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FAQs

Dog Training Elite in St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL

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Frequently Asked Questions

General
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 St. Petersburg / Clearwater.
To effectively resolve specific issues, we need to start with a solid foundation in obedience. This approach helps you become a confident leader for your dog, which is key to addressing and preventing behavioral problems.
Nope. Those are dangerous grounds to tread upon. We'd much rather train a vicious dog!
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.
Yes. Working with and controlling aggression is one of our specialties in St. Petersburg / Clearwater.
We focus on training companion dogs for veterans and individuals with PTSD and other psychological conditions. In addition to service animals, we also train therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes, and treatment centers.
To be a service dog, your dog needs to have an even temperament. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, etc. typically have a great temperament for service work. For some types of service work, your dog will need to have AKC certifications (such as Canine Good Citizen or Community Canine) which we are able to certify. As always, we would be happy to assess your dog's aptitude for service work for free!

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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!

About Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

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In the Community

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Nancy Merrick
    Feb. 5, 2025
    Kim, Kelly, Kayla and Aaron helped transform my relationship with my three year old Aussie shepherd Emma. Under their expertise and guidance Emma became an incredible service dog and companion for me in an incredibly short period of time. They took the time to get to know my issues, concerns and us personally and created a customized training just for us! They delivered beyond my greatest expectations and have helped me create a beautiful relationship with my dog for life. What greater gift is that?!? I will be forever grateful to the whole team. They truly have changed our lives!!!
  • Eric Linney
    Dec. 13, 2024
    Dog Training Elite did an amazing job training our service animal Bailey (standard golden doodle). Their team is very knowledgeable and effective. They not only train your dog but also teach you the skills needed to train your own dog. Their weekly group classes have been extremely helpful for maintaining our dogs trained commands.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.
  • Ellie Ottum
    Dec. 6, 2024
    Absolutely fantastic experience with Dog Training Elite! From the very first consultation, their team showed a genuine commitment to understanding both my dog and my needs. The trainers are not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly patient and caring. They use positive reinforcement techniques that made all the difference in building a strong bond with my dog while addressing behavior issues. I saw noticeable improvements in just a few sessions! My dog is now more obedient, calm, and responsive, and our walks are a breeze. The personalized training plan tailored specifically to us was so effective, and I appreciate how they also gave us the tools and confidence to continue reinforcing good habits at home. The customer service was outstanding—always responsive, supportive, and eager to help with any questions. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone looking to invest in their dog’s training and well-being. They truly deliver results, and it’s clear they care about both dogs and their owners. 5 stars all the way! 🐾🌟
  • Deb Barrett
    Dec. 5, 2024
    DTE is the best, Kim, Ryan, & Aaron go above & beyond. Not only do they train your dog but they teach you how to reinforce what your dog has learned. So many people comment on how well behaved my dog is and I tell them it’s thanks to DTE.
  • Heather Vicioso
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Dog Training Elite transformed my life with my dog Sammy! Their in-home training approach made all the difference, as they worked directly with both of us in our comfortable environment. The trainers took the time to understand our specific needs and developed a personalized program that brought out the best in Sammy. Thanks to their expert guidance, Sammy and I now confidently travel the world together! From navigating busy airports to exploring new cities, the skills we learned have given us the freedom to embark on amazing adventures. The training techniques were clear, effective, and easy to maintain. What really sets them apart is their commitment to ongoing development through group distraction training. These sessions have been invaluable in strengthening Sammy's skills in real-world situations, helping her stay focused and well-behaved even in challenging environments. It's amazing to see her continue to grow and improve! The team's dedication extends beyond training sessions - they've remained available to answer questions and provide additional guidance whenever needed. Their commitment to their clients' success is remarkable. The entire team is professional, passionate, and genuinely invested in creating strong bonds between dogs and their owners. Sammy and I couldn't be happier with the results! If you're looking for comprehensive, personalized dog training that delivers lasting results and continues to build your dog's skills over time, look no further than Dog Training Elite.
