Training Elite NEO for help. And I am Soooo glad I did. They came to my home for an evaluation . They listened to my concerns and met Buster. Within 5 minutes, Buster was calm and sitting on command. I couldn't believe it!. I wasted no time signing him up for the Elite package. His first day of training I couldn't believe he was my dog. Buster was calm and not barking at the other dogs. Sitting on command and staying in place when told. Amazing!!. 2 months later, Buster and I are enjoying our walks and I'm able to handle him with confidence using the tools and training Elite NEO provided. The Trainer's are the Best.
Susan Patterson
Aug. 26, 2024 - google
Our dog did very well and we were very pleased with the results. The team members are all great with the dogs and we look forward to future training sessions.
Katie Fioritto
Jun. 28, 2024 - google
I came across Dog Training Elite from a Google search when an unexpected health problem and upcoming surgery meant we needed to sharpen our puppy’s skills, and fast. From the moment I first contacted them and talked with Andrea, I knew we were in good hands. Toni and Andrea did our free home consultation and reviewed in detail their philosophies and different programs available. We started our six week in home training program the next week and after the first training session we could already see a positive difference in our pup. They provided instructions with the skills to work on each week and took their time to make sure we were comfortable. We had the opportunity to meet a few different trainers over the weeks (Kevin and Bernadette) and everyone was so kind and professional. We haven’t yet done the group classes but I appreciate them ensuring that your dogs skills are consistent, not only at home but also outside of the home and with distraction. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio to anyone looking for help with training their dog.
Reannin Bailey
Jun. 4, 2024 - google
Could not recommend more! Had my pug thing trained to be a service dog. They offer boot camps, at home visits, public outings, group classes, and a free consultation! They are super patient and friendly, and never made me feel rushed or stupid.
Yvonne Thompson
May. 25, 2024 - google
We gave our rescue Grey a great home with lots of patience and love! "DOG TRAINING ELITE" gave us the tools, training and skillset to build on that foundation! With their help, we have been able to build Grey's confidence so he can be a GREAT DOG!!! The owners Kevin, and Andrea and their team are great pack leaders!!! Their leadership builds confidence in the handlers and canines to trust and have confidence in each other. We strongly recommend DOG TRAINIG ELITE for all dog training.
Lynn & Yvonne
Kim Burger
May. 21, 2024 - facebook
Trust worthy, Veteran owned. Does great work!
Tonya Knowles
Feb. 13, 2024 - google
Andrea has helped us train our golden retriever to be a service dog for my child. She and her team are incredibly phenomenal and I would highly recommend them. Kiddo was admitted to hospital and Andrea even met us there to work with him on some hospital specific skills. They’ve become part of our family!
Kim Pintar
May. 13, 2023 - facebook
They are so positive and patient with our anxious dog and always willing to help with anything and answer any questions we have. We have seen major improvements!
Dave
May. 3, 2023 - google
Kevin and Andrea are top notch trainers. Their passion for dogs and dog training was immediately evident in the results we have seen with our lab Nala. There has been a huge difference in her behavior within the first few sessions. More importantly they have provided us with an effective training method. Thanks so much for training us as well as Nala!
Joshua Lopez
Mar. 12, 2023 - google
Kevin and Andrea, are extremely passionate and take the time to ensure your dog is trained the proper way. Andreas attention to detail is unmatched. You can't go wrong entrusting Kevin and Andrea with your dog training needs.
BrennanOMalley
Jan. 3, 2023 - google
Great people! Caring and super helpful!
Brad Okeson
Dec. 26, 2022 - google
Kevin and Andrea are so wonderful! You are in excellent hands!
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About Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio
Meet the Team
FAQs
Careers
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In the Community
Our Team
Andrea Johnson
Owner & Trainer
Hello and welcome to our website! My name is Andrea Johnson, I am an owner and trainer here at Dog Training Elite of Northeast Ohio. I was born and raised in the Cleveland, Ohio area, and I am proud to call this home. I have always had dogs as pets, have always adored and admired them for their unconditional love and loyalty. I am excited to be able to help others strengthen their bond with their pets through training and service, excited to enhance others’ lives.
I am a retired Dental Hygienist/Assistant, entered the dental field in 1991. I had an extremely rewarding career, thoroughly enjoyed helping make peoples’ smiles to be bright and healthy.
Married to Kevin Johnson since 1996, we have three wonderful children, two adorable Yellow Labs.
I enjoy traveling, swimming, reading, theater, and spending time with family and friends.
Thank you for considering us for your dog training needs. We look forward to meeting you and working with you!
Kevin Johnson
Owner & Trainer
Hello, my name is Kevin Johnson and I want to thank you for considering Dog Training Elite of Northeast Ohio. I was born in North Carolina and raised on a farm where we bred and trained hunting dogs. I’ve always enjoyed working with dogs to enhance the lives of their human families. I left North Carolina when I joined the Air Force where I served at the Pentagon and Andrews Air Force Base for 7 years. I met my wonderful wife and business partner, Andrea, in 1994. We have 3 great children and two energetic Yellow Labradors. We have a passion for improving the bonds between families and their K9 family members through greater communication and consistency. We look forward to improving the bond you have with your dog.
Jimmy Morelli
Trainer
Hello, my name is Jimmy Morelli. I was born in Cleveland but grew up in South Florida. I moved around a lot my adult years before returning home to the Cleveland area when I retired in 2016. I retired from The Department of Homeland Security where I proudly served and protected my country at home and abroad. In my retirement, I have taken on a new passion which is fostering dogs in need. With the help of North Coast Boxer Rescue, I have rescued and found loving forever homes for multiple foster dogs. It is sad (in a way) to see them go but it is so rewarding to know you helped them find a forever home and get to help a future rescue dog. Most of my foster dogs have had heartworms or other medical issues so it’s extra rewarding to know you helped them back to good health. My buddy Scooby is my current foster dog but he is gonna be staying with me for the long haul.
In my spare time I enjoy attending live sporting events, traveling, cooking, and gardening. I am a season ticket holder for all the local sports teams. I have traveled extensively throughout the United States and overseas.
I grew up around dogs and love them for their loyalty and unconditional love. I look forward to working with you and your “best friend”.
Deacon
Training Dog - Yellow Labrador Retriever
Hi! My name is Deacon. I am an 8yr old Yellow Labrador Retriever. I live with my family in a home with a nice big yard and a pool and I love to romp and swim. Some of my other favorite things to do are eat, sleep, and snuggle! I am a very laid-back kind of guy, and I prefer sneaking up onto the couch whenever I can.
Unfortunately, my brother Cooper passed away in 2020 and I was very sad. My family brought a new puppy into our home, another Yellow Lab, and they named her Minnie. I was not too sure about her at first, but now we are best buddies! I love to romp and swim and play with her now and hope to teach her all I know about eating, sleeping, and snuggling.
I am very excited to be a DTE dog and can’t wait to meet you!
Minnie
Training Dog - Yellow Labrador Retriever
Hello! My name is Domenica Angela Rose, but you can call me Minnie. I am still just a puppy, six months old, but I am one smart Yellow Labrador! I was born in Salt Lake City as a Tattle Tails Diabetic Alert Dog (DAD), now I live with my family in Northeast Ohio where I work as a DTE demo dog. In my free time, I love to play fetch and swim and run all around our big backyard.
I am very curious, playful, and I can run really fast! Deacon can’t catch me! I love learning new tricks, training and being a demo dog. I am excited to help other dogs and puppies train and learn new tricks, too! Hope to meet you soon!
Scooby
Training Dog - Boxer
Hi! My name is Scooby. At best guess, I am about 4 years old. You see, I didn’t have the best life early on. I was found as a stray running the streets in Cleveland and then captured and entered into the system (dog pound!). Yeah...I did some time. That is until this great company, North Coast Boxer Rescue, found me and sprung me from the clink. I went to live with Jimmy Morelli as a foster. I was heartworm positive at the time so he set up treatment for me but before I could begin that treatment they found a mass on my hind leg. It was the dreaded “C” word (Cancer). We had the mass removed and I stayed with this fellow during my recovery. Then we tackled the heartworm issue. I must have made an impression with Jimmy because I have been with him ever since.
I am a typical boxer. I am a lovable goofball with lots of energy. I do love my naps though. I live with my fur sister Bonne. She is a hound/boxer mix who was also a rescue pup. We have a big fenced-in backyard to play in. Which is great because I get to run and wrestle with her. I love people so I am excited to be a part of the Ohio DTE Team.
