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

Service Dog Training in Austin, TX

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Our Service Dog Training Could Help:
Veterans or civilians with PTSD, anxiety, or depression
Children or adults with autism
Individuals with epilepsy
(participating locations)
Advanced medical training (participating locations)

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro

Service Dog Training in Austin, TX

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 in Austin, TX, 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 Positive 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 balanced 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.

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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 Training Elite in Austin Metro owner smiling with his dog in Austin, TX.

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro

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

    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 are often trained to support individuals with disabilities!

  2. Therapy Animal

    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.

  3. Emotional Support Animal

    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 in Austin Metro

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 Service Training Info

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro - PTSD Service Dog Training in Austin, TX. DTE

PTSD Service Dog

If you're looking to train a PTSD service dog in Austin, TX, Dog Training Elite is here to help. Our service dogs are trained to assist with symptoms such as anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and panic attacks, providing grounding emotional support.

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro - Psychiatric Service Dog Training in Austin, TX

Psychiatric Service Dog Training

Our psychiatric service dog training in Austin, TX helps individuals with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. We'll help train your dog to mitigate symptoms by offering emotional grounding and support during stressful situations.

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro - Mobility Service Dog Training in Austin, TX

Mobility Support Service Dog

Enhance your independence or help a loved one with specialized mobility service dog training in Austin, TX from Dog Training Elite. Our expert trainers teach dogs the skills they need to support their owners with mobility challenges.

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro - Autism Support Dog Training in Austin, TX

Autism Support Service Dog

Bring life-changing support to your family with Dog Training Elite's autism support dog training in Austin, TX. Our compassionate trainers work closely with your family and dog throughout the entire process, ensuring your pup is fully prepared to provide comfort, safety, and companionship.

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

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro

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 in Austin Metro.

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 in Austin Metro.
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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 in Austin, TX with Dog Training Elite.

We Are Committed to Making a Difference

Choose DTE for Austin Service Dog Training

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At Dog Training Elite, we are passionate about transforming lives through Austin service dog training. Our proven, balanced training methods 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 in Austin Metro and experience the difference that elite training and compassionate care can make.