Service Dog Breeds


The Best Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSD in Panama City

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Service Dog Breeds

Service dogs are crucial in assisting individuals with various disabilities and conditions, providing them with support, independence, and companionship. These highly trained dogs can perform specific tasks tailored to the needs of their handlers. We've created this brief guide to review breeds that make great service dogs, who can benefit from a service dog and the training that will help these pups meet their handler's needs. Take the first step towards a better future with a trained service dog by contacting Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast today!

Dog Training Elite offers professional training of service dogs for veterans in Panama City.

Popular Breeds for Service Dogs

While most dogs can be trained to become service dogs, regardless of breed, a few breeds lead the pack in popularity due to their personalities and inherent traits. Here are a few of the most popular service dog breeds.


Labrador retrievers are among the most sought-after breeds to be service dogs for PTSD in Panama City due to their intelligence, versatility, and friendly nature. They excel in various roles, including guide dogs for individuals with visual impairments, service dogs for individuals with mobility issues, and service dogs for veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Labradors are highly trainable and possess a strong desire to please, making them ideal candidates for service work.

Golden retrievers are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them excellent service dog candidates. Their calm temperament, intelligence, and willingness to learn contribute to their success in roles such as mobility assistance, therapy dogs, and service dogs for veterans. Their ability to provide emotional support and comfort makes them particularly well-suited for individuals with PTSD or other mental health conditions.

German shepherds possess a remarkable combination of strength, intelligence, and loyalty, making them an excellent choice as a service dog for veterans. Their versatility allows them to excel in various roles, including mobility assistance, search and rescue, and service dogs for individuals with psychiatric or neurological conditions. With their keen sense of observation and natural protective instincts, German Shepherds can provide physical and emotional support to their handlers.

Poodles are renowned for their intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic coats, making them popular for service dog training, especially for individuals with allergies. They excel in roles such as mobility assistance, diabetic alert dogs, and medical alert dogs.

An adorable golden doodle service pup trained by Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast, ready to help their owner throughout the day!

Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


Dog Training Elite Panama City is the top company near you that uses professional positive dog training methods.
Empowering Owners

We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.

Personalized

We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.

Environment Specific

We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).

Supportive

We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").

Involved

We work with all members of the household.

Simplified & Customized

We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.

Continued Training

Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.

Lifetime Investment

We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.

Satisfaction Ratings

Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.

See Our Pricing

Dog Training Elite trained service dogs for veterans can help them with PTSD and so much more.

Who Are Service Dogs For?

Service dogs offer invaluable support and assistance to individuals facing various challenges. Service dogs are sought after by individuals with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mobility limitations, visual or hearing impairments, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety disorders, and more. Service dogs can help provide security, independence, and emotional well-being regardless of the specific condition. If you seek a loyal and capable partner to enhance your daily life, a service dog for PTSD in Panama City can make a remarkable difference.

Training a service dog for disablities like autism, is a Dog Training Elite specialty.

Service Dog Training

Service dogs undergo extensive and specialized training to perform their essential tasks and assist individuals with disabilities. The 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, stay, heel, and come, as well as proper leash manners and socialization skills.

  • Task Training

    Task training tailors to the specific needs of the 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.

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!

