An image of a happy golden retriever - contact Dog Training Elite for your golden retriever training in Philadelphia, PA.

Professional Training For

Golden Retrievers

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia

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Request Free Assessment

Our Golden Retriever Training Could Help:
Separation anxiety
Excessive barking
Overexcitement
Destructive chewing
Jumping on people
Pulling on the leash
Uncontrolled digging

Golden Retriever Training in Philadelphia, PA

At Dog Training Elite, we have extensive experience in Golden Retriever training in Philadelphia, PA, both as puppies and adults. This breed's eagerness to please and high intelligence make them relatively easy to train, whether the goal is basic obedience, therapy work, or specialized tasks. Our training programs are tailored to maximize the breed's natural abilities and ensure effective, lasting results.

By working with our team at Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia, owners can develop a strong bond with their Golden Retriever, guiding them through each stage of their development. We focus on harnessing your dog's inherent qualities, helping you raise a well-behaved, reliable, and loving companion.

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A well-trained golden retriever with their owner - our Philadelphia golden retriever puppy training can help your pup be a loving family companion.

Why Golden Retrievers Make Ideal Family Dogs


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Golden Retrievers have long been a favorite choice for families, consistently ranking as one of the top five breeds in America. Their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly disposition make them exceptional companions, especially in households with children. These dogs are gentle, fun-loving, and excel in various roles due to their strong work ethic and adaptability.

Despite their many strengths, Golden Retrievers are not naturally aggressive, which means they may not be the best choice as guard dogs. However, their calm and sociable nature makes them a perfect fit for families looking for a loving and dependable companion.

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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

