A service dog and their owner outside - find elite service dog training with Dog Training Elite.

Professional

Service Dog Training

Dog Training Elite

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Request Free Assessment


Our Service Dog Training Could Help:

Veterans or civilians with PTSD, anxiety, or depression
Children or adults with autism
Individuals with epilepsy
Advanced medical training (participating locations)

Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service dog as “a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.” Disabilities include mental or physical impairments that affect an individual’s ability to perform one or more major life activities (walking, seeing, etc.).

Because service dogs play such a key role in the life of disabled individuals, they are protected by the law. Places of residence, employment, and commercial facilities cannot discriminate against disabled individuals with service animals. If you are wondering how to get a service dog, you can either purchase a fully trained dog or purchase a service puppy and train it.

With our service dog training, we ensure that your dog is trained to meet the specific needs of your disability, providing personalized support and empowering both dog and handler for long-term success.

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A man and his support service dog - learn more about our positive training methods at Dog Training Elite.

Our Pawsitive Approach to Service Dog Training


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At Dog Training Elite, we believe that successful dog training requires dedication, patience, and balance. That’s why we are committed to using positive reinforcement techniques in all of our training programs.

Through positive reinforcement training, our team helps owners build trust with their dogs. This approach is especially important for service dog training because strong relationships and communication are essential for dogs to reliably assist their handler.

By focusing on encouragement rather than punishment, we created confident, well-behaved dogs that are eager to perform their best and impress their owners.