  • matthew miley
    Nov. 26, 2024
    They have taught me a lot through the sessions. Lot of things I had been doing wrong which led to bad habits. They're super helpful and quick to respond. Highly recommend
  • Jessica Cahill
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Kim and her team are fantastic. They truly care about you and your dog(s) and helping your situation. Kim is very willing to adapt to your needs and has a great, no nonsense approach to dog training. She’s patient with the humans learning how to speak dog and she just makes it a fun and educational experience. So glad we picked Elite for our dog training.
  • Quincy Chambers
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Super knowledgeable about what they do and fantastic communication with customers
  • Jill M. Ott
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Cannot recommend highly enough!!!! Worked a miracle with our Doberman. Outstanding!!!!
  • Leigh Smyser
    Jul. 20, 2024
    We've had a great experience with Dog Trading Elite, specifically with our in home trainers Ryan and Janna. We called them because we rescued a Bernese Mountain Dog, Winnie, who was very fearful of almost everything and had no manners. We also wanted to try for the third time with our energetic 7 1/2 year old golden retriever, Murphy, who had some bad habits. The patience these two had with Winnie, who seemingly couldn't do anything easily, was remarkable. Murphy took to most of the training well, but needed an extra nudge when he was excited (which was often). They changed tactics often and the group classes have been so helpful to year them both in distracting environments. This training requires the owner to work with their dog, but provides long lasting results. They'll meet you anywhere, your home, Home Depot, wherever! Well worth the cost, our home is so much more balanced!
  • Izelle Fehrman
    Jul. 19, 2024
    Awesome staff, always flexible to your needs, and care so much about the dogs they work with! I feel safe and confident in my service pup’s training because of this awesome team. Highly recommend!!
  • Madison Johnson
    Jun. 26, 2024
    I put my dog Faye into Dog Training Elite at about 8 months old. I had done training classes with Petsmart before but nothing truly worked. She is super food motivated but I just needed to find the right class for her. Dog Training Elite was beyond perfect us. Faye now has a perfect recall and I am able to walk her off leash. She is so beyond obedient. Everyone we met and worked with went above and beyond to make sure Faye got the training she truly needed. Me and Faye are so happy with the outcome of the training.
  • Jenni Fajvan
    Jun. 8, 2024
    I can't thank you guys enough! you've managed to help me take my Pharaoh from out of control to my best behaved dog. it's ultimately made Pharaoh a happier dog and me a happier dog mom. forever grateful
  • Jared Rhodes
    Jun. 7, 2024
    I highly recommend these trainers to everyone!! I couldn’t be happier. They are amazing!!! They started with me right away with my puppy and now today he is passed his public access test. They are personal and really get to know you and your dog. Buddha also loves them! He’s a cane corso. They can train any dog. Thanks again for everything!!!
  • Kyle Myers
    May. 18, 2024
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite! Our 5 month old puppy learned so much over the 5 weeks of in home training and continues to learn at the Group Distractions Training on Saturdays at Seminole park in St. Petersburg. Aaron and the entire DTE training family are professional, compassionate, hands on and love what they do for you and your lovely pet. My puppy was able to learn all the commands during the one on one trainings and did a great job at home after the trainers were gone. The more we worked with her and had fun training, the more disciplined and consistent she became with commands. DTE is worth every penny on the investment and peace of mind. Please give them a call to schedule your free introduction.
  • Anthony Cistone
    Mar. 1, 2024
    We began a search for a service dog about 2 years ago. About a year ago, by a stroke of luck, we were directed to Dog Training Elite Suncoast where we met Ryan. Ryan started a search and quickly found the perfect dog for my wife. They developed an instant bond. Then Ryan, Kim and Aaron went to work with Shadow’s training. Since then, Shadow has attained the service dog certification and has been busy at work working with my wife and giving her advance notification of an oncoming episode. We feel blessed with the results of the entire process and there is no way that we could have accomplished this on our own. We are continuing to attend group sessions and strengthening his skills. I would 100% recommend Dog Training Elite Suncoast to anyone.
  • carolyn james
    Jan. 5, 2024
    I am so pleased with the training. Both the in home and group sessions have taught me and my dog so much. The trainers are patient and also make it fun for my dog. Aaron was so kind in including our older dog who wanted to learn as well. I wish I started the training years ago when my dog was a puppy.
  • Tonya Stafford
    Sep. 24, 2023
    I can't imagine a better experience! Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg will improve the relationship between you and your dog by training you (the owner) how to communicate effectively with your fur baby. Not only will they teach you how to train commands, but they will challenge you how to take those commands to the next level. So, your dog can sit or down for 30 seconds? Great! Can they sit for 5 full minutes with a bicycle, runner, ball, and squirrel going by? With Dog Training Elite, you can train them to do this and more. Truly exceptional! They will take your dog's obedience and manners beyond where you ever thought possible.
