DTE offers flexible, in-house payment plan tailored to fit your budget, ensuring a worry-free experience.
A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist in Sarasota / Venice, FL.

Behavioral Solutions

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida

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A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of Sarasota / Venice dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Sarasota / Venice Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist in Sarasota / Venice. FL, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

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Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Dog & Puppy Potty Trainer in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our Sarasota / Venice dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Sarasota / Venice Dog Socialization Classes. DTE
Socialization

Our Sarasota / Venice dog socialization classes teach dogs how to interact positively with other dogs and people, which helps reduce fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Stop Puppy Biting in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training in Sarasota / Venice, FL, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Reactive Dog Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training in Sarasota / Venice, FL, focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL
Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training in Sarasota / Venice, FL addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training in Sarasota / Venice, FL helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Excessive Barking Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training in Sarasota / Venice, FL, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Staying and Coming Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training in Sarasota / Venice, FL focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida -
Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Get Your Free Consultation

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 with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Sarasota / Venice.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Michelle Balancio
    Oct. 28, 2024
    The program set my dog Teddy up for Success. Our trainer, Renee, went above and beyond. She gave me all the tools and tricks to get Teddy on the path of being obedient and mindful. Renee was confidant and well skilled when assisting me in working w Teddy. He is now doing things that I never thought were possible. Renee was so easy to work with and always answered all my questions and concerns. She is the best.
  • Susanne Adams
    Oct. 22, 2024
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite are very talented, delightful to work with and were so great with our dog. They were always able to troubleshoot any bumps in the road. Renee was his primary trainer and she was spectacular! Videos everyday that she worked with him and detailed notes on things for us to work on. Alissa was also a big help and very knowledgeable and helpful with teamwork. After 4 weeks our dog was able to be a certified service dog and handled flights and airports with ease and comfort. We can’t recommend this training program enough! A+++
  • AJ Schlake
    Oct. 16, 2024
    Whiskey was sweet but unsure of himself. He could be testy with new people. Whiskey’s demeanor and posture has shifted beautifully. Renee has been amazing in helping both of us. We look forward to continuing our journey as companions. Whiskey says, ‘obedience is hard work’ he takes himself to bed by 830p.
  • Jerome Schwich
    Oct. 15, 2024
    It all started when Denise came for our in-home assessment, and she heard all of our concerns about our dog and was very honest about what the path(s) were for helping her. We appreciated how she made it all seem relatable and achievable. Anthony was an excellent individual dog trainer for our dog. He is patient and very instructive, and very accommodating for our dog as well as our other dog that wanted to be involved in training! Our dog has seen immense progress in just five sessions, and we are so grateful for how communicative, accommodating, and helpful Denise and her team have been. We are really looking forward to group classes!
  • Kelly Spires
    Sep. 17, 2024
    Very, very happy with our experience with Dog training, we thought there was no hope for our rat looking dog. We highly recommend!!
  • Frank
    Sep. 4, 2024
    I couldn’t be happier with the team from Elite dog training. From my very first meeting to having now been thru my 11 home sessions, puppies then advanced obedience, Anthony has been a true delight to work with. Their methodology and hands on training of dogs and me has been excellent. After 30 years of showing English Setters I really wanted an intelligent highly trainable dog, which has turned out to be a Moyen poodle and she has been great. Planning on taking her into therapy and service work and can’t wait to continue now with group classes. Look no further, Elite is exactly that, highest quality. We’ll worth the money!!!
  • Anne Gornto
    Aug. 24, 2024
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite and have had a very positive experience with our trainer Chris, who has given us such valuable puppy and obedience training lessons with our border collie Theo. Denise, the owner is also fabulous! We just came back from a group training session and noticed how much our 1 year old dog’s behavior has improved over the past few months, especially around other dogs. Thanks, Chris, Denise and group trainers for the top notch training which has been so helpful to us and Theo! 🐾
  • Marcella Di Santo
    Jul. 17, 2024
    I can't thank Chris from Dog Training Elite enough for the Service Dog Training of Leroy he provided. Quite thorough and rigorous, my (now) little service man learned quickly and the skills he gained have been so valuable for my well being I almost can't put into words what it means to me. I travel quite frequently and being able to confidently navigate busy spaces with Leroy in public not only helps keep me calm but also provides a life line if needed. This has improved my experiences not just in airplanes and at the airport but out and about as well, allowing me to feel safe and enjoy myself again, wherever we are. Most important is the specific task Leroy learned, which is now an invaluable part of my life. I recommend setting up a consultation to go over your unique dog training needs and determine the right path for your pack, whether basic obedience or service dog training. Our plan consisted of intensive in-home training to start, then once a regiment of commands were mastered we started attending group sessions, which were both fun and challenging. Surprisingly, training isn't just about our dogs, and Chris tailored some very unique public sessions for us (so grateful). This included going to the airport as well as other public spaces (mall, pet food store, dog park etc) in order to make sure I knew how to take the lead and maintain it in a variety of environments. BTW, the whole team is great ~ Anthony, Alisa and Denise were on hand during the group training, putting all the dogs through their paces and helping them master their newfound skills. Extra special thanks to Chris though, who was very patient, accommodating and put up with me getting stressed out, which was more than once! DTE SW Florida overall is a very caring group and I wouldn't hesitate to contact them and find out for yourselves how they can help you help your dogs put their best paws forward!
  • Nikki Hampton
    Jul. 14, 2024
    Chris was an amazing asset to our puppy’s training. With him we have a completely different pup. Not only is our puppy’s obedience under control he is much calmer, especially in walking him. Chris changed our lives forever and taught me the tools to continue with Chevys training once he’s a year old. We look forward to seeing Chris at our group sessions.
  • Katherine Mitchell
    Jul. 13, 2024
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite of SWF specifically CHRIS has been life changing for us. Chris has travelled far out of his usual travel zone to help us with our adopted 8yr old Lab Winter.Seriously, his patience and kind supportive instruction has made all the difference in helping Winter become a well behaved dog. Today was our first group lesson and I was very anxious as to how it would turn out. Winter did fabulous!!! I highly recommend Chris and the DTEOSWF group. They really have made a difference and it has been worth every penny. Thank you.
  • Harry schoenfeld
    Jul. 12, 2024
    Overall we were pleased with the 5 in-home sessions. Marshall is doing well with all of his commands. Loose leash training is still somewhat difficult, especially in the early morning when he is most excited. We could have benefitted from more calming techniques.
  • Mai Tran
    Jul. 8, 2024
    Such an amazing team! Anthony did a wonderful job at training both German Sheps and myself! Highly recommend 🙌
  • Dundie Crisp
    Jul. 3, 2024
    Anthony was great! Cooper loved him too and we all learned a lot !!
  • Brittany Ortiz
    Jun. 19, 2024
    We love DTE! Highly recommend to anyone. Everyone tells me my dog is so well behaved. He’s only 7 months and listens incredibly well. He sits at the front door (with it open) and doesn’t run out before our outings. Enough said??! Chris did our in-home visits and we always felt encouraged after seeing him. Honestly I thought all this training was going to be a lot harder than it has been. They break it up so it’s little by little, and more fun and focused rather than rigid. Also they are QUICK to respond. Always. Whenever I needed to talk to Chris, he would call me soon after I texted the team. They know what they’re doing. Totally worth it. I guess you should know that we were very committed also… I was consistent in training daily and our hard work paid off. This wasn’t a once every two week training session and then expecting the dog to act right. The in-homes help with answering questions and moving to the next phase of things to work on, but if that’s the only training you do with the dog, I can’t imagine how that would be effective. Thank you Chris and DTE!!! What an awesome experience - you guys make this FUN!
  • Corrie Bexley
    Jun. 5, 2024
    10/10 would recommend. Chris was very caring in communicating different ways to help me train my high energetic dog. My dog now looks for me for direction and commands. I cannot recommend DTE enough for training!
  • Michael Heaton
    Jun. 1, 2024
    The in-home classes and group classes are great. My trainer Chris has helped me with training my dog Benjamin and takes time to make sure that I'm doing ok with the training. He is wealth of knowledge that has made me a better dog handler. I would recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone.
  • Seraina Leubin
    May. 21, 2024
    Chris was great to work with and our Girl Chica did amazing with him. He‘s reliable, his knowledge with dogs and how he trains is great! Chica didn’t need a lot of training and got it down really well and understood it quickly. We can definitely recommend him and Dog Training Elite to anyone that is looking to get their dog trained on or off leash at home. We are super happy. Thank you so much
  • Joan Flynn
    May. 14, 2024
    Chris was amazing.
  • Marjorie Shoobe
    Apr. 3, 2024
    We have a reactive dog who has done really well with the training. I appreciate Anthony’s patience and knowledge. He made it fun. I’m looking forward to getting our dog to some of the group training as well
  • Andrea Couture
    May. 9, 2024
    I can't recommend Chris from Dog Training Elite highly enough! From the very first session, it was clear that Chris is not just a dog trainer but a true professional who genuinely cares about the success of every dog he works with. My experience with him while training my pup Gaia has been exceptional in every way. Chris's patience throughout the training process was remarkable. He took the time to understand Gaia's unique personality and tailored the training sessions accordingly. His punctuality was also impressive; he always arrived on time with a smile, ready to dive into the training sessions. What sets Dog Training Elite apart is their commitment to excellence. They have a well-organized approach with a clearly defined roadmap to success. Whether it's one-on-one sessions or group classes, every aspect of the training is well-planned and executed. One thing that stood out to me was the personal touch. The team at Dog Training Elite knows their customers by name and goes above and beyond to provide help and support. This level of dedication is rare to find and speaks volumes about the company's values. But what truly sets Dog Training Elite apart is the passion that Chris and the entire team bring to their profession. They make training fun and engaging, and my pup Gaia always looks forward to her classes—a sure sign that they're doing something right!

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use techniques rooted in positive reinforcement to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs. Our methods focus on rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, creating a positive association that motivates dogs to repeat those actions.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt positive behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle using positive reinforcement in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning with positive reinforcement shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist in Sarasota / Venice, FL

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.
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Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist in Sarasota / Venice, FL, Dog Training Elite is the top choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach focused on positive reinforcement, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!