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

  • Mandy Fennell
    Dec. 23, 2024
    Justin and Crystal 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.
  • Verda Abulaf
    Jan. 3, 2025
    Matt is amazing, patient and knowledgeable. We have already started to see progress throughout the second meet, I am very happy. Highly recommended
  • Mike Smits
    Jan. 3, 2025
    It was such a great experience, I would highly recommend! The training was amazing. Our pup is well behaved, does tricks and we want to thank dog training elite for working with us, we learned so much!
  • Michelle Walker
    Jan. 3, 2025
    Winston our puppy was crazy until we met Chrissy and Richard! The training was amazing from my first session! Chrissy answers questions 24/7 and Richard was awesome with me during my home sessions. Richard made sure I was confident with the commands before he left! Thanks Elite!
  • Georgene Inks
    Jan. 2, 2025
    Dog Training Elite New Mexico has provided my husband and me with the skills and confidence to safely manage our 12 month old 60 pound pup, Myrhh, and her little 9 week old bother, Frank, who has been following along! I also am the one who has been most involved in the training sessions while my husband, like Frank, watches and listens. ☺️ We live surrounded by wildlife, coyotes and wild horses. Only a 1/2 acre of our property is fenced; 6 ft. horse fence. The rest of our area is wide open. Also, residents in this neighborhood do not have perimeter fencing so we live virtually in a huge park like setting, albeit a wild park, which we walk and hike throughout everyday. So, for Myrrh’s roaming freedom, knowing heel, and knowing to come when called, is essential for her safety as well as ours. These skills, after only 5 one hour sessions, are in place! John is the insightful trainer who was sent to us from Elite Dog Training this past November. John has been coming to our home, once a week, for one hour training, five weeks in a row. In each, he taught us how to ensure that Myrrh comes to us on command, heels, stays in place, and sits. All this, yes, WITHOUT A LEASH! It is spectacular to have this kind of freedom with our dog and fun! We now have confidence with Myrrh’s ability to stay close and on command plus an irreplaceable peace of mind! Additionally, indoors, we are learning and practicing the proper way for Myrhh to sit near us. We are also working on “orbit.” As the lessons progress, all skills will transfer to Dog Training Elite group sessions, settings with other people and their dogs in unfamiliar locations for the next six months. Lots of practice ahead! Last, as a former educator, I am familiar with folks who can and cannot teach. John is one of those who CAN. My husband and I, along with Myrrh and even baby Frank, have all been very lucky to be John’s students! Of course, I highly, highly recommend Dog Training Elite and their trainer, John. We have found the sessions to be worth every dollar because of his professional, friendly, upbeat, skilled instruction. Communication is also tops from emails to reminders. John also arrives on time, if not early, to each session in a Dog Training Elite, clearly marked company car, and always professionally attired. You will discover that Dog Training Elite is not the cheapest option. Fortunately, in this case, we have gotten what we paid for - Excellence and truly amazing, transformative results!
  • Zoe Hallam
    Jan. 2, 2025
    We work with Tom at Dog Training Elite Louisville and so far he has been amazing! He is very kind, understanding, and knowledgeable. We have a Standard Poodle puppy named Sonny and we have a long road ahead of us, from puppy training to obedience training to hopefully service or therapy dog training. Tom helped me from the very beginning before we even had Sonny, he informed me on what dog breeds would be best for service dogs and what to look for in a puppy, I am very thankful because of him we were able to find our boy Sonny who we absolutely adore (especially our son who we got Sonny for)! I was nervous as this is the most extensive training I have ever done and I have also never worked with an e-collar, Tom has made this experience very smooth and easy. He makes sure to inform me on everything which makes me feel more comfortable with the whole process. We have only been training for a few months as Sonny is only 18weeks old but we have already seen wonderful results from starting training right away! We have enjoyed working with Tom, and look forward to continue working with him. We are a forever client and highly recommend working with Tom for all your dog training needs!
  • Chris Luthy
    Jan. 2, 2025
    The trainers all brought unique skills to the sessions. We learned a lot about how to get the desired behaviors, and my dog is much more attentive and obedient with commands. Highly recommend.
  • Jarissa Loy
    Jan. 2, 2025
    Carol was very thorough with laying out everything they offer. She was very understanding and nice about everything
  • Joan Campbell
    Dec. 31, 2024
    Anthony has such an easy caring way with my Daisy. He is the BEST!
  • Glori Tate
    Dec. 31, 2024
    I love the trainers and how they are helping my little Poppy learn all she needs to know on her journey to become a service dog. She is tiny and they treat her like she is normal dog with a big heart . They do not baby her and treat her like she can do everything a regular size dog can do. She can be a bit spicy but she listens to them and is also so happy to see them. Her little nub tail goes a mile a minute as soon as we pull up. She knows she is going to see the amazing staff and trainers. Her first week she learned a lot and it was up to me to keep it up. They found treats she likes. * She was super picky* She was a bit shy at first and they got her out of her shell. Now she is not afraid of anything. They still come to the house for additional training and we can go every Tuesday for refresher training until she is old enough to start service dog training. I know, I was so nervous at first before Poppy joined this program. After meeting with them and visiting the facility I was very happy. The facility is very clean. The trainers, staff have been absolutely wonderful and take time to answer my questions. If I don’t feel confident in what I am doing they do not hesitate to guide me. When Poppy joined she was only 1.5 lbs and they made sure she was safe while she started puppy basics. Yet she still played with the big puppy’s and did everything all the other puppy’s got to do. She is 3lbs now and I have no concerns in leaving my little treasure with anyone at Dog Training Elite for her continue education onto Service dog training. If you’re looking for Basic training to advance to anything in between. I highly recommend this wonderful facility. They truly care about their clients and the work they do. My little Poppy loves going to see them every time. They also educate me on what I am doing wrong and guide me in the correct way to handle poor behavior in my Poppy. Come join this place! Poppy would love to make new friends too
  • Natasha Kova
    Dec. 31, 2024
    We have been coming to DTE for 3 years and it was the best decision we made after getting a dog! She still has her wild side but way more behaved when she was in the beginning. Trainers are amazing, facility is at a great location, several classes every week to choose from, and classes are super fun! 100% recommend reaching out to DTE for anyone who is considering getting a dog💜
  • Rachel Webster
    Dec. 31, 2024
    I have had an absolutely amazing experience with Dog Training Elite Charlotte. My dog is very stubborn and they were easily able to guide me through training her. They always respond quickly to questions. They also helped me determine the right crate for my dog so we can both be safe and happy when im out of the house. Zuri absolutely loves Shawn and has done great in the group classes.
  • Bekki Horack
    Dec. 31, 2024
    Elite is exactly as their name says! We worked with Rod to train our two puppies, Louise and Twig. They started around 4 and 5 mos old. Twig took to it easier than Louise. Rod was so kind and patient, training them (and us) how to work with each dogs' needs specifically. The office was great at keeping us on track with visits and scheduling. We communicated via text, my preferred method of communication. Thank you, Elite team!
  • Jessica Zampedri
    Dec. 31, 2024
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT were exceptionally patient, knowledgeable, encouraging, and supportive, making the experience of working with them truly outstanding and effective for my furry friend's pet training and obedience. Their professional guidance and expert advice proved invaluable in helping my rescue pup acclimate and be his best self!
  • Aly Childs
    Aug. 6, 2023
    We started training our rescue 2 years ago. Knowing I was looking for a service dog, the team came with me to the shelter to help evaluate potential candidates. From day one their team has been incredible. I've gotten to see my dog grow from a crazy puppy to an amazing service dog. Everyone has been incredible and works so hard to help you in any way they can. An amazing organization doing incredible things!
  • Robert Johnson
    Dec. 23, 2024
    Good I dear for my family
  • Ben Connell
    Dec. 31, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been great to work with. They have taught me to have a better relationship with my rescue dog. My dog Wyatt was traumatized and abused. Dog training elite helped him gain confidence, and start to trust people again. He has gone from being reactive on the leash to walking nicely in my neighborhood. Best investment ever!
  • Kade Griffiths
    Dec. 31, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has made a big impact on my dogs life. Before Dog Training Elite my dog Ranger was out of control. He was super anxious, and destructive. Parker was able to train my dog to be calm and confident. I was hesitant that my dogs personality would change. However, Ranger is still his goofy self, but now listens and is enjoyable to be around. Thank you Dog Training Elite
  • Colton Atkinson
    Dec. 31, 2024
    My dog Sage was very unruly. She jumped, bolted out the front door, and would pull on the leash. She was such a head ache. I was hesitant about paying for dog training, but hands down was one of the best decisions I have ever made! She now listens to me when I call her back to me on hikes. She no longer pulls in a leash. My friends and family now love coming over to my house. Parker was an incredible dog trainer. He taught me and my dog how to have a better relationship. Dog Training Elite was amazing to work with.
  • samantha russo
    Dec. 31, 2024
    Dog training elite is hands down the best thing we’ve done for ourselves and our dog. Our 60 lb Dutch shepherd mix was reacting whenever strangers came into the house. Now, we have the tools and understanding to manage this with no anxiety. We believe both the dog and the owners need to be trained to understand and work with one another which is exactly what we have accomplished with DTE. It is personalized , convenient, and you get to see exactly how your dog is being trained and how you can incorporate it into your everyday life. Sharon is so responsive with any questions and made scheduling seamless. Shawn formed his own relationship with our dog, it is clear he is passionate about providing the best guidance to help your dog and you. Even after the first session, our families noticed an improvement! Would highly recommend this to anyone considering making the commitment to better your dogs life.
A Dog Training Elite owner smiling with his dog.

Dog Training Elite

Is a Service Dog The Same As a Therapy Dog?

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Many types of working dogs increase the quality of life for their handlers. The three main categories of working dogs are service animal, therapy animal, and emotional support animal. Each category covers different areas of support and different levels of protection under the law.

  1. Service Animal
  2. As mentioned above, service animals assist individuals with disabilities. Depending on the person’s needs, the service animal learns how to perform certain tasks. Guide dogs, for example, help blind individuals safely navigate their environment. Seizure response dogs respond to their handlers when the individual is having a seizure. Service animals are highly trained and specialized, and they are also offered the most protection under the law compared to therapy or emotional support animals.

    Dogs are not the only kinds of service animals - miniature horses, pigs, and monkeys are often trained to support individuals with disabilities!

  3. Therapy Animal
  4. Therapy dogs provide comfort and improve the mental well-being of individuals in hospitals, hospice care, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, and more. These dogs must have a friendly, calm demeanor and be comfortable when handled by strangers.

    Therapy dogs are not trained to perform specific tasks, but they must be obedient and well-mannered. Therapy animals are permitted in some areas where pets are not, but they have fewer protections than service animals. All therapy dogs must be certified before they can offer their services to the community.

  5. Emotional Support Animal
  6. Emotional support dogs relieve loneliness, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of mental health disorders. They provide comfort to their handlers, but they are not trained to perform specific tasks. Most emotional support animals are sensitive to the emotional changes of their handler and will remain close by at all times. Emotional support animals are not protected by the ADA, but residential buildings must permit emotional support animals.

Dog Training Elite

What Can Service Dogs Do?

Service dogs are crucial in assisting individuals with various disabilities and conditions, providing them with support, independence, and companionship. These highly trained dogs can perform specific tasks tailored to the needs of their handlers. Learn about breeds that make great service dogs, who can benefit from a service dog and the training that will help these pups meet their handler's needs.

Service dogs are a great help to disabled individuals thanks to their incredible ability to perform highly specialized tasks, like opening doors, switching lights on and off, assisting with balance and stability, guiding, pulling wheelchairs, answering phones and making calls, finding objects or places, unloading and loading items, clearing rooms, finding help, and many more. Service dogs improve the lives of disabled individuals by increasing their autonomy.
Individuals with certain diseases and disorders can benefit from a highly trained service dog. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and they can detect the chemical changes associated with oncoming seizures and increases in blood pressure. Alert service dogs alert their handler to these situations to prevent a life-threatening emergency. Alert dogs also help those with extreme allergies detect potential allergens in food.
Disabled or epileptic individuals are more prone to emergencies than the average person. Service dogs are trained to alert their handler to a potential emergency, and alert surrounding individuals to an active emergency. Service dogs can also call for help on pre-programmed phones.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite - Classical Conditioning Dog Training. DTE
Classical Conditioning Training

Classical conditioning dog training, also known as Pavlovian or respondent conditioning, is a dog training method that involves creating automatic responses to specific commands. This approach taps into a dog’s natural reflexes, making training more effective and instinctive.

