FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Boston, MA

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 Boston.
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 Boston for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Boston.
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 Boston.
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 Boston.
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 in Boston Metro

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Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite in Boston Metro. 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 in Boston Metro has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
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Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite in Boston Metro 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 in Boston Metro 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 in Boston Metro, 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

  • Russ Morris
    Sep. 13, 2024
    Matt k did a great job. Couldn’t be happier with the whole staff.
  • Michelle Grajeda
    Sep. 12, 2024
    I am very happy with my experience! My dog Petey is a different dog compared to who he was in the beginning. We are much happier together !
  • Courtney Tompkins
    Sep. 4, 2024
    Marcus and Patrick were fantastic. They helped us train our yellow lab puppy who had a lot of energy and sass shall we say. The trainers are very knowledgeable and helpful. Whenever we had a question about a behavior that was a challenge in between sessions with our puppy, we could just reach out and they were willing to help and guide us on what to do. Everyone was super friendly. They even accommodated my work schedule which was very helpful. Also, the group classes that we have had after the one on one sessions were a bit far for us and we were able to attend another group's classes that were closer which was really nice. It works because they use the same methods. Overall, great experience, worth the money. We highly recommend them!
  • Shanna Moores
    Jul. 17, 2024
    It’s been nothing but great working with the trainers here. My biggest struggle was the confidence to be able to train my dog and just a couple months later I feel much more confident already and I’m amazed how far we’ve gotten in training. All the trainers we’ve had have given us great advice that’s helped us go even farther with training. I would recommend this place in a heartbeat to anyone looking for training!
  • John Serafino
    Jul. 11, 2024
    The professional and courteous trainer Matt showed me exactly how to train my dog to get the results I expected. I will continue to train my dog using the skills I learned.
  • Emily green
    Jul. 3, 2024
    Thanks so much for your help! Frankie is still a spicy girl, but I understand how to manage it, and it's restored my confidence. And she's happier as a result. Couldn't have gotten here without the insight and encouragement of Matt Fennell -- thank you, and thanks to Echo and Nova, too!
  • Michael Bouvier
    May. 30, 2024
    Great people to do business with.They arrive when they say they will and the trainers are very knowledgeable and professional. They explain what the dog needs and how to train them .
  • Cedric Crawford
    May. 25, 2024
    When it came to sessions for training. They always made themselves available for what time worked for me!! Which was very important with my schedule. They offer group sessions in multiple locations, which made it easy to find one on a weekend to attend. All the trainers are very knowledgeable and I felt like they all love what they do. The amount of attention given in each and every session (private or group) was amazing. Definitely would recommend them to anyone who may be struggling with obedience with their friend.
  • Deanna Greco
    May. 9, 2024
    Dog Training Elite of Central Massachusetts is amazing. The office staff is highly professional, organized, and kind. Whenever I call in, they are always so personable and helpful. Our trainer Matt was a godsend. We have a highly reactive german shepherd. We have tried other training facilities and private trainers that allegedly specialize in german shepherds with no results other than wasting our time and money. Within 30 minutes of meeting our dog, Matt had her full attention and obedience. We were awestruck. No one had ever been able to take control of her like that or coherently explain to us what my dog needed. In all reality, he trained us to be better pet parents and provided us with the tools and knowledge necessary to better serve our dog. We are a lot more confident in interacting with our pup and bringing her out into public. We could not be more grateful to the whole Dog Training Elite team!
  • Diana Kierein, LICSW
    May. 4, 2024
    We and Happy have really appreciated and enjoyed the dog training at our home. The teachers have each been so helpful with plenty of techniques, strategies and answers for our questions. We are excited to pass the test and move toward having Happy become our therapy dog. All our thanks! DK & MS
  • Cassandra Cuddy
    May. 1, 2024
    From the scheduling to the personal service, the attention to detail with our dog. The way that Marcus is not only educating the dog, but educating us as a family. We can’t say enough!!!!
  • Sila Rosario
    Apr. 30, 2024
    Amazing. I have a 2 year old pitbull mix that is wild. I was thinking about giving her up. Matt came in and taught me how to trainer her. He showed up every week and held us accountable, gave us homework and praised us on what we did right. Even after she bit him…… I thought there was no hope. I glad we got this training done. I am beyond grateful for him. Worth every single penny!
  • shannon guimaraes
    Mar. 23, 2024
    Awesome team! Very kind and assertive. Always on time and very effective training. Very knowledgeable.
  • Matt Parr
    Jan. 15, 2024
    The team at Dog Training Elite has been nothing short of amazing with my 6 month old lab puppy. We are training him to be a service dog and the week to week improvements based on Dog Training Elite’s curriculum have been immense. The team of Marcus, Jamie, and Barbara have given me and my puppy the time, guidance, and confidence to progress each step on the way to our goal. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite for any level of training for your dog.
  • zac taylor
    Jan. 24, 2024
    Great people to work with.
  • Thomas McIsaac
    Jan. 23, 2024
    I have been very pleased with the training from Elite. The trainer has been effective and it’s making a difference for our very spirited Boston Terrier.
  • Maya Dube
    Jan. 20, 2024
    We had a wonderful experience with Dog Training Elite! Marcus is so knowledgeable and caring about the dogs he works with. He helped us train our German Shepherd rescue and the results were almost immediate. Using his techniques, our pup has become less reactive and a better listener. He also teaches some pretty cool tricks! Overall, this company is outstanding and we have enjoyed every moment!
  • Andrea Adams
    Jan. 11, 2024
    Professional dog trainers who know what they are doing. So glad we chose Elite. Our rescue dog was extremely fearful and difficult to train. Marcus and Matt are dog whisperers!
  • Rita-Marie Auble
    Jan. 4, 2024
    The training provided was exactly what we needed. Everyone we dealt with was amazing! Highly recommend Dog training Elite Boston!
  • John Casey
    Jan. 10, 2024
    Great results with our dog as a result of the professional training we received.

Our Team

Michaela Macchia - Owner / Lead Trainer
Michaela Macchia
Owner / Lead Trainer

Michaela decided to take her passion for building relationships with animals to the next level by opening her own Dog Training Elite business. She has two dogs of her own, Quinn and Tiki. Their favorite activities are hiking, swimming, and cuddling in bed.

Michaela is excited to help others connect with their dogs by fostering relationships and building confidence.

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Marcus DiBenedetto - Owner / Lead Trainer
Marcus DiBenedetto
Owner / Lead Trainer

Marcus has always been around pets from having dogs, cats, rabbits, and chickens. Marcus has spent the previous 3 years as an outreach counselor for individuals with mental health illnesses and has seen the impact being connected to ones community can do for people. His passion for training dogs comes from seeing the bond between dog and handler deepen as they continue to work together.

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Jason Spring - Owner / Trainer
Jason Spring
Owner / Trainer

Jason began working with hunting dogs learning from his father at an early age. He joined the Air Force at age 18 and spent 10 years serving around the world. In the military, he worked with K9s as a decoy. A future goal is to begin a nonprofit assisting veterans with service dogs. Upon his return from service, Jason went to school to train mobility and psychiatric service dogs. He's always ready for difficult cases too. "I truly enjoy understanding canine behavior and helping dogs with aggression or anxiety. It's wonderful to see the transformation as a dog becomes better balanced. " Jason rescued Penrose, a 6yr old American Bully, and she has since become his personal service dog. When not helping with your dog; you can find Jason playing hockey, golf, hiking, camping or hunting.

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