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Training is key to creating a safe, loving environment for your canine companion. Dogs are great learners and always eager to please their owners. With the right techniques, a little patience, and consistency from the whole family, Fido can learn just about anything.
Besides teaching your dog respectful behaviors (like no excessive barking and no begging from the table), training keeps your dog:
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Safe
If your dog knows to come on command, or “stay” in place, both of you will be safer when outdoors. Untrained dogs may dart off into the road, or become distracted by their surroundings and get lost. -
Smart
Consistent instruction is mentally stimulating and improves your dog’s cognitive health. Learning also prevents boredom and the destructive habits that result from it.
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Happy
Dogs thrive on positive, loving relationships with their human family members. A dog that doesn’t know proper behavior is unlikely to have a positive relationship with the people around him. By teaching your dog what behaviors are acceptable, you establish a comfortable and loving environment.
Effective training is key to a positive dog-owner relationship. Learning how to communicate with your canine companion is difficult without assistance, however. If you’ve been struggling with your dog’s behavior, it may be time to find a professional dog trainer near you.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite San Antonio location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Silver
$1,695
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
- Come
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture, if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Place(go to bed)
Gold
$2,375
- Group Training Sessions 6 Months
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 5 Sessions
- Come
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Place(go to bed)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Get into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Chewing
- STOP Digging
Platinum
$3,775
OUR MOST POPULAR PACKAGE!
Our platinum package offers you training sessions throughout your dog's lifetime!
Follow-up sessions to be scheduled once per month as needed, after initial program is completed.
- Group Training ClassesOne-hour sessions Unlimited *see above description
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 8 Sessions + Unlimited *see above description
- Lifetime Follow Up & Group Support
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Get into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Chewing
- STOP Digging
- Control Aggression(dog & human)
- Therapy dog training See Details
Finding Professionals In An Unregulated Industry
There is no regulating body or licensing process for professional dog trainers. Anyone can advertise themselves as a trainer, whether they have the necessary skills and knowledge or not.
Navigating through this unregulated industry can be tricky. As a dog owner, you want a qualified trainer that will:
- Respect you, your dog, and your family.
- Stick to your schedule.
- Use positive training methods.
- Never harm your dog.
- Address your dog's unique needs and behaviors.
- Teach you how to better communicate with your dog.
- Provide ongoing support and check-in after training sessions.
- Train in various settings, environments and stages.
- Empower you to build a healthy, loving bond with your dog.
It takes years of experience and education for trainers to be able to offer all of the above. So how do you find a professional that fits your and your dog’s needs?
Se habla español!
"Pawsitive" Indicators of a Good Dog Trainer
Some things to look for when searching for a San Antonio dog trainer include:
Training Technique
There are various training methods out there, but the most effective is positive reinforcement. According to the American Kennel Service, positive reinforcement techniques “are based on the science of animal learning and have the bonus of strengthening the dog-owner bond.”
- “Alpha Dog” or dominance-based training techniques. Dominance theory is based on incorrect assumptions of dog and wolf behavior. Dog behaviorists have proven that positive techniques are the only healthy way to communicate with dogs. Dominant, punishment-based training causes anxiety, fear and aggression.
- Trainers that use choke-chains, shock collars, sprays, and other punishment tactics.
Stay Away From:
Personality
You want to enjoy the time spent with your trainer, so find someone with a happy, exciting personality. You’re looking for a professional, of course, but we are all dog lovers here, so light-hearted attitudes are important. Your dog must connect well with a trainer for efficient learning, so pay attention to how your dog reacts to your chosen trainer.
- Trainers that make you feel bad about your relationship with your dog or your dog’s behavior.
- Rude, dismissive attitudes, and trainers that are too uptight.
- Trainers that use harsh words and aggressive tactics.
Stay Away From:
Empowerment
A dog trainer is truly a teacher at heart, and their goal is to teach you how to better communicate with your dog. You need a coach who helps you connect better with your pet, empowering you to build a strong bond. When the trainer is gone, you’ll be the one giving the commands, so make sure you find someone that is understanding, patient, and committed.