  • samantha lafferty
    Nov. 9, 2025
    We can’t say enough great things about Taylor and the incredible work he’s done with our family dog, Buddy! Taylor came to our home once a week to help us with Buddy’s reactivity toward other dogs, people, and cars. From the very first session, it was clear that Taylor is both professional and extremely knowledgeable. He was patient, kind, and always took the time to explain what he was doing and why. What really stood out was how he involved our whole family—including the kids—in the training process. He gave us practical tools and clear guidance that made it easy to stay consistent between sessions. Taylor also helped Buddy become a much better listener within our home, which has made everyday life so much smoother and more enjoyable. We’ve seen a tremendous difference in Buddy. Walks are now enjoyable instead of stressful, and he responds so well to the commands we learned with Taylor. We’re so grateful for the positive changes and the confidence Taylor gave us as dog owners. Choosing Taylor & Dog Training Elite for Buddy’s training was one of the best decisions we’ve made. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a skilled, patient, and truly caring dog trainer!
  • Jes Grisafi
    Nov. 9, 2025
    There is a reason Taylor has five star reviews across the board! Absolutely worth the time and money. Friendly, professional, and amazing with our dogs. We were pleased and highly recommend!
  • Peter Heckman
    Oct. 12, 2025
    Great experience. It was great getting a plan where I could begin seeing results so quickly. Taylor was great and consistent in messaging. Looking forward to seeing where I can get my puppy.
  • Becky Shuhart
    Oct. 7, 2025
    We hired Dog Training Elite to help train our now 10-month-old Belgian Malinois/Lab mix, Bear. If you know anything about Malinois, you know they can be a handful if not trained properly. From my very first phone call with Betsy, the owner, I knew right away this was the perfect fit for us and for Bear. We started with the Platinum Package and have since upgraded to the Service Dog Package, and honestly, I cannot say enough good things about Betsy and the entire team at Dog Training Elite. Bear is a completely different dog than when we first started. The way Betsy teaches makes it so easy for the dog to understand what’s expected, while also helping us learn how to be the best dog owners possible. I know some people hesitate because of the cost that comes with professional training, but I can say with 100% confidence, it is absolutely worth it. Plus, Dog Training Elite’s prices are very competitive compared to other programs I researched before calling them. Thanks to Betsy and her team, Bear has gone from an energetic, hard-to-manage puppy to a confident, obedient, and happy dog. I recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who wants to build a stronger bond with their dog and see truly amazing results!
  • Matthew MacFarland
    Aug. 10, 2025
    Taylor is a great trainer and very knowledgeable. We have a 1 year old golden retriever with tons of energy and he’s come a long way since starting training with Taylor. If you are looking to get your dog trained, I highly recommend Taylor.
  • Jessica Yoegel
    Jul. 3, 2025
    Loki is behaving so much better. Thank you!!!
  • Nina Clark
    Jun. 27, 2025
    I contacted several trainers about working with my dog on her behavioral issues with no replies. Taylor contacted me and was confident that he could help us. Taylor's patient and organized approach to training Georgie has begun to work! Taylor answers our questions, and we have noticed changes in her behavior. Delivery people and neighbors have also noticed her calmer demeanor. We are looking forward to the group training for further growth.
  • Danielle Neville
    Jun. 16, 2025
    Working with Taylor has been amazing - his attention to detail and the way he listens to me as a dog owner really makes you feel like you are extraordinary hands, each dog/case really is individualized to you & your dog. There is no "cookie cutter - one size fits all" vibe and that makes dog training elite + Taylor so special and different from the rest of training facilities. Taylor' knowledge/skillset is second to none. Cannot recommend him/the company enough! :)
  • Scott Wallower
    Jun. 13, 2025
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. My dog Jed is a German Shepherd and is very energetic and reactive to social situations. Taylor's sessions built on one another reinforcing proper behavior and adherence to commands. Gaining an understanding on dogs psychology and Jeds specific makeup helped immensely in understanding and applying the training. Taylor went above and beyond with his commitment to the training to making sure all the aspects of the training were clear to my entire family and always available to answer questions outside the sessions. We felt that we may not be able to keep our dog due to his stubborn, reactive disposition but now we are delighted in the progress he has made and look forwards to many years with him now.
  • Eugene Prymak
    Jun. 6, 2025
    Taylor is absolutely incredible! We have greatly enjoyed our training sessions and are extremely pleased with our dog’s development thanks to training with Taylor. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Genevieve Raven
    Jun. 5, 2025
    Taylor was AMAZING with our dog Lady. We rescued her from ACCT in September, and she came with some reactivity issues. The training with Taylor has helped her come a long way. She's more current and relaxed now. She's actually excited to wear the e collar! Taylor was very knowledgeable and great with our pup. We would definitely recommend him.
  • Alison
    May. 22, 2025
    The entire team was great to work with. We saw such an improvement in our dog as early as our first training session. I loved that they came to our house to do the training in our environment. Would highly recommend to others looking for a dog trainer!
  • Der Moua
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Working with Jaime was truly a game changer for us and our puppy, Buster. From the very beginning, Jaime went above and beyond in every single session. Before we started training, we felt a bit overwhelmed and honestly pretty hopeless. Buster is a smart pup, but we knew we had a long road ahead. That all changed after our very first consultation. Jaime immediately put us at ease with his confidence, knowledge, and clear love for what he does. He took the time to explain exactly how the training would work, step by step, and tailored the sessions to our goals. As the sessions went on, we were blown away by the progress we were making. It wasn’t just about teaching Buster commands — Jaime helped us build a foundation of trust, communication, and understanding with our dog. The transformation was incredible. By the end of our one on one sessions, we had a totally different dog, not only better behaved, but genuinely happier and more connected with us. And as dog owners, we feel so much more confident and empowered, too. What stood out most is Jaime’s passion for his work. It’s not just a job for him, it’s a calling. He’s deeply committed, patient, and genuinely cares about every dog and family he works with. That kind of dedication is rare and so appreciated. Thank you, Jaime, for helping us bring out the best version of Buster and ourselves as dog owners. We truly can’t recommend you enough!!!
  • Jaime Lake
    Mar. 31, 2025
    Taylor was the best. He was patient and immediately able to evaluate and customize a training protocol for my reactive dog, Finn. Our in-home sessions went very smoothly and Finn showed improvement each week. I chose the package with in-home and 12 group sessions after and we started with our first group session on Saturday. Finn is already less reactive and I can’t wait to see how good he is by the last group session. Highly recommend Taylor and Dog Training Elite!
  • Carolyn McKnight
    Mar. 25, 2025
    Great trainers for service dogs, beautiful boarding facility in rural setting with 15 fenced acres for dogs to explore.
  • Lori Palmer
    Mar. 11, 2025
    Taylor was amazing with our new puppy, Max. He learned so much in the lessons we had and we are looking forward to the group classes! Taylor was very flexible with our busy schedule. We can’t say enough good things about our whole experience!
  • G C
    Aug. 19, 2024
    I can’t say enough good things about Jamie and DTE! Our dog gets reactive when seeing other dogs she doesn’t know, making walks stressful. Thanks to Jamie’s help and guidance, she is much more manageable. He is patient, knowledgeable, and truly cares about our progress. Walks are more enjoyable and I feel more confident handling her in different situations. Highly recommend to anyone needing professional and effective dog training!
  • Viviana Aponte Cruz
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Jaime was very patient and a great trainer. My dog loved him and we have been able to travel by airplane without problems after training him for service dog. Definitely recommend :)
  • AW
    Jan. 30, 2025
    Taylor is the best! He was always very accommodating with scheduling and super informative during the in-home sessions. Excited to implement what we have already learned at group class and continuing to build on that knowledge!
  • Nitha Robin
    Jan. 29, 2025
    Dog Training Elite provides convenient and effective training in the comfort of our own home, I highly recommend! Our trainer was Taylor, he did an amazing job with our dog Johny, explaining the training concepts and providing helpful feedback as well as encouragement during training. He was very flexible, I couldn't ask for a better trainer and mentor to work with!
A well-trained golden retriever posing for a picture.

