An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM.
Dog Training Elite

German Shepherd Dog Training in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM

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Our German Shepherd Training Could Help:
Excessive barking
Aggression
Separation anxiety
Destructive chewing
Leash pulling
Over-protectiveness
Resource guarding

German Shepherd Training in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM

German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America—and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!

Dog Training Elite has years of experience with German Shepherd training in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM and has developed obedience programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.

Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly.

With our targeted and specialized breed training programs, Dog Training Elite New Mexico can help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.

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An image of multiple german shepherd puppies - our Albuquerque / Santa Fe german shepherd trainers ensure you pup is ready to be the best companion possible.

German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults


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Dog Training Elite recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.

If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite New Mexico offers adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.

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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

  • Kelly Miller
    Aug. 20, 2025
    We took our puppy, Bear to elite training. We have loved every bit of it! We were so happy that the trainer, John, was able to come to our house and spend one on one time with us and our puppy. He was also very patient and knowledgeable about all things puppy and training. We are so pleased with the results and would highly recommend.
  • stacy nguyen
    Jul. 23, 2025
    Kayla was an amazing trainer! She was very patient with my puppy. She was also really good at noticing the little things that weren't exactly right and clearly explained to me how to do it better. She introduced her dog to mine, and he was able to learn so much from her pup; now he can read other dogs better and play with them properly. I won't deny that it is expensive, but it's worth it. I now have a lifetime of group training sessions and a friendly baby.
  • Amberley Luna
    Jul. 10, 2025
    I am writing to give my highest recommendation for Dog Training Elite in Albuquerque. My experience with this academy has been exceptional, and I am confident that anyone seeking professional, effective, and compassionate dog training will benefit greatly from their services. Why I Highly Recommend Dog Training Elite • Expertise and Professionalism:
The trainers at Dog Training Elite possess extensive knowledge and experience, using evidence-based methods tailored to each dog’s unique needs. • Remarkable Results:
I observed significant improvements in my dog’s obedience, socialization, and overall behavior after completing their program. • Comprehensive Programs:
They offer a wide range of training options, including basic and advanced obedience, behavioral modification, service and therapy dog training, and specialized puppy programs. • Personalized Approach:
Training plans are customized for each dog and owner, ensuring that goals are met and lasting results are achieved. • Positive Reinforcement:
The academy emphasizes positive reinforcement, patience, and respect, making the learning process enjoyable for both dogs and owners. • Outstanding Support:
Communication is clear and consistent, with ongoing guidance provided throughout the training journey. Additional Highlights • Flexible Training Options:
In-home, in-facility, group, and one-on-one sessions are available to fit any schedule and environment. • Free Assessment:
They offer a complimentary consultation to evaluate your dog and recommend the most suitable program. • Community Reputation:
Dog Training Elite is highly regarded in Albuquerque for its professionalism, results-driven approach, and positive client experiences. I wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone looking to build a stronger bond with their dog and achieve real, lasting improvements in behavior. Their commitment, expertise, and genuine care set them apart as a leading dog training academy in the area. I highly recommend Trainer Karla at Dog Training Elite! Karla is not only knowledgeable and professional, but she is also incredibly patient and compassionate with both dogs and their owners. She takes the time to understand each dog’s unique personality and tailors her training methods accordingly. Thanks to her positive approach and clear communication, I saw amazing improvements in my dog’s behavior and confidence. Karla truly cares about the success of every dog she works with, and her passion for training shines through in every session. I am very grateful for her guidance and support! My dogs love your dog’s name Axel! Thank you so much!
  • sugar magnolia
    Jul. 7, 2025
    I was very pleased with the training program and my assigned trainer Kayla. She was on-time for all classes and always prepared and excited to be here and teach us something new. She has a wonderful aura along with a sweet demeanor making her a joy to work with. Doobie was very comfortable with her and that helped tremendously with his training. Another awesome perk was having the trainer come to you! Doobie was much more at ease because he felt safe being in familiar surroundings. I felt comfortable too and learning right along with my fur baby. Using the E-collar (which is part of the package) has been a bit of a challenge yet I think with more practice, both Doobie and I will adapt to its main purpose: educating both myself and him how to understand each other better. I’ve seen improvement each week and it is so encouraging to witness such progress over this brief period of time (5 weeks). Like any new-to-you thing, getting good at figuring out how to use it often requires commitment and practice. I am committed to carving out 10-20 minutes each day refreshing what we were both taught and keeping us both on top of our game. The program was worth the time and money and I would recommend anyone wanting to learn how to be a better parent and help you and your 4-legged companion relationship thrive, give them a call.
