A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist in Asheville, NC.

Behavioral Solutions

Dog Training Elite Asheville

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Dog Training Elite Asheville online booking

Request Free Assessment

Booking Request


Dog Training Elite Asheville online booking

Request Free Assessment
A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of Asheville dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Asheville Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist in Asheville. NC, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

See Training Packages

Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Dog Socialization Classes. Dog Training Elite
Socialization

Our dog socialization classes teach dogs how to interact positively with other dogs and people, which helps reduce fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Stop Puppy Biting with Dog Training Elite
Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Reactive Dog Training. Dog Training Elite
Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training. DTE
Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs. DTE
Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Excessive Barking Training. DTE
Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Staying and Coming Training. DTE
Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

Dog Training Elite Asheville -
Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Dog Training Elite Asheville - Dog & Puppy Potty Trainer. Dog Training Elite
Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

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!

A dog with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite Asheville.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

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FAQs

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.
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.
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.

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.

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use techniques rooted in positive reinforcement to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs. Our methods focus on rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, creating a positive association that motivates dogs to repeat those actions.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt positive behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite Asheville.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle using positive reinforcement in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning with positive reinforcement shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite Asheville.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist in Asheville, NC

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Asheville.
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Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist in Asheville, NC, Dog Training Elite is the top choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach focused on positive reinforcement, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!