Philadelphia Golden Retriever Puppy Training

Training a Golden Retriever Puppy

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At Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia, we recommend starting dog training as early as possible. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart Golden Retriever puppies do great with early training.

Complete Philadelphia Golden Retriever Puppy Training typically takes a few months. We offer specialized in-home training. Working with a Golden Retriever puppy and the owner directly in the home prevents puppies from being distracted and allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual puppies, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a puppy has completed in-home training, we offer puppy group classes for further training.

Beginning Golden Retriever training in the home also helps owners bond with their pup so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. It’s important for owners to be consistent with puppy training and continue it long term.

Training can be great mental stimulation, so a great exercise for Golden Retrievers as they get older is progressing their training. Once your puppy has mastered sitting, for example, train them to maintain the position until released. Once your puppy is a bit older, explore other sports and activities.

Additional Breeds We Train

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - German Shepherd Training in Philadelphia. DTE

German Shepherd

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - Labrador Dog Training in Philadelphia, PA. DTE

Labrador

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - Goldendoodle Training in Philadelphia, PA. Dog Training Elite

Goldendoodle

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - Beagle Dog Training in Philadelphia, PA. DTE

Beagle

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - Pitbull Training in Philadelphia, PA. DTE

Pitbull

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - Doberman Training in Philadelphia, PA. DTE

Doberman

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - Border Collie Training in Philadelphia, PA. DTE

Border Collie

Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia - French Bulldog Training in Philadelphia, PA. DTE

French Bulldog

Golden Retriever Training Tips

Golden Retrievers are quick learners with a strong desire to work alongside their owners. Their intelligence and willingness to follow commands make them ideal for various types of training, from basic obedience to more advanced skills.

Here are some essential training tips for Golden Retrievers.

Golden Retrievers are considered “sporting dogs” and require at least an hour of daily exercise. True to their name, Golden Retrievers love retrieving things! Golden Retrievers can even participate in obedience and agility events, and they’ll enjoy every minute of it.

A Golden Retriever puppy that doesn’t get enough exercise is likely to develop bad behaviors like digging or chewing. During the first two years of a Golden Retriever’s life, however, make sure to take it easy with exercise as their growth plates are still forming - don’t go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown and try to always opt for grass instead of concrete.

Golden Retrievers can easily become overweight so owners will need to help manage their food intake. Measure out food twice a day instead of “free-feeding” and give treats in moderation.

If you have adopted a Golden Retriever puppy to become part of a family, make sure all kids and adults are on the same page with training and all practice basic tricks with the family dog.

At Dog Training Elite, we have developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on proven techniques. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible.

Establish house rules for your dog, and then stick to them. If you choose not to let your dog on the couch, don’t ever let them on the couch for any reason. Golden Retriever training can help you establish routines and learn how to be consistent about enforcing them.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia.
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Victory Begins With Elite Education

An happy, well manered golden retriever with training from Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia.

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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At Dog Training Elite in Philadelphia, we use modern training methods focused on balance and bonding between dog and dog owner. We never resort 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 for every dog breed 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. Our method nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your Golden Retriever puppy into a loyal and loving companion? Find a trainer near you today!