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

Service Dog Training in Boston, MA

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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 Boston Metro

Service Dog Training in Boston, MA

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 Boston, MA, 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

  • Franklin Smith
    Oct. 4, 2025
    Trainers I worked with like Patrick and Matt are the best!!
  • Alex
    Sep. 18, 2025
    Trainer Laydon came to my home, was amazing with my cane corso, training was informative and very steady I never felt rushed. You can tell she loves her job and I look forward to more sessions. Thank you Laydon!
  • Selasie Djokotoe
    Sep. 15, 2025
    Tiffany did an amazing job taking her time to know boss and explain all the obedience training that will help him. We tried instant crate training to access where boss is at and what we need to do to continue to make him a better dog. He jumped a lot when Tiffany came and she started redirecting that energy.
  • Christina Helbert
    Jul. 18, 2025
    Tiffany was incredible during our initial meeting- she was very expreienced, patient, kind, and listened well. We felt very heard, validated, and hopeful for our four-legged friend to become her most happy and calm self! Laydon has been an incredible dog trainer! Her knowledge, patience, advice, care and help has helped Tilly so much, and us "humans" now have the tools to better understand and train our dog. An absolutely astounding company!
  • Donna Ricci
    Aug. 14, 2025
    Tiffany is an outstanding trainer, she listened to our concerns, addressed them. Tiffany asked many questions about our dog Tyson before she even started the training session. Tiffany worked with Tyson and us to resolve concerns in a positive, friendly manner. I look forward to working with Tiffany again!
  • Tina Chaput
    Sep. 9, 2025
    Tiffany is helping us now with our second puppy (almost 8 months)! She has an incredible understanding of different dog personalities and their needs. She is so patient and supportive of my training as the dog parent, I’m so grateful!! My dog babies are growing into great dogs!
  • Srikanta Jois
    Sep. 3, 2025
    Had an awesome experience. Thank you for training our stubborn golden retriever puppy. She is doing great and not leash pulling, jumping and follows all commands.
  • Josh Hammers
    Aug. 29, 2025
    Extremely pleased with Dog Training Elite and their trainers! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a great training team.
  • Liz Sher
    Aug. 29, 2025
    It was great meeting Tiffany. We talked about and girl and how we are going to move forward. We even taught my girl the paw command.
  • Sue Connaughton
    Aug. 21, 2025
    We appreciate the experience with Elite Dog Training. We worked extensively with Matt who always gave constructive feedback and provided guidance for me and my dog throughout each session. At the end of each session, Matt provided us with tips and “homework” to practice prior to our next session. This was helpful and held us accountable to try everything we could to ensure our dog was successful. I highly recommend Elite Dog Training for anyone who needs a confidence boost when setting appropriate boundaries with their dog!
  • Jane flink
    Aug. 13, 2025
    Tiffany made my dog’s first visit to Home Depot, more comfortable, and easier than I could’ve imagined. So very happy with my dogs progress in mine too!
  • Timothy Hall
    Aug. 12, 2025
    We had a great training session. Belle Amie is doing very well in training. Great team of trainers.
  • Jacob Kirschner
    Jul. 31, 2025
    Our dog Atlas has been reactive ever since he hit 8 months old. We couldn’t take him to group classes anymore because of his dog reactivity and we gave up on training in any sort of group environment. We were drawn to dog training elite because of the one on one sessions it offered. We signed up in the hopes that we could get Atlas a little more under control as we also had a newborn in the house. They did not disappoint, the variety of trainers we saw were all very knowledgeable and helpful in different ways. After our first few one on one sessions, we were encouraged to join a group class. I was extremely hesitant to take atlas because I was afraid of him reacting. But, Our first group class went so well and I was shocked. He had an initial reaction but our trainer Marcus took over for us and corrected him. After that, not a single reaction the rest of the hour. The second group class went even better. No reactions whatsoever, the trainer didn’t even need to step in. Atlas is so much more well behaved now that he is well trained. I know new dogs, people, and situations still make him anxious. But now he is able to take these things in stride and choose to react in a better way. If you’re on the fence about this training I would recommend it to anyone struggling with a reactive dog. The picture is of atlas at a group class In Home Depot. Before training he never would have been able to sit still while other dogs were around.
  • Kelsey Wolf
    Jul. 29, 2025
    Tiffany was excellent and answered all of our questions! We're feeling a lot better about taking on the training of our new puppy!
  • Luann Smith
    Jul. 25, 2025
    Tiffany once again did a great job. She went through the training documentation, explained everything and answered my questions. We got the e-collar on and worked on some commands with that. She followed up thru email with suggestions of things that could help. My dog Pumpkin likes and trusts her. As do I. LuAnn Smith
  • IRENE Butler
    Jul. 23, 2025
    I’ve had several trainers work with us and what’s nice is the different ideas and methods each has.Tiffany’s approach was refreshing and had me thinking differently. We are going to try some new things this week and maybe my dog will respond more positively with this different approach.
  • Wrong Side of Heavan
    Jul. 16, 2025
    Tiffany was very professional and knowledgeable. Was very happy for her direction today.
  • Jena Pantano
    Jul. 15, 2025
    Truly Exceptional Training Experience We have been working with Dog Training Elite since Tully (Tallulah) was a puppy, starting with their puppy sessions and continuing through adult sessions to prepare for the Public Access Test. We just completed our final adult lesson before the test, and I truly believe this is the best training program available. We trained in different locations, which was perfect for exposing Tully to new environments. Every trainer we worked with had different tricks up their sleeve for all kinds of behaviors. No matter what challenge came up, someone on the team had a helpful strategy ready to go. We worked mostly with Matt K and Tiffany for individual lessons, and they have been incredible. Their guidance, patience, and ability to clearly explain things made each session effective and enjoyable. The group classes at Boston Common are also one of our favorite parts. Tully has made so much progress in that setting, and we always walk away with something new and valuable. A huge thank you to Marcus as well. Anytime I felt overwhelmed or unsure about Tully’s behavior, I sent an email to the team, and Marcus always responded with thoughtful, detailed advice. His ongoing support between sessions has been incredibly reassuring and helpful. Thanks to Dog Training Elite, people constantly compliment how well-behaved Tully is. We’ve learned so much and built a solid foundation that we’re now carrying into task training for service work. If you’re looking for a training program that truly works and a team that genuinely cares about your dog’s success, this is it. I’ve looked into other programs, and I would recommend Dog Training Elite over any of them. They are hands down the best for all kinds of training needs.
  • Yuliya Sukennik
    Jul. 15, 2025
    We’ve been training our American Bully, Blue “Bun”, with Richard and Matt and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! From the very first session, it was clear that they truly understand dogs and love what they do. Blue is always excited to work with them, and it’s amazing to see how much she enjoys the learning process. The course has been absolutely awesome, not only is Blue progressing with each session, but we’re also learning so much as owners. Richard and Matt explain everything clearly, are incredibly patient, and tailor their approach to meet our dog’s unique personality and needs. We feel more confident, connected, and in sync with our pup thanks to their guidance. Highly recommend their training — it’s a game-changer for both dogs and their humans! 🐾
  • kai gannon
    Jul. 10, 2025
    Haven't even started training yet but she was very helpful, she answered every question we had, she explained the ecollar usage and how it's not used to be harmful, and she took us through the whole process, and even helped me figure out a different payment plan. She was very respectful in our home and our doggy loved her! he could not stop sniffing the other dogs on her 🤣 can't wait to start classes 😁
A Dog Training Elite in Boston Metro owner smiling with his dog in Boston, MA.

Dog Training Elite in Boston 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
  2. 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!

  3. Therapy Animal
  4. 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.

  5. Emotional Support Animal
  6. 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 Boston 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 Boston Metro - PTSD Service Dog Training in Boston, MA. DTE

PTSD Service Dog

If you're looking to train a PTSD service dog in Boston, MA, 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 Boston Metro - Psychiatric Service Dog Training in Boston, MA

Psychiatric Service Dog Training

Our psychiatric service dog training in Boston, MA 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 Boston Metro - Mobility Service Dog Training in Boston, MA

Mobility Support Service Dog

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

Dog Training Elite in Boston Metro - Seizure Response Dog Training in Boston, MA

Medical Response Dog Training

If you are in need of a seizure response dog in Boston, MA, Dog Training Elite can help. Our training program is designed to help individuals with epilepsy regain independence and confidence.

Dog Training Elite in Boston Metro - Autism Support Dog Training in Boston, MA

Autism Support Service Dog

Bring life-changing support to your family with Dog Training Elite's autism support dog training in Boston, MA. 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 Boston service dog training with Dog Training Elite.

Dog Training Elite in Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, MA with Dog Training Elite.

We Are Committed to Making a Difference

Choose DTE for Boston Service Dog Training

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At Dog Training Elite, we are passionate about transforming lives through Boston 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 Boston Metro and experience the difference that elite training and compassionate care can make.