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Autism Support Training


Autism Support Dog Trainer in Richmond, VA

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804-944-8500


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Contact Dog Training Elite Richmond

Or Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

804-944-8500


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Service dogs can become an emotional anchor for children with autism and a sense of security to family members. Families experience a decrease in stress as they are more able to engage socially in public settings and experience less anxiety at home. A service dog increases safety and has a calming presence that can minimize emotional outbursts, allowing the family to feel more secure and a child with autism to better participate in family activities.

Children with autism can often feel isolated. A service dog becomes a 24/7 companion to share experiences with, connect with, and love. They can help children reintegrate into society and connect with others as well. Perhaps the most fascinating benefit is the effect a service dog directly has on cortisol levels. Testing cortisol levels is a way for researchers to test stress levels without having to ask participants questions. Cortisol studies have proven that children with autism have reduced levels of cortisol with the introduction of a trained autism service dog.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Richmond location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Personalized Autism Canines

14 One-on-One Sessions & Unlimited Group Sessions

$6,395

LIFETIME SUPPORT

Personalized autism canines provide an emotional anchor for children with autism and a sense of security to family members. The autism world is widely accepting of service dogs, as overwhelming results show psychological benefits for the child in addition to the entire family. Autism support service dog tasks are customizable, but examples include:

  • Deep Pressure Therapy
  • Anchor a Child Who Wanders
  • Sensory Assistance
  • Find Help
  • Redirect Repetitive Behaviors

About Autism Support Dogs

There has been an enormous increase in the use of service dogs as a powerful tool in advancing and supporting those with autism. The autism world is widely accepting and promoting service dogs as overwhelming results come in showing that not only is a child’s psychological state improved, but that of the entire family is as well. A service dog can unlock levels of connection and progress that is otherwise very difficult to obtain with autism.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Benefits of an autism service dog:


  • Increase social interaction
  • Redirect repetitive behaviors
  • Increase independence
  • Increase vocabulary
  • Improve the quality of sleep
  • Provide sensory assistance
  • Increase safety
  • Deep pressure tasks
  • Mobility assistance
  • Create a calmer environment
  • Assist in quickly recovering a lost child with autism

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.


  • 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.

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!

