An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training in St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL.

Professional Training For

German Shepherds

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

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 St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL

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 St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL 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 St. Petersburg can help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.

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An image of multiple german shepherd puppies - our St. Petersburg / Clearwater 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 St. Petersburg 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.

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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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Eric Linney
    Dec. 14, 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. 6, 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. 21, 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. 8, 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!
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL 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 St. Petersburg 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 and physical stimulation they need.

Dog Training Elite has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs based on positive reinforcement. Our St. Petersburg / Clearwater German Shepherd trainers are dedicated to protecting your pets mental and physical health while ensuring the best possible results.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg.
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An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for St. Petersburg / Clearwater german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement 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 method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement 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 St. Petersburg / Clearwater, FL!