  • Jeremiah Jaramillo
    Jul. 1, 2025
    Me and my dog Goober had an amazing experience and I highly recommend getting your dog trained with Dog Training Elite New Mexico. One of their trainers John Yan, has been an amazing trainer not only to my dog Goober but he has showed me all of the ways I need to learn to be able to train my dog. John was always so friendly and really good at communicating. Definitely worth it!
  • Ben McCormack
    Jul. 1, 2025
    Complete transformed my relationship with my dog after the first week. His aggression and reactivity have gotten much better, and now I know how to handle it. We spend our time together now playing and laughing rather than being frustrated and angry. Cant recommend enough. And with the lifetime group training classes it is a steal. Easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
  • Ted Sariyski
    Jun. 27, 2025
    We are absolutely amazed by the results achieved with Dog Training Elite's obedience training for our dachshunds, Gina and Leo! Our dogs were initially overly shy and sensitive, but Kayla, our in-home trainer, did a brilliant job. With her extensive experience, including working with primates, she expertly trained us how to effectively communicate with our puppies and how to use the eTrainer. The six months of group classes included in the DTE obedience training have been invaluable. Working with other amazing DTE dog trainers, we were able to correct and solidify our in-home exercises, while also developing our puppies' social skills. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite and Kayla!
  • Corinne Fox
    Jun. 26, 2025
    If I could give more than five stars, I would. Working with Kayla has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for both myself and my dog. From the very first session, it was clear that this isn’t just a job for her—it’s her passion and her true calling. Kayla has an almost magical ability to connect not just with dogs, but with their humans too. It’s like she speaks both languages fluently. She sees beyond behavior and truly understands the emotional needs of both the pet and the owner. Kayla was always on time, always upbeat, and always 100% present. Her patience and calm energy made every session feel productive, positive, and even fun. She never made me feel silly for asking questions or needing extra help, and she was more than willing to offer support even outside of scheduled sessions. That kind of care is rare to find. What really stood out to me was how much she genuinely loves what she does. She’s not just training dogs—she’s building trust, strengthening bonds, and giving people the tools to enjoy a better life with their pets. The transformation I’ve seen in my dog (and honestly, in myself as a dog owner) is nothing short of incredible. The company as a whole is extremely professional, well-organized, and clearly made up of people who are passionate about animal care. Every dollar I spent was absolutely worth it, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. If you're on the fence about getting your dog trained—don’t be. Kayla and this team are the best of the best. Your future self (and your dog!) will thank you.
  • Charity Kroeker
    Jun. 26, 2025
    Oatmeal was very anxious and had been charging at kids and had even nipped a few strangers. After just two training sessions with John, things had changed completely. With Elite Dog Training’s techniques, it was like my dog and I were finally speaking the same language! Oatmeal could finally relax- knowing that I’m in charge and he doesn’t need to worry anymore. Whenever I have questions- even outside of our training sessions- John responds right away. I’m so glad I decided to do this training. It’s so worth it.
  • BLiF
    Jun. 5, 2025
    I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to Kayla D., our phenomenal dog trainer from Dog Training Elite. When we first met Kayla, my dog Jack was full of energy but lacked discipline. I wasn’t sure if he could ever become a regular and well-behaved dog, but Kayla saw his potential from the very beginning. Kayla D. brought professionalism, warmth, and an evident love for her work into every session. Her calm, confident approach helped both Jack and me grow in ways I didn’t think were possible. She didn’t just train Jack—she taught us how to work together, understand each other, and succeed as a team. Thanks to Kayla’s expert guidance and encouragement, Jack is now a well-mannered service dog who has successfully passed the Public Access Test. What once felt like an impossible goal is now our daily reality, and we owe it all to Kayla. She was incredibly patient with both of us, never rushing the process and always celebrating our progress. Her dedication to her profession and Jack’s success truly set her apart. It’s clear that Kayla isn’t just doing a job—she’s changing lives, one dog at a time. If you’re considering professional dog training, I wholeheartedly recommend Kayla and Dog Training Elite. They have made a world of difference for us, and I couldn’t be more thankful. Thank you, Kayla D. You are a gift to every dog and owner lucky enough to work with you!
  • valerie schlemmer
    May. 17, 2025
    My experience with Dog Training Elite was AMAZING! Kayla was an expert at training a reactive dog. She also taught me how to properly handle my dog. She was professional and compassionate when training my dog. It was well worth the cost, effort and time. Thank you Dog Training Elite and Kayla!
  • Elyse Benham
    Apr. 25, 2025
