An image of two labradors - Dog Training Elite offers labrador training in Pittsburgh, PA for puppies and adult dogs.

Professional Training For

Labradors

Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh

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Request Free Assessment

Our Labrador Training Could Help:

Excessive barking
Chewing and destruction
Separation anxiety
Jumping
Leash pulling
Overexcitement and hyperactivity
Begging
Digging
Mouthing and nipping

Labrador Training in Pittsburgh, PA

If you are starting out with a brand new Labrador puppy or need some help with your full grown dog, Dog Training Elite's personalized in-home training programs can help you develop a strong bond and harness all of the incredible benefits of the breed.

Labradors are a highly intelligent breed that loves to please, making Labrador training in Pittsburgh, PA a breeze. Working in your own home, a Dog Training Elite trainer will create a personalized training plan for you and your pet, addressing any unique needs or issues they may have.

If you need training for you puppy, socialization is a great place to start. Once they have completed obedience training, Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh offers puppy group classes which is a great way to help your puppy socialize with other dogs and people, as well as learn to obey you in a distracting environment.

While beginning Labrador puppy training at an early age can be important and extremely helpful for dogs, if you adopt an older Labrador dog don’t worry! Our specific breed training works with older dogs too, and training your Labrador will be a snap with their eager-to-please attitude.

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Three labrador dogs of different coat colors - contact Dog Training Elite for adult or Pittsburgh labrador puppy training services.

Labrador Traits and Characteristics


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Labradors have been the No. 1 most popular dog breed in America for close to three decades. It’s not hard to understand why – Labradors are playful, energetic, smart, and friendly. They make great companions for individuals and families and generally get along with children and other pets.

Although high-energy, Labradors are laidback and easy going, unfazed by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Bred originally to be working dogs, their intelligence makes them a great option for service or therapy dogs.

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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!

