Military / Retired Vet Programs

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast

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Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast online booking

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Book Online


Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast online booking

Request a Callback
A military veteran and service dog - Dog Training Elite offers elite veteran service dog training in Panama City, FL.

Dog Training Elite

Military Veteran Service Dog Training in Panama City, FL

At Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast, we strongly believe in the healing power of service dogs for military veterans. That’s why we dedicate our time and passion to providing veteran service dog training in Panama City, FL.

Service dogs can greatly assist with both the mental and physical challenges veterans may face after serving our country. Many veterans experience PTSD, physical disabilities, or other impairments, and our service dogs have been proven to help reduce symptoms and support veterans in returning to their daily routines.

Learn more about our programs designed for veterans and discover why Dog Training Elite is committed to making a difference in the community.

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A service puppy in training - Dog Training Elite offers veteran service dog training in Panama City, FL for those who have served our country.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast

Why We Offer Service Dog Training for Military Veterans

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At Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast, we are passionate about helping military veterans through the support of service dogs. We offer specialized service dog training options in Panama City, backed by scientific research and proven by our own success stories.

In a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans paired with service dogs experienced a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms and fewer self-harm ideations. The mental health and medical communities increasingly recognize service dogs’ positive impact on emotional well-being and independence, making them one of the most effective tools for veteran recovery.

At Dog Training Elite, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dog training services that provide the tools and support needed for our veterans and their dogs to thrive, offering a path toward healing and better quality of life.

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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 Panama City.
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.
A beautiful golden retriever service dog - Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast.

Popular Service Dog Breeds


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Finding a service dog that fits your individual needs is important, especially for military veteran support. While most dogs can be trained to become service dogs, a few breeds stand out due to their personalities and inherent traits.

Here are a few of the most popular service dog breeds:

  1. Labrador Retrievers: Labradors are intelligent, versatile, and eager to please, making them ideal for PTSD service dogs. Their trainability allows them to excel in roles like guide dogs, mobility support, and emotional support, making them highly adaptable for veterans.
  2. Golden Retrievers: Golden Retrievers are known for their calm, gentle nature and strong work ethic. They are excellent at providing mobility assistance and emotional support, especially for veterans with PTSD, due to their patient and loving temperament.
  3. German Shepherds: German Shepherds are strong, loyal, and highly intelligent, making them excellent service dogs. Their protective instincts and trainability allow them to assist with mobility, search and rescue, and provide emotional support for veterans.
  4. Poodles: Poodles are highly intelligent and easily trained, making them great service dogs, particularly for those with allergies due to their hypoallergenic coats. They excel in roles such as mobility assistance and medical alert dogs, offering a versatile solution for individuals with diverse needs.

Get Your Free Consultation

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!

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See An Elite Dog in Action

A service dog and his veteran owner - Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast.

Our Veteran Service Dog Training in Panama City, FL

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Service dogs undergo extensive specialized training to perform their tasks and assist their owners. Our training process involves a combination of obedience training, task training, and public access training.

  • Obedience Training: This training focuses on teaching a dog basic commands, such as sit, down, heel, come, as well as proper leash manners and socialization skills.
  • Task Training: Task training is tailored to fit the needs of each individual. It involves teaching the dog to perform tasks that mitigate the person’s disability, such as retrieving items, opening doors, or providing deep pressure therapy.
  • Public Access Training: This type of training is crucial to ensure the dog remains calm, well-behaved, and non-disruptive in various public settings. This training includes exposure to different environments, distractions, and social interactions to provide a dog that can confidently navigate public spaces.
A beautiful service dog standing outside - Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast.

Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSD

Get Specialized Training with DTE Today

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Training with Dog Training Elite is tailored specifically for military veterans dealing with PTSD and other service-related challenges. Our programs focus on helping veterans regain independence, emotional stability, and confidence through the support of a well-trained service dog.

At Dog Training Elite, we are dedicated to providing service dog training that strengthens the bond between veterans and their dogs, guiding them toward a brighter future and supporting their healing journey.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • DJ Mc
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Second to None! My Belgium Malinois (Scout) is a well-trained, obedient Service Dog thanks to Dog Training Elite. The one-on-one training, group training, compassion, love, and dedication are what set these trainers apart. I'm very confident in taking my service dog anywhere and rely on the training we have received together. The key to success is doing what you love, and the trainers and administration personnel, display it always. I'm very satisfied and will return to them for any other training for future pets.
  • Steve Trythall
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Tina and Lilly have done a great job with our puppy JJ. From the first day we took him to the time training completed was a wonderful experience. They love their dogs and it shows everyday I picked JJ up. JJ looks forward to going to school. He loves it there and he would go everyday if he could. Thank you again to the complete staff at EDT. We are glad we found you and if you are considering dog training, you do not have to look any further. This is the place to go. And no, I am not getting paid to post this. Thank you again.
  • Rio Oros
    Sep. 6, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has helped our dogs reduce their anxiety and become fantastic family pets! They are the only people I would trust with our dogs!
  • Heather Hawthorne Phillips
    Jul. 4, 2024
    Josh was great with our Lab puppy! Very professional, kind and loving to our Croaker. I would highly recommend him and Dog Training Elite!
  • jay g
    Jun. 26, 2023
    I hired them to help me train my service dog. The trainers have been great and have provided good communication and service. I would definitely recommend them for dog training.
  • Susan Balk
    Jun. 28, 2024
    Anthony has been great in training me and my puppy. He’s a wealth of wisdom and is always available for questions, etc. He is able to uncover my dog’s best potential. Strongly recommend!
  • Kathy Swigler
    Jun. 25, 2024
    What was I thinking??? Getting a new puppy at my age??? THANK GOODNESS I stopped in Dog Training Elite here in Panama City to inquire. It had only been 5 days, 6 hours, 22 minutes and 16 seconds since we picked up our Portugese Water Dog from the Breeder. I WAS WORN OUT and he was only 11 weeks old! After talking with Lily about the options of what they could do to 'help'....and of course puppy training, lol, I left to think it over. I had already potty trained him but the puppy obedience course was an investment in time and money. When I got back home, it only took a minute to see our adorable puppy, Buoy, and realize he needed obedience training beyond what I could give him for all of us to be happy. I contacted Lily and signed up, then started the puppy program on the following Monday. Being greeted on Monday morning by Tina was one of the biggest reliefs of my life....and Buoy just layed at her feet like the most obedient dog ever! Was I dreaming? Not at all. Tina has a gift at dog training and Buoy could feel it and I could, too!!! Our new 'baby' spent the week at Dog Training Elite in Panama City, working with both Tina and Anthony, going on field trips, and by the end of the week, our little boy Buoy had some manners! They had familiarized him with the commands of sit, place, come, stay, lay, off, drop it. We sure use "off' a lot as he is still a puppy and needs to be reminded often. I'm not sure who learned the most, Buoy or me??? but I can tell you for sure that Dog Training Elite has changed our lives with a puppy here at home FOR THE BEST! Now they will be coming to our home for 3 visits as part of the program and then we will have some follow up classes. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite here in Panama City, Florida, for dogs of all ages, if they need to learn to behave.
  • Caren Grey
    Jun. 21, 2024
    Josh, our trainer, literally saved my dog's life. Rocco was scheduled to be put down due to severe aggression issues. I was devastated to say the least. Josh came out to our home, free of charge, and on the weekend I might to add, to evaluate and help determine if Rocco could possibly be trained. Josh's ability to help train both my dogs (he trained two of them) exceeded my expectations. Josh continually exhibited an incredible amount of patience and respect with us and the dogs during our training sessions. Josh actively listened to our needs and concerns and worked with them. Rocco has earned a "stay of execution " for now and this is all due to Josh's vast amount of experience and level of expertise he brings to the dog training sessions. We cannot express our gratitude enough to Josh for helping us navigate through this difficult situation with Rocco. Lily, my contact person, and Josh are both wonderful to work with. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all of your dog training needs.
  • Zxj Jb
    Apr. 22, 2024
    Josh our trainer saved our dog's life. Our dog's reactive behavior was out of control. We were provide techniques through behavior modifications, consistency and patience to help our dog overcome his reactivness and become well behaved. Their guidance and professionalism is phenomenal. We could not have done this without Dog Training Elite's stupendous trainer and expertise.
  • Thomas Cox
    Apr. 16, 2024
    Having recently added a Standard Schnauzer to my family, I quickly realized it had been a long time since I had raised a puppy. My experience with Elite Dog Training has been fantastic and fun! Everyone is very knowledgeable and our little puppy Memphis enjoyed his week of puppy training. Everyday he went on a field trip and he made a lot of progress. I am looking forward to continuing to use Elite Dog training as Memphis grows. Thank you so much for helping us!
