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Getting a new puppy can be an exciting adventure, especially for new puppy owners. The love and joy a dog can bring are genuinely impressive. Dogs become such an integral part of the family. However, the most common mistake new owners make is underestimating the knowledge, commitment, and effort needed to train a new puppy.
Once a puppy begins to grow, its energy can quickly feel unmanageable. It’s all too common that a well-meaning and loving family takes on a puppy lacking the knowledge and skills to train correctly. This often results in overwhelmed owners rehoming or taking these puppies to local shelters, feeling the puppy’s disposition is bad or simply that they are not cut out to be dog owners.
The Importance of Puppy Training
Almost everyone and everything a puppy will encounter will be brand new, which can be exciting. However, puppies may not know how to respond positively and safely to new experiences without proper training. That's why Dog Training Elite believes in starting puppy training as soon as possible, so you and your pup can bond and start your adventures on the right foot!
Training the Dog Training Elite way provides puppies and owners with a nurturing environment where they can learn to communicate and trust each other. Puppies have an innate desire to please, so training can be fun and even easy! Of course, it can be daunting to try and figure out how to make puppies understand concepts like potty training or commands like sit and stay on your own. That's where puppy training comes in.
Keeping a puppy safe should be the number one priority of new dog owners. By working with puppy trainers in, new puppy owners can learn how to teach their pup both basic and complex obedience skills effectively. Training a pup to be home alone, walk on a leash, wait on the threshold, and avoid consuming non-edible objects will help keep them safe when out of sight.
Training can also help with puppy socialization. Socialization should be prioritized in the early stages of a puppy's life. Group puppy training classes are a great place to safely introduce them to new friends while teaching behavioral skills to help them appropriately respond. Owners who take their puppies to professional training acquire the tools to use positive reinforcement and redirection to help their young dogs know what to do in new circumstances.
Too often, owners and dogs become frustrated when they cannot communicate, leading to poor behaviors and habits that are harder to fix later in a dog's life. The trainers of Dog Training Elite will work with you and your puppy to help strengthen the bond between you and ensure you have a happy home with your four-legged best friend. Request a free in-home assessment today!
Start Puppy Training Early
First-time dog owners are often unsure of when to begin training their dogs. For the best results, it’s essential to start training your puppy as soon as possible. You can start socialization and basic commands as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Puppies are open to new experiences and people and learn quickly while they are young. It is beneficial to take advantage of this stage. Start with basic commands like "sit," "come," and "stay." If you are searching for puppy trainers near you , Dog Training Elite offers puppy obedience classes.
Obedience Training for Puppies
Obedience puppy training is an excellent option for first-time dog owners or busy individuals who don't have the time necessary to devote to training. Obedience classes are a great way to expose your young puppy to other dogs, people, new sounds and sights. Combining obedience classes with training at home ensures a well-behaved puppy that learns quickly. For puppy training near you, Dog Training Elite offers classes, personal in-home training and other training packages.
Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
Empowering Owners
We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
Supportive
We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
Involved
We work with all members of the household.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
The Dog Training Elite Approach
Dog Training Elite has developed a highly successful and unique positive puppy training program empowering dog owners to train. Hence, their dog knows who to obey at all times, in all situations or environments. We offer personalized training to deal with specific issues and behaviors. Dog Training Elite even offers customized training schedules to offer you the support you need as a dog owner.
Involvement is Key!
Most dog training programs don’t allow for the involvement of owners and families. Dog Training Elite puppy trainers greatly encourage owners and their families to be involved in the training process. Why? This ensures you and your family know what’s expected, allows for continued education and means all the progress isn’t lost. Your puppy won’t come home and forget everything he’s learned.
Our puppy training program consists of two phases, early training and advanced training. Puppies as young as eight weeks can begin learning with Dog Training Elite. Our process allows us to efficiently complete in-home puppy training services at your home or within the environment where behaviors manifest - such as in the park or around other dogs in the neighborhood.
FAQs of Our Puppy Training Program
If you are interested in our puppy training program, but still have some questions, read the answers to our most commonly asked questions below!
We accept puppies as young as 8 weeks old. Puppies this young are still able to learn, but their training must occur in short bursts to ensure optimal results. Phase 1 is for younger puppies and is defined by treat-training. Our trainers will teach your puppy basic commands, prompted by treats. Once your puppy has reached 12 weeks, more involved training can take place and treats will be removed from the program.
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Down / Lay
- Place / Bed
- Heel (no leash pulling)
- Off (the couch, bed, etc.)
Your trainer will also give you tips for housebreaking and crate training. If your puppy shows signs of aggression or anxiety, the training program will be adjusted to address these issues.