  • Alisa Kellington-Welsh
    Sep. 24, 2023
    The BEST dog training program in all of St. Pete! Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly trainers that customize to you and your dog’s needs! Can’t believe the remarkable transformation! If you’re looking to take your dog out for leisurely walks without pulling and lunging, call DTE! If you want to welcome guests to your home without barking and rushing the door, call DTE! If you want a well-mannered and behaved dog no matter the situation, call DTE! JUST CALL DTE! You won’t regret it!
  • Nancy Merrick
    Feb. 5, 2025
    Kim, Kelly, Kayla and Aaron helped transform my relationship with my three year old Aussie shepherd Emma. Under their expertise and guidance Emma became an incredible service dog and companion for me in an incredibly short period of time. They took the time to get to know my issues, concerns and us personally and created a customized training just for us! They delivered beyond my greatest expectations and have helped me create a beautiful relationship with my dog for life. What greater gift is that?!? I will be forever grateful to the whole team. They truly have changed our lives!!!
  • Eric Linney
    Dec. 13, 2024
    Dog Training Elite did an amazing job training our service animal Bailey (standard golden doodle). Their team is very knowledgeable and effective. They not only train your dog but also teach you the skills needed to train your own dog. Their weekly group classes have been extremely helpful for maintaining our dogs trained commands.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.
  • Ellie Ottum
    Dec. 6, 2024
    Absolutely fantastic experience with Dog Training Elite! From the very first consultation, their team showed a genuine commitment to understanding both my dog and my needs. The trainers are not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly patient and caring. They use positive reinforcement techniques that made all the difference in building a strong bond with my dog while addressing behavior issues. I saw noticeable improvements in just a few sessions! My dog is now more obedient, calm, and responsive, and our walks are a breeze. The personalized training plan tailored specifically to us was so effective, and I appreciate how they also gave us the tools and confidence to continue reinforcing good habits at home. The customer service was outstanding—always responsive, supportive, and eager to help with any questions. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone looking to invest in their dog’s training and well-being. They truly deliver results, and it’s clear they care about both dogs and their owners. 5 stars all the way! 🐾🌟
  • Deb Barrett
    Dec. 5, 2024
    DTE is the best, Kim, Ryan, & Aaron go above & beyond. Not only do they train your dog but they teach you how to reinforce what your dog has learned. So many people comment on how well behaved my dog is and I tell them it’s thanks to DTE.
  • Heather Vicioso
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Dog Training Elite transformed my life with my dog Sammy! Their in-home training approach made all the difference, as they worked directly with both of us in our comfortable environment. The trainers took the time to understand our specific needs and developed a personalized program that brought out the best in Sammy. Thanks to their expert guidance, Sammy and I now confidently travel the world together! From navigating busy airports to exploring new cities, the skills we learned have given us the freedom to embark on amazing adventures. The training techniques were clear, effective, and easy to maintain. What really sets them apart is their commitment to ongoing development through group distraction training. These sessions have been invaluable in strengthening Sammy's skills in real-world situations, helping her stay focused and well-behaved even in challenging environments. It's amazing to see her continue to grow and improve! The team's dedication extends beyond training sessions - they've remained available to answer questions and provide additional guidance whenever needed. Their commitment to their clients' success is remarkable. The entire team is professional, passionate, and genuinely invested in creating strong bonds between dogs and their owners. Sammy and I couldn't be happier with the results! If you're looking for comprehensive, personalized dog training that delivers lasting results and continues to build your dog's skills over time, look no further than Dog Training Elite.
  • matthew miley
    Nov. 26, 2024
    They have taught me a lot through the sessions. Lot of things I had been doing wrong which led to bad habits. They're super helpful and quick to respond. Highly recommend
  • Jessica Cahill
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Kim and her team are fantastic. They truly care about you and your dog(s) and helping your situation. Kim is very willing to adapt to your needs and has a great, no nonsense approach to dog training. She’s patient with the humans learning how to speak dog and she just makes it a fun and educational experience. So glad we picked Elite for our dog training.
  • Quincy Chambers
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Super knowledgeable about what they do and fantastic communication with customers
  • Jill M. Ott
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Cannot recommend highly enough!!!! Worked a miracle with our Doberman. Outstanding!!!!
  • Leigh Smyser
    Jul. 20, 2024
    We've had a great experience with Dog Trading Elite, specifically with our in home trainers Ryan and Janna. We called them because we rescued a Bernese Mountain Dog, Winnie, who was very fearful of almost everything and had no manners. We also wanted to try for the third time with our energetic 7 1/2 year old golden retriever, Murphy, who had some bad habits. The patience these two had with Winnie, who seemingly couldn't do anything easily, was remarkable. Murphy took to most of the training well, but needed an extra nudge when he was excited (which was often). They changed tactics often and the group classes have been so helpful to year them both in distracting environments. This training requires the owner to work with their dog, but provides long lasting results. They'll meet you anywhere, your home, Home Depot, wherever! Well worth the cost, our home is so much more balanced!
  • Izelle Fehrman
    Jul. 19, 2024
    Awesome staff, always flexible to your needs, and care so much about the dogs they work with! I feel safe and confident in my service pup’s training because of this awesome team. Highly recommend!!
  • Madison Johnson
    Jun. 26, 2024
    I put my dog Faye into Dog Training Elite at about 8 months old. I had done training classes with Petsmart before but nothing truly worked. She is super food motivated but I just needed to find the right class for her. Dog Training Elite was beyond perfect us. Faye now has a perfect recall and I am able to walk her off leash. She is so beyond obedient. Everyone we met and worked with went above and beyond to make sure Faye got the training she truly needed. Me and Faye are so happy with the outcome of the training.
  • Jenni Fajvan
    Jun. 8, 2024
    I can't thank you guys enough! you've managed to help me take my Pharaoh from out of control to my best behaved dog. it's ultimately made Pharaoh a happier dog and me a happier dog mom. forever grateful
  • Jared Rhodes
    Jun. 7, 2024
    I highly recommend these trainers to everyone!! I couldn’t be happier. They are amazing!!! They started with me right away with my puppy and now today he is passed his public access test. They are personal and really get to know you and your dog. Buddha also loves them! He’s a cane corso. They can train any dog. Thanks again for everything!!!
  • Kyle Myers
    May. 18, 2024
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite! Our 5 month old puppy learned so much over the 5 weeks of in home training and continues to learn at the Group Distractions Training on Saturdays at Seminole park in St. Petersburg. Aaron and the entire DTE training family are professional, compassionate, hands on and love what they do for you and your lovely pet. My puppy was able to learn all the commands during the one on one trainings and did a great job at home after the trainers were gone. The more we worked with her and had fun training, the more disciplined and consistent she became with commands. DTE is worth every penny on the investment and peace of mind. Please give them a call to schedule your free introduction.
  • Anthony Cistone
    Mar. 1, 2024
    We began a search for a service dog about 2 years ago. About a year ago, by a stroke of luck, we were directed to Dog Training Elite Suncoast where we met Ryan. Ryan started a search and quickly found the perfect dog for my wife. They developed an instant bond. Then Ryan, Kim and Aaron went to work with Shadow’s training. Since then, Shadow has attained the service dog certification and has been busy at work working with my wife and giving her advance notification of an oncoming episode. We feel blessed with the results of the entire process and there is no way that we could have accomplished this on our own. We are continuing to attend group sessions and strengthening his skills. I would 100% recommend Dog Training Elite Suncoast to anyone.
  • carolyn james
    Jan. 5, 2024
    I am so pleased with the training. Both the in home and group sessions have taught me and my dog so much. The trainers are patient and also make it fun for my dog. Aaron was so kind in including our older dog who wanted to learn as well. I wish I started the training years ago when my dog was a puppy.
  • Tonya Stafford
    Sep. 24, 2023
    I can't imagine a better experience! Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg will improve the relationship between you and your dog by training you (the owner) how to communicate effectively with your fur baby. Not only will they teach you how to train commands, but they will challenge you how to take those commands to the next level. So, your dog can sit or down for 30 seconds? Great! Can they sit for 5 full minutes with a bicycle, runner, ball, and squirrel going by? With Dog Training Elite, you can train them to do this and more. Truly exceptional! They will take your dog's obedience and manners beyond where you ever thought possible.
  • Alisa Kellington-Welsh
    Sep. 24, 2023
    The BEST dog training program in all of St. Pete! Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly trainers that customize to you and your dog’s needs! Can’t believe the remarkable transformation! If you’re looking to take your dog out for leisurely walks without pulling and lunging, call DTE! If you want to welcome guests to your home without barking and rushing the door, call DTE! If you want a well-mannered and behaved dog no matter the situation, call DTE! JUST CALL DTE! You won’t regret it!

