FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Asheville, NC

Frequently Asked Questions

General
One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
The answer to this is in how the technology of "shock" collars (as they were called in the past) has changed a lot since they originated several years ago. The stimulation in the electronic collars we use is much like a TENS unit and provides a tapping sensation that is used to get the dog's attention on a very low level. We use a brand called Dogtra. We do not use "shock" collars, but electronic collars employed by the top obedience trainers around the world and in Asheville.
No. We use electronic collars to get the dogs attention only. When you work around distractions (which is one of our main focuses), keeping your dog's attention is paramount. The collar, combined with positive reinforcement (we like to use praise), help create a positive learning environment in Asheville for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Asheville.
No, but your dog will wear it a lot in the beginning. The objective is to create a conditioned response with your dog; meaning that when you say 'sit', your dog sits automatically without thinking about it first. Much like Pavlov's Dogs or Pavlovian Conditioning, we create a reflex response to you giving a command using the electronic collar. That being said, after your dog is "collar-conditioned", you will be able to remove the collar and still have a dog that will be obedient.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Asheville.
To effectively resolve specific issues, we need to start with a solid foundation in obedience. This approach helps you become a confident leader for your dog, which is key to addressing and preventing behavioral problems.
Nope. Those are dangerous grounds to tread upon. We'd much rather train a vicious dog!
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.
Yes. Working with and controlling aggression is one of our specialties in Asheville.
We focus on training companion dogs for veterans and individuals with PTSD and other psychological conditions. In addition to service animals, we also train therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes, and treatment centers.
To be a service dog, your dog needs to have an even temperament. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, etc. typically have a great temperament for service work. For some types of service work, your dog will need to have AKC certifications (such as Canine Good Citizen or Community Canine) which we are able to certify. As always, we would be happy to assess your dog's aptitude for service work for free!

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About Dog Training Elite Asheville

