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Dog Training Services in Richmond, VA


Dog Training Elite

Our Training Programs

Dog Training Elite Richmond - Dog Obedience Training in Richmond, VA. DTE

Obedience Training

Our obedience training for dogs in Richmond, VA utilizes proven, balanced methods to ensure your dog is well-behaved—even in distracting environments. With this training, you and your pup will develop a stronger bond, leading to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience at home and in public.
Dog Training Elite Richmond - Puppy Training in Richmond, VA. Dog Training Elite

Puppy Training

Our puppy training program in Richmond, VA lays the foundation for good behavior and socialization. We cover essential skills such as housebreaking and basic commands, setting your puppy up for success as they grow.
Dog Training Elite Richmond - Service Dog Training in Richmond, VA. Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

Our service dog training in Richmond prepares your pup for specific roles such as mobility assistance, autism support, PTSD service, and more. We ensure your dog is trained to be a reliable partner who is there for you whenever you need.
Dog Training Elite Richmond - Anxiety & Aggressive Dog Training in Richmond, VA

Anxiety & Aggression

Our aggressive dog training in Richmond, VA addresses challenging behaviors using a balanced, safe, and careful approach. We provide the tools necessary for managing anxiety and aggression in your dog, helping them become a more confident and well-adjusted companion in your home and the community.
Dog Training Elite Richmond - Therapy Dog Training in Richmond, VA

Therapy Dog Training

Our therapy dog trainers in Richmond, VA, train pups to provide emotional support and comfort to individuals or families. Whether you need soft cuddles, calming pets, or a reassuring presence, your dog will be by your side when you need it most.
Dog Training Elite Richmond - Group Class Dog Training in Richmond, VA. DTE

Group Training

Our group dog training in Richmond, VA offers structured sessions to enhance your dog’s obedience skills in social settings. These classes provide valuable opportunities for your dog to practice commands and behaviors in a controlled group environment.
A beautiful golden retriever dog sitting on a rock - learn more about the programs offered at Dog Training Elite Richmond.

Dog Training Elite Richmond

At DTE, we offer a range of training programs designed to meet the specific needs of you and your dog. We use balanced training techniques to foster obedience and good behavior and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Starting with in-home sessions, we involve all family members to address behaviors specific to your dog's environment. After mastering basic commands, dogs can advance to group classes to practice their skills in more dynamic settings.

Whether you're looking for basic obedience or specialized dog training services in Richmond, VA, our methods are designed to help your dog become a well-behaved and happy companion.

See Training Packages

Get Your Free Assessment

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!

A dog owner and her service puppy - we offer balanced training programs at Dog Training Elite Richmond, VA.

Positive Reinforcement Training


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Positive reinforcement is widely recognized as one of the most effective and humane methods for training puppies and adult dogs. This training approach focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones.

This method is especially beneficial for puppies as it helps them develop confidence and trust their owners from an early age. Rewards such as treats, praise, or toys encourage puppies to repeat good behaviors, making the learning process effective and enjoyable. For adult dogs, positive reinforcement is equally effective. It shapes desired behaviors and helps prevent the development of bigger issues like anxiety, aggression, or destructive tendencies.

Why Dog Training Elite is Committed to Positive Reinforcement

At Dog Training Elite, we believe dogs learn best when they feel secure, loved, and motivated. That’s why we incorporate positive reinforcement into all of our training programs. Our approach is based on the idea that rewarding good behavior leads to lasting results, helping your dog develop the skills they need to succeed in any environment.

By focusing on positive reinforcement, we teach your dog obedience and strengthen the bond between you and your pet, making the training experience rewarding for both of you. Whether you’re working on basic commands, advanced obedience, or addressing specific behavioral issues, our commitment to positive reinforcement ensures your dog’s training is effective and humane.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • justin barnes
    Nov. 14, 2025
    Paul brings the highest level integrity to everything he does. Couldn’t recommend him more!
  • Chris Owens
    Nov. 9, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Richmond has been fantastic for Champ and myself! We did the in-home program with Matt and the results have been above and beyond what I expected. Champ was a very reactive dog that had trouble focusing. It was a challenge to get him to go on walks around my apartment complex with out being overly exited about other dogs, constantly pulling. I was hesitant to take him out to other places. Matt was able to provide both me and Champ the correct way to handle these situations and the walks are now so much fun for both of us! We now know all the commands, sit, down, come, off and place. My own anxiety about some of the previous ways Champ use to act has gone down tremendously and it has been wonderful for both of us. I cannot say enough good things about Matt's approach and instruction how to address situations and his training methods. We have attended the group classes with both Matt and Paul as well which are a must. This really allowed Champ and myself to gain the confidence and experience needed in an interactive environment with other dogs. Overall, Dog Elite Training Richmond has been fantastic and I could not be more please or recommend enough!
  • Ben Lever
    Oct. 20, 2025
    Matt did a great job training our dog. He is very knowledgeable about dog behavior and personalities. He is very friendly with the dog and vice versa. The dog seemed to like him very much
  • tara boyle
    Oct. 15, 2025
    Matt took the time to listen to my concerns and address them…hopefully Otis the wonder dog will find some zen!
  • Nancy Smith
    Jul. 11, 2025
    From the moment Matt arrived to our home we felt so comfortable with his energy. He is incredibly knowledgeable. His calm and positive approach ensured us we have chosen the right person to move forward with training for our anxious german shepherd. Thank you Megan and 'Matt!
  • Joshua Kidd
    Jul. 11, 2025
    Very knowledgeable! Great first experience! Excited to continue classes
  • Georgia Delamar
    Jul. 10, 2025
    Matt answered all my questions and was very informative!
  • Jeannie Friedrich
    Jul. 10, 2025
    Matt just left after the initial assessment. I am blown away. He had Chloe calm within 20 minutes. Can’t wait to work with him!
  • Kristine Adams
    Jun. 19, 2025
    I believe we are on our third in home and Matt has been amazing!! Our rescue that has gone thru severe abuse has grown to not be afraid in a short period of time and Matt has been amazing with me to answer all my questions each visit and again the most patient. I’m so happy that Elite is whom I have chosen to help us and my sweet rescue. Thank you is not enough
  • Nicole Nikolis
    Jun. 24, 2025
    Matt was awesome. He was punctual, polite and talked us through their approach. He also told us what to expect when he was introduced to our pack. We were able to see right from the beginning how the approach worked with them!
  • Aaron Swart
    Jun. 23, 2025
    Great experience with Matt today- knowledgeable, calm, and kind. Jocko can’t wait to be a therapy dog!
  • Josh K
    Jun. 20, 2025
    Great meeting Matt very informative looking forward to working together with my German Shepard
  • Mary Kay Romaine
    Jun. 20, 2025
    I met with Matt today and I was impressed with all his information
  • Arjun Kainth
    Jun. 6, 2025
    Paul and his team are fantastic and their love of animals shines in the training experience!
  • Ellan Armstead
    Jun. 2, 2025
    Very pleased with the assessment! Matt was calm, courteous and friendly with both of the dogs, and was able to very quickly and accurately understand what my dog needs to improve and was able to recommend the exact program that we need, definitely recommend!
  • Dave McGrath
    May. 22, 2025
    Dublin was a rowdy silver lab puppy. Thanks to Paul, and the Dog Training Elite program, he’s now an amazing Service Dog! Dublin’s progression from basic obedience through final Service Dog Certification was remarkable. This dog has directly impacted my quality of life. I’m constantly getting comments of how well-behaved he is and I can’t thank the DTE Richmond team enough! Their personal commitment to build on the unique bond between dog and owner is what makes them different. They are the best!
  • Linda Huckstep
    Mar. 31, 2025
    Matt Perales is a great trainer, and a very nice person.
  • Angela Haule
    May. 19, 2025
    I learned so much during our first session. I'm looking forward to continuing to work with Matt to help Ruby achieve her Therapy Dog certification.
  • Willie Addison
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Matt was prompt exactly early and seemed knowledgable.
  • Amina Alidina
    Apr. 24, 2025
    It has been pleasure meeting you Matt for home assessment it was wonderful experience and we are looking forward to start regular training.

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Our Balanced Theory

At Dog Training Elite, we believe in using a balanced approach for all of our training programs.

Here’s how our approach works:

We provide owners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to manage their dogs in any situation. Our hands-on training ensures owners feel confident and capable of continuing the training process independently.
Our programs are customized to the unique needs of each dog, taking into account factors such as breed, temperament, and specific behavioral issues. This personalized approach maximizes effectiveness and helps dogs reach their full potential.
We train dogs in familiar environments. Whether at home or in a public setting, we ensure the training is practical and relevant to everyday challenges. This ensures your dog behaves just as well in the doggy park as he does in the home.
Our commitment to you doesn’t end with the initial training program. We offer continued training and resources to help maintain and build on your dog’s progress, ensuring ongoing improvement for both you and your pet.
Training with Dog Training Elite is an investment in your dog’s long-term behavior and your peace of mind. Our programs lay the foundation for lifelong good behavior and strong bonds, providing lasting benefits for you and your canine companion.
A lab getting elite k9 training in Richmond, VA from the team at Dog Training Elite.

In-Home Training

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When it comes to dog training, many facilities only offer group classes. While these classes can be beneficial in certain situations, they often fail to address specific behavioral issues and provide personalized attention. Group classes tend to focus on general obedience in a controlled environment, which may not accurately reflect your dog's real-life challenges at home.

Benefits of In-Home Training

At Dog Training Elite, we prioritize in-home training before introducing them to group settings. Here’s why in-home training is an important first step:

  • Training in a Familiar Environment: In-home training occurs where your dog spends most of their time. This familiar setting helps your dog feel secure and comfortable, making it easier for them to learn and retain new behaviors.
  • Personalized Attention: Our trainers focus on your dog's specific behavioral challenges, providing customized solutions. This one-on-one approach ensures your dog gets the attention they need to succeed.
  • Fewer Distractions: Unlike group classes, in-home training minimizes distractions, allowing your dog to focus better on the lessons. By eliminating the chaos of group environments, we can address behaviors more effectively.
  • Involvement of the Whole Family: In-home training encourages active participation from all family members. This collaborative approach ensures everyone is on the same page, reinforcing consistent commands and behaviors across the board.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer both in-home training and group classes. It’s important to note we only introduce your pup to group classes when our trainers and you feel comfortable doing so.

By working one-on-one with your pup before they meet other friends, we address the root causes of their behavior and ensure they are well-behaved in the place that matters most–your home.

An image of a golden retriever on the beach - Dog Training Elite offers Richmond off leash k9 training.

Richmond Off Leash K9 Training

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For many dog owners, having a well-behaved dog that can be trusted off-leash is a top goal, but it’s not always easy to achieve. Off-leash obedience requires a high level of training, where your dog listens and responds, even in a distracting environment.

At Dog Training Elite, we specialize in Richmond off-leash training. Our programs are made to match each dog’s unique temperament and behavior, ensuring the training is both effective and long-lasting. With years of experience handling all types of dogs, Dog Training Elite helps you achieve confidence in your pet, whether on leash or off.

An image of a German Shepherd - Dog Training Elite offers retired k9 training in Richmond, VA.

Retired K9 Training

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Adopting a retired K9 is a rewarding experience, but it can come with unique challenges. At Dog Training Elite, we offer a specialized K9 training program to help new pet owners create a strong bond with these highly intelligent and loyal dogs.

Our qualified trainers understand the specific needs of retired K9s, including managing their anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral issues. Though our modification training, we work directly with you and your new K9 to retrain their behavior responses.

Whether through in-home sessions or group classes, Dog Training Elite places you, the pet owner, at the center of the training process to foster a deep bond between you and your dog. By choosing our retired K9 training program, you are providing a loving home to a hardworking dog and ensuring a loyal and protective companion for your family.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Richmond.
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Victory Begins With Elite Education

Dog Training Elite Richmond

Schedule Your Free In-Home Consultation Today


If you’re seeking a comprehensive solution for your dog training needs, you’ve come to the right place. At Dog Training Elite, we offer a range of training programs for puppies and adult dogs, including specialized options for obedience, service training, off-leash training, and more.

Every program we offer is designed to meet your dog’s specific needs, addressing behavioral concerns while prioritizing your goals and their wellness.

Take the first step toward a stronger bond with your pet by scheduling your free in-home consultation today. Let us show you how personalized training can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s life–and yours.