Yes! At Dog Training Elite, we use in-home training programs. This encourages a healthy bond between owner and pet and helps you participate more fully in your pet's life. In-home training provides better results than obedience classes as your puppy feels more comfortable in his own environment.
We use modern technology that utilizes TENS unit technology. In essence we are using the surface level stimulation to communicate with your dogs (equivalent to tapping them on the shoulder for attention) and create a conditioned response. "Shock Collars" were traditionally used for correction only and we never train in this way believing that dogs need a balanced approach.
If you still have questions about our puppy training program or would like to enquire about our pricing, contact us today.
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
Totally thrilled with the training our first pup has received. She is learning rapidly and we feel more confident daily about her ability to respond appropriately in a wide variety of scenarios. Including the endless quick feedback and tips we get via texts.— Kaiden Kelly
Posted July 22nd 2024
Excellent staff who is very knowledgeable and caring of you and your dog. You do have to pra tice though i it won't stick— John Heister
Posted July 21st 2024
If I could give this operation 100 stars, I would. We have been taking our new 10 month old beagle, which we purchased from a Craigslist ad to Dog Training Elite St. Louis for 1 week. Before Dog Training Elite, our new pup was an out of control dog with no purpose. She barked/howled incessantly and tried to chew everything in our house. We’ve had a beagle before, so we know their temperaments, and this one was off the charts. After one week at Dog Training Elite, our new pup obeys commands, has stopped pulling on leash, and no longer screams and cries in her kennel. We still have 1 more week of daily in person training and 6 more months of group training with this crew. We are so excited to see even more progress with our pup:) This operation has been worth their weight in gold. The entire staff (if I could name them all, I would) from Matt to Alecia to Tyler, the crew at Dog Training Elite St. Louis has been professional, flexible and positive. We never thought we would have anyone other than us train our pups, but this new pup of ours really pushed our limits. Without Dog Training Elite, we would not have been able to tolerate our new beagle. Thanks to Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we now have an amazing new addition to our family, who we will be able to enjoy for years to come:)— Gina Weeks
Posted July 21st 2024
Truly couldn’t recommend Dog Training Elite enough. I had a very reactive “aggressive” puppy that I was very close to dropping off at the pound and running as far as I could. I did the puppy den program and I have a completely different dog. He is sweet, loves other dogs and people, is confident and so well behaved. Jeff, Dalin, and Jake are Amazing and so so knowledgeable. They gave me all the tools that I could practice at home to be successful in training Billy. The in home training was so helpful. They were always right on time and attentive to what we needed help with. They continue to give me support with any questions or anything I’ve needed. Scheduling and communication has been awesome as well. Definitely worth the investment! There’s nothing better than a well behaved puppy/dog! So grateful for every single one of them!— Lara Draper
Posted July 16th 2024
Banjo and I have been part of the DTE family for over a year. We love everyone there! Every single person there is so knowledgeable and truly knows what is best for Banjo and myself. I can’t say enough nice things about DTE and will always reccomend them for any of your training needs. I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done for me and Banjo!— Amanda Downes
Posted July 15th 2024
Banjo and I have been part of the DTE family for over a year. We love everyone there! Every single person there is so knowledgeable and truly knows what is best for Banjo and myself. I can’t say enough nice things about DTE and will always reccomend them for any of your training needs. I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done for me and Banjo!— Amanda Downes
Posted July 15th 2024
A few months ago I brought our puppy a Frenchie and Boston mixed Arlo to be accessed. I wanted to know if he would make a good service/therapy dog for my PTSD as a combat veteran. Colleen the owner met with me and Arlo that day. She did the assessment and showed us what kind of discipline we could expect from the training with another of her dogs. I was pleased to find out Arlo had the right temperament for the training. He was still a bit young so we had to wait some months before he would be mature enough for the training to be effective. Colleen and her team worked with me on the costs and a payment plan. They stayed in touch and reached out when Arlo was old enough. We started to schedule his training for 3 weeks there at the center. Our situation changed and so we are moving to Florida in about a month. Colleen felt that although we could get his training at the center done in 3 weeks. The ongoing support and additional group training would not be enough time. She reached out to another franchisee in Florida where we are moving and made sure we could start the training there with them and be able to have the close community and ongoing support. I really appreciate her taking the time to make sure mine and Arlo's best interest were put first over closing a sale. I appreciate the respect and courtesy given to me in my situation. I hope these remarks help someone with their decision to place their trust in this company and Colleen. Thanks So Much For Everything! Jeremy W.— Jeremy Willes
Posted July 11th 2024
Evan and his team have worked tirelessly with me from the start. He drove several hours to help me choose the perfect pup! The team at Dog Training Elite was there for all of my silly questions and late night freakouts! Thanks! We are now over a year into our training and the team is still keeping tabs on us and helping us with tune ups!— Chris Gravett