Our Team

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Kimberly Tullis Roudebush - Owner / Trainer
Kimberly Tullis Roudebush
Owner / Trainer

Kimberly Tullis Roudebush is the Owner and Trainer at Dog Training Elite Suncoast and St Petersburg, where she combines her extensive background in customer service with her passion for dogs to foster stronger relationships between owners and their pets. Alongside her husband, Ryan Roudebush, she transitioned from a corporate career to pursue a more fulfilling venture in dog training. Their shared love for animals led them to the Dog Training Elite network, where they have continually expanded their business actively shaping their professional journey. Kimberly and Ryan are committed to enhancing lives through service and therapy training, involving their family and own dogs—Bella, Billie, and Bandit—in their mission to positively impact their community.

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Kayla Bratchie - Lead Facility Trainer / AKC Evaluator
Kayla Bratchie
Lead Facility Trainer / AKC Evaluator

As a lifelong dog lover and dedicated dog owner. I’ve been surrounded by dogs since birth. I currently share my life with Kevlar, my Doberman and a Boykin Spaniel named Kimber. My passion for understanding canine behavior led me to begin dog training over seven years ago as a hobby with Kevlar. Since then, I’ve developed a niche in scent work and trick training, blending my skills with a love for building stronger dog-owner bonds. I also actively compete in dog sports, combining practical training with performance excellence. My goal is to help dogs, and their owners achieve effective communication and lasting partnerships through positive, personalized training methods.

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Jana McDermott - Group Trainer
Jana McDermott
Group Trainer

Jana has over 15 years of experience working with children with genetic disorders and specials needs socializing them to therapy dogs and preparing them for service dog assignment. She volunteered at Florida School for Deaf and Blind working closely with guide dogs and children’s interactions. This fulfilling volunteer ship inspired her to continue service work with her own dog, Argos. Starting as a client of Dog Training Elite, she was able to learn valuable foundations in discipline and obedience. Training never ends as seen with the creative approach that she offers to group class and distraction drills. Argos is brilliant German Shepherd from Czech working line. He excels in agility and water sports.

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Aaron Tullis - Lead Trainer
Aaron Tullis
Lead Trainer

Hi, I’m Aaron. Growing up with dogs has always fueled my love and passion for them. I currently have an amazing Dutch Shepherd named Kai, who we adopted. He’s actually the fourth Dutch Shepherd our family has had. I absolutely love working with dogs and helping people, and the joy this career brings me is unmatched. I’ve been professionally training dogs since 2022, specializing in advanced service dog training. One of my proudest accomplishments is training Kai to alert my wife when her blood sugar is low and even brings her insulin. Every day in this field brings something new and exciting, and I’m always eager to see what comes next!

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Bethany Tullis - Office Manager / Puppy Enrichment Officer
Bethany Tullis
Office Manager / Puppy Enrichment Officer

I have been an avid animal lover since childhood, and once dreamed of training animals myself. Ironically, my husband and in-laws are dog trainers, offering me a unique perspective into the business beyond simple admin. In fact, my own service dog was trained by Dog Training Elite. With a decade of office administration experience, and over 18 years in customer service, I have found a way to combine my skills with my passion for dogs. One of my favorite parts of the day is providing Enrichment Play for the puppies and dogs here at camp.

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