Dog Training Elite - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. DTE
Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement dog trainers focus on rewarding dogs for good behavior to encourage them to repeat it. Using treats, praise, or play, these trainers help your dog learn quickly and happily, building a strong bond and creating a well-behaved, motivated companion.

Dog Training Elite - Puppy Obedience Training. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training

Taking advantage of our puppy obedience trainers is crucial for setting your puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Early training helps instill essential commands and good behavior, preventing future issues and strengthening the bond between you and your puppy.

Dog Training Elite - Off Leash Dog Training. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training

Our off-leash dog training helps your dog achieve complete freedom and control, even in distracting environments. With expert guidance, we’ll teach your dog to follow commands confidently without the need for a leash, giving you both greater flexibility and trust in your dog's behavior.

Dog Training Elite -
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

While we don't offer formal agility dog training, our basic obedience training can significantly enhance your dog's agility. By focusing on essential commands and improving coordination, speed, and focus, your dog will develop the skills and discipline that naturally improve their agility and overall physical abilities.

The Malionois Foundation logo.
The Malionois Foundation logo.

Proud Sponsor of
The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite works with The Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.

Learn More
A service dog at a ball game with their owner - get professional service dog training with Dog Training Elite.

Dog Training Elite

Service Dogs for Anxiety, PTSD, and Autism

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Service dogs trained to assist handlers with severe anxiety or depression perform specific tasks that reduce the potential for panic attacks or self-harm attempts. Such tasks include deep-pressure therapy, tactile stimulation, alerting, clearing rooms, blocking strangers from approaching, and more. Service dogs trained to assist those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have greatly improved the lives of many veterans.

Service dogs also make a big impact on the lives of children with autism. Children with autism are often prone to meltdowns, have trouble communicating, and are quick to run off or become easily lost. Service dogs prevent and mediate all of these behaviors to provide a higher quality of life for children with autism and their families.

As autism is a spectrum disorder, each child has varying needs of assistance. Autism service dogs perform the following tasks:

  • Tracking: Children with autism often wander away, and a parent’s worst fear is turning their back for just a moment and discovering their child is gone. Autism service dogs will track the child if this ever happens.
  • Tethering: This task minimizes wandering, which is common in public settings. The child is tethered to the service dog’s leash or harness, preventing him or her from wandering away.
  • Behavior Interruption: Repetitive and ritualistic behaviors are typical of autistic children, as are meltdowns when the child becomes overstimulated. Autism service dogs recognize these negative behaviors and redirect the child’s attention when they start. A simple paw or nudge is all it takes to prevent a meltdown.
A service puppy waiting for their owner - Dog Training Elite.

How Do I Get a Service Dog?

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If you are wondering how to get a service dog, there are a couple of different approaches. Some service dogs are purchased outright, fully trained. Or a compatible dog is selected and trained from an early age. Training a dog from the start is the best option, especially for those with specialized needs.

Training a dog to perform service responsibilities must start from day one. Only certain breeds are suited to service work, and breeders put a lot of time into raising puppies to be service animals. Once you have purchased a service puppy, additional training is necessary to prepare your puppy for life as a service dog. This is a complicated process that involves various steps. Dog Training Elite makes getting a service dog easier with our service dog training program.

Our talented trainers can help select puppies that are prepared for a life of service from well-respected breeders. When these puppies enter the service dog training program they are closely monitored for behavior and temperament and can be fully obedience trained by the age of six months. These puppies undergo extensive socialization and additional training to ensure they are well-suited for service and therapy needs including specialized service training alongside the new handler.

This program is ideal for handlers who want to take part in the developmental years and extensive training of their service puppy.

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

A trainer, a man and his service dog - find the best service dog training with Dog Training Elite.

We Are Committed to Making a Difference

Choose DTE for Service Dog Training

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At Dog Training Elite, we are passionate about transforming lives through service dog training. Our proven methods and positive reinforcement techniques help create highly skilled, dependable service dogs that are both obedient and loyal to their handlers.

From mobility support and physical assistance to emotional well-being and more, Dog Training Elite is committed to providing personalized, high-quality training that makes a lasting impact.

Choose Dog Training Elite and experience the difference that elite training and compassionate care can make.