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An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training in Springfield, MO.

Professional Training For

German Shepherds

Dog Training Elite Springfield

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our German Shepherd Training Could Help:

Excessive barking
Aggression
Separation anxiety
Destructive chewing
Leash pulling
Over-protectiveness
Resource guarding

German Shepherd Training in Springfield, MO

German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America—and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!

Dog Training Elite has years of experience with German Shepherd training in Springfield, MO and has developed obedience programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.

Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly.

With our targeted and specialized breed training programs, Dog Training Elite Springfield can help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.

See Training Packages
An image of multiple german shepherd puppies - our Springfield german shepherd trainers ensure you pup is ready to be the best companion possible.

German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults


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Dog Training Elite recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.

If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite Springfield offers adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.

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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Grace Klein
    Jan. 31, 2025
    Elite went above and beyond for our dog! Our expectations were met and then some. It was worth every penny to have a better relationship with our beloved Doberman and for her to have the confidence for every situation. Highly recommend!
  • Pam Swihart
    Jan. 31, 2025
    I love dog training elite. Kristi trained Chloe, who was a very rambunctious ill behaved puppy, to behave politely in public. No jumping, barking, running wild. I’m in a wheelchair with MS. Kristi taught Chloe to also heel which is super important for me. Chloe finally walks beside me, while I’m driving my electric chair and when I stop, she sits right beside me. Anyone who is physically challenged and wants a dog but was worried it would not be safe Kristi will show you it’s possible. Dog training elite is so much more than just training, it’s caring. I’m complimented on Chloe’s manners all the time. I HIGHLY recommend dog training elite, Springfield. Kristi and team know their business.
  • Linda M
    Jan. 31, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite Springfield exhibited remarkable patience, kindness, and true dedication, making Ollie's training an amazing experience for him, and for us. His progress after only one day was remarkable, and today he graduated! From the time and interest Kristie initially took to gather information to customize the training to ours and Ollie's needs, to Jeremy's "gentle giant" approach and listening skills, we couldn't be happier. A special shout out to McKenzie, Ollie's new girlfriend for helping him become the best boy he can be and for very obviously loving him so much. We are beyond grateful to everyone and will see them at group classes very soon!
  • Kristine Carlile
    Jan. 30, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite give you the tools you need to be successful owners. Our two dogs are in the fast track day camp. We have tried other training with our pups, but never felt confident in what we learned and had issues with follow-up training at home. Every day, our pups show us what they learned and we are given the opportunity to go through that days lesson with the trainer. We never leave until we fully understand the lesson and how to confidently put that training into action at home. If we have questions or concerns (which of course we do) they take the time to listen and respond thoughtfully. Every day we leave with more knowledge and confidence than ever. The training is allowing us to more fully enjoy our pups and give them a more structured home, which in turn creates a better relationship between owner and pup, and gives them a fuller life.
  • Kimberly Tate
    Jan. 16, 2025
    Wow, just wow! Had trouble with a previous dog’s behaviors and disobedience. I decided I was going to do it differently this time around. This training is worth every penny! My very energetic, stubborn boxer is now a pleasure to be around. Even my older mother and elderly grandmother can’t get enough of him, now that he shows off his polite manners. I cannot say enough about Kristi and her amazing staff. They know their stuff and answer all of my questions…so make sure to ask. The learning environment is wonderful at the facility. Every time, we are greeted warmly and no matter how my stubborn puppy doesn’t want to listen, the trainers never loose their cool. I never feel like we are rushed through training and we all learn exactly what we need to be successful. Not only that, we are so blown away and in love with our now well-behaved dog that we are sticking around even longer to get advanced training.
  • Bella Alden
    Jan. 6, 2025
    My dog moo had been attacked several times while living in an apartment. She used to love dogs but became very afraid, leading to aggression. It got to a point where I would take her to parks and have to step off the trail as she would be reactive. I was pregnant and wanted to continue taking moo on all the adventures. After only 5 weeks of training moo attended her first group class with Kristi’s team, and 14 other dogs. She completed weave drills, pack walks, and even walking towards a wall of dogs. She is a completely different dog, while still being our happy girl moo. We couldn’t believe the progress and can’t wait to continue our adventures. Kristi and her team are amazing and all so very kind. If you are thinking about it, do it!
  • Erin Duvall
    Dec. 29, 2024
    The entire DTE team has been amazing to work with my dog to make him a certified therapy dog and myself so that I have to the tools to make him successful.
  • Kiera Sadernas
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Boba and I started training with DTE in 2022. It took me quite a while to decide on which training company to go with in the Springfield area, but what stood out the most to me about DTE was the fact that they taught me how to train my companion. I didn’t just drop Boba off for a three week program and come pick up the perfect pet, or leave him at a facility for two months and come home with a fully trained service dog. They spent time with me and Boba in one on one sessions, teaching us together how to be a great team. They helped us work through issues, build a great foundation for communication, develop trust as a service dog and handler, and they continue to provide support even after Boba has passed his exams and graduated from his program. I can’t stress enough how amazing this team of trainers is and how much they care about their clients (both human and animal). They teach everything from basic obedience to personal protection, and I will always, always, ALWAYS recommend DTE to anyone who asks!!
