Protection Dog Training

Where we started and where we've landed after training with John at DTE has been astounding. THE CONTEXT: I have a (now) 3.5 year old German Shepherd who was born and raised in Denver during the Covid lockdown. He was attacked by 2 other dogs as a puppy, giving rise to difficult behaviors and reactivity such as excessive barking/lunging at other people and dogs, pulling on the leash, severe anxiety, and even aggression. This made socializing him extremely challenging. His reactivity was further exacerbated when I had to move into my family home for 2 years with my mom who is terminally ill. The environment was tense and tragic no matter what we did – par for the course. When I found DTE, I had already worked with a few other reputable trainers in SF. They were competent and knowledgeable, but it didn’t “click” and it was difficult to schedule enough sessions to make it count. I then got bogged down in all the BS of Google Searches again until a local friend recommended the owner of DTE in Utah. When I called them, I thought I would have to do this process out of state, but they informed me that they had just opened an NM branch. From my initial consultation, I knew John was the right trainer for my dog, and he has far exceeded my hopes/expectations by going so far above and BEYOND for us. He didn't scold me like other trainers and vets had prior - he showed empathy, warmth, and good vibes that my dog responded well to. John is absolutely fearless – he’s even the type of guy who, when he was a dog groomer prior to becoming a trainer, would make his own products like shampoo and conditioner to be safe for the dog, as well as trying all grooming and food products for himself to ensure its safety. Through tremendously difficult times, John helped my dog not only see another dog without all the excessive barking and lunging, but even be AROUND them without a muzzle at the park and in the home. We are now at the stage where my dog is participating in DTE’s group classes, and no one (I mean NO one) would believe where we are now if they had met my dog prior. It’s like a movie. Even some of the people at the group class recognized my dog from the park when we started our socialization sessions, and they were so happy/amazed to see him there. It’s miraculous. In fact, when John began my dog’s socialization training, my dog’s reaction was scary and he was too strong for me to handle on my own. John literally strapped my dog around his body and wore it as a belt to ensure that he had full control for my dog’s first meeting with another dog just to finally break the ice. I have never seen anyone do something like this or met anyone like John who will go THAT far for an animal and get THIS creative towards tailoring their training in any context. Top tier resourcefulness right there. And the thing is, it’s not just about my dog - John is the most patient and positive person you’ll find where he really transforms both you AND your animal. He has given me so much confidence to handle a reactive German Shepherd despite being a small woman with chronic illness. Where we’re at now is a testament to his unique talent in reaching both the dog and the trainer where they are at AND going the extra mile…and then some…and then some more. SUMMARY: You won’t get this kind of support for your animal anywhere else in the state that I know of, and I did my research for 2 years. Training is HARD, and it’s a lifetime journey for our animals AND us. If you want to take your training seriously and give your dog their absolute best shot at a whole and happy life like I did, please consider DTE. P.S. If you are worried about scheduling since consistent training is key (and yet very difficult to land with a good local trainer these days), the DTE team is so accommodating and will do their best to help you get your 8 sessions in a row. Thank you SO much, Justin and John! My schedule was so hectic for the first 8 weeks and you guys were rockstars about it. I'll edit in some before/after pics and videos soon!

My wife and I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Kentuckiana! Marlene and Joe’s expertise and attention to detail made the process seamless, even for nervous dog owners like us. Not only did we learn how to train our dog, Sophie, but we also gained a deeper understanding of dog behavior. Sophie, who used to be unresponsive and prone to wandering, is now obedient, well-behaved, and happier than ever. If you’re considering dog training or have a reactive dog, this is the place to go!

Carol is a phenomenal trainer! Her expertise and professionalism stand out, and she clearly has a natural ability to connect with dogs. She is also able to teach me as an owner practical and effective techniques for training and help me understand the bc “WHY” behind it. My dog Knox’s behavior, recall, and obedience has drastically improved since working with her…and in just a short amount of time! I highly recommend Carol and Dog Training Elite in Knoxville for anyone looking for a skilled, convenient and passionate dog trainer!

We loved meeting our trainer!! We are 100% confident after meeting with Dallin that we can become better dog parents - and new born parents as well. Dallin helped instill confidence in crate training, and gave us valuable insights before we get our facility time. We need training as much as our dog, and we are beyond thankful to be apart of your program! Thank you guys! Edit 1: 3 days of classes later - Sophie is a different dog all together. She listens, she isn't reactive to little kids, and the best part is our walks are bliss. No pulling, no anxiety, no jumping at other dogs. It's magic! Our golden-doodle at 7 years old is everything we had hoped for. This company KNOWS how to train both YOU and the dog so you can work together. I was worried I was going to lose my best friend due to her being so reactive - these guys kept my family together.

