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A golden retriever holding a grocery bag, our obedience training can help with these daily tasks.

Professional

Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite Lexington

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Obedience Dog Training Could Help:

Basic commands
Improved behavior
Socialization
Leash manners
Bonding
Mental stimulation
Confidence building
Impulse control
Good manners in public

Dog Training Elite

Lexington Dog Obedience Training

One of Dog Training Elite’s most popular training services is obedience training, which includes in-home sessions and group classes. Obedience training is essential for dogs to become confident, well-behaved, and loyal pets.

A well-trained dog is better equipped to handle new environments, meet new people, and engage with other pets. By teaching them boundaries and commands, you create a safe, structured environment where they can shine as loyal and loving companions.

Starting obedience training early for puppies sets the foundation for lifelong good behavior. It’s never too late to start—older dogs can also benefit from our proven Lexington dog obedience training techniques.

Our services are high quality and thorough; we work hard to ensure your dogs are properly trained and ready to safely explore the world around them.

See Training Packages
A golden retriever puppy laying on the floor with its owner, contact us today for Lexington dog obedience training.

Our Obedience Programs


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  • Agility Through Basic Obedience Training: Mental stimulation meets physical activity with our Agility Through Basic Obedience Training. This specialized training will keep your dog active and improve mental function by combining high-energy tasks with learned discipline.
  • Puppy Obedience Training: Start your new companion off on the right paw with Puppy Obedience Training. By starting training early, you’ll ensure a well-behaved, confident, and responsive dog ready to interact with the world outside the home.
  • Positive Reinforcement Training: We use Positive Reinforcement Training and ongoing praise to encourage good behavior. Reward-based training methods encourage your dog’s natural desire to please and help develop your dog into a loyal companion.
  • Off-Leash Dog Training: Freedom to let your dog off-leash on hikes, at parks, or at the beach requires a responsive and obedient dog. Our Off-Leash Dog Training will train your dog to promptly respond to commands, even when they’re not at your side.
  • Classical Conditioning Training: Classical Conditioning Training replaces negative behaviors with positive ones when the dog encounters an external stimulus. This training helps dogs become confident and trustful when their owner is present.

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • dede holman
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Tom is absolutely amazing.. Dog Training Elite has top notch service dog training.
  • Bobbie Richmer
    Nov. 9, 2024
    The experience was wonderful. We love our trainer Tom. He is a great guy. Always there to us with our dog Thor.
  • LINDA SEAY
    Nov. 21, 2024
    Could not be happier with the results!! Highly recommend this organization and Tom is the best!
  • Krzysztof Kleszcz
    Nov. 17, 2024
    Tom and Abby are fantastic! They had so many helpful tips and suggested great practice exercises. The unlimited group classes are especially helpful! My dog is well on his way to getting his service dog certification
  • Angela Brock
    Nov. 12, 2024
    I own a mental health practice in Louisville. My team and I decided to train a therapy dog. I had no idea how much time and attention would be needed. We are about 4 months into her training and it is going well. She is only 7 months old so she still has some puppy energy. Tom has been super patient with me. Anyone can tell you that I am not coordinated at all. Trying to walk, use the training clicker while not tripping over my dog is challenging for me. I have gotten frustrated with myself more than once. We just started group classes and I was so impressed with my girl! We have finally gotten to a place where I feel more confident. Having the support of Tom and Dog Training Elite, has made all the difference. Time and patience are imperative. Thank you Tom!
  • Abigail Wren
    Nov. 11, 2024
    Tom is very knowledgeable and patient, the training methods he uses really do work and it shows! Especially in group class where I can see the progress my dog has made and challenge my dog in new ways!
  • Todd Mitchell
    Oct. 17, 2024
    Tom is a blessing I was ready to give up on our German shepherd Tom has been working with us now she's a totally different will trained pet and I’m happy to be around her and go on walks etc.Tom has done an amazing job teaching us how to train her. Top notch knowledgeable and very patient happy to know him
  • Abigail Morgan
    Oct. 9, 2024
    Tom is amazing! I’ve seen my dog make leaps and bounds in only three sessions. Can’t wait for more!
  • Kelsea Fitzpatrick
    Oct. 8, 2024
    Tom is great! He is knowledgeable, helpful, and an effective instructor. He has helped our dog (a puppy when we started) pass his good canine citizen test and now we are working on him becoming a service dog for our son with various disabilities. We are very thankful for Tom and Dog Elite Training of Lexington!
  • Lee Anne Ater
    Aug. 18, 2024
    When Joe and I started on this adventure of getting a puppy to train to be a mobility support dog for Joe due to his MS, I was a bit unsure of if we could make it happen. As Cole, an English Labrador, began growing into a LARGE puppy who didn’t know his strength I was concerned he would end up knocking Joe or others off their feet! With the wonderful guidance from Tom at Dog Training Elite, Cole (Joe and I) have learned to obey commands, listen to each other, act more appropriate around other people and dogs, and greet others without jumping on them. Joe, Cole, and I look forward to continuing our journey with Tom and appreciate all that he has done!
  • Lee Anne DePaola Ater
    Aug. 17, 2024
    When Joe and I started on this adventure of getting a puppy to train to be a mobility support dog for Joe due to his MS, I was a bit unsure of if we could make it happen. As Cole, an English Labrador, began growing into a LARGE puppy who didn’t know his strength I was concerned he would end up knocking Joe or others off their feet! With the wonderful guidance from Tom at Dog Training Elite, Cole (Joe and I) have learned to obey commands, listen to each other, act more appropriate around other people and dogs, and greet others without jumping on them. Joe, Cole, and I look forward to continuing our journey with Tom and appreciate all that he has done!
  • Georgina Lukoczki
    Sep. 6, 2023
    I started working with Tom about three months after adopting my very anxious rescue, Frannie, who was about 14 months old at the time. I tried other training programs, as well as just figuring things out from YouTube videos on my own but after a few months of nightmarish daily walks and hateful looks when I tried to go out with Frannie who would just bark her head off the moment we stepped outside, well, I decided it was time to get professional help. The very first one-on-one class with Tom was a complete game-changer. No more pulling after just one class with Tom! She is now also able to walk past most of the bunnies hopping around without trying to chase after them and this makes the walks so much safer not having to constantly worry about her taking off after a rabbit or squirrel and run out right in front of a car. Frannie is a smart girl but she is also very stubborn, so there have been several things she has been slow to learn to perform well and Tom is always very patient with her, and of course with me too. The next-level game-changer was when we started attending group classes. The group classes helped tremendously with Frannie’s behavior when we go out. I was always envious of people whose pups just lay next to them quietly while they are able to carry a conversation with other people for an hour or two. Now I constantly get compliments on how well-behaved my dog is. She has improved so incredibly much since working with Tom and I look forward to continuing our work with him.
  • Amber Logan
    Jun. 6, 2023
    Tom is the BEST! When we had our consultation our dog Bella (Cane Corso) was jumping on Tom and his assistant she even got in the couch with them. NOT the behavior we wanted with guests coming over and she is over 100 lbs. We set up training and Bella was nothing short of difficult and did not want to listen or act on any commands. After the home sessions I could see some improvement and changes in her behavior. Next we moved to the group class and I was completely nervous that she would be a class clown. The first session was difficult. Everything was a distraction but as I continued to follow Tom’s instructions on how to work with Bella to establish trust and leadership with her reinforcing it through positive reinforcement. She continually improved. Now she walks next to me and lets me lead, she is no longer afraid to walk on the small wall or complete the obstacle course on command. She is a COMPLETELY different dog. I can take her into pets stores and I have control of her. She no longer jumps on guests when they come visit she sits and allows them to greet her. She is so much more enjoyable when we are out and about. I 100% recommend Tom and Dog Training Elite. He also takes time to train the owners on the proper ways to interact with your pet in a positive way to train without negative reinforcement. I look forward to class now and Bella does too! Thank you Tom!!!!
  • Kathy Parrott
    Jun. 6, 2023
    So I called my small shih tzu, Millie, the “devil child”, as she was 100% an alpha female and wanted everyone to know it and obey her! As a young puppy, she would bite and chew on my arms, nip at the back of my arms to the point I was bloody, scratched, scabbed and bruised! She would not listen to the word “no”, as it just made her more angry. I had to take her to the veterinarian to get medication to calm her at night just to be able to do simple house chores. I met the Dog Training Elite people at the Kentucky Home and Garden show in April! After a phone conversation and a home visit with Tom to meet Millie, I took the plunge to train the “devil child” Millie. After our first at home lesson, Millie obeyed and was so good. She loved Tom and I wanted to cry. Just watching her walk in a leash, stop and sit, was amazing. Since then she has amazed me on what she can learn, she is so smart! We just finished our at home training and in just 5 weeks, Millie is no longer a devil child, but a happier well behaved, smart member of our family!! It is such a blessing to see her listen and follow commands and listen. Tom is so good with her and very patient. He is very knowledgeable and Millie just loved him, and his pocket (that were he keeps the treats)! Thank you Tom for giving me a well trained dog that will be happier and safer in her future. Looking forward to our group classes and see where this little girl can go and what she can learn!!! I highly recommend to get your dog trained, for your sake and theirs!! It made a world of difference in our day!!
  • Gabrielle Castro
    Mar. 2, 2023
    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.
  • Hannah Anderson
    Feb. 10, 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!!
  • Sophie Lorraine
    Jan. 27, 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.
  • Haley Tron
    Oct. 1, 2022
    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.
  • David Williamson
    Jul. 20, 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 !
  • Deb
    Jul. 1, 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.
A Dog Training Elite Lexington owner smiling with his dog in Lexington, KY.

Dog Training Elite

Why Obedience Training is Essential

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Obedience training is an essential investment for dog owners, especially those who have never owned a dog before. Training is a fundamental step to rearing an intelligent and well-behaved dog. Without even basic obedience training, a dog will be unable to learn more advanced skills, safely leave the house, or go off-leash.