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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 Pittsburgh.
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.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Lora
    Sep. 7, 2024
    I stopped Vince in South Park’s parking lot after he had just finished a training program out there and asked him a question about an issue I’m having with my new dog. He was so kind, helpful and informative. He gave me multiple suggestions on how to address the issue. He knew a lot specifics about my breed of dog and dog behavior in general. If you are looking for a good, honest person to help you with training your dog Vince is your guy!
  • Allie Creasy
    Sep. 2, 2024
    My wife and I now have our fifth German Shepherd. The first three lived between 10 and 14 years. Number four died unexpectedly at seven. That was 19 months ago. We've had our Long Hair German Shepherd, Teddy, for 18 months now. At four months Teddy completed her basic puppy training. Shortly after that we began looking for a seasoned, mature professional trainer. We found what we were looking for when Vince Conrad of Dog Training Elite came to our house to see if we were all a good fit for each other. We started our six in home training and finished up with Teddy making great progress! Both Teddy and I feel like we both had the best training! I like to think of the in home training as the class room work. We have now completed six of the 12 group training sessions with six more to come. I call the group sessions the "field work". Each session builds off the previous session. Vince is so skilled and patient. He is always firm, with a calming demeanor. When Teddy was about nine months old it was nearly impossible to take her for a walk. At 73 I need a dog that will walk with me without pulling me down the road. Last week we were out for a walk when we came to our neighbors house. They were out at the curb waiting to see Teddy. As we got to the couple I told Teddy to sit, and she did. They spent a bit of time to pet her and to make a fuss. I then told her down to which she got all the way down and stayed there calmly until I commanded her to "come". This couple are trained Greyhound rescue "parents", their son is a professional dog trainer and their daughter is a Vet. Their final comment to me carries a lot of weight. They said that Teddy's progress is remarkable. I hope my experience with Vince helps you make a decision about finding the right trainer. I can't thank Vince enough. Don Creasy Pittsburgh
  • Will Porter
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Wish I could give 10 stars. They are so awesome and amazing at what they do! Tonya was incredible and got me and my dog to exactly where we wanted with the training! Best in the area!
  • Cynthia Desjardins
    Aug. 14, 2024
    I only have good comments about my experience so far with Dog Training Elite. Not only with the knowledge and experience of Vince, but also his patience and generosity. He was able to assess and understand my dog very well and adapted the training according to her needs and behaviors. He was there when I was discouraged and ready to give up, I can’t be more grateful.
  • Ilana Diamond
    Aug. 7, 2024
    My dog Sage and I worked with Vince from Dog Training Elite Pgh and we couldn't be happier. Vince was very knowledgeable and patient providing clear guidance to me how to best help Sage learn new skills. I was amazed at how quickly Sage picked up sitting at the front door when people arrive (instead of jumping on them) and going to her place and staying for relatively long periods of time (20-30 min). I highly recommend Vince!
  • Jinnelle Little
    Jun. 30, 2024
    Vince has helped my dog Fig and I with so much training. Before training, my dog was reactive with so many things including kids, other dogs, neighbors and more. Not only has he hep me with her reactivity that has improved way more than I could have, the communication between my dog and I is stronger! She understands what I’m asking of her, she walks better with me, and she listens better. We go hiking off leash, camping, and so much. I feel more comfortable taking her places that I couldn’t before. I’m so glad I can take her with me more without the anxiety of how she is going to react. Vince is a great trainer who is patient calm and diligent!
  • Kayla Burzio
    Jun. 17, 2024
    Nick and I reached out to Vince to help with our 4 year old German Shepard, Rosa, with reactivity issues, leash training, and to help boost her self obedience. We knew the moment we met with Vince he was going to be super helpful to our family. He took the time and patience to explain all the ins and outs of this journey. He never was watching the clock during our training sessions, was great in making suggestions to get the biggest bang for our buck during sessions, and captured this awesome photo of us on Rosa’s last in house training session. We still have group sessions available to us that we are very excited to start with Vince and the other clients/dogs that he works with. We are grateful for his services and see the improvements in our pup!
  • Rebecca Gillenwater
    Jun. 17, 2024
    I knew training would be very important for my very energetic Aussie. Vince from Dog Training Elite has been the perfect person to train us! Liam had several issues causing him to not be able to enjoy life to the fullest. However these last few weeks with Vince he has progressed to a more confident and happy pup. I can't wait to see where he goes from here! Thanks so much for the help.
  • Judith Gusky
    Jun. 17, 2024
    I am so glad we found Vince. We've had other dogs over the years, but never sought out a trainer. And never could bring our dogs out much to public events or handle them well on walks.I always felt a little inadequate as a dog owner. Lots of love, but little discipline. We wanted a smaller dog this time, thinking she would be easier to control for a 70-something couple. This time we decided to seek help from a trainer. Vince has essentially given us the skills, the techniques, the patience, and the understanding of consistency to make all our lives better...including Olive. Vince is gentle, knowledgeable, and a very good teacher. He has made the training process seem so easy and the results are often instant (and lasting as long as you practice, practice, practice). Olive is a happy, well-behaved, loving dog (2-years old in September). I had a dream for years of having a "therapy" dog to take into healthcare facilities. We are now confident that Olive will be able to fulfill my dream and that she will continue to build her confidence without stress or frustration. Vince made this all possible. He is the best!!