I have had nothing but good experiences with Dog Training Elite. Vince was SO helpful and supportive even before we began working together. He gave me great insight and knowledge as I navigated the process of picking out a puppy to be a therapy dog. We spoke quite a few times before he even met with us. With my busy schedule, traveling to training appointments could have been a major hinderance - Vince came to us! My puppy felt comfortable in her home environment as she learned new skills. At no point did Vince ever make me feel bad or embarrassed about our learning process. He was nothing but supportive every step of the way! His recommendation for training 15-20min/day was very reasonable and I felt like something we could manage. We came a long way and we continued to benefit from the group trainings after we finished the one-on-ones at home. Vince was available via email and phone all throughout the process and has made it worth every single penny. If you are on the fence, you will not regret working with DTE!

The difference in our dog’s behavior with their training was amazing. McCall was so amazing with him. He loved going there every day too, and was so excited to run in the dog to meet McCall and other doggie friends. I would totally recommend elite to everyone!

The team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT displayed exceptional patience, empathy, encouragement, and clearness throughout the entire training process, making the entire experience seamless and effective for my family's pet training and obedience needs. Their consistency in providing personalized attention and tailored guidance was truly impressive.

Tom has done an amazing job with our 1 1/2 year old mini golden doodle. She and we have learned so much in just a few sessions! Tom is so patient and consistent with her. Our JoJo is now able to loose leash walk, heel and sit on walks only and come on command only after a few sessions. She is so much calmer and more attentive to us. So very impressed and couldn’t be happier!

Justin is an incredible dog trainer. He really cares about your dog's progress and wellbeing with a good balance of assigning and holding the owner accountable as well. Would highly recommend Justin and his Company! When our golden retriever was back in town recently, Justin made himself available to come back and visit him to check in on his progress. His service and caring is second to none. We would continue to recommend Justin and DTE for all of your dog training needs!

Dog Training Elite Upstate SC is amazing! We have a special rescue dog who endured serious trauma before we were able to save him... This has left him with severe anxiety that makes it uncomfortable to have anyone visit our home. He would bark and howl incessantly, stress poop, and clamor to get away from anyone who isn't in our family. After two in-home sessions (before and after training) plus two weeks of doggy camp training, WE HAVE A NEW DOG! He is working so hard on his commands, but more importantly, he can work through his stress and ACTUALLY enjoy company. Several people who have seen him before and after training say he's completely changed. He lets you pet him, play with him, hold him, and more - it seems like he actually enjoys it (some of the time). This is HUGE and more than we could have hoped for. Dog Training Elite Upstate SC is full of caring, compassionate, hardworking people who LOVE dogs and want to make a difference. We will be bringing our six year old petite goldendoodle to them for some basic training soon as a repeat customer! Look no further -- go with them!

Totally pleased! Debbie knows how to train me and my dog…

Great training provided by Jackson, always professional and attention to detail during our sessions. Explains each lessons very thoroughly and provides exceptional instructions. Would highly recommend for obedience and service dog training.

The trainers at Dog Training Elite Western Chicago are all amazing! Griswold was always a sweet and amazing Berner, but he of course is super strong and stubborn! Once upon a time I could not walk him with confidence because he would PULL to greet all the people. Now I can walk him with ease and confident with his listening skills. Stubbernese no more 🥰

Good I dear for my family

Justin and Krystal are the absolute best in the business. They are so patient with both owner and dog. They do a great job communicating and demonstrating the current plan and client homework. In 4 short weeks, my dog is already a different dog. Her confidence has increased tremendously and bad behavior is almost gone. We can’t thank them enough.

I am an old military dog handler and have had dogs for near 70 years. The professionalism and expertise is top notch. Anyone who has had many dogs, and even went through training before, can use this as a helpful refresher course. Excellent all around.

McCall and all the trainers and staff at DTE were great! Very supportive and helpful. They knew how to build confidence in the handler and Jenny Lake. The team works hard all day in helping your pup learn. I would recommend them to any person wishing to have their dog learn obedience or Service Dog Training. Elizabeth G. Jackson, WY

Clayton is a fantastic trainer, and a great guy! My partner and I highly recommend Dog Training Elite

Shawn was absolutely amazing with Jack ! Jackson is extremely leash reactive ~Had our first group session this morning and he was a different dog. Couldn’t recommend him enough!

DTE has been great! They have a wonderful professional atmosphere. Our experience started with in-home for our puppy. We have moved to weekly group training. The whole team is focused on our dog and us learning. The training is progressing well and we will be moving to therapy dog training in the future. Shout out to Pauline, Grace, Katie and Tim!