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.
— Zxj Jb
Posted April 22nd 2024
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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!
— Thomas Cox
Posted April 16th 2024
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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.
— Tiffany VanSant
Posted April 9th 2024
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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!
— Maranda Griffin
Posted March 25th 2024
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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!
— Sean Eversole
Posted March 11th 2024
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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.
— Ken Cochran
Posted March 10th 2024
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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.
— Leanna Miller
Posted March 9th 2024
google
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.
— Gina B
Posted March 9th 2024
google
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.
— Renee Larson
Posted March 4th 2024
google
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!
— A Harris
Posted February 23rd 2024
google
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!
— Gary doll
Posted November 16th 2023
google
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!
— Specialists of the South
Posted February 18th 2024
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— Amy SP Page
Posted February 1st 2024
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Tina and the other trainers and staff are wonderful! They listen to your needs and concerns and offer great tips. My dog liked his trainers and we look forward to working with them again.
— Marla Ferraro
Posted January 23rd 2024
google
Anthony does a great job and is extremely knowledgeable! Highly recommend! 😊
— Gabriele Smith
Posted December 13th 2023
google
We have a rescue pup who has some excitable anxiety. She was a leash puller and very excitable, making walks a chore instead of something fun. Deciding to go with one-on-one training was the best decision we made for her and us. Both Tina & Anthony have been amazing trainers. Skye can walk by most distractions now with minimal issues. Tina got Skye to the point where she was walking alongside her own dog! Anthony was able to get Skye to walk amazingly confidently through Home Depot. We were also able to have her walk mostly calm through PetSmart with all the other dogs. What a change, not only in Skye’s confidence, but mine as well! We are looking forward to the group classes!!
— Laura Foisy
Posted November 23rd 2023
google
All of the employees at Dog Training Elite have been very helpful. Our puppy went through the Whole Den Puppy training at nine weeks old and then the Elite Training Camp when she was 5 ½ months old. They explained the training, both the concepts for the dog and how we should implement the reinforcement training at home. Our trainer, Anthony, has been especially helpful as he was a trainer in Military Working Dog Handler in the U.S Air Force for their German Shepherds and Belgian Malinowski. He was able to take our somewhat stubborn and disruptive German Shepherd puppy and turn her into a manageable, well trained dog. Recently, my grandson accompanied me and our puppy on a long walk that included a drawbridge with a grate in the middle, downtown Panama City, through construction with lots of noises from all the machinery and all sorts of other distractions. Because of Anthony’s training, she was a calm and well mannered young dog throughout the walk. Thank you Anthony and Dog Training Elite! Shelly & Jess Snyder
— Shelly Gale
Posted November 21st 2023
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Anthony Vick is awesome. He is very passionate and compassionate with not only training my Frenchie Briggs but also very patient with me. I highly recommend DTE. With 21 years experience as an Air Force K-9 handler, Anthony is VERY QUALIFIED. 😎😎😎
— A Google User
Posted September 1st 2023
google
Dog Training Elite in Panama City, FL has truly transformed our lives and the behavior of our beloved 3-year-old Great Pyrenees, Winston. Tina and Wes are not just trainers; they are miracle workers! Their expertise and patience have brought about a remarkable change in Winston’s behavior, making him more obedient, well-mannered, and a joy to be around. Their personalized approach, tailored specifically to Winston’s needs, has yielded exceptional results. We are beyond grateful for the dedication and care they have shown, and we can’t recommend them highly enough. Thank you, Dog Training Elite, for giving us the tools to build an even stronger bond with our furry family member!
— Leah Eversole
Posted November 2nd 2023
google
I’ll be honest…what an amazing group of people!!! I absolutely love them!!! I own a Siberian Husky…need I say more, lol!!! Wes is amazing, he is the only person that can actually teach my wild boy!!! Wes is patient and kind and honestly is the 3rd trainer locally that has attempted to teach him but the only one that he’ll listen too. Not only is he firm and confident but is very kind and my dog actually obeys him….and he’s actually taught me also!! Not always an easy task, lol!!! Now…usually it would be just about the trainer but not at Elite. The office admin is absolutely incredible!!! Lily is probably the best office person I’ve ever worked with!!! She has helped me more than I could ever say!!! She is the best asset a company could ever ask for!!! I have been 100% pleased with everything she’s helped me with!!! Love them and Elite , the best training company!!!! I can’t thank them enough, Marolee Martin-Rowe
— Marolee Martin
Posted September 12th 2023
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Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSDTraining with Dog Training Elite in Panama City

Dog Training Elite offers comprehensive service dog training programs designed to meet your unique needs. With our expertise and personalized approach, we can help your service dog develop the skills and behaviors necessary to fulfill their vital role in enhancing your daily life.

Service dogs are an invaluable resource for individuals with disabilities, providing support, independence, and companionship. Service dogs can benefit individuals with various conditions, including PTSD, mobility limitations, autism, anxiety disorders, and more. At Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast, we offer comprehensive service dog training programs to ensure your dog has the necessary skills to meet your needs. Our expertise and personalized approach will help you forge a strong bond with your service dog and confidently navigate daily life. Take the first step towards a brighter future by contacting Dog Training Elite today and discovering how a service dog can make a remarkable difference in your life.

Let Dog Training Elite take care of the service dog training so you can have support in your life while in Panama City.

Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite Panama City, 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 Panama City 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.

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