A picture of a group dog training from Dog Training Elite.

Group Classes

Dog Training Elite

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Request Free Assessment

Our Group Classes Could Help:
Improve Socialization Skills
Foster a Supportive Community
Strengthen the Dog-Owner Bond
Reinforce Basic Obedience
Prepare for Real-World Distractions
Offer Personal Attention in Private Groups

Group Dog Training

Expert Group Training Classes

At Dog Training Elite, our group classes offer an engaging and supportive environment for dogs and their owners. These sessions create an interactive setting where your dog will learn to focus with distractions and develop essential social skills beyond basic obedience training. You can expect a mix of practical training exercises, guidance from experienced trainers, and a strong sense of community with fellow dog owners after signing up for a class.

Our group classes are a perfect blend of structure and socialization, making them an enjoyable experience where dogs can thrive and build lasting skills. Whether you're looking to refine your dog's behavior or simply enjoy a shared learning experience, our group dog training classes provide the perfect opportunity.

Please note: Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.

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A calm, obedient dog outside on a leash at a Dog Training Elite's group dog training.

Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?


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Dog Training Elite knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.

It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?

We offer dog training classes near you for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.

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

  • Sully Mirzayanov
    May. 3, 2026
    She was a good trainer.
  • Tiandra Wilde
    May. 3, 2026
    Fantastic experience with Hunter! He is incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and positive. He taught us how to communicate effectively with our dog, resulting in much better behavior and a stronger bond. My dog loved the sessions and I learned so much. Highly recommend Hunter!
  • Alisa Grady
    May. 3, 2026
    Doug, Josh, Elijah, and the other staff really care and work hard to help you train your dog.
  • Sarah Tindell
    May. 3, 2026
    We are so thankful to the team at DTE Springfield for their expertise in helping our dog, Brody (and us!), during his two-week training camp. Two weeks ago, Brody was uncontrollable on our neighborhood walks, barking at every dog or person we passed. Not only was it embarrassing, but we felt guilty watching his world shrink to the confines of our house. We were also unable to have company over without keeping him secured in another room—hardly ideal for people who enjoy hosting. I eventually stopped taking him on walks altogether for fear of his “outbursts,” which is when I decided to look into local trainers. The glowing reviews are what sold us on DTE Springfield, and I am so glad we chose them. Kristi, Jeremy, Amber, and Madi were welcoming and thorough when educating my husband and me on each day’s progress. We left every evening with clear instructions on how to practice our goals at home. By the end of the two-week camp, I was able to take Brody to his first group class of about 20 dogs. Even in a busy park with ample distractions, I couldn’t believe it—my dog was silent and controllable for the entire hour. He stayed focused on me and the training he was putting into practice in the "real world." I left that first group experience feeling like I finally have my life back with my dog. Thank you again to the DTE Springfield team. They are upfront, encouraging, and they truly believe in you and your dog if you’re willing to do the work.
  • Michelle Madej
    May. 3, 2026
    Michael has been awesome to work with! My dog Loki is training to be a service animal, and since working with him, he has gained so much confidence. Michael is very knowledgeable about dog behavior and truly understands how to build both skills and trust. He’s also very communicative, kind, and easy to work with. If you follow his guidance and consistently put in the practice to strengthen the bond and communication with your dog, you’ll see real progress quickly.
  • Kaaren Powell
    May. 3, 2026
    I had a wonderful time training with Tonya from Dog Training Elite. I wish I had more time with her but she brought us over the top to make my Aussie a great service dog! She worked with us on task training, group classes are good experience, and the airport visit was great! She was great with TSA - even got a pat down! Sat and stayed while I walked through and then came to me on command! She was great and enjoyed the experience! This is her on the plane😎👍❤️. Thanks Tonya!
  • Christopher Soukup
    Aug. 6, 2025
    02 May 2026: As expected, another great experience with the team from DTE. The training focus is not to make the dog a robot on command but to really bond a resource companion with detailed explanation in behavior dynamics. Rhett's many years of experience really shines with every session. 23 Apr 2026: Rhett was absolutely awesome working with my service dog in training. I had a gap in sessions due to medical reasons and he was great with instruction and getting us back on a structured path. Dog Training Elite has gone above and beyond in accommodating me in a rural area by coming out an hour and half just to make sure we are getting the training and resources we need! Watching my dog progress after each session and getting the handler skills needed to continue work between instructor lead sessions is really an amazing to experience. 06 Aug 2025: First day of training was exceptionally informative. Julia was extremely professional and knowledgeable instilling confidence moving forward. I definitely know I made the right choice for my service dog needs. 18 Sept 2025: Fast forward into a few sessions later and still absolutely impressed with the level of professionalism and results
  • Nate Smithson
    May. 2, 2026
    Deidre came out for the consultation and we can’t wait to get started! She did a great job explaining the process and answering our questions. Still a long way to go but we feel like we’ve made the right decision going with Dog Training Elite.
  • Kelly Flynn
    May. 2, 2026
    We purchased the gold training package for our one year old rescue dog, Herman. Working with dog training elite and Taylor has been great! When we started, Herman barely knew how to sit and was reactive towards other dogs. Taylor engaged our entire family, including our senior dog, Ellie, during the at home training sessions which was nice. The personalized at home sessions taught Herman the sit, off, quiet, down, place, and heel commands. Taylor was very flexible with scheduling our sessions which was nice. After the at home sessions, we began group classes. At our first class, Herman was overly excited and had to be calmed down in the painting lot before joining, but by our third class, he was almost non-reactive to other dogs and sits calmly in groups. Though Herman is still a bit stubborn with down and occasionally distracted during heel, I’m amazed at how far he’s come in such a short time. I highly recommend Taylor and dog training elite.
