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A therapy dog is a dog who visits places like schools, hospitals and nursing homes. Therapy dog training in Orlando teaches dogs to provide comfort, support, and affection to the people they meet, particularly vulnerable people like children, seniors, patients in hospitals, and so on.
Therapy dogs are not service dogs. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to help a person who has a disability. This distinction is important because therapy dogs do not have the same access to public places like service dogs do. For example, service dogs can go into restaurants, but therapy dogs cannot. Therapy dogs still provide a valuable service and should receive therapy dog certification.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite in Orlando location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Who Do Therapy Dogs Help?
Therapy dogs may be regular visitors to a variety of people and places, with hospitals and rehabilitation centers being among the most common. Children, in particular, respond positively to therapy dogs.
Seniors in assisted living or people with mental disabilities who live in facilities and experience feelings of isolation also see a lot of benefits from visiting with a therapy dog.
Besides providing valuable social opportunities and relieving anxiety, therapy dogs may even help lower blood pressure and heart rate in patients and the other people they visit.
Why Are Therapy Dogs Important?
Therapy dogs offer unconditional love, non-judgmental interaction, reduce stress, anxiety and loneliness, and provide an overall positive distraction to ailments. Research shows therapy dogs can have a positive effect on a patient’s mood, stress and pain levels during facility stays.
Young patients — children — seem to benefit most from working with therapy dogs. They are more motivated to participate in treatments, feel optimistic about the future, and experience an overall sense of calm when a certified therapy dog is present.
For people who may have a hard time socializing due to mental disabilities or their living situation, therapy dogs can promote social interaction within their community and help them to connect.
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!
I can’t say enough great things about the programs offered from Dog Training Elite! I rescued Kai, my boxer/pit mix, and right from the start DTE was so supportive in starting his training and working towards giving him the best life possible. I am amazed with how quickly Kai is progressing, and even after the first few weeks he is tremendously better behaved. All the trainers are excellent, and Maria did a fantastic job working with Kai and myself directly, teaching both of us how to properly train! I’m excited to continue working with Kai and all the trainers with DTE on his training journey. Highly recommend!— Anthony Leary
Posted April 9th 2024
I recently had the pleasure of working with Dog Training Elite North Orlando for my new puppy, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. Craig came directly to my house, which was incredibly convenient and made the training process feel very personalized. Craig was knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about helping both my puppy and me. He taught me a variety of tips and tricks for house training that have been absolutely invaluable. I highly recommend his services to any new dog owners out there looking for effective, compassionate training assistance."— Sarah Ragland
Posted April 6th 2024
Roscoe is 9 years old and still learning we have been working with Craig excellent trainer We are able to walk with very little reaction now and also meet up with other dogs. Always training Mini Australian Shepard very smart.— Sharon Hallman
Posted March 26th 2024
I have never been so impressed by a dog training company before these guys. When I first started thinking about a service dog, I had no idea what it would be like. As I met staff (Chelsea, Cheyanne, Maria, and the rest of the crew) they listened to my needs and gave their hearts beyond my expectations. All my hopes were fulfilled and then some., Dog Training Elite Orlando has been nothing but by my side this whole year during the training process with my now Service dog, Raven”. I can say that I have been truly blessed ❤️ Thank you all! You are the best in my book, 😊👍— Sean Meskimen
Posted March 17th 2024
Chelsea, Cheyenne and Maria are fantastic! They shared effective strategies to train our energetic dog. Marley's anxiety and whining were uncontrollable. For private dog training sessions they were very flexible and made themselves available to accommodate our limited availability. Our dog's behavior has significantly changed for the best after we enrolled him in the Dog Training Elite Orlando. We are extremely grateful. Highly recommend.— Michele Munoz
Posted September 22nd 2023