Posted February 15th 2024
Highly recommend Dog Training Elite! We trained our German Shepherds through their program and love everything about it. The care and attention to detail they have for dogs is incomparable. Kai is a phenomenal trainer!— Haley Schenasi
Posted July 7th 2024
Dallin, dog training elite, frankly all the employees we’ve worked with or that have worked with our puppy coco have been fantastic. We’re new to the puppy/dog ownership process and dog training elite came highly recommend from dear friends of ours. We had an assessment and then opted for the whole den puppy package. Whether it’s been the flexibility and willingness to accommodate when I’ve needed to change appointment times, or making sure my questions and concerns are answered and addressed and proper techniques taught with each visit, our experience has been amazing. The trainers and facility staff have always been very professional and it’s been a delight anytime Dallin or Jeff have come to our home. They have given me the confidence to know how to train a dog and frankly that we can be a dog family and that everyone, including little coco, can thrive and be successful. We would highly recommend dog training elite to anyone looking for stellar dog training.— Joseph Wixom
Posted July 7th 2024
My dog started training 2 weeks ago and is already a different boy. In the 3 obedience commands he has learned over all he has just become more obedient and less aggressive. I love my trainer and so does my dog. I love that they are able to train without turning my dog into a robot, he is still my sassy baby boy. He just also now listens. It has been completely worth it!— Kaitlyn Bradshaw
Posted July 4th 2024
I have loved working with Dog Training Elite! The dog trainers truly care for the dogs and cater to their needs. The therapy dog program is amazing and has been very rewarding. Investing in my dog and sending him to dog training elite has been the best!— Andrea Jensen
Posted July 3rd 2024
Dog training elite is an amazing operation. The staff is very friendly and really cares about their clients and pets. My dog Kona has done amazing, from their training. She can go into public places, sit, down, place, and heel. She has become very obedient. They have also helped her become very social with other dogs. I have complete confidence in her safety and health while she is in their care.— zac barber
Posted July 3rd 2024
I do believe that they deserve a five star but I have only been training with my pup for 10 weeks so I can't fully give them an honest five just yet. I would like to make the complaint that I really wish I could tag them in the many posts that I like to give them credit for but I'm not able to tag then. With all that said about the business in general, I must give a huge shout out to number one: Matt, my original contact and an amazingly helpful person in so many different ways! Very friendly, response to messages in a timely manner and has so much knowledge in so many answers for you. Number two: Michelle, our trainer, has been absolutely fabulous! She it's not only there for the service dogs training but is also there for the client in numerous ways! She is very in tune with my health issues and is also very understanding about them. She is also very patient with my episodes that I may have while we are trying to train. She continues to do her job while still being compassionate about my Health situation at that moment. But she does not give up on the dog just because I have an episode. I would like to also add that whoever chose to put Michelle with me, made an amazing decision! We definitely work well together and have experienced a lot of the same types of issues that make her even more compassionate towards my situation. What more can I say? I've already written a book here.— Michelle Downey
Posted July 1st 2024
Great program and staff! We are happy we went with this company. They have been absolutely amazing!— Gumaro Obregon
Posted June 29th 2024
I loved Dog Training Elite! They were very professional and helped us know how to best work with our puppy. They can't wave a magic wand and produce a perfectly trained dog but they CAN give you all the tools needed to create that dog. My puppy loved her training time and we love that we can continue shaping her behavior. Thank you!— Jennie Ward
Posted June 28th 2024
We have nothing but good things to say about Dog Training Elite. We had two dogs trained here, one as a service dog, one as a companion. We are so pleased with the results. 100% recommend this service for anyone with a dog.— Chas McClure
Posted June 25th 2024
We love Dog Training Elite! Prior to training, our two reactive corgis were unmanageable. They were extremely aggressive and causing each other harm. After just one session with Tyler, our corgis George and Sam already made significant progress. They listened better and were fighting way less. Now, with one session to go, it’s like we have two new dogs! They are extremely well behaved! We can open the gate to our patio and they don’t run out. We can walk both of them without any issues with barking or seeing other dogs. The progress they have made has been life changing. We are so grateful for the help!!!— Alyssa Haydon
Posted June 19th 2024
We are in our 5th home training session and I'm doing fantastic 👏 of course my 8 months old has taught me alot during the training.— P H
Posted June 17th 2024
How Puppy Training Works
Dog Training Elite uses a positive puppy training method paired with an electronic collar - not a shock collar. Unlike shock collars, electronic collars do not hurt or harm the pup. They are used only to obtain their attention, not to punish bad behavior. We believe in using constant praise to encourage good behavior. The difference becomes apparent when comparing a puppy trained out of fear to a puppy who truly desires to please.
Positive Reinforcement for Positive Pups
Positive reinforcement is the best option in puppy training. Punishments will only scare your dog, and fear can lead to aggression problems later in life. The Dog Training Elite puppy trainers in your local area use a classical conditioning program focusing on positive reinforcement of basic commands.
Dogs are eager to please. When they learn following basic commands results in affection or a treat, they will be happy to do as you ask. With patience - and the assistance of a professional puppy trainer - you'll be rewarded with a lifelong loyal pal.
Dog Training Elite bases training around the "Classical Conditioning" model, also known as the "Pavlovian" response or "respondent conditioning." This means developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands, so when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking. Our unique technique ensures our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
What Does My Puppy Learn?
During puppy training, your dog will learn a lot more than “sit,” heel,” and “down.” As their owner, you will learn a great deal about what it means to have a dog.
Our skilled puppy trainers will help you and your dog with the following:
- Leash and potty training
- Staying and coming
- Destructive chewing and digging
- Stealing food, clothing, or other objects
- Barking, howling and whining
- Food guarding and begging
- Mouthing, nipping, and playing rough
- Anxiety and submissive urination
- Jumping and hyperactivity
- Aggression and anxiety
Our trainers also encourage crate training, which helps with house-breaking and teaches your puppy he has a safe place to sleep at night.
Come to Dog Training Elite
Dog Training Elite has more than 40 years of experience specializing in teaching your puppy to be obedient to you and your family. Early training and socialization are fundamental in obedience training with puppies, and our skilled puppy trainers are equipped to meet your basic and advanced training needs. Unlike other dog training companies, we understand each client has unique needs, so we tailor our dog training programs to accommodate your situation.
We want you and your puppy to be prepared for all the excitement life has to offer. What better way to be ready than getting a jump start on puppy training.
Come to your local Dog Training Elite location and start your puppy training journey today!
Puppy Training
If you are interested in our puppy training program, but still have some questions, read more about our specific training categories!
While crate training is not necessary for house breaking, it certainly makes the process easier. Those who choose to housebreak without use of a crate will need more time and more patience when it comes to cleaning up accidents.
Crate training can also improve other aspects of your pet's life. A dog that is used to a crate will feel more comfortable when traveling and have a safe place to retreat during thunderstorms or noisy guests. At Dog Training Elite, we believe that crate training can enhance the life of both dog and owner when done properly.
Once a puppy is brought home after spending the first eight weeks of its life with its mother, obedience training can begin immediately. While Dog Training Elite works with dogs of all ages, beginning puppy training as soon as possible is the best way to go. Beginning puppy training early can help prevent unwanted behaviors such as chewing, whining, nipping and accidents in the house.
Bringing a new puppy home and making them part of your family can be exciting! Puppies are adorable, cuddly, playful and all-around lovable. However, it's not all fun and games if and when that puppy starts showing unwanted behaviors like chewing, begging, or getting onto furniture.
Start off on the right paw with Dog Training Elite puppy obedience training to quickly address behavior problems. Beginning obedience training early will help you create a lifelong bond with your new puppy and get rid of those unwanted behaviors. Find a trainer near you today!
Biting, or “mouthing,” is part of how a puppy learns about the world. It’s often meant to be a playful behavior, but those sharp little teeth can hurt! With some simple, consistent training, puppy biting can be over for good. Check out our tips on how to stop puppy biting, even in a playful way.
Are you tired of words like potty cue, potty place, or pee pads? Are your cabinets overflowing with carpet and upholstery cleaners and odor eliminators? If so, let Dog Training Elite and our professional dog trainers help. In a matter of weeks we will help to get your dog trained in the way best suited for you and your needs. Our comprehensive approach will be customized to you and your family to prevent loss of obedience. Sign up for your free in-home assessment and experience the difference for yourself.
There are a few things you'll want to get before beginning training. Some of these things might include rewards, a treat pouch, a clicker, and a leash to name a few. Our professionals at Dog Training Elite are excited to help you get all the puppy training essentials you'll need to be successful!
Bringing home a new puppy to the family is an exciting and memorable time with a lot of things to do! One of the most important things you can do with your puppy during the first few weeks they are home is socialization, and our guided puppy socialization classes are a perfect way to do so!
You may be wondering if training your puppy is something you can do on your own, or if it's something you should pay for. You can stop your research on puppy training classes prices right now, because Dog Training Elite has the answer.
Dog Training Elite offers a free in-home assessment to start your puppy on the right track and help you figure out what direction you want to take, training wise. From there, Dog Training Elite offers training packages that include the equipment you need like an electronic collar, in-home training sessions, group classes and everything from basic obedience training to more advanced training.
