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 Charlotte.
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 Charlotte for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Charlotte.
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 Charlotte.
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 Charlotte.
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 Charlotte
Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Charlotte. 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.
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 Charlotte has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Charlotte 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.
Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite Charlotte can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
In the Community
At Dog Training Elite Charlotte, 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.
Shawn Gantkowski
Owner, Trainer
I come from a background in customer relations and business management in the automotive industry. After years of the corporate lifestyle I found it was time to move on and build something the entire family was passionate about while at the same time utilizing our skillsets. When looking for that opportunity to build something together we first started by asking ourselves what it is we wanted to do. That answer was evident, we were passionate about helping others and giving back to our community, now we just needed the right vehicle to work from. We have always had dogs in our households and like most, considered them our children and a large part of our family. Our dogs are usually better taken care of than we are in most situations! With the growing demand for quality trainers in the Charlotte and surrounding areas we knew this is where we could leave our “mark”.
Dog Training Elite Charlotte seeks to be a conduit to provide those pet owners that opportunity to not only bond, but to help grow their relationships with their dogs through the high-end training provided by the Dog Training Elite modalities. It is our vision to help as many families as possible create happy, healthy, and obedient dogs that would make any pet owner proud. In my spare time you can find me reading books, spending a day outdoors in nature, visiting local parks and lakes, or just enjoying the day with the family.
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Sharon Gantkowski
Owner, Trainer, Office Manager
Growing up, my family always had multiple dogs in our households, and I realized how important it was for a dog and its owners to train together to enrich their lives and establish that forever-bond. Having a passion to work with Service and Therapy dogs is the reason I wanted to get involved with the Dog Training Elite’s Training modalities. Coming from a background in Early Childhood Education has enhanced my ability to teach families, including children, how to train their four-legged family members with confidence.
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Angela Gantkowski
Trainer, Social Media Manager
I am an Appalachian State University alum with a BSBA in Marketing with a concentration in Digital Marketing. I am excited to expand my knowledge on video editing through different outlets such as YouTube, Instagram, etc.
If I am not training or video editing you can find me at a racetrack supporting my friends as well as getting footage for my next post/video.
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Addison Gantkowski
Puppy Expert, Dog Lover
As a middle schooler I help out in the neighborhood taking care of our neighbor’s dogs when they are away at work. I am always looking to further my knowledge on dog behavior and how dogs respond to the training we provide. My favorite part of this job is getting to meet all the new dogs—especially the puppies! When I’m not at school or helping out with the training, you can find me hanging out with my friends, listening to music, or playing with my dogs.
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