After more than six months looking for a school for my fur baby, Peaches, which I needed to be my Service Dog due to my conditions, I thank God for letting me find this amazing place with 3 exceptional trainers. From the beginning Chelsea (owner) was so helpful and diligent with me and my worries that I was excited waiting for my appointment. The moment I got to know Cheyenne (owner) and my assigned trainer, Maria, I told my husband, “Honey, I am hook with Dog Training Elite Orlando”. I have to say these Ladies know their business and after making my research the amount charge is so reasonable compared to so many out there, that for me, it was a win, win deal. I can not recommend enough these amazing women. Maria was Peaches direct trainer and she is the sweetest, understanding and in addition loves her work. I am so grateful for them and their understanding during a difficult period in my life and making possible for me to have my loving Peaches with me helping me coupe with my situations. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! UPDATE I am so happy, because I was able to take Peaches with me to Magic Kingdom for the first time and it was a great experience. She behave awesome even with all the distractions. Thank you so much Dog Training Elite Orlando, does ladies are out of this world!— Magda Rodriguez
Posted December 16th 2023
Obi and I have had an incredible experience with the Dog Training Elite Orlando program. Chelsea, Maria and Cheyenne are very knowledgeable, patient, and really helped us understand how to communicate effectively with our furry friend. Obi has made significant progress in his behavior and obedience, and I couldn't be happier with the results. I highly recommend this training program to anyone looking to strengthen their bond with their dog and see positive changes in their behavior. Thank you for all your help!— Jenaro Pagan
Posted March 8th 2024
The program that Dog Training Elite is amazing. We wanted to have some training so that our dogs would be well behaved and listen in the house with our 2 girls. We also have the thought to have them certified as therapy dogs so if we want to volunteer at different facilities to bring the dogs we would be able to do so. They break down the training into easy sessions that are easy to understand (both for the dog and for us as owners). I feel like I am prepared to continue with training even after the program with the skills they have given me. We have only done our 1 on 1 in home sessions and have some group classes that we plan to attend over the summer to help further the training we have completed already. They are super easy to schedule and work with as well as great communicators!— Aimee Brun
Posted March 8th 2024
Chelsea, Cheyenne & Maria are amazing. My 7 month old Golden Retriever is thriving & I owe it to them. She is a service dog in training & the team has made sure we are taking care of in every single way. I am extremely grateful.— Yassairah González
Posted March 8th 2024
We contacted DTE shortly after my wife rescued a Senior special needs dog. The owner Craig responded to our inquiry right away and wanted to assure us they were there to help. Our sweet spaniel Jax was completely blind and mostly deaf. We discovered quickly he had never walked on a leash before and was understandably very anxious trying to get familiar with his new surroundings. I can’t say enough about how pleased we are with the training and positive results that was accomplished given Jaxs’ limitations. Craig has a very calming demeanor that dogs instinctively respond to and their humans do too! He was able to modify the usual training techniques to accommodate Jax given his circumstances. We can now enjoy walking in our neighborhood on a leash as well as sit/stay using a touch cue. I’ll also add that Jax is always happy to see Craig when he comes for “class” which I’ve shown in this picture!! I can wholeheartedly recommend DTE for any dog training needs.— Harrison Walker
Posted February 21st 2024
María has been our trainer with Johnny for the past 10wks and I cannot believe how much Johnny has changed for the better. I’m a better pet owner for it as well. The e collar has been a great tool in this journey. We made a huge breakthrough with Johnny today and I am so grateful for Maria and Dog Training Elite. Thanks yall!!!— tuffuhknee
Posted February 6th 2024
Craig and Miriam are wonderful. They care about what they do and will go out of their way to make sure you always feel they are there to assist. Truly life changing work with these pups, I’m forever grateful.— Ian P
Posted January 25th 2024
I continue to have an outstanding experience with our trainer, Maria. Her training methods are effective, and the results speak for themselves. Communication throughout the process with Dog Training Elite is excellent. What truly sets them apart is the personal touch – my dog, Daisy, and I felt not just trained but genuinely cared for. I highly recommend this skilled and compassionate training school!— Lisa Mercurio
Posted January 22nd 2024
I cannot express my gratitude enough to Chelsea, Cheyenne, and Maria! They not only help you train your pup, but they ensure you understand the training & training tools as well. When I take my Roo on walks, she walks next to me and when she see people and/or other dogs are approaching, she no longer gets crazy excited (barking/whining/jumping). If I have company coming over & entering the house, she doesn’t bark instead sits in her “place” until everyone is inside and she hears her release word. These are just a couple examples of how training with Chelsea, Cheyenne, and Maria have help me and my Roo. If you are looking for a trainer, I’d HIGHLY recommend Dog Training Elite Orlando.— nicole buchert
Posted January 19th 2024
Highly recommended Dog Training Elite! They gave me the tools to turn my 4 legged “frat boy” into a little gentleman! Chelsea, Cheyenne and Maria made me feel comfortable learning the techniques and the confidence to carry them over after they left!— Lori Branch
Posted January 18th 2024
