An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN.
Dog Training Elite

German Shepherd Dog Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN

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Our German Shepherd Training Could Help:
Excessive barking
Aggression
Separation anxiety
Destructive chewing
Leash pulling
Over-protectiveness
Resource guarding

German Shepherd Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN

German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America—and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!

Dog Training Elite has years of experience with German Shepherd training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN and has developed obedience programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.

Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly.

With our targeted and specialized breed training programs, Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville can help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.

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An image of multiple german shepherd puppies - our Murfreesboro / Spring Hill german shepherd trainers ensure you pup is ready to be the best companion possible.

German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults


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Dog Training Elite recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.

If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville offers adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.

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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

  • Taylor Leigh
    Dec. 23, 2025
    Top 3 things I loved: 1) Knowledgeable and patient instruction from the trainer, 2) Reliable and empathetic support that put us at ease, 3) Experienced and effective training methods that helped improve our dog's behavior. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville! We absolutely loved Brad our trainer!
  • Ethan Holden
    Dec. 22, 2025
    My wife and I adopted a sweet, 1.5 year old Shih Tzu from a local animal rescue. We both owned dogs growing up, but this was the first dog that we could truly call ours. Consequently, Rizzo was also the first dog we were 100% responsible for training and taking care of. The first few days were ok, but then we quickly ran into major issues with crate training and serious separation anxiety. Every night and every time we left for work, Rizzo refused to go in her crate. When we placed here in there, she always withheld some pee, despite frequent walks and a watering schedule. Soon we found ourselves in a cycle of soiled crates, constant baths, and a permanent sense of anxiety and stress for everyone in the house. We reached out to Brad, who scheduled a free in-home consultation with the whole family. Out of the eight trainers I reached out to in the Middle Tennessee region, he and one other were the only ones who responded promptly and positively. Brad impressed us during the consultation because he did not try to upsell us on the most expensive plan, instead picking one that he thought was best for us and Rizzo. We ended up going with a plan that featured five total one-on-one, in-home sessions. There was notable improvement after the first session. Brad didn't rush us to schedule the second session, instead encouraging us to take our time working on the principles he established during that first visit. He also encouraged us to text and call with any isses we had during the week. I took full advantage of this, sending multiple emails, videos, and texts while we worked together. Brad always responded promptly and with action steps I could try implementing then and there. By his second visit a couple weeks later, we were able to get Rizzo to go in and out of the crate on her own. By the fourth session, we had solved the crate-soiling issue. We made so much progress that we were able to spend the last two sessions working on basic obedience. All of us are so much happier than we were before! I fully recommend working with Brad. If you listen to what he says, take notes, pay attention to how he is training your dog, and faithfully do your homework, I don't see how there wouldn't be an improvement in your dog's overall behaviour. Actively engaging and being a participant in the dog training process is key: my wife and I worked with Rizzo every night, thirty minutes a night. Just like with a personal trainer, you can't expect to see results if you aren't willing to put in the sweat equity. We do not regret our decision at all, so if you are on the fence or in a similar situation, you can't go wrong contacting Brad!
  • Tammy Keylon
    Dec. 18, 2025
    Brad is an amazing dog trainer! He is incredibly kind, patient, and very personal in the way he works with both dogs and their families. Our dog Daisy absolutely loved him, and we could see how comfortable she felt right away. Brad took the time to work with our whole family, making sure everyone understood the training and felt confident continuing it at home. We are so grateful for his patience, knowledge, and genuine care. Highly recommend Brad to anyone looking for a wonderful dog trainer!
  • Shannon Williams
    Nov. 18, 2025
    We found Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville while searching for dog training near me and were impressed from the start. Brad’s knowledge and patience made every session clear and easy to follow, and his expertise shone through in how he understood my dog’s needs. We appreciated his calm, understanding approach that helped our puppy learn good habits without feeling rushed. Overall, the experience was seamless and left us confident that we were working with the best dog trainer in the area!
  • Katie Lee
    Oct. 22, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville exceeded my expectations. Top 3 things I loved: 1) Their patience with my dog – never rushed a lesson. 2) Their experience and knowledge of dog behavior – every session felt professional. 3) Their kindness and understanding – made the training feel supportive and fun. I found them easily when looking for dog training near me and would recommend them to anyone seeking obedience training for dogs.
  • Dillon T
    Oct. 14, 2025
    5/5 stars – I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite. Brad was extremely knowledgeable and made it easy for us to understand each step in the training process. He was extremely dedicated to the training and answering any questions we had. He was appropriately firm but equally caring and affectionate with our Toast. We have seen a great improvement each week with Toast in regards to the commands but also in her overall confidence.
  • Stephanie Ring
    Oct. 11, 2025
    I was looking for dog training near me and found Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville. I appreciated the personalized approach and would definitely recommend them.
  • Hannah Weatherford
    Oct. 9, 2025
    5/5 stars - excellent expertise, endless patience, clear communication, real understanding, and genuine kindness. The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville helped my nervous puppy become well behaved in just a few weeks. I appreciated their personalized approach and the way they explained each step. Highly recommend if you are looking for dog training near me or any obedience training for dogs. They truly are the best dog trainer in the area.
  • Mariah Strike
    Sep. 20, 2025