- A trainer that does not want to involve you and your family members in the process.
- Programs that only offer board and train -- effective training involves various settings, including classes and inside the home.
- Trainers that cannot explain how dogs learn and cannot teach you how to communicate with your dog.
Stay Away From:
Credentials
Dog trainers do not need a license, but there are various education programs available. Look for a trainer that can prove their credentials with experience, education, and certifications. If you have a specific need, such as personal protection or service training, be sure to find a trainer that is experienced in that area.
At Dog Training Elite, our dog trainers are educated and experienced with training dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages. All locations are registered with the Professional Retriever Trainers Association, the International Association of Canine Professionals, and the American Kennel Club.
Trainers that cannot prove their education, experience, or background.
Stay Away From:
Customization
All dogs have unique personalities and life experiences that shape their behaviors. A well-qualified trainer offers customizable programs tailored to the unique needs of each client and dog. In-home training approaches are preferred, so the trainer can observe your dog in his home environment (where he feels most comfortable acting naughty!).
You should also look for a trainer that covers both basic obedience and advanced programs.
- Trainers that can’t teach more than basic obedience commands.
- A trainer that diagnoses medical issues as reasoning for problem behaviors. Trainers are not licensed veterinarians and should never diagnose a dog. If a medical issue is suspected, a qualified trainer will recommend you speak to a vet.
Stay Away From:
Good References
References and consumer reviews are key to finding a reliable trainer. Ask around at the dog park for good references, and research each trainer or company. Read through customer reviews and take a look at how professional their website appears.
- Trainers that have no website or online references, or trainers that have poor reviews.
- Trainers with reviews that mention aggressive tactics, fear-based techniques, and punishment-based theory.
Stay Away From:
Se habla español!
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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun
A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
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!
We have our new 3 month golden retriever training to be our service dog with them and they have been very professional ! He is learning very fast with all there training .i would recommend them .— Sharlene Thum
Posted April 16th 2024
I have nothing but great things to say about Dog Training Elite. Professional, knowledgeable, and they offer a wide variety of training options and classes. I am very happy I found this program for my dog. Addakias is awesome and always makes classes meaningful and fun. I highly recommend this business to anyone looking for general training to service dog training.— Jordan Marie Diggs
Posted April 11th 2024
I have nothing but great things to say about Dog Training Elite. Professional, knowledgeable, and they offer a wide variety of training options and classes. I am very happy I found this program for my dog. Adakias is awesome and always makes classes meaningful and fun. I highly recommend this business to anyone looking for general training to service dog training.— Jordan Diggs
Posted April 11th 2024
The trainers at Dog Training Elite are absolutely fabulous! They are training my dog, a Serbian Rottweiler, currently, eight months, old, to be my Service Dog. They have done a fantastic job up to this point! In addition to training at their facility, they have training at my home and in public areas. They explain the training thoroughly as they are not just training the dog, they are training me. I couldn’t be more pleased, and I strongly recommend them as trainers for. Service dogs, and general training for pets. They are worth every penny.— Cestmoimoi
Posted February 28th 2024
I sent my 2-year-old female Golden Retriever, who has separation anxiety, to be trained by Dog Training Elite to become my service dog. Day 1 of obedience training I noticed a huge difference in her anxiety levels as well as her basic obedience! Could not recommend enough!!— Caitlin Fulk
Posted March 18th 2024
We have been working with the training team for 10 months. They have been training our service dog Ruger since he was 9 weeks old. He attended puppy camp with Geneva and he learned so fast. He went back for advanced obedience and his Service Dog training. We are so happy. There are a million positive things I could say but the thing I value most is they are always there for you. If you find things you need help with they always have a plan to support— Renee Marble
Posted December 31st 2023
"Reign" is my 3rd pure bred AKC German Shepherd and I "knew" how to train puppies....or at least I thought I knew. This time it didn't work. Whitley and Dog Training Elite have helped my husband and I to train our dog so we now have a well-mannered, happy, pet that I can count on to listen and behave. When you have an 80-pound German Shepherd people tend to be nervous when you approach them- with training, Reign is my guardian AND a good dog! There are a lot of programs out there....all promising to bring about remarkable changes in your pet...but Whitley has proven their methods work and kept the company's promise to us- something you don't always find in today's marketplace. Words to describe Whitley and her training: Compassion/Kindness. Quality. Attention to detail. Responsive. Effective! I have, and will continue to recommend Whitley and Dog Training Elite to my friends and colleagues, as I recognize the quality of training we paid for and will not settle for less. Dr. Laurie Singel— Laurie Singel
Posted February 9th 2018
Our baby Doberman is already improving so much in temperament thanks to the direction and guidance of the trainer and staff. Would definitely suggest anyone looking to help train their dominant breed baby to go there for sure.— Marie Hall
Posted December 12th 2023
I inquired about training my dogs specific issues, (potty training) and I received a thorough and insightful response on what is to be expected, the prices, and personal advice. I appreciate the prompt response and professionalism, I will hire them for any future dog training.— Clariza Rizalado
Posted October 26th 2023
Such a phenomenal experience that I’ve now had 3 of my pups trained with DTE. There’s truly something special about a well trained dog bonded with its owner and DTE makes this a main point in their work. Highly recommend for any basic obedience, service dog work, therapy dog, etc!— Lea Hajjar
Posted October 24th 2023
The trainers are always friendly and professional. My daughter's "Service Dog in Training" couldn't ask for a better Trainer. Terrance answers all my questions but also takes the time to show my daughter how to implement at home what the dog has learned.— Christine Drain
Posted August 25th 2023
The best place for dog training! The trainers are excellent as well as friendly and communicative to pet parents. They are available for parents ant time you need them So glad we entered our dog in their training program. Try them. You won’t be disappointed.— Kathe Dobson
Posted August 24th 2023
I brought My baby blue a (Belgian malinois” here for puppy training and soon to be service dog training. What can I say? The service and the Team are amazing. They love their job and they love dogs and care for your babies. I enjoy seeing my baby grow up and The training and guidance They provide is Amazing. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a dog training program— Israel Deluna
Posted August 13th 2023
The instructors at Dog Training Elite are not only knowledgeable and experienced but also kind, patient and fun. Our dog was driving our family crazy and we feel fortunate to have found DTE. Louie went from being a rebel to becoming a service dog in just 3 weeks. What an amazing transformation! He is a totally different dog, although mischievous at times, he now listens and follows commands. We continue training and working with DTE so that Louie can continue to improve. Thanks to all the instructors who have worked and helped train Louie :)— Gabriela Barba
Posted August 13th 2023
I have a dog that had some major anxiety issues. After training for a few weeks there was a big change in how my dog and all for the better.— Lacey Kornicki
Posted August 12th 2023
Great trainers, our puppy, a Rottweiler, been so obedient after theb1st day there. Geneva and Andrea they know what they doing , the facilities are wonderful too. We get videos and reports end of each day our puppy is there. Thank you all .— Laura Howard
Posted July 30th 2023
Dog Training Elite San Antonio helped us go from a situation where we were looking at rehoming our newly adopted dog because of resource guarding. They trained the people and the dog well and now we are a happy dog family. The bonus is that we can go out in public and we always have the best behaved pooch around! Big thank you to our trainer Atakias.— Amy
Posted June 20th 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite San Antonio, 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 San Antonio work's with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.
Dog Training Elite San Antonio Partners
Trust Your Gut
Choosing a trainer is an important part of being a dog owner, and in the end, you want to choose the professional you feel comfortable with. This is someone that you’ll be inviting into your home and spending plenty of time with! A dog trainer with credentials, experience, and a friendly personality that makes your dog’s tail wag is most likely a great choice.
You also want to make sure you get your money’s worth, so choose a trainer that is invested in you and your dog. At Dog Training Elite, we follow up with our clients even after training sessions have ended. Our goal is to help clients build strong relationships with their pets, and that takes consistent effort. Our professional dog trainers are some of the best in the San Antonio area. We cover training programs such as obedience, personal protection, anxiety, aggression, and service dog.