Service Dog Breeds


The Best Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSD in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie

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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 Treasure Coast today!

Dog Training Elite offers professional training of service dogs for veterans in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie.

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 Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie 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 Treasure 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 Treasure Coast 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 Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie 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!

I am forever grateful to the staff. Their expertise combined with their compassion and understanding of animals is superior. They have given me the tools I need to continue with the training of my dog
— Dolores Pilla
Posted April 25th 2024
google
Wow, there’s no words to describe the dramatic change in a very reactive, scared dog, transformed into a confident, well behaved and loved family pet! DTE and the entire staff are dedicated, caring, knowledgeable, professional trainers even with our challenging guy and we can’t thank them enough for making Rocket an enjoyable member of our family. Thanks DTE and I’m glad to be a part of your family and highly recommend anyone who is looking for a well mannered dog training group to consider DTE as their first and only choice. Special thanks to Graham who saw Rockets potential, Sam who finally got the Rocket mans kisses she was looking for, Kristin who put up with the ever so unpredictable attitudes of Rocket in the mornings, Tina and Shelley. You guys ROCK! Ronnie, Chris and Rocket
— Chris Levy
Posted April 17th 2024
google
Elite Dog Training is all that you would hope for in a training Center. I brought in my 1.6 year old German Shepherd. The trainers are very friendly and my dog enjoyed all of his visits. He picked up his lessons and seemed happy to learn more each visit. I am very happy with our choice in using Elite Dog Training.
— Tropicalwallart Hurricane Rita
Posted April 14th 2024
google
We (my husband and myself) came across this group during a veteran event and was really impressed with the dogs they brought to demonstrate what they could do. At the time we didn't have a dog with any training needs, but they definitely left an impression. Later that year we adopted a GROWING puppy (now 70lbs) and thought we could handle training him on our own. Unfortunately, we learned through an embarrassing situation that our dog was very "rude" and not very confident in his surroundings. After that, I picked up the phone and got scheduled right away to see if he was a good fit for the program. He was a great fit and we've been going strong 4 months now (1 month of one-on-one training and 3 months of weekly follow-ups). We are no longer afraid to take our dogs in public and our pup that was trained through this program has actually become the most well-behaved dog I've ever had. I am so thankful for the team at DTE for giving me and especially my dog piece of mind and a closer relationship.
— Julissa Escobar
Posted February 22nd 2024
google
I've been very pleased with the one-on-one instruction. Sam is flexible and understanding, patient and professional. Buddy graduated and we have been attending group classes. At the center and in the park here in PSL, the trainers are committed and centered. We are most definitely glad we made the investment in Buddy's training. I would recommend DTETC to anyone!
— Susan Barrett Finazzo
Posted March 2nd 2024
google
I started with Elite Training of the Treasure Coast with my 5 month old of Golden Retriever, Maggie. Over the 6 weeks training classes; my dog knows sit, down, place, come, and heel. The head trainer has taught me how to begin & strength my bond with Maggie. This has allowed training to go smoother and to see the results of our hard work together. I highly recommend Elite Dog training of the Treasure Coast with your dog. It has allowed Maggie to come out in public with a puppy with good manners and calm. The picture below is a group of graduates on an outing at the Vero Car show in (Feb 2024).
— Mary Massie
Posted February 28th 2024
google
Dog Training Elite has been amazing! My dog started training with them about 7 months ago and his behavior has improved dramatically. I don’t have to worry about him tormenting our cats anymore! All of the instructors are calm, professional and enthusiastic. I highly recommend this company for all dog training needs!
— Karla Antonio
Posted February 24th 2024
google
A very special place to take your 4 legged sweetie to learn good behavior. The trainers give each dog individual time and attention. My 7 month old mini Golden Doodle has learned so much. At the end of the day I was shown what she learned that day to practice with her. After our week of day camp, . group classes are offered. I need them as much as she does! Great experience. The learning continues for us both with the support of the staff. Glad we found them! 🐕
— Christine Maglicic
Posted February 22nd 2024
google
First rate experience. Office help great always calls back. Trainer Shelly knows her stuff. Helped us with Rosie to give her confidence to stay home alone. Trained and explained every step, we went through. We would recommend Dog Training Elite!
— Nancy Briganti
Posted February 21st 2024
google
I would like to rate my experience as amazing Dog Training Elite has taking every step and helping me become a better dog handler and also my dog just passed the canine good citizen and public access test a big thanks to Shelly and Sam for your service and support
— Deb
Posted January 9th 2024
google
Wonderful people who care so much about their clients and their dogs. They are top tier trainers!
— Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio
Posted January 8th 2024
facebook
Exceptional training. I worked with Shelly with a dual service dog and her insight is very valuable. It was easy to schedule appointments even with my crazy schedule changing. Could not recommend a better trainer to work with.
— frenchbulldogs100
Posted October 26th 2023
google
