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

German Shepherd Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

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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 Cincinnati, OH

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 Cincinnati, OH 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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

  • Darlene Doll
    Sep. 24, 2025
    This is my first time using Dog Training Elite and our first puppy in a long time. Our experience has been great and we are looking forward to having a Therapy Dog in the future. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone looking for great puppy training at any level!
  • Chastity Holler
    Sep. 4, 2025
    My dog Gracie is a bit of a firecracker! She has some issues like resource guarding and a lack of confidence, which sometimes leads to acting out in fear. I decided to reach out to Dog Training Elite for help. Scott and Jenn are incredible! They were incredibly patient with Gracie and me. Even my fiery Gracie loves Scott. It’s amazing to see her transform into a happy and well-behaved dog. Their training and Gracie’s happiness are totally worth every penny. I highly recommend them!
  • Alexandra Zeller
    Jan. 29, 2025
    I worked with DTE from the very start of my service dog journey. Finding those willing to help train a PTSD service dog for non veterans was excruciatingly difficult to find. Finding Jen, Scott and the crew was an absolute godsend. From day one, they sat down with me and discussed what I needed, what I was looking to accomplish and my goals. From there, we decided together that a Doberman was in my best interest for work. For the next couple of months, we worked together to find a breeder who had suitable service dog prospects. Then, as soon as she was able to come home, Sprout began training! After months of training (and continual refresher support now), Sprout has blossomed into my best friend and integral support. I used to never be able to leave the house, and just yesterday, me and Sprout went out for lunch, alone! Through their continual support and guidance, I've become a more confident handler and independent person. Sprout has evolved into a loving, sweet natured and well behaved working dog. She is absolutely amazing. Highly recommend DTE for anyone looking to better themselves, or their dogs!
  • Lindsey Williams
    Aug. 8, 2025
    Jen and Scott’s level of professionalism, and patience within our unique family setting, truly set them apart from any other dog training professionals I have worked with over the past 30 years. Thanks to their consistent scheduling and ever-caring demeanor, my 8 year old, his grandparents and myself, now feel extremely confident in handling our beautiful new Golden Retriever, Bee. We, as a family, feel we have been empowered to build the trusting and loving relationship every dog owner should be so lucky to experience in their lives. I truly feel  the time we have put into molding our Bee into the ideal companion has been a more-than-worthy investment. I would highly recommend Jen and Scott to anyone looking for guidance in welcoming their next fur-ever friend into their home. The entire experience, since day 1, has been an absolute pleasure!
  • Dori Colwell
    Aug. 1, 2025
    Scott and Jen are AMAZING to work with. When they came to the house to meet us and evaluate my Neko, they took the time to get to know her, her personality, and listened to my concerns about Neko's behavior and my expectations about her training. Scott gave me a couple of tips and things to do with her that I started on following their initial visit. I could already see a change in her behavior. I was nervous about how Neko would act at our first group session, but her behavior had changed so much (for the better) that I actually cried tears of joy when it was over. I cannot thank both of them enough and am extremely grateful to them for their understanding, help, and support. You cannot go wrong with DTE!
  • Kyla Bedel
    Jul. 21, 2025
    Scott and Jen are very friendly people and our golden retriever absolutely loves them. Our pup, Mav, has been training with them for about a year now and has grown a lot in that time. This was a great way for him to meet other dogs and work on his commands.
  • Sandra Kinney
    Jun. 29, 2025
    Scott and Jen are truly exceptional when it comes to dog training on a more personal level. They make the work fun and easy to understand. I’ve been able to reach them for problem solving and advice during more challenging stints with my black lab. They work with you and your dog’s personality to reach the goal task. They are a JOY to work with …which makes sense since the word is in their name. THANK YOU!!
  • David VanDyne
    Jun. 24, 2025
    We have used other dog trainers in the past and it was not a good experience. Finding Scott and Jen was such a blessing, they far exceeded our expectations! We are working with them to train my black lab as my service dog and the progress has been amazing. I have a traumatic brain injury and get overwhelmed at times with the training but their patience and willingness to work with me is so helpful. We have already been recommending them to those we know searching for dog training and will continue to do so. We plan to get another dog down the road and will be using them again!
  • Kyla Flora
    Jun. 4, 2025
    Scott and Jen's professional experience, coupled with their friendliness and kindness makes each meeting a pleasure. Even my children look forward to their visits. As a labrador breeder who has been around dogs and in the dog world ever since I was a teen, the fact that I learn something new every time they come speaks volumes about their knowledge. The gentleness and genuine love they show towards my puppies is so sweet to watch! You won't find a better trainer, and I am always ready to share their info with anyone needing a trainer for everything from basic puppy obedience to advanced service dog training.
  • Laura Sims
    May. 24, 2025
    Scott & Jen went way above and beyond for us. They are wonderful and very knowledgeable of what is needed to train your dog. Thank you both for everything!
  • Jennifer Chiles
    May. 22, 2025
    I cannot say enough wonderful things about Scott and Jen from Dog Training Elite of Greater Cincinnati. They worked with our beloved BoBo—affectionately known as “Bubby”—and turned him into the best therapy dog anyone could ask for. From day one, their professionalism, kindness, and deep understanding of canine behavior were evident. Scott and Jen took the time to understand BoBo’s unique personality and needs. Their training approach was compassionate, structured, and incredibly effective. They built a strong bond with BoBo and with us, making the training process feel more like a collaboration than a class. It was clear they genuinely cared about BoBo’s success—not just as a well-behaved dog, but as a trusted therapy companion. Thanks to their guidance, BoBo now brings comfort, joy, and emotional support to those around him. Whether it’s with our family or in public settings, he carries himself with the calm, confident presence that only exceptional training can instill. If you’re looking for skilled, dedicated, and genuinely caring trainers, I wholeheartedly recommend Scott and Jen. They changed our lives—and BoBo’s—for the better, and I am forever grateful.
  • Molly Hall
    May. 10, 2025
    I have two dogs, one a very large Chesapeake Bay retriever, and the other a medium rescue terrier-pit who was only six months old when Scott and Jenn started to work with them. Their work with my dogs enabled me to enjoy my dogs as ‘civilized’ members of the family! Our training sessions were joyful and laughter filled. The dogs loved them and they loved the dogs. I recommend Scott and Jenn of Dog Training Elite without reservation!
  • Carri Burgjohann
    May. 4, 2025
    A few months ago I began working with the trainers from Elite. My dog is a senior (14 years old!) and had developed some pretty bad habits over the years and I let them continue. I work from home and he’s become increasingly disruptive during work calls and rowdy at all the wrong times. I had let him sleep in my bed with me for years even though I knew that wasn’t setting either of us up to win. I was embarrassed that I’d let it get this way and knew I wanted better for him and for me. I wanted him to be confident and independent and I was concerned that training would somehow change our relationship. As I worked with the team and learned new skills alongside my dog, I found BOTH of us gained confidence! I was never made to feel ashamed that my dog struggled with his behavior or the role I’ve played in. The team taught skills and ideas with humor, grace, and ingenuity and I always had homework in between sessions. Now my dog sleeps in his crate at night, doesn’t make a peep during work calls, understands and performs basic commands, and we are communicating much more smoothly. He’s confident when people are at my house and we continue to work on skills because I know how to make it fun. It’s true: you can teach an old dog new tricks! And, I even learned some myself that I’ll be able to take with me into the future for any dog who calls my house home. I’m grateful for the team at Elite—however many years my dog has left on this earth our friendship will be better because I made the investment and was willing to ask for help.
  • Sara Bennett-Wealer
    Apr. 20, 2025
    We knew our pitfall rescue was a good boy, but with such a powerful dog we wanted to feel confident we could communicate with and control him both at home and with other animals and people. Scott and Jen have been amazing at showing us how to help Bagel be his best self. They help troubleshoot when we have questions and the skills we've learned have helped us be better friends and owners to our dog. Hiring them was a great investment!
  • Olivia Cleri
    Apr. 16, 2025
    I, hands down, have the best dog ever, and it is thanks to Scott and Jen at Cincinnati Dog Training Elite. They make training fun and effective and I was able to start my journey with a service dog confidently and with ongoing guidance and support.
  • Allison Sears
    Apr. 14, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati are so lovely. My dog and I had to take a break from trainings because of my schedule, but the minute she saw Scott she started excitement crying and bouncing around to see him. They're very knowledgeable, very patient (especially when I'm not lol), and so encouraging. I definitely recommend Scott & Jen and their team :)
  • Allison Connors
    Apr. 14, 2025
    Jen and Scott are amazing to work with. Our three dogs were under the age of 3 when we first called DTE. It felt like a lot and I was overwhelmed. I reached out to a few other trainers and the cost was either too much or I felt judged for not being prepared for having three dogs. From the moment I called DTE, I felt heard and my overwhelmed feeling felt understood. We talked out training options and then they came out to meet us and our pups. Having them assess the dogs in person and give us a plan to start training our middle and most anxious dog first, took such a weight off my shoulders. The change in our middle dog was almost immediate and we found he even looked forward to the training sessions with Jen and Scott❤️ Fast forward to a year later, all three of our dogs are trained, with at least one working towards being a therapy dog! Just this past weekend we sat outside at a restaurant with all three dogs and people stopped to compliment us on how well behaved they were. All the credit goes to DTE! The group sessions are a plus and so helpful. Jen and Scott are also always available and quick to respond with any questions or concerns.
  • Billie Bush
    Apr. 12, 2025
    They are extremely kind and wonderful to work with!! Amazing people and they do amazing work!
  • Sy Miller
    Apr. 11, 2025
    We are beyond thrilled with the exceptional service dog training program that our beloved dog, Baymax, completed. From start to finish, this program exceeded our expectations in every way. The in-house training was tailored to meet all of our specific needs, ensuring that Baymax received the focused and personalized instruction required to succeed as a service dog. The 12+ week training program was thorough, effective, and truly transformative. The trainers demonstrated remarkable expertise, patience, and dedication, guiding him every step of the way. Thanks to their hard work and the program's well-structured curriculum, Baymax is now fully equipped to support me in living a positive, fulfilling life. What sets this program apart is the continuous learning opportunities they offer even after the training is complete. These additional options provide ongoing guidance and reinforcement, ensuring that both Baymax and we, as his family, can continue to grow and thrive together. We cannot recommend this program highly enough. Baymax is now not just our service dog but also the key to enhancing our daily life. We are endlessly grateful for the impact this program has had on our lives, and we wholeheartedly encourage anyone in need of a service dog to consider this outstanding program.
  • Emily Campbell
    Apr. 2, 2025
    A caring, personalized training program for our dog family that works! We have had the privilege of welcoming 7 dogs into our home over the years and our seventh tested us. With Alex and Breanna, we discussed ways to incorporate basic commands into our lifestyle with clear weekly practice. We are so thankful for everything we learned. Rory (and family) are doing great! Thank you so much!
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Cincinnati, OH 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 Cincinnati 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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Beagle

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Pitbull

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Border Collie

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French Bulldog

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 Cincinnati.
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Victory Begins With Elite Education

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

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Cincinnati, OH

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 Cincinnati, OH!