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A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist in Louisville, KY.

Behavioral Solutions

Dog Training Elite Louisville

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A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of Louisville dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Louisville Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist in Louisville. KY, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

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Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Dog Socialization Classes. Dog Training Elite
Socialization

Our dog socialization classes teach dogs how to interact positively with other dogs and people, which helps reduce fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Stop Puppy Biting with Dog Training Elite
Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Reactive Dog Training. Dog Training Elite
Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training. DTE
Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs. DTE
Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Excessive Barking Training. DTE
Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Staying and Coming Training. DTE
Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

Dog Training Elite Louisville -
Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Dog Training Elite Louisville - Dog & Puppy Potty Trainer. Dog Training Elite
Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

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!

A dog with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite Louisville.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Louisville.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • 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!
  • Lauren Brown
    Jul. 13, 2024
    I was recommended Dog Training Elite by my sister, and from the very beginning Tom has done a wonderful job helping my dog through reactivity and anxiety. We started with some pretty explosive reactivity, lunging, barking, etc. and in less than two months she is able to calmly participate in group class alongside other dogs. I cant recommend Dog Training Elite and Tom enough!
  • Khara Aud
    Mar. 30, 2024
    We got our family's first dog, a Cavapoo puppy named Poppy. We decided we would benefit from some puppy training as much as the puppy, so we searched the internet and found Dog Training Elite in Louisville. Tom is amazing. He taught Poppy to come in her very first session. In the second session, she learned sit, down, and up. Also, we were struggling to find treats she would like so he showed up with a pocket full of them to help us determine the best treat to get the job done. Tom has an amazing temperament, with both animals and people. He is very helpful and answers any questions we have. I recommend not only training your puppy, but using Dog Training Elite to do it. If we decide to go beyond puppy training into further obedience, we will definitely go with Tom.
  • Danielle wilson
    Mar. 29, 2024
    Tom has been great with my anxious rescue dog. He’s patient and kind; she responds well to his quiet nature. Definitely a good investment!
  • Amy Sees
    Mar. 25, 2024
    We just finished our last training with Tom from Dog Training Elite. It was an excellent experience. Tom did an amazing job interacting with our dog Toby (11 months) and with my 11 year old son. He was calm, listened really well to our needs and concerns, and spent a full hour training with us each session. Our dog went from being hard to manage on walks, stubborn, and unmanageable in public to knowing how to heel, listening to us, staying in his place, and being able to play off leash with our son. We are still practicing but he’s come so far! I’d definitely recommend DTE…it’s worth the investment!
  • Nate Davison
    Mar. 16, 2024
    We have enjoyed the progress our dog has made in a short time. The training is in depth and doable. If you want results this is a great training service.
  • Frederick Wright
    Feb. 26, 2024
    I have had dogs for 40 years and have never been able to train them as fast or as easily as my trainer. I spent a week trying to train lay down with no success and he did it in 30 seconds. I am only 5 sessions in but the progress is remarkable
  • Taylor DiPalma
    Jan. 11, 2024
    I’m a little late to this review but Tom did an amazing job with our puppy. We started training the week after we got our puppy and he immediately knew commands. Our dog turns two this month and goes a lot of places with us, especially soccer games and we get so many compliments on how well behaved he is. Even off leash with many people around and distractions, our dog listens and has a great recall. I was a little nervous about using an e collar but Tom made me feel comfortable with its proper use and we still use it to this day. I have recommended him to many people and will continue to do so. It’s also so convenient as a mother to three boys (one of which has autism) that he comes to our house for training. We are hoping to eventually have our dog trained as a service animal for our youngest. This training is absolutely worth the money. We also don’t have a fence and I feel 100% confident letting our dog outside by himself to go to the bathroom since we set up safe boundaries for him during our training.
  • beemer rose
    Nov. 12, 2023
    Most excellent assistance in training my new pup. Tom the Trainer is gentle, a wonderful coach and guide. My pup showed signs of being anxious around anything new. With this training she is easy to walk, shows more confidence and is better behaved. Tom's course is well worth the investment.
  • Derek Smith
    Oct. 26, 2023
    Wemby really enjoyed his experience and the class was helpful. WEMBYS teacher was so patient with the teacher and got along well with him. Wemby is like a new dog. He learned so much and had fun. This is a great and trustworthy company. Always on time and goes above and beyond. I would recommend them over anyone else.
  • Eric Joergens
    Sep. 26, 2023
    It was so difficult to walk our dog before meeting Tom at Dog Training Elite. Our dog would chase everything and had severe anxiety. It’s been a complete 180 and now I look forward to walks with my dog. I couldn’t recommend him enough. Thank you Tom.
  • Brandon Sebastian
    Sep. 23, 2023
    Tom is a great trainer, I have been working with him for couple months now.
  • Katie Jones
    Jul. 18, 2023
    Tom is amazing! We are working towards training our pup to be a medical service dog for our son. He has learned so much in just a few short weeks. Tom is very patient and calm. He’s extremely knowledgeable and has various ways to help our dog accomplish our goals! I would recommend Tom to anyone wanting to train their dog!
  • Jenny Davison
    Jul. 8, 2023
    We have loved this training! From the very beginning we were encouraged by Tom and given excellent advice in training our dog. Our goal has been to train our dog to be a therapy dog and while we are not finished, we have seen amazing progress in her abilities and behavior. I highly recommend Tom for training!
  • Rachel Stanger
    Apr. 8, 2023
    He s extremely patient and knowledgeable. Yes they use E collars but he takes the time to teach you how to use it properly without hurting your dog. I have never felt so welcomed by a dog trainer.
  • Kristen Lonberger
    Mar. 31, 2023
    Tom has been a wealth of knowledge and incredibly patient with our Cane Corso puppy. We were about at our wits end until we found him, and so thankful we did!
  • Leslee Parrish
    Feb. 11, 2023
    Tom was an amazing trainer to me and my wild Australian Shepard puppy 8 months old. Tom taught me how to be more patient and confident, which in turn helped my dog Baxter become confident as well. I’m looking forward to the group sessions. I can’t express my gratitude enough. Thank you again Tom!
  • Andrew Case
    Oct. 25, 2022
    Tom did a really good job with my dog in the individual sessions. Friendly and professional service. My dog learned more than I expected. Would recommend to any one looking to train their dog.
  • Gary White
    Oct. 23, 2022
    Can.t say enough good things about my trainer Tom. He is very professional and great with my dog. Very knowledgable about my breed and what we needed to do to get Willow so we know how to handle her in every situation. Having a pitbull mix rescue is not easy , but we feel very comfortable around other people and other dogs. If you need your dog trained you won't regret using Dog Elite of Central Ky. Thanks Tom
  • Stephanie Taylor
    Oct. 12, 2022
    We have had a wonderful experience with training our dog, Moose - he has done so incredibly well, and is ready for training as a service dog! We will be continuing our training with Dog Training Elite and can’t wait until Moose is a fully trained service dog!

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use techniques rooted in positive reinforcement to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs. Our methods focus on rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, creating a positive association that motivates dogs to repeat those actions.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt positive behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite Louisville.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle using positive reinforcement in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning with positive reinforcement shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite Louisville.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist in Louisville, KY

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Louisville.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

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Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist in Louisville, KY, Dog Training Elite is the top choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach focused on positive reinforcement, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!