An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training in Austin, TX.
Dog Training Elite

German Shepherd Dog Training in Austin, TX

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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 Austin, TX

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 Austin, TX 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 in Austin Metro 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 Austin 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 in Austin Metro 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

  • pilar herrera
    Oct. 22, 2026
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We cannot say enough amazing things about Dog Training Elite Hill Country! They did an absolutely incredible job with our Bernedoodle, Nala Gene! 🐶❤️ We are beyond happy with the results and so grateful for the time, patience, and dedication Gray and Garrison put into training her. It’s clear that they truly care about the dogs they work with and want to see them succeed. We have seen such a positive difference in Nala Gene, and we couldn’t be happier with our experience. If you’re looking for a team that genuinely cares, provides excellent training, and delivers amazing results, we HIGHLY recommend Dog Training Elite Hill Country! Thank you for everything you’ve done for our sweet Nala Gene🐾💕
  • Daniel Decker
    Oct. 22, 2026
    Michael was great!! My fiancé and I are very satisfied with the progress that are dog showed. Worth every penny
  • Frank Flores
    Oct. 21, 2026
    Michael Kwan is an exceptional trainer, and we couldn’t be happier to have him as our training partner at Dog Training Elite Austin. He is incredibly knowledgeable, polite, and patient, not just with our pup, Maxx, but with me as well. Maxx has grown leaps and bounds under his guidance. Seeing how well he responds to Michael’s methods has us seriously considering taking his training all the way to service dog level. If you’re looking for high-caliber, structured training, I can’t recommend Michael and Dog Training Elite Austin enough!
  • ssam stuchbery
    Oct. 20, 2026
    Michael has helped our dog so much! 10/10 would recommend!
  • Savannah Rubbico
    Oct. 16, 2026
    We worked with Michael to train our dog, Auggie. Michael was awesome. You can immediately tell he has experience training dogs. He’s realistic, thoughtful, patient, and diligent. Our dog is not only better trained but he’s a happier dog because of it. Michael was always on time and ready to go. You can tell he’s exceptionally good at training because of his own dog, but he’s also gentle and very loving with the dogs when acceptable. Couldn’t recommend him more!
  • Natalie
    Oct. 15, 2026
    We worked with Michael, and he is the best! Our dog, Tink, was very reactive and very frightened of most people. We have seen so much improvement over the course of the program, and it is all thanks to him! He is so patient with both us and Tink as we get the hang of each skill, and we truly appreciate all of his work. We are so much more confident in taking Tink to social situations, and she has also found a new confidence in herself. Could not recommend this enough!
  • Erica Overgaard
    Oct. 9, 2026
    We had an amazing experience working with Michael at Dog Training Elite! Our 1-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback was extremely reactive, and the improvement we’ve seen has been incredible. He’s still a work in progress, but he’s come such a long way, and we feel so much more confident handling him. Michael is knowledgeable, patient, and has a way of making training easy and fun! He gave us practical tools we could use at home and really understood our dog’s personality and challenges. We couldn’t be happier with the progress we’ve made and would absolutely recommend Michael and Dog Training Elite! Definitely a 5-star experience!
  • Erica
    Oct. 9, 2026
    We had an amazing experience working with Michael at Dog Training Elite! Our 1-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback was extremely reactive, and the improvement we’ve seen has been incredible. He’s still a work in progress, but he’s come such a long way, and we feel so much more confident handling him. Michael is knowledgeable, patient, and has a way of making training easy and fun! He gave us practical tools we could use at home and really understood our dog’s personality and challenges. We couldn’t be happier with the progress we’ve made and would absolutely recommend Michael and Dog Training Elite! Definitely a 5-star experience!
  • Sarah Haugaard
    Oct. 9, 2026
    I found Dog Training Elite-Austin after working with two other companies for training; and my experience with DTE-Austin has been far superior! We are working with Payton (trainer) for both obedience and service dog training. Danny (my pup) started off shy and Payton was able to develop trust with him at the first meeting. Payton has a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience when it comes to animal (and human) behavior. She is tremendously organized and her communication is outstanding! Every training session is followed with detailed notes, tips and practice techniques that make practice easy for Danny and me. I’m blown away by the progress Danny has made in such a short time – thanks to Payton, I consistently get compliments on having such a well-behaved dog. I’d recommend DTE and Payton for anything from obedience to specialized service task training… she is truly a dog whisperer!
  • Ally Walker
    Oct. 8, 2026
    Dog Training Elite has truly been life-changing for me and my dogs! Before finding Dog Training Elite, I had worked with three different trainers. While positive reinforcement training provided a good foundation, we eventually reached a point where my dogs weren’t progressing any further. With the guidance of Jenny at Dog Training Elite, we transitioned to e-collar training, and the results have been extraordinary! Today, Bella and Olive walk beautifully off-leash in a heel, follow commands reliably, and have achieved a level of obedience I never thought possible. I constantly receive compliments on how incredibly well-behaved they are! What sets Dog Training Elite apart is their expertise, individualized approach, and understanding that every dog has different training needs. Their methods have given my dogs and me an entirely new level of freedom, confidence, and trust. Dog Training Elite hasn’t just improved my dogs’ behavior. They’ve genuinely improved our quality of life. After experiencing several different trainers and training methods, I can confidently say Dog Training Elite is exceptional. I couldn’t recommend them more highly!