  • Tiffany VanSant
    Apr. 9, 2024
    I signed my little Schnauzer up for training with dog training elite and I am so thankful for doing it. Schnauzers can have a tendency of being a bully and he was starting to show those traits. They helped me get him under control. Plus, he is a happier puppy because he now has direction. Someone had referred me to Dog Training Elite and I am so happy for it. Thank you so much for helping my puppy. Another wonderful thing about this place is that it is owned in ran by a very kind, loving person that really loves dogs. Tina is always available to answer questions or concerns. Also, once they are done with training, you can do group training for life, Every week if you want. If you need help with a specific issue, just give them a call and they will help you with that even after training. This is not a place that trains and then drops you. They care and for the life of your puppy will be there to help. Best decision we have made with him.
  • Maranda Griffin
    Mar. 25, 2024
    Our almost 3 year old miniature schnauzer barked constantly when around other people and dogs. In addition, he had horrible impulse control. As a puppy we had attended training classes at a local pet store. Those classes centered around treat training, which is fine if you want to carry a bag of treats everywhere you go and constantly feed your dog. For us this was unsustainable. We signed up with Dog Training Elite and have seen amazing results! Anthony is wonderful with dogs and their owners! We can now take our Winston to stores and restaurants without issue (after only 6 in home sessions)! Thank you Dog Elite and Anthony!
  • Sean Eversole
    Mar. 11, 2024
    What truly sets Anthony and Tina apart is their genuine passion for what they do. They’re not just trainers; they’re true dog lovers who are deeply invested in the well-being and progress of every dog they work with. Thanks to their expertise and guidance, not only has my dog Maya made remarkable progress, but I have also been equipped with the essential tools and knowledge to effectively continue her training at home. This empowerment is exactly what every dog owner needs to build a lasting and loving bond with their pet. Anthony and Tina’s approach is both professional and personal, making the entire training experience enjoyable and highly effective. For anyone seeking dog training services, I wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Ken Cochran
    Mar. 10, 2024
    We began the training with an energetic, reactive standard poodle somewhat skeptical about what could be accomplished in two weeks, but working with Anthony his behavior has totally changed for the better. Anthony has also worked with us to help us understand how to use the commands and corrections to benefit us and our dog. As a result, our dog walks calmly on a leash is much more confident and less anxious and nervous. We are all much happier because instead of leaving our dog behind, he is a joy to bring along anywhere we go. He is well behaved in crowded environments and around other dogs. He barks less at dogs and strangers and is much easier to control when we are out. We also now understand how to practice and reinforce these commands and behaviors to continue to help our dog improve. The tuition is significant, but worth every penny and I highly recommend this training and Anthony as trainer. 10 out of 10.
  • Leanna Miller
    Mar. 9, 2024
    Anthony is very patient and calm with our five-year-old boxer. He spends a good amount of time in our home showing us how to give commands with rewards and at the same time trains her to be obedient and control her impulses. Very pleased with the company and trainer.
  • Gina B
    Mar. 9, 2024
    Anthony Vick is awesome. He is very passionate and compassionate with not only training my Frenchie Briggs but also very patient with me. He has excellent customer service skills and he is very understanding. I highly recommend DTE. Briggs has come along way with his training and socialization.
  • Renee Larson
    Mar. 4, 2024
    I've been pleasantly surprised with this training at Dog Training Elite Panama City. Professional, personalized and kind. I was leary putting my trust in with anyone regarding my pups. They have been through it as rescues. Both were deemed to not live through treatment, they did. They have my heart. Anthony couldn't have been more on point with them and me. He has years of service with dog training and it shows. The best part for me personally is his directness. Not a sugarcoat reasoning with him. He is clear to reason and approach. In just 2 weeks, both of the pups have learned so much. I can't wait to see them in 10 weeks.
  • A Harris
    Feb. 23, 2024
    Tina & her team have been absolutely FANTASTIC with my two girls! We chose the two week in facility training after searching through multiple obedience schools in our surrounding area. My girls cannot wait to go to school every morning! I would absolutely recommend Tina to anyone who asks. A well trained dog is a happy dog. Thank you Tina, Lily, Josh & Anthony!
  • Gary doll
    Nov. 16, 2023
    Anthony was are trainer for Axel, his delivery was far and above previous sessions as we attended our first group session. Anthony is a true dog whisperer. I hope to have Anthony for all our future Sessions, Axel loved him!
  • Specialists of the South
    Feb. 18, 2024
    Finding Tine Ruffin of Dog Training Elite of Panama City was the best answer to solving problems we faced with our two little dogs (one a puppy!). Our older dog was a runner and had gotten out multiple times ( I fell once trying to capture her with three other people trying to help corral her). In one session my problems on this issue were solved and I have been able to apply my training and get my runner to come to me and get her home when she gets loose! Potty issues, kennel training, anxiety issues and solving problems with walking our dogs are but a few of the other difficulties Tina has helped us master. We are in Pensacola so Tina does travel. I highly recommend Tina and her team!