I was at a point where I wasn’t enjoying my dog, Krueger. He had zero respect for my husband and I and he became unmanageable; I would dread when my husband would have to leave the state for work because being around Krueger on my own for an extended period of time was so unbelievably overwhelming for me. Don’t get me wrong, we love our dog!! He is so funny and goofy! …but he is a Great Dane and at that time, he was already an 80 pound puppy 😳 I contacted Dog Training Elite and was automatically put at ease after speaking with Kristin. Shelley came over to evaluate Krueger the following week and I instantly felt that she was an angel sent from heaven. She was with us for only half an hour and I quickly already saw a change in my dog. Fast forward to today: KRUEGER IS NOW A WELL-MANNERED, RESPECTFUL BOY!!! We are still in the early stretch of his training with DTE, but I am so so grateful for this company. Krueger has learned about boundaries and restraint and he is such a pleasure to be with. My husband and I have bonded with him through training and we have truly been given the tools to communicate what we need from Krueger. It really is such an amazing feeling ☺️ We look forward to working with Shelley and we thank Dog Training Elite for giving us our sanity back lol.
— Kristen Stokes
Posted October 11th 2023
google
I have had an incredible experience with this amazing company. I was referred from my veterinarians front desk receptionist. Their willingness to offer payment plans sets them apart from the rest. When it comes to training big dogs like my Great Dane, they excel. Their expertise and dedication truly shine. Highly recommended! 🐾 Dog Training Elite is simply fantastic! #DogTrainingElite
— Renee Serrichio
Posted September 7th 2023
google
Dog training Elite has been great. I brought a new pup into my family.. My fear was not being able to find anyone who was capable of training a Cane Corso as they are very smart but stubborn suckers.. Dog training elite were more than ready for the challenge. My pup "Ares" picked up everything taught. On top of that, I had to reschedule more times than I could count, each and every time Ashley and the team were overly accomodating. Prior to working with Dog Training Elite, I spoke to a couple of other trainers, none of which were worth a second conversation... This teams ability to work with my schedule was beyond fantastic. On top of their flexibility, the cost was very affordable and worth every penny. Thank you, Ash, Kristin, and everyone else involved... Great team and fantastic results
— john sefchick
Posted August 31st 2023
google
My boyfriend and I purchased our very first Belgian Malinois puppy at 8 weeks old. If you are familiar with this breed then you know how high energy they are and how much mental stimulation they require. As Coral got older we thought maybe we had gotten in over our heads with getting this breed because of how loud, mouthy and bossy she was becoming. She would jump on us when arriving home, bite our arms to the point of bleeding, and bark uncontrollably at us. We started researching dog trainers around us and the search led us to Dog Training Elite with Shelley and Graham. I had two requirements when I was interviewing trainers: experience with the Belgian Malinios breed and a trainer who involved the owner with the training and didn’t just take the dogs to their facility for 8 weeks. Dog training Elite met those requirements and blew our expectations out of the water! She helped us work with Coral but also taught us to be the dog trainer so our bound with our little puppy would continue to develop. Coral has excelled way quicker than we could have ever expected and she has became the dog of our dreams because of Shelley! AND, The best part is we get to stay involved with these trainers after our 8 sessions are over because of their platinum package, which includes group training for life and a ‘refresher’ session with our trainer once a month! We not only have a great dog trainer but also feel like we made some friends with these great people too!
— Megan Knox
Posted August 19th 2023
facebook
My boyfriend and I purchased our very first Belgian Malinois puppy at 8 weeks old. If you are familiar with this breed then you know how high energy they are and how much mental stimulation they require. As Coral got older we thought maybe we had gotten in over our heads with getting this breed because of how loud, mouthy and bossy she was becoming. She would jump on us when arriving home, bite our arms to the point of bleeding, and bark uncontrollably at us. We started researching dog trainers around us and the search led us to Dog Training Elite with Shelley and Graham. I had two requirements when I was interviewing trainers: experience with the Belgian Malinios breed and a trainer who involved the owner with the training and didn’t just take the dogs to their facility for 8 weeks. Dog training Elite met those requirements and blew our expectations out of the water! She helped us work with Coral but also taught us to be the dog trainer so our bound with our little puppy would continue to develop. Coral has excelled way quicker than we could have ever expected and she has became the dog of our dreams because of Shelley! AND, The best part is we get to stay involved with these trainers after our 8 sessions are over because of their platinum package, which includes group training for life and a ‘refresher’ session with our trainer once a month! We not only have a great dog trainer but also feel like we made some friends with these great people too!
— Megan Knox
Posted August 19th 2023
google
Ashley was amazing and worked with our dog who was deaf. The difference in him from before we started training and after is amazing. It’s a very well run efficient company and everyone is very nice
— Laura Irwin
Posted August 19th 2023
google
Elite has been an awesome experience! We are only halfway through our training and we have already gotten our moneys worth. Bingo was a 6 mos old rescue puppy with no training and now she is well on her way to become a service dog for our son. Elite gives you all the tips and tools to succeed, as long as you commit the time to your pup you cannot fail!
— Rebecca Booth
Posted August 14th 2023
google
Of course this place is amazing! And this is why I chose to work with this company, the people at the treasure coast unit and training center are just so kind, smart and have such a feeling for home and family. Truly one big family, I've not seen many companies that have such a huge support system and really bring people and their dogs together. ALWAYS MY NUMBER ONE PICK FOR DOG TRAINING!
— Ashley Hollgarth
Posted July 28th 2023
google

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Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSDTraining with Dog Training Elite in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie

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 Treasure 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 Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie.

Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast, 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 Treasure Coast 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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