  • Jennifer Read
    Oct. 8, 2026
    We absolutely love Dog Training Elite! We couldn’t recommend them more! After only a few sessions, our very rambunctious golden is a whole new dog. The training program has been so beneficial and we’re constantly learning new ways to help our dog succeed. We appreciate the patience, consistency, and dedication that go into every session.
  • Seirra Lovell
    Oct. 8, 2026
    I had such an incredible experience with them! My 165 lb Great Dane is always the most attentive, well behaved dog in any circumstance. The trainers are amazing and they are always willing to work around my schedule whenever I need. I’ll definitely be calling them when I get another dog!!
  • Maribeth Quinn
    Oct. 8, 2026
    I cannot recommend Dig Training Elite Austin enough. They are a delight to work with from talking about different packages to billing - but the most impressive part of this company - the trainers. We LOVE Payton. She is so knowledgeable, easy to work with — and we were able to see results from the first session. She is amazing!! We tried another company when our puppy first came home - and the difference is not even comparable. If you are looking to have a well behaved dog — this is the place. We have been so very pleased. Five stars in Every aspect!!
  • D Tucker
    Sep. 23, 2026
    We were very happy with the training results with our corgi, Winston. Garrison was patient, kind and knowledgeable. We are planning to continue learning through our group classes. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Hill Country.
  • M J
    Sep. 16, 2026
    I would select our trainer again because our dog has made progress after every session!! We are given tasks to work with her on and she is now an amazingly obedient dog! Her German Shepherd side blossomed with the guidance and tools we were given. Thank you M!
  • Xavier C.
    Sep. 10, 2026
    Dear Michael, Thank you for such an impactful experience. You’ve dramatically improved my relationship with Zena and my understanding of what it truly means to lead a pack with patience, consistency, love, and confidence. Our time during the one-on-one sessions has been incredibly memorable, and I truly appreciate the care and dedication you bring to your work. The lessons have gone beyond simple obedience — they’ve helped strengthen the relationship, communication, and trust between Zena and me. I would highly recommend your training & expertise to anyone looking to change the lives of their family as a whole. Thank you again for everything. We’re excited for the group training sessions next!
  • Heather Severson
    Sep. 6, 2026
    We had an amazing experience with our trainer Mike while working with our German Shepherd, Luna, from about 3–6 months old. He was incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and consistent throughout the entire process. And took the time to answer any random questions. Mike taught basic obedience while also helping us understand how to communicate with our girl and reinforce good behaviors at home. dialing in on focus, manners, and overall behavior. Training was also focused on building a strong foundation with our puppy. He understood the breed and knew how to work with a young, energetic German Shepherd. We were so grateful to get to partner with Mike and would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for someone who is knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate about dogs.
  • jane haley
    Sep. 4, 2026
    Garrison was utterly incredible! Gray began the process and Garrison, followed, arriving weekly to train my crazy pup, who was quite headstrong, a very experienced doordasher, and would practically maul anyone visiting out of sheer joy that he had a bit of a problem containing! Garrison was compassionate yet firm, with emphasis on positivity, affirming Boyd when he followed commands. He was also very knowledgeable, clear with his tone of voice and patient. Because of my hip replacement and Boyd being a very strong and large dog, I could not take Boyd for walks for fear he would pull me to the ground. I'm now able to take him on leisurely walks and even out in public now and then. One of the best benefits of the training is Boyd listens to me now and in fact , demonstrates how eager he is to please me. I am so very grateful to Garrison and Gray and the entire Dog Training Elite group for the clear communication throughout training, the positivity and the professionalism, in addition to all the support!
  • Alba Nieves
    Aug. 26, 2026
    This team is willing to work with you on your dog training needs. Adjust the training approaches and pivot when needed. Very virtuous and personable and willing to address any issues as they arise. They really care for their customers. Money well invested for your self and your K9 companion.
  • Nathan Culver
    Aug. 25, 2026
    Not to start too depressing. I lost my service partner of years and my lifestyle was drastically affected. Being somewhat lost in the woods I contacted Dog Training Elite. Talk about literal life savers. Jenny listened to my situation and service animal needs. She assisted me through this whole journey from recommended breed, acquiring my new partner, and training program. Michael, the trainer assigned for us was absolutely a rock star. He had no issue at all working with my disability and getting Sailor and me trained, up to speed, and back to living in a much shorter amount of time than I expected. His understanding of, and interaction with my dog was beyond impressive. Whatever training needs you may have this is by and far the best service to use. Definitely a 5 star operation.
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Austin, TX 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 in Austin Metro 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.

Additional Breeds We Train

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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 in Austin Metro.
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An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for Austin german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Austin, TX

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 Austin, TX!