    We worked with Kayla over eight sessions to get our dog Chloe better behaved in public and on a leash. After just a few sessions, we were already seeing the results we wanted. We have been set up with the tools to keep working on Chloe’s manners to make her the best dog she can be! The depth and range of dog training and behavior knowledge we received was wonderful and very helpful to Chloe’s training. I would highly recommend training with Dog Training Elite - you won’t be disappointed!
  • Rachael Eaton
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Kayla is our trainer. She is a very knowledgeable and positive trainer. Our Great Pyrenees male, 2 1/2 yrs old is very reactive and wouldn't listen to commands and wreaking havoc in our home. He now responds to commands like place, come, sit, off, down and we are working on heeling but he does pretty well. He still needs daily training. Kayla let us know what we were doing right and practices we needed to stop doing. We are working on his behaviors with the skill she taught us. She has changed our lives.
  • Matthew Raboin
    Apr. 11, 2025
    John was a fantastic trainer for our shelter rescue. He’s super patient, great at teaching, and genuinely cares. Our dog started out with a lot of aggression issues, and from day 1 we saw immediate results, which really improved our day-to-day quality of life. After the full program, we have amazing control of her and we can easily go to public places without issue.
  • Morgan Childs
    Apr. 8, 2025
    John and Dog Training Elite are incredible! He has an innate understanding and vast knowledge of dogs, and he immediately understood my energetic and slightly anxious Husky/Shepherd mix. The tools we gained through training enabled us re-direct our boy's energy and happily coexist. We started early at 13 weeks, and John went at a pace that felt happy and sustainable for our young boy. There is an overwhelming amount of contradictory information about dog training on the internet, and it has been invaluable to have a professional trainer to ask questions (without judgment!) and guide me through the process of first-time dog ownership. If we ever get another dog, we know who we are calling!
  • Tammi Lambert
    Apr. 5, 2025
    I had such a wonderful experience. Stephanie was our trainer, and we cannot say enough about how perfect she was for our family and our puppies. Everywhere I go with my service dogs, people ask who trained them. I am so glad to say, "Dog Training Elite!!!" I could not have made a better choice.
  • Robyn Rohr
    Mar. 8, 2025
    Wow! Kayla worked wonders with our very large golden retriever puppy. He loves the training! Kayla patiently explained every aspect of the training and guided us through the process and progress of our sweet pup. Thank you, Kayla!!!
  • Philip Hunteman
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Love this company! And Stephanie was the BEST! We got our Winnie three months ago from a small rescue that had to place her with three different fosters. A one-year-old border collie cross with massive separation anxiety and tons of energy. Smart, yes, but too smart for her own good. She would tear through the house when left alone. She would try to destroy her crate, even breaking a tooth in doing so. We needed help FAST! Elite gave us that help with practical, realistic training and advice. We saw improvements within days of the first session. It only got better after that. Is Winnie perfect? No. Does she jump over the fence every time she goes outside? Also no. No to getting up on kitchen counters or diving into the trash. The best part is the closeness we now have with Winnie. She’s a happy and exuberant dog who loves us as mush as we love her. I bought the platinum plan and it was WITHOUT A DOUBT the best money I’ve spent. I can’t recommend these people enough! Forget all the weird folksy advice you might get from others. Hire these people!
  • Cheryle Bakewell
    Feb. 21, 2025
    Stephanie was the best trainer, was very patient very knowledgeable and sweet with the dogs. Very professional in Getting our dog service trained. Thank you. from Henry
  • Kelli Hajek
    Feb. 20, 2025
    Elite Dog Training, was fantastic for my pitbull mixed collie Keto. Kayla worked very hard, she was very patient with me and my puppy dog. She arrived on time, very supportive, definitely would recommend this service. She even took the time to work with my other two dogs
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM with Dog Training Elite today.

In-Home German Shepherd Training

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Dog Training Elite offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues.

Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite New Mexico offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.

Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.

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German Shepherd Training Tips

German Shepherds are loyal and intelligent dogs that require a thoughtful approach to training. They are eager learners, but they also need structure and clear guidance to reach their full potential.

Here are some essential training tips for German Shepherds.

Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.

Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental stimulation they need.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite New Mexico.
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An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for Albuquerque / Santa Fe german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on balance and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. 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.

The Dog Training Elite training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite’s training methods nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Contact Dog Training Elite today for professional German Shepherd training in Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM!