An obedient puppy receiving expert puppy training in Nashville, TN from DTE.
Dog Training Elite

Puppy Training in Nashville, TN

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

Our Puppy Training Could Help:
Leash and potty training
Food guarding and begging
Destructive chewing and digging
Stealing food, clothing, or other objects
Barking, howling and whining
Aggression and anxiety
Jumping and hyperactivity

Dog Training Elite

Professional Nashville Puppy Trainers

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it also comes with challenges like chewing and accidents. The most common mistake new owners make is underestimating the knowledge, commitment, and effort needed to train a new puppy.

Once a puppy begins to grow, its energy can quickly feel unmanageable. It’s all too common that a well-meaning and loving family takes on a puppy lacking the knowledge and skills to train correctly. This often results in overwhelmed owners rehoming or taking these puppies to local shelters, feeling the puppy’s disposition is bad or simply that they are not cut out to be dog owners.

At Dog Training Elite, we focus on building that bond through effective training to foster trust and communication. Our experienced Nashville puppy trainers use proven methods to help you and your puppy succeed together.

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A little puppy sitting in grass, contact Dog Training Elite Central Nashville today.

Puppy Essentials Webinar

Free 70-Minute video

$45 Value

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Our trusted puppy class is now available "on-demand" from the comfort of your home! This webinar video is designed for owners of puppies age 8-16 weeks old, and will be accessible to you for free after completing the form below or with the purchase of one of our puppy packages!

Access Webinar

Our webinar includes education on the following topics:
  • Introducing a new puppy to your home
  • Health & well-being
  • Veterinary care & vaccines
  • Nurturing a good temperament
  • Scruffing & calming signals (e.g. dog yoga)
  • Basic Treat Obedience Including: Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy Corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate Training / Housebreaking
  • Socialization Tips
  • Environmental Hazards
  • Puppy Enrichment
  • Caring for Your Puppy
Three puppies receiving expert training from Dog Training Elite Central Nashville.

The Importance of Puppy Training


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Almost everyone and everything a puppy will encounter will be brand new, which can be exciting. However, puppies may not know how to respond positively and safely to new experiences without proper training. That's why Dog Training Elite believes in starting puppy training as soon as possible, so you and your pup can bond and start your adventures on the right foot!

Training the DTE way provides puppies and owners with a nurturing environment where they can learn to communicate and trust each other. Puppies have an innate desire to please, so training can be fun and even easy! Of course, it can be daunting to try and figure out how to make puppies understand concepts like potty training or commands like sit and stay on your own. That's where puppy training comes in.

Keeping a puppy safe should be the number one priority of new dog owners. By working with puppy trainers in, new puppy owners can learn how to teach their pup both basic and complex obedience skills effectively. Training a pup to be home alone, walk on a leash, wait on the threshold, and avoid consuming non-edible objects will help keep them safe when out of sight.

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

  • David Trent
    Jun. 5, 2026
    Her and her dog were great! Lilly leared along today!!
  • Hannah Laws
    Jun. 7, 2026
    Dog Training Elite Nashville has been fantastic! Aiden, Parker, and Reina all did a fabulous job with us, and we’ve seen such a dramatic difference with Gus. They were patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in helping both us and Gus succeed. It’s truly an investment in yourself and your dog, and the results are so worth it. The progress has been incredible, and we’re so grateful for their guidance and support. Highly recommend!
  • Jeremy Sanders
    Jun. 6, 2026
    Rhett is great! Cares about the animals and it shows.
  • Molly Poss
    Jun. 6, 2026
    Trey was The BEST!! What I thought would be impossible with teaching out pup he handled with ease and made it happen!! And our little dog wagged his taiol the whole time! He was loving learning and gave Trey all the kisses and thanks after!
  • Becca Alexander (Hannah)
    Jun. 5, 2026
    I’ve been working with Dog Training Elite for 2 months. I’ve seen incredible improvement in my dog’s behavior, temperament, and resource guarding. I’ve worked with Austin and Trey, both of which have been wonderful. They’re encouraging and very professional. Absolutely worth the money.
  • Pam Judd
    Jun. 3, 2026
    Parker took time to answer all of my questions and gave a positive first impression of the company. I am eager to get started with my puppy’s (and my) training!
  • Sara Petetabella
    Jun. 3, 2026
    Rhett was very professional, and knowledgeable. He was able to explain pricing, and services clearly, and efficiently. I feel as if Elite Training would be an amazing fit for us.
  • Debbie McCreary
    May. 31, 2026
    The trainers were all great & so good with Marco!
  • Madonna Archer
    May. 23, 2026
    Best dog training experience of my three. Red is kind, considerate, and well-trained. On our eighth lesson, we took my 60-lb dog to an antique mall. We walked in the areas for 50 minutes, and Memphis didn’t touch anything. He also was approached by several people and was a perfect gentleman. Five stars all the way.
  • HEGO
    May. 22, 2026
    We have loved working with Dog Training Elite! We have two young children – and being able to work with these trainers has really helped our Portuguese water Dog, Arthur, be such a great little member of our family. They are so responsive, professional, and knowledgeable!
  • Christina Maria
    May. 21, 2026
    We are so happy we found and entered a training program with DTE! When we started, our pup, Tarkin, was high energy and difficult to handle. Now, he is a respectable member of society and very good boy 😊 As a concerned owner, I really appreciated their style and approach to his training. It was very easy for us both to understand and the progress he made speaks for itself.
  • Annie Reagan
    May. 21, 2026
    This training has been so vital to enjoying our dog/yard/walks again. Shoko has made incredible strides. This program has allowed us to feel secure again and empowered with the training. Red, the trainer, has been fabulous every step of the way. *pic of Shoko at her last outing prior to group lessons and her laying calmly in place outside.
  • Jennifer Patten
    May. 11, 2026
    Great experience with Red! He is very knowledgeable on different training methods. Definitely recommend!
  • Vicki Mead
    May. 11, 2026
    We’ve been working with Red on Bernie’s therapy dog skills. We always benefit from his professional and knowledgeable teaching. Plus, he makes it fun!
  • Darian Keith
    May. 6, 2026
    Enjoyed working with Parker and Montana. Both were very knowledgeable. Nova’s behavior at home has improved! Appreciate the flexibility with scheduling lessons
  • Bert Mathews
    Apr. 30, 2026
    They have been prompt and professional. My dog has enjoyed each person. He has been calm and performed well which is hard for an English Bulldog.
  • Tess Wiltgen
    Apr. 13, 2026
    Red is an extraordinarily kind and patient person, my 3 year old frenchie Zeppelin has come so far in the 4 months since we started training with Dog Training Elite. Not only has my boy learned solid commands, but walking on a leash and interacting with other dogs has been a night and day difference. Our trainer Red not only provides support and praise, but has provided me with peace of mind and assuages all fears/concerns still to go with furthering our training goals. He’s a genuine asset to your organization, and we look forward to our next lessons with him in group classes. Thank you for all that you do!
  • Tammy Parmentier
    Apr. 3, 2026
    Red is a very professional and excellent trainer for our pup. He always gives great tips and encourages both me and my pup during our sessions. I highly recommend him for all your puppy training needs.
  • Kelly Acker
    Apr. 3, 2026
    Red from Dog Training Elite is the BEST! We truly cannot sing his praises enough. He helped turn our crazy puppy into such a well behaved dog. We love how communicative Dog Training Elite is - they have made this such a smooth training process.
  • Paige Miller
    Mar. 25, 2026
    Gus has been training with Red, Raina, and the Dog Training Elite team since he was 9 weeks old. We could not be happier with the puppy training Gus has received, and we are looking forward to starting group classes soon. He has transformed from a crazy, often frustrating puppy to a companionable and trustworthy friend in just a few short months with their help. He’s ready to keep learning and growing under their steady and gentle training.
A Nashville puppy trainers giving a puppy positive affirmation during an in-home training session.

Dog Training Elite Central Nashville, TN

In-Home Puppy Training

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Dog Training Elite Central Nashville offers comprehensive in-home training. For the first 4-6 weeks, trainers use “treat training” before moving onto more advanced puppy training. Puppies will learn the following behaviors:

  • Come, down, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate training/ housebreaking
  • Focus around distractions

Trainers will also help owners learn about the following:

  • Socialization tips
  • Environmental hazards
  • Positive reinforcement techniques
  • Puppy enrichment
  • Caring for your puppy
  • And more!

Training a puppy can feel overwhelming. By pairing you with a professional trainer, not only will your puppy learn quickly, but you will feel confident and empowered to continue training your puppy after the sessions are completed. Training in your own home will help you bond with your pup so even after the professional trainer leaves, you and Fido can continue to progress together.

A puppy ready to start training with Dog Training Elite Central Nashville.

Start Puppy Training Early

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First-time dog owners are often unsure of when to begin training their dogs. For the best results, it’s essential to start training your puppy as soon as possible. You can start socialization and basic commands as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Puppies are open to new experiences and people and learn quickly while they are young. It is beneficial to take advantage of this stage. Start with basic commands like "down," "come," and "stay." If you are searching for classes, Dog Training Elite offers puppy obedience classes.

Additional Puppy Training Info

Dog Training Elite Central Nashville - Puppy Crate Training in Nashville, TN. DTE

Crate Training

A well-manered puppy receiving positive reinforcement from their owner.

Our Puppy Trainers

The DTE Approach

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We have developed a highly successful and unique positive puppy training program empowering dog owners to train. Hence, their dog knows who to obey at all times, in all situations or environments. We offer personalized training to deal with specific issues and behaviors. We even offers customized training schedules to offer you the support you need as a dog owner.

Involvement is Key!

Most dog training programs don’t allow for the involvement of owners and families. Our trainers greatly encourage owners and their families to be involved in the training process. Why? This ensures you and your family know what’s expected, allows for continued education and means all the progress isn’t lost. Your puppy won’t come home and forget everything he’s learned.

Our puppy training program consists of two phases, early training and advanced training. Puppies as young as eight weeks can begin learning with Dog Training Elite Central Nashville. Our process allows us to efficiently complete in-home puppy training services at your home or within the environment where behaviors manifest - such as in the park or around other dogs in the neighborhood.

A Dog Training Elite Central Nashville puppy training outside.

Dog Training Elite Central Nashville

How Puppy Training Works

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We use a positive puppy training method paired with an electronic collar - not a shock collar. Unlike shock collars, electronic collars do not hurt or harm the pup. They are used only to obtain their attention, not to punish bad behavior. We believe in using constant praise to encourage good behavior. The difference becomes apparent when comparing a puppy trained out of fear to a puppy who truly desires to please.

Positive Reinforcement for Positive Pups

Positive reinforcement is the best option in puppy training. Punishments will only scare your dog, and fear can lead to aggression problems later in life. Our trainers use a classical conditioning program focusing on positive reinforcement of basic commands.

Dogs are eager to please. When they learn following basic commands results in affection or a treat, they will be happy to do as you ask. With patience - and the assistance of a professional puppy trainer - you'll be rewarded with a lifelong loyal pal.

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model, also known as the "Pavlovian" response or "respondent conditioning." This means developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands, so when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking. Our unique technique ensures our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.

Contact us today to learn more about our training programs !

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Central Nashville.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Dog Training Elite Central Nashville

Tips on How to Bond

Training is a great way to establish a deep, loyal bond with your puppy. Outside of your training sessions, there is more you can do to strengthen your bond. Here are some more tips for how to bond with your puppy:

Your puppy may not understand the words you’re saying, but he or she will understand your tone of voice. Speaking in an excited tone of voice will get your pup excited and motivate them to do what you want them to. Speaking in a low, calm voice can help soothe and relax your puppy.
Puppies thrive on routine. A consistent schedule will help your puppy adjust to their new home, and to you and your family. A puppy’s schedule needs to include eating, playtime, puppy training, potty breaks, and nap times.
As mentioned above, playtime is an important part of your puppy’s schedule. Playing with your puppy will help strengthen your bond and stimulate their brains. Walks are an easy and great way to give your puppy much-needed exercise. Start small, walking around in your yard or driveway and gradually extending the distance around your neighborhood.
Creating boundaries in your home for your puppy helps strengthen your bond because your puppy will look to you for direction and guidance. It will also help your puppy avoid bad habits. Baby gates and playpens are a useful way to create physical boundaries.
Puppies can become overwhelmed about all the new things they’re exploring. Crate training is a perfect way to allow your puppy to have their own space where they feel safe and comfortable and help them develop some independence so they grow into a well-adjusted dog.
The most adorable way to bond with your puppy is by cuddling them! Snuggling with your pup can help him or her feel comforted and safe. The best time to get a cuddle session with your puppy is when they are sleepy. Cuddling also helps puppies get used to having their paws, belly, face, etc. handled, and can be a good time to introduce light grooming practices like brushing their fur.