Empowering Owners
We work with dogs of any breed, size or age - and we empower owners with lifelong skills to continue successes.
- Leash & potty training
- Staying & coming
- Destructive chewing & digging
- Stealing food, clothing, or other objects
- Barking, howling & whining
- Food guarding & begging
- Mouthing, nipping & playing rough
- Anxiety & submissive urination
- Jumping up & hyperactivity
- Aggression & anxiety
We strongly believe that the key to sustained obedience and training is to empower owners to be an integral part of the training experience.
Dog obedience classes are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our dog obedience training classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds)!
Request your own
FREE In-Home Evaluation
from Dog Training Elite!
Se habla español!
Popular Services
Award Winning Dog Training Services in the Lexington Metro Area
Welcome to Dog Training Elite Central Kentucky! We are a professional, family owned Lexington-based dog training company with over 40 years of experience that specializes in strengthening the bond between your dog and your family, with a strong emphasis on teaching your dog the highest level of obedience, despite even the toughest level of distractions. Our Lexington dog training programs are certain to meet all of your training needs. Unlike a lot of other dog training companies, we understand that each client has different needs, so we tailor our dog training programs to accommodate your unique situation. Dog Training Elite Central Kentucky also trains service animals and dogs ready to volunteer in the community as therapy dogs and companions to those with special needs. We also offer a fun and challenging personal protection program as well!
Se habla español!
Meet Our Trainers
(Click photo for full bio)
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.

Why Dog Training Elite Central Kentucky?
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Value Priced
We pride ourselves on being able to offer our professional services at prices that are budget friendly.
Local Trainers
All of our local dog trainers are trustworthy, willing to be there for our clients and love what they do.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 15 min/day follow-up practice.
Come Meet Us!
We are often at home shows in your area! Our passion for dogs and service sets us apart. All of our local dog trainers are trustworthy, willing to be there for our clients and love what they do. We want to build a community for our clients that love their dogs just as much as we do and once you begin the training process with us, you become a part of the Dog Training Elite family.
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite Central Kentucky, 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 Central Kentucky work's with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.





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!
Bottom Line Up Front: Let Tom help you. If your expectation is quality, Tom is unmatched. I came to Tom with an 18-month dog, Woody, that had almost zero manners (I say almost because I want to give myself some credit, haha). There were things I had to untrain because they contradicted what I was expecting from my dog. Hence, my quest to find help and Tom helped me understand what giving a dog a command even means. Tom was patient with Woody. More importantly, he was patient with me. I researched several other companies, but I decided to go with DTE and would recommend them for several reasons. DTE provides in-home training. This was incredibly important to me as I wanted to learn as my dog was learning. Although sending my pup away for a couple of weeks seemed enticing, having it in the home allowed me full access and reassurance of the quality of care. I was learning just as much as my dog was, and we were doing it together, which created a deeper bond. Woody does better when I give him commands, so having him home was essential to me. DTE is patient. Tom’s level of patience is remarkable. There were times when I was becoming frustrated during the training sessions or even during our “homework” sessions, and he never once made me feel like a burden or that I was doing something wrong. He gave me and Woody confidence to keep working. For example, Woody had a hard time on the step ladder. It took Woody weeks to get the confidence to jump on the step ladder. Tom would guide me on specific techniques until one clicked. Now, Woody has no problem with any “place” command. DTE invests in your success. Tom is polite and takes a genuine interest in meeting my training needs. Although I am swamped during the week, he ensures I am set up for success and never overloads my homework. He even checks in. He truly gets to know you and your companion. I have seen a dramatic difference in Woody since we began working with Tom, and we aren’t even finished with his training.— Gabrielle Castro
Posted March 2nd 2023
Dog Training Elite has been so wonderful to work with! Any time I have had a question or concern, Tom has been happy to help problem solve with me. He is a clear communicator, and willing to go the extra mile. I am so excited to continue working with him in the future! If you are considering Dog Training Elite of Central KY-you will not be disappointed!!— Hannah Fukuhara
Posted February 10th 2023
Tom is an incredible trainer. He met us where we were at in our journey and we’ve been moving forward so fast ever since! From in-home one on ones to group training sessions, my dog & I always have an amazing experience with Tom and the training he offers. He is always so optimistic with my dog and my abilities with him throughout our training. He’s my #1 and only recommendation for locals asking around about training programs.— Sophie Lorraine
Posted January 27th 2023
This is one of those instances where I wish Google had 10 stars and not just 5 because I would give D.T.E. 10 stars. Tom and Diane are amazing at what they do and are so passionate about dog training. They have given us our life back. My fiancé and I were at a point where we had no idea how we were going to move forward in life with our Dog acting the way he was. He was so reactive to everyone except us. We couldn't have company over. We couldn't go places for extended periods of time, and honestly we didn't know when or if we would be able to have children. I know that there are dogs that no matter how much you try, they just cant be trained. We weren't going to give up on our boy though. We could see his true self when we were at home with him and we wanted other people to see that side of him. My fiancé looked into basically every dog training place in Kentucky and finally found Dog Training Elite. We've spent the last 10 weeks working with Tom & Diane, doing all our assigned homework, managing our expectations with our dog, and getting out of our comfort zone. The results speak for themselves. The most common thing we hear is "He's like a whole new dog!" and we couldn't agree more. There aren't words to describe our appreciation we have for these guys. They're definitely getting invited to the wedding! LOL If you're looking for great training with great trainers in a great environment, this is your place! #TheProofIsInThePuppy.— Haley Tron
Posted October 1st 2022
Best money I ever spent ! If you have a dog or dogs , you learn with your dog and then teach your other dogs later ! Well worth it !— David Williamson
Posted July 20th 2022
For some reason my first post has not shown up and it is important that I leave this review. I have an 8 yr old American Pit Bull, Molly. She is very good girl and I have had no problems with her until we moved to Louisville and to a home with 2 other dogs. She is having trouble “getting acquainted” so after searching for just the right trainer I found Dog Training Elite. We began training 3 weeks ago and I am astounded at the difference in Molly’s level of obedience. Tom customizes the training method to the dog’s personality. That has meant success for Molly. Tom and Diane are incredibly patient and knowledgable about training with many years of experience and it shows. I am particularly pleased with Tom’s level of patience and kindness in training and Molly has already fallen in love with him. I am very excited to attend the classes with other dogs and I know Molly will love it too, Certainly the right choice of trainers for us was Dog Training Elite.— Deb
Posted July 1st 2022
Five stars! Tom trained our golden doodle, Gracie. He was amazing as he had a lot of ways to work through her stubbornness! And she had a lot of it!!!! We highly recommend DTE to train your dog! They will make huge changes in your dog’s behavior!—
Posted June 1st 2022
Needed help with my 10 month old husky, found an add for dog training elite and called the number, spoke to Tom and got started right away! Was so easy and we have been working for 4 weeks now and I have seen amazing improvement in the behavior of my husky already! From easy walks to not worrying about him bolting out the door any more. He stays right by my side always and listens to his commands. This program has made it so much easier! Can’t imagine how much he will improve by the end of the program.— Brooke Wilkins
Posted April 22nd 2022
A tremendous help!! Thankful for the assistance. Highly recommended.— Music Teacher
Posted April 18th 2022
DTE really made a great difference in our pups behavior! He is very high energy and would not listen to a thing we said until after the DTE gang stepped in to help. I would highly recommend them. Rocco loves the group classes as well.— Steven Thompson
Posted March 24th 2022
We have been through a few different training methods in the past with our stubborn Golden Retriever but still struggled with some aggression and other tough behaviors. We are only 3 weeks into our training and are incredibly happy with the results! Creed is becoming more confident and relaxed and also really enjoys our training sessions. We are thankful for Tom and all he is teaching us to be a well adjusted family!— Heather Forry
Posted March 17th 2022
Tom is so amazing to work with and his dog Bourbon is fantastic!— Kelley Rosequist
Posted March 8th 2022
Truly impressed with Dog Training Elite! Tom was quick to respond to my inquiry and the in-home assessment with our two-month old puppy happened later that week! We are first time dog owners and Tom was patient with both us and our pup and super instructive. Looking forward to all we can accomplish with Dog Training Elite!— Sarah Katsandonis
Posted January 19th 2022
I highly recommend working with them. I have tried every training method to help my dog with his anxiety. They came in and on the first day we could already see positive results. Nothing felt better watching my dog gain his confidence back and work towards helping his anxiety. They communicated effectively on what we as owners have to do, and the training methods used. Quick easy responses, on time, and very professional.— Jzotter23
Posted January 18th 2022
Dog training elite of Central Kentucky is very reliable and trustworthy! I had the pleasure of meeting the owners, and I can say firsthand they work to ensure that their clients, both furry and human, are well cared for throughout the entire training process. I would absolutely recommend using them if you are looking for a hardworking and dedicated team to assist with your dogs!— Allison S (Allison S)
Posted January 17th 2022
I loved working with Dog Training Elite of Central Ky!!! Couldn’t recommend them enough. The owners are very personable and I couldn’t believe the amazing results with my dog! He was pulled from the litter very early and he has severe anxiety and DTE helped us raise his confidence with their structured training!— Erica Novo
Posted January 17th 2022