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Many dog owners express frustration when their dog returns from obedience school and has not learned one command successfully. While obedience school trainers teach your dog simple commands, effective training is best done at home with the owner. Each dog is unique, with its own temperament and behavioral issues. Full-scope training is not possible to achieve without an in-home dog training program.
During in-home sessions, trainers get to know the dog and its environment. There are often particular issues- chasing the mailman or barking at the neighbor’s cat - that are not observed in an out-of-home setting. Bringing a professional dog trainer into your home creates a personalized training experience, that addresses your dog’s particular issues.
In-home dog training is more successful than group classes because it minimizes distractions. Basic obedience and behavioral issues must first be addressed with one-on-one private training, and then these lessons can be tested in a more distracting environment. Dog Training Elite St. Louis takes a comprehensive approach, pairing in-home training with group lessons to ensure your dog fully retains every command and can respond appropriately regardless of the environment.
In-home dog trainers can address a variety of issues, such as:
- Housebreaking
- Leash pulling
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Ignoring commands
- Excessive barking
- Jumping on people
- Destructive behaviors
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite St. Louis location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Positive Training Methods
At Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we understand that you want the best for your dog, and our goal is to ensure all training experiences are positive for you and your furry friend! Our team of trainers has learned that positive reinforcement and classical conditioning are the most effective training methods. We never use punishment - we love dogs and we want them to learn in a positive, safe environment! By rewarding dogs for good behavior rather than punishing negative behaviors, our trainers effectively teach your canine companion how to behave.
In Home Dog Training Goals
While our professional dog trainers will be taking the lead, you, and any other family members who interact with your dog will be a part of the training process as well. In-home dog training empowers you and helps you build a positive relationship with your dog.
Benefits of Positive In-Home Training Techniques
Develop a Strong Bond
Dogs enjoy training sessions if they take place with the person they love. Listening, learning, and acting on commands is a way for your dog to show you that he cares! The praise you bestow your pup (and the tasty treat you give) makes him happy, and this experience of learning is a great bonding activity.
Sending your dog off to obedience school removes you from the training process and prevents this special bonding from occurring. When you choose Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we ensure you are part of the training process. All in-home training programs involve you and any other family members that care for your dog. Our trainers’ goal is to teach you how to train your dog.
Quickly Teach Obedience
Obedience commands are essential to any full-scope dog training program. These commands ensure the safety of your dog and prevent any undesired problems. Obedience is the core of successful training, and your dog must learn these commands before he can progress.
Our in-home training program focuses on ingrained obedience and our trainers ensure your dog learns essential commands, such as sit, place, come, stay, lay, off, drop it, and more. Once these key lessons are taught, our trainers will work with you and your pup on more advanced topics.
Correct Problem Behaviors
Does your dog jump up as a greeting, or charge the door anytime visitors announce their arrival with the doorbell? Or perhaps he begs from the table with wide, puppy eyes? These problem behaviors are easily corrected with the right training techniques.
Group classes or “puppy essentials” training programs cannot address most problem behaviors, as these issues are more likely to occur at home where your dog is most comfortable and confident. Bringing a trusted trainer into your home is the best way to address these behaviors!
In-Home Dog Trainers in St. Louis
Searching for a professional dog trainer is stressful. Thankfully, Dog Training Elite St. Louis has various locations and experienced professional dog trainers ready to assist you and your pet. Besides basic obedience issues, our trainers are experienced in service dog training, therapy dog training, and any other specialized training your pup may need. If you are looking for in-home dog trainers in St. Louis, then look no further than Dog Training Elite.
We never use shock collars or punishments; our training method focuses on positive reinforcement, which has proven successful. We combine this positive reinforcement with an electronic vibration collar for optimal results. The vibration collar is not a shock collar nor does it cause pain - it is used to get your dog’s attention, like the tug of a leash. Our techniques have proven successful over the years, and we are proud to be a trusted provider of dog training services in the St. Louis area.
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 15 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.
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.
Why Choose a Professional?
Hiring a professional, in-home trainer will provide you and your dog with the personalized, distraction-free, supportive environment you both deserve. Your four-legged family member will be the star of your sessions, and you will learn how to communicate effectively with your dog to achieve the best results.
Why train at all? Training keeps your dog's mind active and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. Whether you're interested in agility training, learning some tricks or something else, a professional trainer will help you prioritize what is important to you and your dog.
In-home training allows you to make appointments around your busy schedule, eliminating the need to commit to group training sessions. Schedule sessions when you can be present to celebrate all the growth your dog accomplishes.
Dog Training Elite St. Louis offers the best in-home dog training in St. Louis because we understand every dog is different. Our professional trainers will tailor training to your dog's breed, their environment and any other needs they have. They can give suggestions and tips for bonding with your dog and help to translate your dog's behavior. Our trainers love watching the relationships between dogs and their owners grow through this approach.
No one expects you to be an expert. That's what the experts at Dog Training Elite are for! A professional trainer is committed to your growth and can take the time to break things down without rushing you through a session. Your dog will love this style of training, and we know you will too!
In-Home Dog Training FAQs
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite St. Louis location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Silver
$1,100
General obedience for well-behaved pups
- One-on-One In-Home Training Sessions 4 Sessions
- Group Training Sessions 4 Sessions
- Come
- Place
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit
- Behavioral Correction
Gold
$1,900
Advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control
Have a second pup? Save $500 on a second training package for Gold or Platinum!
- One-on-One In-Home Training Sessions 6 Sessions
- Group Training Sessions 12 Sessions
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Get Into Car or Kennel
- Off(furniture, if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training Help
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Digging, Chewing, Running Away, Chasing Animals, Jumping on People, Mouthing/Licking, Getting into Trash
Platinum
$2,700
Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes training options for therapy, emotional support, and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.
Have a second pup? Save $500 on a second training package for Gold or Platinum!
- One-on-One & In-Home Training Sessions 8 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 16 Sessions
- 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 Help
- Get into Car or Kennel
- STOP Digging, Chewing, Running Away, Chasing Animals, Jumping on People, Mouthing/Licking, Getting into Trash
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Choose to Address Advanced Concerns:
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Control Aggression / Reactivity / Resource Guarding (towards other dogs or people) - Or Choose Therapy Dog training (See Details) or Emotional Support Animal training (includes an advance task/skill):
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite St. Louis location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
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!
I contacted Matt at Dog Training Elite because my 6 year old dog was holding me hostage. I couldn't leave him with anyone, I was uncomfortable when company came over. I tried local store Training classes but there were still problems. My dog was dragging me up and down hills, barking and jumping at other dogs and being possessive of furniture and other items in the house. He now plays with other dogs, walks along side of me, sits calmly and waits for commands. He is a happy dog now and I no longer worry about his behavior. Thank you Dog Training Elite.— Debbie Cooper
Posted April 23rd 2023
I did a lot of research before picking Dog Training Elite. I am so happy with my decision. My puppy had learned so much in the 6 at home lessons. He had some aggressive behavioral issues that have gotten significantly better since we started training. I couldn’t recommend them more!— Jane Hodell
Posted April 21st 2023
George did a fantastic job with Cooper and helped him with his anxiety and fear of new people. Cooper loved working with George and has a lot more confidence thanks to him— Matt Sumners
Posted April 5th 2023
Matt and his team do an incredible job and they all have the best hearts. I reached out to DTE with a fear reactive dog, completely hysterical over a bite incident. Within 30 minutes Matt was at my house for an evaluation, and upon meeting my dog he decided that he did not think the aggressive program was necessary, and we gave the obedience program a try first, and he was right! We met a few trainers before finding one that not only bonded with my dog, but one my dog felt comfortable with, and for the remaining sessions it was him we had the pleasure of seeing once a week. He pushed all of us out of our comfort zone, challenging me to work hard and earn that trust and confidence my dog again. I am happy to say that with DTE’s obedience program we are now able to take the dog with us to eat on the patios of populated bars without so much as a bark or a growl. My dogs trust in me, my trust in him, and my trust in myself have all benefited from working with Dog Training Elite. I now have the tools to keep my dog, and everyone else safe, happy, and comfortable; and not only has the reactivity gotten better but my dog is overall better behaved, more obedient, less anxious, and just all around a better listener. I could not be more pleased or more grateful for my experience with Matt’s team of trainers.— Mallory Newberry
Posted March 31st 2023
Five stars to Matt Willis and his staff of Dog Training Elite for their excellent work in training our miniature Australian Shepherd Poodle (Aussiedoodle) to be a psychiatric service dog. At four months they began teaching my small dog along with my husband and me. At age twelve months Maya became a certified psychiatric service dog. She now qualified to accompany us in restaurants, grocery stores, airplanes, public transportation and other public places. Without the expert assistance of Hunter, Dom, and particularly Matt obtaining certification would not have been possible in so short a time with such a young dog. I would recommend Matt and company to anyone wanting his or her dog to be obedient, follow commands and provide comfort, companionship and assistance. They are absolutely the BEST!— Cindy
Posted March 29th 2023
Me and my puppy Napoleon had a great experience with Dom our trainer. He is amazing! I was worried about the collar and he was very gentle yet firm and guided us through it all. I highly recommend this program for anyone who wants to train their puppy !— Sri kolli
Posted March 24th 2023
Originally came to DTE to help with leash aggression on my GSD puppy. After working with her a couple sessions, they identified that she was leash reactive, not aggressive, and her behavior is now under control between the 1:1 sessions with Hunter and Matt and the group sessions with all of the trainers (can't leave out Dom!). She has been enrolled in the personal protective training and is progressing nicely. The combination of 1:1 sessions and the group sessions at the training facility help the handlers learn proper training techniques and safety. Obedience and control of your K9 is always stressed in the protection classes and combines perfectly with the obedience training offered by DTE. I'm very happy with the knowledge, professionalism and service of the staff and look forward to working with them more in the future.— Timothy Holdener
Posted March 19th 2023
We started service dog training with DTE in January 2023. We are now in group classes with Roselle. We cannot say enough great things about DTE STL. We drive an hour and twenty minutes each direction to go to training, and it is worth every minute and mile.— Natasha Bassett
Posted March 18th 2023
We LOVE Elite! Matt was incredibly helpful at our initial meeting. He was open and transparent by what we could expect from the dog trainer's, our dog and from ourselves. Freyja, our German Shepherd, has thrived under their training. Our trainer Hunter has been amazing! She went from being terrified of being in a new space to confidently doing all the commands she has learned. Can't wait to see how much she grows and learns.— Keri Ann Hunt
Posted March 18th 2023
So thankful for Hunter and DTE! I was worried that Tater would have been deemed as an actual “aggressive” dog but a few minutes with the owner, Matt, and he knew that she did not deserve that label and she was able to be helped. Within 1 session she was already on her way to becoming more comfortable in herself as a dog and relax. Thank you Hunter and DTE!— Bree White
Posted February 25th 2023
We couldn’t be happier with Dog Training Elite. We started working with them at the puppy stage and decided to continue with training. Now my daughter has the perfect ESA dog for the support she needs. We have people tell us all the time what a well behaved dog we have and we owe it all to the trainers at Dog Training Elite!— Becky E
Posted February 7th 2023
Hunter has this amazing understanding of dogs and their humans. Would definitely recommend Dog Training Elite, it was a great experience and totally worth the time and effort. We immediately saw results after the first session, how exciting!! Thanks for all your help, our Finn has done a 180 and we couldn't be happier.— debbie struckhoff
Posted November 9th 2022
Unbelievable experience with DTE! My family couldn’t be happier with the transformation because of their program.— Matt Bishop
Posted October 27th 2022
Highly recommend. Jason, Dominic and Hunter helped transform our 2 cane corsos from having no manners to being great dogs that listen and are now great in the house.— Dan Baker
Posted October 25th 2022
I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite to any dog owner. The skills and knowledge not only taught to my pet but to myself are invaluable. I have had a few dogs in the past and have gone through other training programs; but Elite by far is the best program, I have experienced. The staff and trainers are top notch professionals. Special thanks to Dom and Matt.— Michael Lumetta
Posted October 13th 2022
Definitely worth the investment. Not only is Claire now an off leash dog, I feel comfortable knowing how to use the e-collar properly in a positive relationship with my dog. Jason was awesome.— Zachary Roe
Posted October 13th 2022
Matt is extremely professional and personable and truly cares about driving high quality results. He is passionate about improving your relationship with your dog and provides an extremely high level of customer service. If you are looking for results and a great experience, look no further. Highly recommend!— Kyle Christie
Posted September 1st 2022
Dog training Elite has been awesome for our family. Our dog Koa has been going since he was 9 weeks old. Koa has learned so much and grown so much because of their training. We can’t wait to see our pup graduate into a service dog. They are flexible with our schedules and work with us even though we live about an hour and a half south. They have been amazing.— Brittany Lay
Posted July 14th 2022
DTE is the only training method that has worked with my 1.5 year old stubborn lab. It has brought order back to our house and made her an all around better pup. The team is professional and knowledgable, I would recommend them to anyone!— Laura Bickel
Posted July 5th 2022
Had a great experience with DTE! I was a little skeptical of the method at first, but we stuck to the program and did the homework as instructed. We are lightyears away from where we started with our dog in just 2 short months. Looking forward to the group trainings to get us to our end goal.— Cole Harte
Posted July 1st 2022
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite St. Louis, 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 St. Louis 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.
