A service dog and their owner outside - find elite service dog training in Reno, NV with Dog Training Elite.
Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training in Reno, NV

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Our Service Dog Training Could Help:
Veterans or civilians with PTSD, anxiety, or depression
Children or adults with autism
Individuals with epilepsy
(participating locations)
Advanced medical training (participating locations)

Dog Training Elite Reno

Service Dog Training in Reno, NV

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service dog as “a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.” Disabilities include mental or physical impairments that affect an individual’s ability to perform one or more major life activities (walking, seeing, etc.).

Because service dogs play such a key role in the life of disabled individuals, they are protected by the law. Places of residence, employment, and commercial facilities cannot discriminate against disabled individuals with service animals. If you are wondering how to get a service dog, you can either purchase a fully trained dog or purchase a service puppy and train it.

With our service dog training in Reno, NV, we ensure that your dog is trained to meet the specific needs of your disability, providing personalized support and empowering both dog and handler for long-term success.

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A man and his support service dog - learn more about our positive training methods at Dog Training Elite.

Our Positive Approach to Service Dog Training


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At Dog Training Elite, we believe that successful dog training requires dedication, patience, and balance. That’s why we are committed to using positive reinforcement techniques in all of our training programs.

Through balanced training, our team helps owners build trust with their dogs. This approach is especially important for service dog training because strong relationships and communication are essential for dogs to reliably assist their handler.

By focusing on encouragement rather than punishment, we created confident, well-behaved dogs that are eager to perform their best and impress their owners.

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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

  • Grace Wagner
    Aug. 6, 2026
    I love Chris and Alexis, both amazing trainers who listen and care! Enzo knew quite a bit before going into the premium training package. He now can be off leash with great recall, walk by other dogs and give them no mind. I really can’t recommend them enough!
  • Grace Wagner
    Aug. 6, 2026
    I couldn’t recommend Chris and Alexis more. I inherited a 1 year old Cane Coros and didn’t know where to start. Chris gave me so much ease and confidence when looking into the training program. He’s trust worthy and really cares. My dog Enzo ran away and Chris was out there searching for him. Enzo was scared of water and isn’t anymore due to Chris! This service is worth every penny, I would’ve paid more for how awesome the service is. We are members for life!
  • Brodie Man
    Aug. 5, 2026
    I would definitely recommend this training program. Very knowledgeable trainers who are supportive of your goals and needs! My dog is a different dog and more confident in situations with dogs and people. He can now live his best life!
  • Erica Cardona
    Apr. 20, 2024
    Thank you Chris (Dog Training Elite Reno) for the above and beyond work with Leo (the Hippo Face). Although I had some experience with pitts in the past, this guy was especially reactive due to his traumatic past. (rescue). Chris worked so well with him, he really connected with Leo and helped me be a responsible pet owner. UPDATE: This will not allow me to post a separate NEW review, so I will update my old one, therefore sad news good news. Sadly our Leo (Hippo Face) passed last year. I was not going to get another dog! Then..... my friend sent a pic of this 4 mo old rescue 1/2 Pitt 1/2 mystery demon. Good News, the demon moved in...(she was also going by "peesinthehouse". Back to Chris we go! Puppy Class!! She learned place, wait among other magical commands. I have learned to move forward with these tools as well, we are currently learning to use push the "potty" button to go outside!!! long story long... we now call her Frida! Thank you Chris, look for your wizard hat in the mail.
  • Kaerlig Huff
    Jul. 16, 2026
    When I got my seven week old Labrador hound mix I was diagnosed with epilepsy. I had nowhere to go and I knew I needed service but she needed a long road of obedience Chris Molly, and the whole team were with me promptly they go above and beyond the average trainer to make sure that you have the skills, the tools and are always answering all of your questions any timely fashion it makes you feel very special and they love dogs. I mean, they love dogs. My one year-old pup is still training for life with our extended family. Chris Molly and the team are our extended family. It has become such a personal relationship that “tulip “cannot wait to see them cannot wait to train and people look at me on the streets or on a walk and they say wow what a good behaved dog you have. Every time I have a problem they are there. Chris is great. Mollie is great and we’re still going to continue in service training. You have to trust people deeply with your pup and I trust and recommend elite Dog Training specifically Cris specifically Molly to everybody I know I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
  • Ryan Primeaux
    Jul. 13, 2026
    Dog Training Elite helped my dog Bluey so much! They spent one on one time with him, working on everything from the basics to more advanced techniques, allowing him to work through distractions and stay calm in situations where he was previously overstimulated.
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  • val andersen
    May. 27, 2026
    I've had my Yorkie-poo in classes with 4 different trainers. Elite is the first one that actually worked. Alexis taught my dog and me how to correct his issues. She worked with us in many different situations and his behavior is so improved that I can take him anywhere without worrying that he might misbehave. So worth the time and money!
  • JM Parker
    Mar. 19, 2026
    I can’t begin to tell you how much of a difference this training has made. I was very close to re homing my dog thinking it wasn’t a good fit, his personality and my expectations. Within the first week, there were many big changes that took place. The training process with Alexa kept getting better and my dog’s retention was growing stronger each week. I now have a well behaved 2 yr old guy who is respectful and fun to be with. I can’t thank you enough, Alexa for your patience and kindness.
  • Jackie Pettitt
    Mar. 18, 2026
    Hi my name is Jackie and I have a 18 month old Rottweiler named Nova. I rescued her June 2025 from a Facebook add, she was covered in wounds and was living outside with a bunch of other dogs in a small gravel lot. She had never been inside, around people or experienced the world so she came to me very nervous and anxious. After about 6 months of getting to know her and bringing her around to new environments and people I began to notice an escalation in her response to meeting new people which went from cowering and hiding to lingering and nipping and it was impossible for strangers to be in the house and I no longer could bring her to work. Unsure how to help her I started researching and decided to meet with Chris! He was so kind and answered all of my questions and concerns. I was then paired with Karly for training and boy is she a wealth of knowledge!!! In just two sessions we have made HUGE GAINS! Yesterday she laid in her place cot with all of the distractions and triggers of Chris walking around the house and doing things that would normally trigger her. By the end of the session she was completely relaxed and unconcerned of what was happening around her and focused on me. I could cry I am so happy! If you are looking for compassionate, caring, and highly experienced and knowledgeable trainers look no further!
  • Jackie Pettitt
    Mar. 18, 2026
    Hi my name is Jackie and I have a 18 month old Rottweiler named Nova. I rescued her June 2025 from a Facebook add, she was covered in wounds and was living outside with a bunch of other dogs in a small gravel lot. She had never been inside, around people or experienced the world so she came to me very nervous and anxious. After about 6 months of getting to know her and bringing her around to new environments and people I began to notice an escalation in her response to meeting new people which went from cowering and hiding to lingering and nipping and it was impossible for strangers to be in the house and I no longer could bring her to work. Unsure how to help her I started researching and decided to meet with Chris! He was so kind and answered all of my questions and concerns. I was then paired with Karly for training and boy is she a wealth of knowledge!!! In just two sessions we have made HUGE GAINS! Yesterday she laid in her place cot with all of the distractions and triggers of Chris walking around the house and doing things that would normally trigger her. By the end of the session she was completely relaxed and unconcerned of what was happening around her and focused on me. I could cry I am so happy! If you are looking for compassionate, caring, and highly experienced and knowledgeable trainers look no further!
  • DeAnna Jost Larsen
    Jan. 24, 2026
    Chris is absolutely amazing. I was nervous to start the training (we have only used positive reinforcement based training in the past) so I was worried about what this would be like. Chris is kind, caring, and compassionate and the training sessions are filled with positive reinforcement along with the use of the e collar as a training tool. Sessions are educational for both you and your dog and our dog Cindy has made so much progress. We love the pack walks. 🐾💜
  • Nicole White
    Dec. 8, 2025
    We can’t recommend Chris at Dog Training Elite enough! We have two five-year-old pit bulls who were already well socialized and knew basic commands, and Chris helped us take their training to the next level. We focused on leash pulling, reliable recall with distractions, and appropriate greetings, along with several other important skills. Chris didn’t just train our dogs — he taught us how to properly reinforce behaviors and avoid common mistakes. That guidance gave us so much confidence moving forward. We now understand our dogs and the training process on a much deeper level, and the results have been incredible. We’re extremely happy with the progress we’ve made and the lasting results we continue to see.
  • Jake
    Dec. 5, 2025
    Chris is a very solid professional and a wealth of knowledge. Trustworthy, respectful, patient and kind; all of the qualities needed to be the best trainer. You can’t go wrong with Dog Training Elite. Highly Recommended!
  • M Brooke
    Oct. 31, 2025
    5 stars are not enough for Chris and DTE! My shepherd mix was very reactive to other dogs and has literally pulled me off my feet to get to them. Chris's training and tools has turned this completely around, and I can't say enough for how grateful I am to have Chris working with my dog and me.
  • Amy Jakobsson
    Sep. 25, 2025
    Chris was amazing!!! He always has a suggestion when we were going through a tough behavior and was so great with our pup. I highly recommend. You will not be disappointed.
  • Cherie Pinkham
    Sep. 4, 2025
    I contacted Chris by seeing his advertisement on his car. We had a rescue dog that was giving us a hard time and we didn't know what to do. After checking into a few other options, we chose to go with Chris and we haven't regretted the decision one bit! I love the fact that he comes to us and works with us together. While working on this particular rescue, we had another dog starting to behave inappropriately. Chris, once again came to our rescue and gives me hope in having harmony in our pack and family unit. We recommend Chris and Leroy 100%. You will not be disappointed! Bonus: They love pitties too!
  • Andie Charley
    Aug. 6, 2025
    We enrolled our 1 year old German Shorthair and Chris was awesome!! We have seen so much improvement in Shadow and could not be more impressed by our pup and the training he has received!!
  • Gina King
    Jun. 24, 2025
    Chris has been amazing with our rescue pup. The training program is very structured and at the same time he has no issue pivoting to our personal needs, which is greatly appreciated. We’ve already seen such an improvement and we look forward to our sessions. Would recommend with no hesitation!
  • Jodie Gullickson
    Apr. 23, 2025
    5 Stars – Outstanding Trainer! Chris has been an absolute game changer for me and my dog, Nanuk. His professionalism is beyond measure—always punctual, calm, and completely in control. Nanuk listens to him instantly, which is incredible to witness. Chris also takes the time to explain everything clearly, so I feel confident continuing the exercises throughout the week. The value he provides far exceeds the cost. I can’t recommend him highly enough to anyone looking for a truly exceptional dog trainer!
A Dog Training Elite Reno owner smiling with his dog in Reno, NV.

Dog Training Elite Reno

Is a Service Dog The Same As a Therapy Dog?

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Many types of working dogs increase the quality of life for their handlers. The three main categories of working dogs are service animal, therapy animal, and emotional support animal. Each category covers different areas of support and different levels of protection under the law.

  1. Service Animal

    As mentioned above, service animals assist individuals with disabilities. Depending on the person’s needs, the service animal learns how to perform certain tasks. Guide dogs, for example, help blind individuals safely navigate their environment. Seizure response dogs respond to their handlers when the individual is having a seizure. Service animals are highly trained and specialized, and they are also offered the most protection under the law compared to therapy or emotional support animals.

    Dogs are not the only kinds of service animals - miniature horses are often trained to support individuals with disabilities!

  2. Therapy Animal

    Therapy dogs provide comfort and improve the mental well-being of individuals in hospitals, hospice care, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, and more. These dogs must have a friendly, calm demeanor and be comfortable when handled by strangers.

    Therapy dogs are not trained to perform specific tasks, but they must be obedient and well-mannered. Therapy animals are permitted in some areas where pets are not, but they have fewer protections than service animals. All therapy dogs must be certified before they can offer their services to the community.

  3. Emotional Support Animal

    Emotional support dogs relieve loneliness, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of mental health disorders. They provide comfort to their handlers, but they are not trained to perform specific tasks. Most emotional support animals are sensitive to the emotional changes of their handler and will remain close by at all times. Emotional support animals are not protected by the ADA, but residential buildings must permit emotional support animals.

Dog Training Elite Reno

What Can Service Dogs Do?

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. Learn about 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.

Service dogs are a great help to disabled individuals thanks to their incredible ability to perform highly specialized tasks, like opening doors, switching lights on and off, assisting with balance and stability, guiding, pulling wheelchairs, answering phones and making calls, finding objects or places, unloading and loading items, clearing rooms, finding help, and many more. Service dogs improve the lives of disabled individuals by increasing their autonomy.
Individuals with certain diseases and disorders can benefit from a highly trained service dog. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and they can detect the chemical changes associated with oncoming seizures and increases in blood pressure. Alert service dogs alert their handler to these situations to prevent a life-threatening emergency. Alert dogs also help those with extreme allergies detect potential allergens in food.
Disabled or epileptic individuals are more prone to emergencies than the average person. Service dogs are trained to alert their handler to a potential emergency, and alert surrounding individuals to an active emergency. Service dogs can also call for help on pre-programmed phones.

Additional Service Training Info

Dog Training Elite Reno - PTSD Service Dog Training in Reno, NV. DTE

PTSD Service Dog

If you're looking to train a PTSD service dog in Reno, NV, Dog Training Elite is here to help. Our service dogs are trained to assist with symptoms such as anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and panic attacks, providing grounding emotional support.

Dog Training Elite Reno - Psychiatric Service Dog Training in Reno, NV

Psychiatric Service Dog Training

Our psychiatric service dog training in Reno, NV helps individuals with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. We'll help train your dog to mitigate symptoms by offering emotional grounding and support during stressful situations.

Dog Training Elite Reno - Autism Support Dog Training in Reno, NV

Autism Support Service Dog

Bring life-changing support to your family with Dog Training Elite's autism support dog training in Reno, NV. Our compassionate trainers work closely with your family and dog throughout the entire process, ensuring your pup is fully prepared to provide comfort, safety, and companionship.

A service dog at a ball game with their owner - get professional Reno service dog training with Dog Training Elite.

Dog Training Elite Reno

Service Dogs for Anxiety, PTSD, and Autism

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Service dogs trained to assist handlers with severe anxiety or depression perform specific tasks that reduce the potential for panic attacks or self-harm attempts. Such tasks include deep-pressure therapy, tactile stimulation, alerting, clearing rooms, blocking strangers from approaching, and more. Service dogs trained to assist those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have greatly improved the lives of many veterans.

Service dogs also make a big impact on the lives of children with autism. Children with autism are often prone to meltdowns, have trouble communicating, and are quick to run off or become easily lost. Service dogs prevent and mediate all of these behaviors to provide a higher quality of life for children with autism and their families.

As autism is a spectrum disorder, each child has varying needs of assistance. Autism service dogs perform the following tasks:

  • Tracking: Children with autism often wander away, and a parent’s worst fear is turning their back for just a moment and discovering their child is gone. Autism service dogs will track the child if this ever happens.
  • Tethering: This task minimizes wandering, which is common in public settings. The child is tethered to the service dog’s leash or harness, preventing him or her from wandering away.
  • Behavior Interruption: Repetitive and ritualistic behaviors are typical of autistic children, as are meltdowns when the child becomes overstimulated. Autism service dogs recognize these negative behaviors and redirect the child’s attention when they start. A simple paw or nudge is all it takes to prevent a meltdown.
A service puppy waiting for their owner - Dog Training Elite Reno.

How Do I Get a Service Dog?

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If you are wondering how to get a service dog, there are a couple of different approaches. Some service dogs are purchased outright, fully trained. Or a compatible dog is selected and trained from an early age. Training a dog from the start is the best option, especially for those with specialized needs.

Training a dog to perform service responsibilities must start from day one. Only certain breeds are suited to service work, and breeders put a lot of time into raising puppies to be service animals. Once you have purchased a service puppy, additional training is necessary to prepare your puppy for life as a service dog. This is a complicated process that involves various steps. Dog Training Elite makes getting a service dog easier with our service dog training program.

Our talented trainers can help select puppies that are prepared for a life of service from well-respected breeders. When these puppies enter the service dog training program they are closely monitored for behavior and temperament and can be fully obedience trained by the age of six months. These puppies undergo extensive socialization and additional training to ensure they are well-suited for service and therapy needs including specialized service training alongside the new handler.

This program is ideal for handlers who want to take part in the developmental years and extensive training of their service puppy.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Reno.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

A trainer, a man and his service dog - find the best service dog training in Reno, NV with Dog Training Elite.

We Are Committed to Making a Difference

Choose DTE for Reno Service Dog Training

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At Dog Training Elite, we are passionate about transforming lives through Reno service dog training. Our proven, balanced training methods help create highly skilled, dependable service dogs that are both obedient and loyal to their handlers.

From mobility support and physical assistance to emotional well-being and more, Dog Training Elite is committed to providing personalized, high-quality training that makes a lasting impact.

Choose Dog Training Elite Reno and experience the difference that elite training and compassionate care can make.