    5/5 stars – each star for patience, professionalism, communication, expertise, and value. I chose Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville after searching for dog training near me and was impressed by the trainer's incredible patience. Every session felt calm and supportive, and my dog responded positively. The trainer took time to explain each step and never rushed the process. Highly recommend for anyone looking for patient and effective dog training.
  • Brynn Aiello
    Sep. 10, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville was incredibly patient, kind and knowledgeable. The trainer was very professional and experienced, and helped my dog with basic obedience in a calm way. I felt the whole process was friendly and effective. I highly recommend them for anyone looking for dog training near me.
  • Taylor Andrews
    Sep. 6, 2025
    Brad with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville far exceeded our expectations with his expertise! We felt so defeated with our dog’s behavior, and we had even had some tough conversations with our vet. After our initial in-home consultation with Brad, our hope had been restored. It was so rewarding to see the week-to-week improvement after each in-home training session, and I feel that we finally have our dog back! He is a much happier and WAY calmer dog now, and we are finally able to take him out in public again. Over all, I don’t think you’re going to find a more knowledgeable, patient, or experienced trainer in our area. Thank you, Brad! We are forever grateful for you!
  • Ted Salyers
    Aug. 20, 2025
    Our experience with Brad at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville was exceptional, from the professional approach to the responsive communication, we couldn't ask for more. Brad was knowledgeable and explained everything to us during the private obedience training sessions.
  • Scott williams
    Aug. 14, 2025
    Parker has started helping us with Oakley our new golden retriever and we can already tell a huge difference in his behavior! he stopped, chewing on our couches and obeys simple command so far. We are extremely impressed and even more excited about the future. We highly recommend dog training elite in Nashville and surrounding areas.
  • Karin Price
    Aug. 1, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville provided top-notch services! Brad really honed in on our dog’s needs. To be honest, I was very nervous that our dog’s reactivity would never get better. Marcus is a rescue that was found as a stray and was around 2 at the time we got him (Aussie). He is a total love bug with us but started resource protecting us, our home and the yard. He reacted extremely toward other people and dogs on walks and definitely when they visited our home. It was uncontrollable. The difference from the first private training session to the second was remarkable but on the last personal session at Lowe’s, he didn’t react to anything. We are now in the group classes and my worries have subsided. He still has tiny moments here and there but can be redirected quickly. The difference from this training is nothing short of miraculous. It’s only been 9 sessions so I know that after a few more group classes, all of Marcus’ reactivity will be gone. His is all fear driven and he is more and more confident with each session. If you have a reactive dog, don’t give up on them. Call Brad at Dog Training Elite!
  • Cathy Oakes
    Aug. 1, 2025
    Brad at Dog Training Elite was EXCELLENT!! He turned out super-hyper, headstrong dog unto a manageable and enjoyable pet!! It's a process and we're still working at it. But Brad gave me the knowledge and skills to be able to do that - not only with Java, but with our new puppy, as well. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED and worth EVERY penny!!!
  • Hannah Biagi
    Jul. 24, 2025
    Brad is great!!! He’s friendly, upbeat, and most of all, great with dogs. He worked with us to tailoring our lessons to the behaviors we wanted to correct - especially aggression! In-home lessons were a great start (thank you, Scout!) and we’re excited to be starting group lessons next, something I wasn’t sure would be possible with our Pyrenees-Lab Mix!
  • Melinda Kellams
    Jun. 7, 2025
    Excellent puppy training from Brad. Brad was very patient with Archie snd clearly knew what he was doing. Archie has learned so much and is well behaved and pleasant to be around
  • Staysee Lynn
    Jun. 6, 2025
    We were impressed with Brad’s comprehensive understanding and expertise on dog training. He provided valuable insights and effective techniques that greatly enhanced our knowledge of dog behavior and how they react to training. He is funny too. During the training process we always looked forward to our session. We highly recommend Brad and Dog Training Elite.
  • Brad “Buckeyebradley” M
    Jun. 6, 2025
    Brad did an amazing job training our puppy. In just 5 training sessions our dog will come when called, sit and stay until we release him, lay down when we tell him to, and go to his bed when we give him the command. If you need a dog trainer, this is your guy.
  • Cheryl Freeman
    Jun. 5, 2025
    Brad was amazing! Noticeable improvement in our puppy’s behavior within the first week.
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN with Dog Training Elite today.

In-Home German Shepherd Training

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Dog Training Elite offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues.

Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.

Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.

Additional Breeds We Train

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Labrador Dog Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

Labrador

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Goldendoodle Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. Dog Training Elite

Goldendoodle

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Beagle Dog Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

Beagle

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Pitbull Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

Pitbull

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Doberman Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

Doberman

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Border Collie Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

Border Collie

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - Golden Retriever Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

Golden Retriever

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville - French Bulldog Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN. DTE

French Bulldog

German Shepherd Training Tips

German Shepherds are loyal and intelligent dogs that require a thoughtful approach to training. They are eager learners, but they also need structure and clear guidance to reach their full potential.

Here are some essential training tips for German Shepherds.

Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.

Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental stimulation they need.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville.
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An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for Murfreesboro / Spring Hill german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on balance and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.

The Dog Training Elite training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite’s training methods nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Contact Dog Training Elite today for professional German Shepherd training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN!