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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

  • Lisa McCall
    Jan. 4, 2026
    Dog Training Elite Richmond is the perfect place to go for excellent dog training. My 2-year-old golden retriever is training to be a working therapy dog. Our trainer, Matt, has been working with Charlie, and we have seen so many improvements. Paul worked with us at the beginning to determine where to place Charlie, as he had completed puppy training classes in NC before moving to VA and had already passed his Canine Good Citizen Test. Matt worked one-on-one with Charlie at our home, then a few sessions at various community locations. Charlie is now attending group classes, and he is doing a fantastic job. I love how Paul and Matt look at each dog and focus on what the dog needs. They are patient, they give great advice, and my dog absolutely loves them! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Richmond! Lisa McCall
  • Carole Bourgeacq-Hardt
    Dec. 23, 2025
    Paul and his staff were very helpful with the training of our chocolate lab, Max. At the beginning the sessions happened in a calm environment by patient and knowledgeable trainers. Then, Max was exposed to busy surroundings like Lowe’s. I feel like Paul took the time to know Max and his needs. He always has helpful comments and pointers pertinent to Max.
  • Ralph Condit
    Dec. 22, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about Dog Training Elite and especially Paul. I needed a service dog and after being told by numerous organizations that I would have to wait several years I purchased a puppy and found DTE to help me train him. Paul was amazing and flexible when it came to where we would do training because where I lived was out of the area they could do in home training. With Paul’s great training and mentorship of working with my dog I was able to get him to his Canine Good Citizen and Advanced Canine Good Citizen and Public Access in almost record time. This was a life saver for me and helped with my ability to be out in public and just live a happier life. Paul’s continual support and group classes are a great place to work my dog around other well-behaved dogs but to be able to showcase to newer people how well the training works. Ralph
  • Kylee Nicole
    Dec. 21, 2025
    After careful consideration, hours of scouring reviews and best training programs in the area, we were brought to DTE Richmond. I called Paul and set up our training—it was SO easy and Paul was so informative and welcoming. Matt has been training our dog Samson over a stretch of months now, we still have more sessions to go and Samson was already turning into a completely different dog after our first couple of sessions. Matt has been a godsend for Samson & my husband and I. We needed a good foundation to help us help our dog learn his manners and Matt has shown us how to do that. We take everything we learn and put the work in daily. Again, cannot say enough amazing things about Matt. Samson absolutely adores him and gets so excited to see his car pull up. I highly recommend DTE, especially their platinum program. We’re very excited to start group classes and love that this is a lifetime thing we can be a part of.
  • Laura Quintero
    Dec. 21, 2025
    Matt was thorough and patient with my son and his dog, Colby. He is 8 yrs on 12/22 and he flunked the beginner session at a local pet store. He passed the repeat and didn’t finish the second. He is strong willed but as time went on we tried to use what we learned and he did have a few successes. Our big issues with the Colbmyster was excessive pulling combined with never knowing when. We decided to try DTE. The change has been pretty remarkable. Our problem now is the human element. Consistency consistency consistency 🤦🏼‍♀️
  • Samantha White Cook
    Dec. 21, 2025
    We currently use them and they are amazing are puppy is 8 months and already passed his AKC and we are starting his service training in January! All thanks to Dog training elite Richmond! Our trainer is Matt and he is very thorough and explains step by step if you have a concern not only does Matt help but the owner Paul does too ! It’s hard finding a company where the owner is involved but Paul definitely is him and Matt take turns doing the weekly group classes! The structure is great and honestly the pricing is amazing too ! And the equipment is high quality. We are so glad we went with them ! Also very family oriented !
  • Alexandra Kerlin
    Feb. 7, 2025
    Matt was professional, nice, and knowledgeable at our free home assessment for my dog Butch! I'm excited to start scheduling training sessions to help with Butch's separation anxiety behaviors and basic training. Thanks Matt! Update! We've been through our in home sessions and 6 months of group classes and DTE was phenomenal! Matt was our trainer and was always on it to help with any issue that popped up with Butch and Paul and Megan are always great! We love them and hope to come back for therapy dog training some day!
  • Cliff Gregory
    Nov. 26, 2024
    Matt handled Ponyo so smoothly, and she learned so much this week. He helped us learn to walk her better. They are the very best.
  • John R. Smith
    Dec. 2, 2025
    My Bernese Mountain puppy was thoroughly trained by Matt and Paul. They took a special interest in him and we appreciated that. I recommend DTE to anyone interested in such training. It pays off and is worth the money because it is an investment that keeps on giving.
  • 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!

Photo Gallery

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.