Benefits of obedience training:

  • Safety: Obedient dogs are less likely to engage in dangerous behavior, such as fighting, biting, aggressive barking, or running away. As they learn to trust and listen to their owner, they will respond to commands and stay calm in threatening situations.
  • Socialization: Puppies must be socialized with other dogs to know how to positively interact with other animals and people. Without socialization, they begin to look at animals and people as threats, which leads to unsafe behaviors.
  • Behavior: Nondangerous but unwanted behaviors such as barking, pulling, jumping, and begging can all be minimized with proper obedience training.
  • Confidence and stability: When properly trained, dogs will become more confident, and comfortable in all different environments. Dogs will be more trustful while interacting with new environments and take away the stress of bringing them out with you.
A golden retriever playing with its owner during a class in Lexington, KY.

Effective Training Through Positive Reinforcement and Classical Conditioning

Our Obedience Training Methods

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The goal of obedience training is in the name–training a dog to obey commands reliably. Obedience training for dogs can be lengthy and requires repetition, consistency, and positive reinforcement to achieve lasting results.

This training involves teaching a puppy or dog basic commands like sit, come, heel, or down. Dog Training Elite trainers also use obedience training to teach commands more unique to your situation.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Desired behaviors can be encouraged with positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Rewards satisfy your dog's natural desire to please and create a strong bond between dog and owner.
  • Customized Approach: We recognize that every dog is different, from breed to temperament, and because of that, they may be predisposed to certain behaviors. After meeting your dog, we will customize a training plan to meet their unique needs.
  • Professional Trainers: Dog Training Elite has highly experienced trainers who prioritize building trust between dog and owner. With years of experience to draw on, they successfully use communication and patience to get the behavioral results you want for your dog.
  • Long-Term Results: Our training methods are designed to produce lasting behavioral changes in dogs of all breeds and ages. Consistency and repetition are necessary for proper obedience training, but when you commit to training, you will be impressed with the results.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite Lexington - Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Lexington, KY. DTE
Classical Conditioning Training

Classical conditioning dog training in Lexington, KY, also known as Pavlovian or respondent conditioning, is a dog training method that involves creating automatic responses to specific commands. This approach taps into a dog’s natural reflexes, making training more effective and instinctive.

Dog Training Elite Lexington - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Lexington, KY. DTE
Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement dog trainers in Lexington, KY focus on rewarding dogs for good behavior to encourage them to repeat it. Using treats, praise, or play, these trainers help your dog learn quickly and happily, building a strong bond and creating a well-behaved, motivated companion.

Dog Training Elite Lexington - Puppy Obedience Training in Lexington, KY. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training

Taking advantage of our Lexington puppy obedience classes is crucial for setting your puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Early training helps instill essential commands and good behavior, preventing future issues and strengthening the bond between you and your puppy.

Dog Training Elite Lexington - Off Leash Dog Training in Lexington, KY. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training

Our off-leash dog training in Lexington, KY, helps your dog achieve complete freedom and control, even in distracting environments. With expert guidance, we’ll teach your dog to follow commands confidently without the need for a leash, giving you both greater flexibility and trust in your dog's behavior.

Dog Training Elite Lexington -
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

While we don't offer formal agility dog training in Lexington, KY, our basic obedience programs can significantly enhance your dog's agility. By focusing on essential commands and improving coordination, speed, and focus, your dog will develop the skills and discipline that naturally improve their agility and overall physical abilities.

A godlen retriever at a show demo with Dog Training Elite in Lexington, KY.

Dog Training Elite Lexington

What to Expect from Dog Training Elite’s Obedience Program

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Dog Training Elite stands apart from other dog obedience training companies. Our high-quality results and customized approach provide the desired results for dog owners everywhere.

What you can expect:

  • Initial Assessment: An experienced Dog Training Elite trainer will evaluate your dog to understand their temperament and behavior.
  • Clear Goals: The Dog Training Elite trainer will discuss with you what they found and present realistic, measurable goals for your dog. Because every dog is so different, goals will differ between all dogs to ensure each one reaches their full potential.
  • Training Schedule: We offer flexible options for in-home training sessions to fit your schedule. For best results, you should find time to work with your dog on commands and recall outside of scheduled training sessions.
  • Owner Involvement: A benefit of in-home training is owners will be taught how to continue training between sessions. Involving everyone in the household in the training process leads to even better training results.
  • Ongoing Support: We want your dog to continuously progress after obedience training, so Dog Training Elite also offers group classes or other advanced training courses.
A Dog Training Elite Lexington owner with her black lab dog, our obedience training for dogs in Lexington, KY can help strengthen your bond.

Start Your Training Today

Invest in Your Dog’s Future with Dog Training Elite

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Obedience training is a lifelong gift for your dog, fostering safety, social skills, and trust. At Dog Training Elite, we provide professional, customized training services for lasting results.

With a focus on positive reinforcement and long-term results, we stand apart as leaders in the dog training industry and are the best option for obedience training.

Take the first step toward a better-behaved dog. Contact us today for a free consultation!

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Lexington.
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Dog Training Elite Lexington

Common Questions About Obedience Training

Still have questions about obedience training? We’ve got you covered! Below are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify any remaining concerns you have. At Dog Training Elite Lexington, we're here to ensure you and your dog have the best training experience possible.

The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
Besides basic commands, dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.