  • Micah Beene
    May. 1, 2026
    We found Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville while searching for dog training near me and couldn’t be happier. The trainers Rob and Brad showed incredible patience, kindness and gentleness. Their experience and understanding made our sessions smooth and effective. Highly recommend for anyone looking for obedience training for dogs.
  • Leticia n James Bollinger
    Apr. 28, 2026
    Absolutely amazing! So patient with all my questions. Very clear with directions and helpful with proper training.
  • Kevin Mallory
    May. 1, 2026
    Charlie and the staff at DTE were awesome with our year old Malamute / Border Collie mix, who was a handful to say the least. He just finished his two-week program. Charlie was so nice and very caring about our dog, and she took great care of him. Our dog has significantly improved his manners, is far less impulsive, and has gotten so much better on walks and runs. We know we still have work to do, but DTE created a great foundation that we will continue to build on and develop from. But the difference they have made in him already is like night and day.
  • Lauren Unger
    May. 1, 2026
    Rhett was fabulous!! Our six month dog had no awareness of his back legs couldn’t jump on the couch. I had to pick him up and carry him into the car. He couldn’t jump down from the couch or off the bed. In one session, Duke learned “place”. He had him jumping on top of picnic tables. Sitting and staying in this place. Took us to the car and trained him getting in and out of the car by himself. I didn’t think Duke could do it and I was so impressed!!! Getting him trained with this company and with him has been absolutely wonderful and highly recommend it. So much gets done in just one session. He talks you through everything. You understand the process of the way the brain works with the dog and the reasonings behind how they’re training them and why they do it that way. Five stars all the way, and if I could give more, I would! Lauren Unger
  • Suzanne Martin
    Feb. 20, 2025
    We absolutely love and appreciate this fantastic business. Kind caring and understanding. Nova has learned so much. She is now attending group sessions on Saturdays
  • Suzanne Martin
    Feb. 20, 2025
    We absolutely love and appreciate this fantastic business. Kind caring and understanding. Nova has learned so much. She is now attending group sessions on Saturdays
  • Sheena Williamson
    May. 1, 2026
    Jeff and all the staff always do a great job with Bella and Bella loves them all, which tells you a lot about how she is taken care of by them. Bella gets so excited when we tell her she’s going to “class” and it’s the only time she will actually cry in the car waiting to get there! She has learned so much and they have taught me so much! I am very grateful for Dog Training Elite!!
  • Andrew Stoddard
    May. 1, 2026
    Everyone we've worked with here has been incredible! Very professional and effective in what they do.
  • Dawn Olsen
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Larissa was amazing and very helpful with our rescue Pittie. Highly recommended DTE for all behavior issues and the continued support!
  • Isabelle Riley
    Apr. 30, 2026
    Justin has been fantastic! We adopted Remy last July and immediately knew there was something special about him. Justin helped us take him from stray shelter pup to a certified hospital therapy dog! We are also reaching out to libraries and grief groups to see if anyone needs a large, silly but calm, dog who is trained to work in therapy settings!
  • Bert Mathews
    Apr. 30, 2026
    They have been prompt and professional. My dog has enjoyed each person. He has been calm and performed well which is hard for an English Bulldog.
A group of dogs and their owners building community at a Dog Training Elite group training class.

Building Social Skills and Community

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Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, and we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing.

We are building a community and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog Owners look forward to their once a week group training sessions.

Three dogs sitting on a bench who are ready for group training with the experts at Dog Training Elite.

Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training

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Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:

  • Your Dog is Destructive: Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
  • Your Dog is Aggressive: Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
  • Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash: Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
  • Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful: If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
  • Your Dog Ignores You at the Park: Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.

Additional Training Programs

Dog Training Elite - Dog Obedience Training. DTE

Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite - Puppy Training. Dog Training Elite

Puppy Training

Dog Training Elite - Service Dog Training. Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

Dog Training Elite - Anxiety & Aggression Dog Trainer. DTE

Anxiety & Aggression

Dog Training Elite - Therapy Dog Training Program. Dog Training Elite

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite - Top Protection Dog Training. Dog Training Elite

Personal Protection

A happy, well-trained dog and their owner at an outdoor obedience class from Dog Training Elite.

Group Dog Training

The DTE Difference

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Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite training method is the same. We focus on “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown this approach as more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.

We do not use harsh punishments or shock collars and instead pair balanced training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.

Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. 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. Our method nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.

Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today.

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

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Benefits of Group Classes

Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have.

Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:

Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.

Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.

Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.

In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.

Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.