Outstanding! Paul was exceptionally patient training our puppy during obedience training, and then in preparing her to be a therapy dog. He was also very good at training me to be a good handler. They were accommodating in setting up the training schedule and were flexible when we had to make last-minute changes. Highly recommend them for training your dog!
— Ellen Moriarty
Posted August 18th 2024
google
Cannot recommend this program enough! I live roughly an hour south of Richmond and was pleasantly surprised to find a training program of this caliber able to complete sessions in my home!
— Alexa McBride
Posted July 9th 2024
google
If you have a new puppy or young teenager who needs training, DTE is the company to choose. Paul and his team are first rate and will help much in growing your pet into a well mannered friend. His methods are sound and us old folks are learning all the ways we have been wrong in trying to manage our energetic Sheltie. Give them a call you won't be disappointed.
— David Hamilton
Posted June 7th 2024
google
Amazing program with great results! I love that the first few lessons are at home. My service dog has delighted and amazed people for his wonderful manners and obedience. Thank you Paul
— Sioux Hudson
Posted May 30th 2024
facebook
Paul, our trainer is very easy to work and give us needed help. Our dog has improved greatly.
— Dallas Weston
Posted May 30th 2024
google
Paul at Dog Training Elite Richmond is outstanding. He genuinely cares about the dogs he trains and shows great interest in their progress. His training methods are effective, and our dog has improved immensely thanks to Paul. Highly recommend his services for anyone looking for real results.
— John Lore
Posted April 1st 2024
google
Wonderful owner, kind and patient. Thank you Paul!
— Leigh Rooke
Posted February 15th 2024
google
We have mastered, SIT, PLACE(STAY implied) COME, OFF and now DOWN( STAY implied)from up close, to 100 feet away. Zipper is 7 months old and we are only 5-6 weeks into Dog Training Elite with Paul. I could not be more pleased! I have trained dogs and horses in the past so the language and intentions are clear. I ask 15 minutes of questions before in home training starts. I am always validated and enlightened.
— Susan Hudson
Posted February 13th 2024
google
This training is the real deal. What I love (besides my dog that listens) is that I know the way to help her to be a better behaved dog.
— Amanda Bulifant
Posted February 5th 2024
google
I started training for my dog Nala about 2 months ago. She is a petite size 18 Pound Golden doodle and overall a good dog she just needed some manners when I have company especially. She use to jump , nibbles ,on people’s feet incl. our and was very territorial in our home when we had anyone showing up. Always barked at strangers or anything comes her way. To be honest I thought about rehome if no improvements are made. Then I signed her up for training with ELITE. BEST thing I could have done. I was mad at my self that I haven’t done it sooner. Completely different dog after the first 2 in home sessions Paul knows his stuff and he is so awesome to work with. Nala love him and is very comfortable with him now. I recommend ELITE 100 Prozent to anyone. Do not hesitate. Money so well spent for a piece of mind.
— MARIELLA WRIGHT
Posted November 11th 2023
google
We love working with Dog Training Elite! Paul is such a phenomenal trainer and is extremely knowledgeable in his trade. Everyone in our family has mentioned how our corgi Gingers training has transformed him into a completely different dog from where we started. He used to bark at everything that moved, jump up on guests, and barely ever listen to a command. It’s a night and day difference from the first training session.
— Megan Eik
Posted August 8th 2023
google
Our experience with Paul from Dog Training Elite Richmond has been nothing short of transformative. One of the standout features of their service is that they come to your home, providing personalized training in an environment familiar to your pet. From the very first session, the shift in behavior of our corgi, Ginger, was clearly evident. Anyone familiar with corgis knows of their characteristically headstrong nature, and Ginger was no exception with his stubborn streak. However, with Paul's guidance, we saw immediate results within a couple days and an awe-inspiring transformation in Ginger within mere weeks. Previously, Ginger's challenges, like bouts of incessant barking, jumping on visitors, and his inherent stubbornness, had us at our wit's end. However, under Paul’s expert training, we were not only able to curb these behaviors but Ginger also swiftly passed his AKC Canine Good Citizen test and subsequently achieved his Service Dog Certification. It's a joy to see him thrive! The freedom we now enjoy with Ginger is incomparable. Being able to take him anywhere without a second thought about his behavior is liberating. Everywhere we venture, we are met with admiring glances and praises for Ginger's discipline and training. Our Saturdays are further enriched by the group classes at Dog Training Elite, where Ginger mingles with other well-trained dogs, continuously expanding his learning in a lively community atmosphere. Paul's personable demeanor, coupled with his expertise, ensures that every training session is both enjoyable and productive. And whenever we encounter a new challenge with Ginger, Paul's readiness to assist, combined with his patience and enthusiasm, shines through. In conclusion, Dog Training Elite Richmond comes with my highest recommendation. For anyone hoping to transform their furry companion's behavior while building a strong bond, this is undoubtedly the place to be!
— Sloan Lennon
Posted August 8th 2023
google
Loved working with Paul! Great guidance and very good with communication. We have now implemented their training techniques to our other 2 dogs as well.
— Christi Dorrell
Posted August 7th 2023
google
We love working with DTE Richmond! Paul has helped our dog so much and his team continue to be a huge support to us as new dog parents!
— Harlss James
Posted August 3rd 2023
facebook
Paul and his operation are first class! Highly recommend that you hire them to train your dog. So much to learn and Paul will guide you through all of it.
— Mike Greaser
Posted June 27th 2023
google
Paul has been working with us and is simply fantastic. He is very friendly, patient and very knowledgeable. He is absolutely the best and really cares about your family as his own.
— Daniel Hughes
Posted May 1st 2023
google
Paul and Brooke are amazing to work with, from how attentive they are to my dog's personality and needs, to how accommodating they are to my schedule. They are also incredibly flexible when it comes to financial planning. Definitely a five-star dog training experience.
— Gabriella Mireles
Posted April 17th 2023
google
Our trainer Brooke is awesome. She is working with our 1 year old German Shepherd rescue that knows a few commands, has high anxiety and is very dog reactive. After 6 home visits along with our follow through Bear knows all his commands. His anxiety level is next to none and he can actually go on a walk with little to no reaction to other dogs. I never thought Brooke could manage the walk with other dogs near Bear. But miracles do happen and she did it to my surprise. I can't say enough how pleased we are with Bears training and are looking forward to group training.
— Lorri B
Posted April 14th 2023
google
Would definitely recommend, Brooke is an amazing trainer!
— Joe Maryland
Posted March 5th 2023
google
Paul is great, reliable, trustworthy and very professional. He made both our GSD puppy and our adult Rottweiler feel very at ease and we can’t wait for what’s to come! Thanks!!!
— Justin
Posted February 23rd 2023
google

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Proud local partner with Chesterfield Gives Back Charity

Chesterfield Gives Back was established to provide a means for our community to give thanks to those who serve us, our First Responders. Dog Training Elite Richmond partners with Chesterfield Gives Back to accomplished this by taking charitable donations and funding events, such as the First Responder Appreciation Day, that are free to First Responders and their families. In addition, we facilitate many other means of recognition and thanks for those who serve our community and those in need."

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