Love love love these trainers. The time and care they’ve spent working with me and Kaia is unlike any other I’ve seen before. My golden retriever puppy went from a crazy 10 week old puppy to a 10 month old getting ready for her service test coming up soon. I’m so grateful to them and their work as it’s made such a huge impact on my life.— Manuela Goncalves
Posted January 12th 2024
I don't have enough good things to say about Chelsea, Cheyenne, and Maria. We have been training our Doberman mix to be a service dog and the expertise, care, and patience is why I love these ladies. They truly want the best for you and your dog. I will never hesitate to recommend them.— Renee Becker
Posted January 12th 2024
I truly cannot say enough good words about my experience with Dog Training Elite Orlando. As a first time German shepherd owner, I knew I needed trainers who were knowledgeable on the breed. I am truly grateful for my choice in trainers. They have been so supportive, understanding and so willing to help when it came to my Apollos reactivity. They truly never give up on their clients and are there for you if you have any questions or need help. Apollo has grown up into such wonderful boy and I truly believe it wouldn’t have happened if it weren’t for Chelsea, Cheyenne and Maria! It definitely is an investment both financially and time, but if you want a well behaved dog for the long run, I 100% recommend Dog Training Elite!— Ainsley Chambers
Posted January 12th 2024
I had a great experience with Dog Training Elite! They helped me learn the tools to train my puppy, and he is doing so well with the training!— Lindsey Snyder
Posted January 11th 2024
The trainers at DTE Orlando are FABULOUS! Not only are the trainers competent and know what they are doing, they care about you and your dogs. The trainers tailor the training program to your specific needs, and they make sure to hone skills. I have used DTE to train both of my dogs, and they are lifesavers! I wish I had found them sooner. DTE is wonderful!!— C P
Posted December 18th 2023
How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?
If you have felt the benefits of owning a dog, you may feel inspired to help more people feel the unconditional love, joy and support your dog provides. However, having a friendly, loving personality isn’t enough for a dog to qualify as a therapy dog. Some other qualifications to consider are:
- The age of your dog. Puppies do not make good therapy animals.
- How obedient your dog is. It’s important your dog listens to you and obeys basic commands. Dogs that go through obedience training with Dog Training Elite in Orlando have the perfect foundation to go onto therapy dog training, as long as they are old enough.
- How social your dog is. Your dog may be affectionate with you — but are they affectionate with strangers? Do they like to receive attention from strangers, particularly petting?
Therapy Dog Handlers
As a dog owner, it’s important to reflect on whether you would like to become a therapy dog handler as well. If you enjoy connecting with people, becoming a therapy dog handler may be a great fit. You can also choose where to volunteer to better suit your interests — if you like kids, volunteer to visit schools or children’s hospitals. If you prefer to work with older people, then sign up to visit senior living centers.
Once you’ve determined that becoming a therapy dog handler and helping your dog become a therapy dog is the right move for the two of you, you’re ready to start therapy dog training. The trainers of Dog Training Elite in Orlando are experts in the behaviors needed in a therapy dog and will help you and your dog either brush up on or master behaviors such as “leave it,” “watch me,” loose-leash walking and not jumping on other people.
To help your dog become well socialized, you may consider also signing up for one of Dog Training Elite in Orlando’s group obedience classes. A group class environment is also beneficial because it helps your dog learn to be obedient when there are a lot of distractions around, a crucial skill for a therapy dog.
Once you’ve completed initial training, you’re ready to apply for therapy dog certification in Orlando. However, it is important to note that this certification is not the end. It’s important to stay on top of your dog’s training and continue to help them be the best therapy dog they can be.
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite in Orlando, 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 in Orlando works with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.
Why do Therapy Dog Training with Dog Training Elite in Orlando?
The Dog Training Elite in Orlando training method stands out because of its emphasis on positive reinforcement. Dogs are never punished for bad behavior, instead they are rewarded for good behavior. This kind of training makes a huge difference in your relationship with your dog, and will make a difference in how your dog interacts with other people.
The balanced training method of Dog Training Elite in Orlando fosters a dog’s naturally loving and obedient nature. Focusing on positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior helps build a strong bond between dog and owner built on love and trust. This foundation in turn becomes a great foundation for dog and owner to become a fabulous therapy team providing an invaluable service to the community.
If you feel therapy dog certification is right for you and your dog, get started by contacting Dog Training Elite in Orlando. Request your free training demo and in-home assessment today.