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Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Asheville. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.
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Reviews
Our testimonials showcase the success stories of dogs and their owners who have benefited from our training programs. From basic obedience to advanced service dog training, see how Dog Training Elite Asheville has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
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Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Asheville family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.
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Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite Asheville can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
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In the Community
At Dog Training Elite Asheville, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Bradley Archer
    Nov. 2, 2024
    I was diagnosed with Autism as an adult over three years ago. I've been trying to find a way to afford a service animal since then. I almost gave up... the dogs I was finding were upwards of $40k! I couldn't afford it... When I found David at Dog Training Elite, he offered training at a tenth of the price I was finding, I just had to acquire the pup on my own. I wanted to train a rescue instead of getting a dog from a breeder--David came with me to help me pick out a trainable pup at no cost! Been training with them for about 5 months now and my pup is excellently behaved in public and at work, at only 8 months old! I couldn't possibly recommend these guys any more strongly.
  • Deborah Sanders
    Oct. 30, 2024
    Dave and Nicole are the consummate trainers. In addition to training service dogs, they have done a great job of training our 7 pound Havapoo, Bailey. Although we are away from Brevard for the winter, we will definitely reconnect next summer. Deborah and Richard Sanders
  • kain jutras
    Oct. 30, 2024
    I cannot say enough amazing things about Dog training elite Asheville. Before starting training I had an extremely reactive German Shepard and now I have an unbreakable bond, a dog that trusts me, and listens without hesitation. If you’re thinking about another training option, DON’T! Book with Dog Training elite Asheville. You will not be disappointed.
  • Heidi Collins
    Oct. 25, 2024
    Exciting news! A couple of months ago, I started training my Saint Bernard, Gus, with Dog Training Elite. Gus was starting to train me with Treat training and I needed a better program for this big guy. With the professional guidance of David Webb, Gus has grown to be a well-mannered, manageable, attentive dog. And treats are optional. I am thrilled with his progress and grateful for trainers who really understand how dogs communicate, socialize, respond to stimuli, express emotions, and interact with people, animals, and their environment.
  • William Frady
    Sep. 24, 2024
    Had a great experience with DTE they went above and beyond to get my Rosie trained for service work. She has been everywhere with me since.
  • Pauline Minnaar
    Sep. 20, 2024
    We had a great experience! David and Nicole are very personable and you can tell how passionate they are about this work. They were great with our dog and we can already see a difference in his confidence. The best part is that they took the time to teach us how to train our dog so it felt very hands on and we learned a ton. We are looking forward to taking him to the group classes next to practice what we learned.
  • David Frady
    Sep. 14, 2024
    What a great experience they went through all the steps of being a service dog and in a few months my Rosie is now a service dog thanks 😊
  • Jill Goldie
    Aug. 25, 2024
    High Praise and Big High Fives to David and Nicki WEBB at Dog Training Elite! On Day one with them, they came inside our house and explained lots of how and what they do to train the wild new puppy (Laddie) who is in our life now. And then, we went outside to the back yard. And this is where it really began. They "broke" Laddie that day and I say this in the nicest and best way/meaning possible. They showed Laddie that he is not his own boss and that he must learn to listen and obey ME. This changed us and since that day Laddie is listening and learning every day. We just finished Day 6 of in home training, at Lowes, with all new stimulations and people and dogs. Laddie was confidant and comfortable in that brand new space. On we go with David and Nicki, next step is Group Sessions and we look forward to that. If you are looking for help with your current dog or are wanting a puppy, do not waste a minute and check out Dog Training Elite, I am so happy that I found them!
  • Chrissy Wilkof
    Aug. 13, 2024
    This technique allowed me to have an awesome relationship with my baby girl, Trixie. Elite dog training is fantastic, friendly and fun! We both learned the skills we needed to enjoy new trix and communicate skillfully. Nicole made it easy.
  • Lisa Sherlin
    Aug. 13, 2024
    If your dog needs a lot or a little, it is worth every penny to work with this wonder group. They are patient, kind and easy to work with. Thank you so much
  • mark fairman
    Jul. 12, 2024
    My wife and I loved working with David and Nicole in training our Springer Spaniel. They were both wonderful to work with, they met all our expectations and goals, were extremely knowledgeable, and you could tell they loved what they do. We highly recommend them.
  • Tabatha Clark
    Jul. 30, 2024
    Great trainer. They have had a harder time training the humans than the pup. We have a rottie and he is much improved. He still has a way to go but is well on the way thanks to David and Nikki!
  • Cindy T
    Jul. 29, 2024
    David is amazing! My Basenji, Avele, is pretty stubborn but when she sees David, she takes all of what she learned from him and is the perfect puppy. David helped us determine the best training for her when she was only a few months old. His method works. I love that he came to our house... and our cats learned some of the training too as they decided to attend Avele's classes. I don't recommend often, but I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite Asheville enough.
  • Minda Dwyer
    Jul. 28, 2024
    I can't say enough about David and Nicole and Elite Dog Training!!! We were literally about to give our 3 year old up out of frustration. The training is amazing and works. David knows what he's doing and cares sooo much!!!! Don't look any further! Call them!!!
  • Carrie Patrick
    Jul. 28, 2024
    Game changer! If you are even considering a dog trainer look no further. DTE is professional, results driven and 100% the best decision we made for our sweet girl. You will not be disappointed!
  • Alexandria Welch
    Jul. 27, 2024
    I recommend Dog Training Elite Asheville to anyone as they've helped me all around with my Chow Chow and his behaviors. They provided me the skills and knowledge of how to take control My 6 year old Chow Chow. Immediately they saw one of his problems was that my pup did not respect/listen to me and they showed me how to be Alpha. Also, my dog started becoming a leash reactive and reactive to other dogs that I started to avoid going to the park and socializing him because I was afraid of something he might do. The group training aspect of this really has helped him and I've seen a major improvement in his behavior that I feel comfortable now with my pup!
  • Denise Austin
    Jul. 26, 2024
    Excellent to work with, trained 2 therpay dogs for mental health provider. Highly reccommend!!!!
  • Anna Paiewonsky
    Jul. 20, 2024
    Aspen needed some fresher training; training on things she never learned; as well as stopping some new bad habits she recently developed. David was awesome, very clear instructions and fantastic follow up. Aspen is doing great and is enjoying her training. We would recomment Dog Training Elite Asheville to everyone.
  • Yanke Grl71
    Jun. 29, 2024
    Both Loki and I needed this training. He came from big pack and an overwhelming birth home to us and not much interaction with other people or dogs. He is my Velcro dog and scared of everything. I was also a bit scared as well to be honest. Didn't want anything to happen to him or for him to get into with other dogs. We are both doing well now! I really enjoyed the one on one training at the house so I could also focus my energy and attention to get confident which helped him be more confident as well. This training is a much for the owner as it is for the dog. Then following up with the group practices has been great as well. We get to continue to see how well Loki is doing and he really is doing well! I highly recommend this dynamic duo (David and Nicole) to help you and your dog to have a more fulfilling life together.
  • Cari Mueller
    Jun. 29, 2024
    Both Loki and I needed this training. He came from big pack and an overwhelming birth home to us and not much interaction with other people or dogs. He is my velcro dog and scared of everything. I was also a bit scared as well to be honest. Didn't want anything to happen to him or for him to get into with other dogs. We are both doing well now! I really enjoyed the one on one training at the house so I could also focus my energy and attention to get confident which helped him be more confident as well. This training is a much for the owner as it is for the dog. Then following up with the group practices has been great as well. We get to continue to see how well Loki is doing and he really is doing well! I highly recommend this dynamic duo to help you and your dog to have a more fulfilling life together.

Our Team

David and Nicki Webb - Owners - DTE Asheville
David and Nicki Webb
Owners - DTE Asheville

David: I joined the Air Force after graduating from high school and ended up serving for over 21 years before retiring in 2011. Since retiring I have served in two different CEO roles for healthcare organizations where I enjoy ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare to the communities we serve. After moving to Asheville, my wife and I started looking for something that we could do together that would also positively serve our communities and as avid dog lovers, Dog Training Elite was a natural fit. We are so excited to meet and work with our WNC neighbors and help build an even stronger bond between them and their dogs!

Nicki: As a high school teacher, I have always enjoyed watching the learning process and that is even more fulfilling when it comes to training dogs. I absolutely love all animals but the strong bond that is created between a dog and owner is amazing to me. I am very excited to help you and your dog(s) strengthen your bond and improve your overall relationship with each other.

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