  • map 33387
    Dec. 16, 2024
    We adopted a 2 year old Doberman and named him blu. He came to us with no manners whatsoever. I am disabled and handling a 85 pound powerhouse was a challenge. Kristi at dog training Elite worked with us and trained us and blu so that we could all live together safely and be well behaved. She was amazing to work with and I would definitely go to her again for any training needs. If you are looking for a trainer that will work with you and your furbaby, and understand what you want and need out of your training give Dog Training Elite a call. Very good to work with. We love working with Kristi.
  • Nichole Brady
    Dec. 12, 2024
    Wonderful people. They take their time with you and your dog. My boy is almost 5m old and he has such good manners now.
  • Amy Mclean
    Dec. 5, 2024
    My dog was a wild child. She pulled on the leash. I could not walk her due to her size and my mobility problems. My husband was ready to find her a new home. After just 1 week of training she was a different dog. She had manners and stayed in control around people. Lindy is now a service dog and has completed her testing. She is such an amazing dog. Kristi found my dogs brain. Kristi, Jeremy, and Erin are so sweet. They listen to your needs and are so amazing with the dogs. I would recommend them to anybody who needs a dog trained. I cant say enough about how pleased I am. Picture is my Lindy when she graduated.
  • Amy Mclean
    Dec. 5, 2024
    My dog was a wild child. She pulled on the leash. I could not walk her due to her size and my mobility problems. My husband was ready to find her a new home. After just 1 week of training she was a different dog. She had manners and stayed in control around people. Lindy is now a service dog and has completed her testing. She is such an amazing dog. Kristi found my dogs brain. Kristi, Jeremy, and Erin are so sweet. They listen to your needs and are so amazing with the dogs. I would recommend them to anybody who needs a dog trained. I cant say enough about how pleased I am. Picture is my Lindy when she graduated.
  • Shairey Perkins
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Love this place teaching my dog so much very good very professional
  • Bill Virella
    Oct. 22, 2024
    The trainers are very proficient and knowledgeable. I like how they "train" the dog owners as well.
  • traveler
    Oct. 22, 2024
    Kristi and Jeremy were amazing training my 16 month old, 55 lb. dog, Wiley. They were both so knowledgeable, professional and patient. Erin in the office is wonderful too. Wiley was difficult to walk if there were other people or dogs nearby and didn’t always come when called, occasionally jumped on people, etc. I choose the 2 week day camp so I would have time to attend weekly group sessions before traveling with him. I saw improvement within a couple days! He has completed the 2 week session and attended one group session so far. He was very good around all the dogs and owners for the group session, I was so surprised. I highly recommend them!
  • ginger phillips
    Oct. 18, 2024
    When Sadie first arrived at Elite she had a big wide leash. She liked to drag me down the street. Quickly they taught she and I both how to have an obedient dog. She follows many commands now after 2 weeks and now she heals and we walk side by side with a reasonable leash. I highly recommend this team for obedience. Ginger Phillips
  • Kurt and Sally Larson
    Sep. 21, 2024
    I have owned and had dogs trained all my life. I wanted this puppy and I to understand how to communicate. Kristi and Jeremy deserve 20 stars at least. Plus don't forget Erin at the front desk she makes it all operate smoothly(she is supper sweet). They are patient kind thorough, and sincerely care that we have success. We started with the weekly puppy school. Well, I quickly decided to advance her to puppy camp best decision because they fast tracked her(us) to listening and understanding. Sophia is truly proud of herself and has such joy usually in the process. Do not hesitate to to spend the money you will not regret this decision.
  • Jade Graham
    Sep. 19, 2024
    We have been working with Kristi for 3 weeks now and have seen so much improvement in our 4 year old dog. Before training he would bark at any person, dog, or moving car he saw, pull on his leash during walks, and ignore commands he was given and after just 3 classes we were able to have a very calm and peaceful walk around our neighborhood with no pulling or barking. He has also started to listen to all commands given. If you’re thinking about training, DO IT!
  • Tani Kremer
    Sep. 18, 2024
    I am so thankful for Kristi and Jeremy, the owners and trainers for Dog Training Elite Springfield. They have been helping me train our 6 year old Boston Terrier to be a service dog. My husband has been in and out of the hospital for over 7 weeks this year. We were told by the doctors this will continue to be my husband’s life. Because of Kristi and Jeremy’s loving, positive training our sweet Bo was able to see his daddy in the hospital! Having Bo visit him in the hospital lifted his spirits so much! I can’t believe our stubborn, sweet dog is so well behaved and minds me! Bo gets so excited when I work with him and I enjoy taking him for walks, no pulling!!!!! It is obvious that Kristi and Jeremy love what they do! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Becky Fisher
    Sep. 17, 2024
    Rock-it is our 5 month Golden Retriever. He was very impulsive and difficult to manage. I thought I had made a huge mistake in bringing home this dog. ONE DAY WITH KRISTI and I have the manageable
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Springfield, MO with Dog Training Elite today.

In-Home German Shepherd Training

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Dog Training Elite offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues.

Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Springfield offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.

Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.

Additional Breeds We Train

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German Shepherd Training Tips

German Shepherds are loyal and intelligent dogs that require a thoughtful approach to training. They are eager learners, but they also need structure and clear guidance to reach their full potential.

Here are some essential training tips for German Shepherds.

Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.

Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental stimulation they need.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Springfield.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for Springfield german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Springfield, MO

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on balance and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.

The Dog Training Elite training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite’s training methods nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Contact Dog Training Elite today for professional German Shepherd training in Springfield, MO!