  • karie turner
    Jun. 3, 2024
    Vince has been the best experience for training with loki. Loki was scared and, Vince took his time in building trust with loki. Loki has come a far way and building confidence and obedience, thanks to Vince. Vince is easy to work with and always there if you have any questions. I’m glad I found Vince for loki, it’s been a pleasure continuing to working along side a great trainer.
  • M P
    May. 30, 2024
    Our family couldn't be happier with the results of our training sessions with Vince! It was worth every penny! Admittedly, we were nervous about e-collar training at first. Vince answered all of our questions calmly and reassuringly. Having Vince train our 18 month old lab in our home was a real game changer. He addressed challenges in real time and was always happy to work with us to customize the training to our needs. Best of all, it is clear that Vince loves his canine clients. This alone made it so easy to trust him with our puppy. His calm and confident demeanor put both our dog and his pack (our family) at ease. Vince clearly puts the client's needs first. He never seemed like he was in a hurry to leave and he was always available for questions when they occurred outside of our training time. The opportunity to continue practicing with the group sessions is another benefit that we just love. We completed our 6 sessions recently and continue to practice regularly with our dog. Already he is calmer at the door, more polite when greeting guests and his regular recall is outstanding. Additionally, his recall with distractions is noticeably improving. We live near a lake in the summer and our pup is living his best life as he can be off leash more and more. Everyone who sees him comments on what a well-behaved boy he is . I am so glad we found Dog Training Elite!
  • DeAnna Harris
    May. 11, 2024
    Super excited to get started on training with Dog Training Elite. We just had our consult and feel great and very hopeful that our Jasper is going to have every opportunity to be the best doberman ever and for us as owners to be the best owners for Jasper.
  • Briana Lanay
    Jan. 28, 2024
    Mr Conrad is an excellent trainer he has helped my fear aggressive border collie gain confidence now our daily walks have become a lot easier and she hardly reacts to people and other dogs. Overall this was an amazing experience
  • Linda Zemanick
    Dec. 9, 2023
    I have a 2 year old. Lab and I can’t say enought. About how her training from Vince at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh has helped her and is! Vince is very knowledgeable about training with individual one on one class and group classes. Whatever you need help with your dog Vince can fix it! I have a well behaved dog now that only continues to get better as she gets older . He is reasonably priced and is always available for questions or new concerns. DTEP gets my outstanding review. Give Vince a call ! You will be very happy with his training for your dog!! Sincerely, Linda Z
  • Czarina Michka
    Nov. 13, 2023
    Vince was always punctual and sympathetic to my concerns regarding dog training/behavior. He gave thorough explanations and was flexible with the agenda of each class, tailoring them to my priorities. Even before signing on with him, he provided an in-depth consultation and answers, with examples, to all my questions. He was encouraging, yet realistic, and openly discussed the ongoinging responsibilities of the dog owner throughout the training process. I highly recommond Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh to any owner who wants to reach the next level of dog obedience and is willing to put in the required work necessary thereof.
  • Lynn Antonucci
    Sep. 11, 2023
    Vince is the trainer that I needed for Dakoda-my 9mth old German shepherd. I tried other trainers and didn't get results. Vince is calm and patient and works to train you, not just your dog. I live a little bit out of his usual area, but Vince went the extra miles for me, and I am so thankful he did!
  • Lynn Bacha Antonucci
    Sep. 11, 2023
    Vince is the trainer that I needed for Dakoda-my 9mth old German shepherd. I tried other trainers and didn't get results. Vince is calm and patient and works to train you, not just your dog. I live a little bit out of his usual area, but Vince went the extra miles for me, and I am so thankful he did!
  • Steven Padin-Aquino, P.E.
    Jul. 21, 2023
    My dog Teddy is still in training. He got nearly all his one to one trainings at our home with Tonya and now he has been in 3 group sessions so far. Tonya is not just knowledgeable and experienced as a dog trainer but her best qualities are her natural love for animals, her patience and her way to make them what we considered impossible. Teddy is a 7 MO sheepadoodle puppy and gets too excited around dogs and other people. He wish to play all the time so he gets jumpy and drags us whenever he wants to be playing. Tonya has been able to teach him basic commands and has been helping us to teach him to stay quieter. If you are in the need to get professional help along with loving care with your pup, Tonya and Luis are your answer. I recommend them 100%!
  • Taylor Koch
    Jul. 7, 2023
    Vince is a wonderful dog trainer. He met Henry and I at no cost to assess his good and bad behaviors at home. Vince’s calm, patient and kind demeanor made me confident that he would be able to train Henry and educate me every step of the way. After our first training session Henry stopped nipping “puppy biting” at my sleeves and ankles. We have since worked on learning new commands and skills together that make having a puppy more enjoyable and even fun. I would recommend Vince to anyone who is looking to have a better relationship with their dog and who is even interested in service dog training.
  • Taylor Koch
    Jul. 6, 2023
    Vince is a wonderful dog trainer. He met Henry and I at no cost to assess his good and bad behaviors at home. Vince’s calm, patient and kind demeanor made me confident that he would be able to train Henry and educate me every step of the way. After our first private training season Henry stopped nipping “puppy biting” at my sleeves and ankles. We have since worked on learning new commands and skills together that make having a puppy more enjoyable and even fun. I would recommend Vince to anyone who is looking to have a better relationship with their dog and who is even interested in service dog training.
A labrador sitting outdoors - with professional labrador training in Pittsburgh, PA from Dog Training Elite, your labrador will be a great companion.

What Makes Labradors Unique?

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There are many reasons to love Labradors. Here are just a few:

  1. Labradors Love the Water: You may have already known this fact, because Labs are pretty famous for loving the water. They’re actually made for it! A Lab can use their thick tail – sometimes referred to as an “otter tail” – as a powerful rudder. They also have wide, webbed feet to help them swim fast and waterproof coats that help them remain comfortable even in cold water.
  2. They were Bred as Hunting Dogs: Initially, Labs were bred as duck retrievers, and then later as game-hunting companions. They tend to excel in retriever field trials and retriever hunting tests. They’re incredibly versatile as sport dogs, excelling in agility, rally and obedience sports.
  3. Labs Come in Three Colors: Labrador coats come in three colors – black, yellow, and chocolate.
  4. Labs can do Almost Anything: Their intelligence, energy, and affectionate nature makes them a popular choice for service and therapy dogs, as well as for search and rescue teams, and bomb and drug detection. Suffice to say, all Labradors are very good dogs who do very good jobs.

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An image of a labrador outside with their owner - get professional training services with Dog Training Elite.

Breed Specific Tips & Tricks

Keeping Your Labrador Happy and Healthy

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Although Labradors are famously laid back and friendly, that doesn’t mean they don’t require attentive care. If you’re considering adopting a Labrador, or you already have one and want to learn more about how to keep your pup happy and healthy, consider the following:

  1. Labradors Need Plenty of Exercise: Although Labs are easy going, they need plenty of exercise – even up to two hours a day. This can be made up of long walks, training sessions, playing fetch, or going to the dog park. Though it’s important to make sure they get enough exercise, you also need to be careful you don’t let your dog overdo it, especially as a puppy while their joints and bones are still growing.
  2. Groom Your Lab Weekly: Labradors have short, smooth coats that are prone to shedding. Combing them weekly with a comb or bristle brush, or combing daily during shedding season, can help keep shedding under control. Make sure you have a good vacuum!
  3. Manage their Diet: As big, energetic dogs, Labs need to eat a lot – but they can be prone to putting on pounds, as well. Follow the recommended amounts on dog food packaging, or consult with your vet.
  4. Make sure Your Labrador Gets Lots of Attention: Labradors are very social. Socialization with other dogs is important, so trips to the dog park, doggy play dates, or group training classes at Dog Training Elite can be beneficial for both you and your dog. If your Lab has to be home without you for long stretches of time, be sure to have stimulating dog toys, puzzles, and chew toys available for them, and consider hiring someone to check on and play with them during the day.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

An adorable labrador puppy getting trained with Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh professionals.

Dog and Puppy Training For Your Labrador Breed

Schedule Your Free Training Consultation Today

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The Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh training method is based around classical conditioning with an emphasis on positive reinforcement. Classical conditioning means developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands, so when you say “sit,” your dog will sit automatically. Labradors respond especially well to positive reinforcement and our trainers will tailor your Pittsburgh Labrador puppy training to suit you and your dogs needs.

While all dogs share qualities of kindness, loyalty and intelligence regardless of breed, Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh recognizes that every dog is an individual and may require different training methods. We stand out by taking into consideration what breed your dog is when making training goals.

Regardless of your dogs specific breed, Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh can help you and your pup overcome any obstacle related to obedience and socialization. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.

Ready to turn your Labrador into the best companion for you or your family? Contact us today to receive a free in-home assessment or Labrador training demonstration.