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.
The answer to this is in how the technology of "shock" collars (as they were called in the past) has changed a lot since they originated several years ago. The stimulation in the electronic collars we use is much like a TENS unit and provides a tapping sensation that is used to get the dog's attention on a very low level. We use a brand called Dogtra. We do not use "shock" collars, but electronic collars employed by the top obedience trainers around the world and in Tampa.
No. We use electronic collars to get the dogs attention only. When you work around distractions (which is one of our main focuses), keeping your dog's attention is paramount. The collar, combined with positive reinforcement (we like to use praise), help create a positive learning environment in Tampa for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Tampa.
No, but your dog will wear it a lot in the beginning. The objective is to create a conditioned response with your dog; meaning that when you say 'sit', your dog sits automatically without thinking about it first. Much like Pavlov's Dogs or Pavlovian Conditioning, we create a reflex response to you giving a command using the electronic collar. That being said, after your dog is "collar-conditioned", you will be able to remove the collar and still have a dog that will be obedient.
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 Tampa.
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 Tampa.
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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About Dog Training Elite in Tampa
Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite in Tampa. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.
Reviews
Our testimonials showcase the success stories of dogs and their owners who have benefited from our training programs. From basic obedience to advanced service dog training, see how Dog Training Elite in Tampa has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite in Tampa family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.
Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite in Tampa can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
In the Community
At Dog Training Elite in Tampa, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.
Tonya Stafford
Owner & Trainer
Tonya has always had a passion for animals and people. Dog Training Elite provided her with an opportunity to serve both and fulfill a dream in the process.
Tonya has a bachelor’s in psychology from Moravian University and a master’s in Training and Development from the University of St. Francis. She spent her early professional career as a children’s mental health social worker and spent several years in the pharmaceutical industry prior to her career in dog training.
Tonya has had several breeds of dogs through the years and loves all breeds large and small, but has a particular fondness for Rhodesian Ridgebacks and bully breeds, of which she has had the pleasure of being a dog mom to both. As an owner of the Dog Training Elite Tampa franchise, Tonya’s goal is to help dogs of all sizes, ages, and temperaments and their owners to improve their relationships and quality of life together. She believes that you really can teach an old dog (and its owner!) new tricks, and is excited to meet you and your fur babies to discuss your training goals.
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Luis Rodriguez
Owner & Trainer
Luis developed his love for dogs through his first dog, Ranger, a Rottweiler trained for protection, but loving and loyal to his entire family, and playfully gentle with his daughters who were toddlers at the time. Luis has had other dogs through the years, but never forgot Ranger, who set in motion his passion for dogs and made him see the potential in each one.
A Puerto Rico native, Luis received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus. He worked in mechanical and validation engineering within the pharmaceutical industry in both Puerto Rico and different states within the U.S. for over 30 years. Now as an owner/trainer of the Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa franchise, Luis wants to help you achieve the goals you have for your pups, whether training them to provide a service or to just create a more harmonious home. A problem-solver by nature, Luis’s patience, persistence, and ability to think outside the box when faced with obstacles and challenges are evident in everything he does. He looks forward to meeting you and your dog to see how he can customize a plan for you.
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Ginger
Training Dog
Born 12/21/2021, Ginger, an American Staffordshire Terrier is a lover who only fights stereotypes. Her favorite things include long walks, cuddles, meeting new people, and wrestling with her younger brother, Bruno. She loves being in the sun and will do just about anything for food.
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Bruno
Training Dog
Born 5/24/2022, Bruno, a goldador (labrador/golden retriever mix) is a sweetheart and an overall chill dude. He enjoys playing fetch, running agility courses, and anything water related. He is always eager to please and would love to meet you!
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Marissa Hale
Trainer
Born and raised in the dog-friendly city of Tampa, Florida, Marissa has always been a student of animal behavior. Her deepest passion is helping to strengthen the bond between dogs and their people by fostering a positive environment for training and guiding owners and handlers to better understand what their dogs are trying to communicate. Marissa focuses her sessions on each dog's individual needs and works with owners and handlers to create a training plan in which the dog is given the best chance for success. Marissa is a dog mom to a one-year-old American Bully named Asmodeus (Modie), her self-trained service dog.
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