Two dog owners and a group of pups in our Cleveland dog socialization classes - contact Dog Training Elite to schedule your free consultation today!

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Socialization Dog Training

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

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Our Socialization Dog Training Could Help:

Reduce anxiety
Improve dog and other animal interactions
Build confidence with people
Reduce fear-based aggression
Encourage calm behavior in public
Teach proper responses to distractions
Strengthen bond with owner
Foster positive play

Dog Training Elite

Cleveland Dog Socialization Classes

Socialization is crucial for a dog’s development, significantly impacting their anxiety levels, aggressive tendencies, and overall well-being. At Dog Training Elite, we recognize this importance and offer socialization training to help your pup feel comfortable around different people, animals, and unfamiliar places.

We introduce socialization in a controlled and structured way. Once you and our trainers are confident in your dog’s obedience training, we gradually introduce them to our Cleveland dog socialization classes and public settings. By prioritizing obedience first, we ensure your dog has a strong foundation of self-control and responsiveness, making the process smoother and more successful.

At Dog Training Elite, we are committed to minimizing stress for both you and your dog. We only use positive reinforcement techniques and involve you from the very beginning. Whether you’re out for a walk, visiting a friend, or navigating a busy public space, you’ll have confidence in your abilities and your dog’s behavior.

Call us today to schedule your free consultation!

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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!

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FAQs

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.
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 Cleveland.
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.
Three lab puppies experiencing new things together at Dog Training Elite's Cleveland dog and puppy socialization classes.

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

When to Socialize Your Puppy

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Socialization for dogs should be happening throughout their lifetime. Still, getting a good start as early as possible is always best.

Socialization for puppies starts at just three weeks old as they begin to engage with their littermates and the world around them. The “sensitive period of socialization,” when puppies are primed and ready to try new things, is from 3-14 weeks of age. Because puppies can go to new homes at around eight weeks old, you only have a small window to get that necessary socialization training done.

You can start Cleveland dog socialization classes with DTE as soon as you bring your puppy home at eight weeks old! Our classes are puppy safe and provide an excellent opportunity for your puppy to meet new dogs and people while having new experiences outside your home.

Multiple dogs sitting on a bench during a group class with Dog Training Elite.

Dog Training Elite

What Do Our Cleveland Dog Socialization Classes Look Like?

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Puppy and dog socialization is not about teaching new commands or obedience but creating a positive experience around new stimuli. Socialization can look like taking them around your neighborhood, letting them hear and smell things at their own pace, and offering plenty of positive reinforcement and soft treats. It can also look like introducing them to a friend's healthy dog in a safe place and allowing them to greet the dog and learn about social cues and behavior from them, all while offering treats and praise.

Our socialization classes teach your puppy or dog that even if something is new, it can be safe and fun to explore! We create opportunities for your pet to safely meet new dogs, smell new things, hear new sounds, walk on different surfaces, and meet new friendly people.

Socialization is all about removing fear and entering new situations with curiosity. We do this by ensuring they are in a safe environment and offering plenty of positive reinforcement and yummy treats.

Additional Behavioral Training

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Stop Puppy Biting in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Biting
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Reactive Dog Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Fear & Reactiveness
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training in Cleveland, OH
Destructive Chewing & Digging
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Separation Anxiety
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Excessive Barking Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Excessive Barking
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Staying and Coming Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Staying & Coming
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Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Resource Guarding
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Food Guarding & Begging
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Anxiety & Submissive Urination
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Jumping Up & Hyperactivity
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Excessive Licking
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Leashing
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Escaping
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro -
Heeling
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Dog & Puppy Potty Trainer in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Potty Training
A group of dogs at our Cleveland dog socialization classes.

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

Discover the Benefits of Socialization Classes Today

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Proper socialization from a young age offers many benefits as dogs grow. It teaches puppies about the world from a place of safety and curiosity instead of fear and anxiety. Doing this allows them to enter any situation confidently, which grants you the freedom to bring them along for the ride as you both experience life.

Whether you have an older dog or a brand new puppy, our Cleveland dog socialization classes will give them the tools to be comfortable with new sights, sounds, smells, and experiences.

Give your furry companion the best chance at a happy and exciting life with our elite training. Schedule your free consultation today!

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro.
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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Danielle Manzeo
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Josh, Lexi and Hayley were amazing to work with! After completing the 4 week dog therapy camp, I feel confident bringing my pup to work with me on a daily basis. The support after camp was over is also really impressive and helpful. I couldn’t be more pleased and I would recommend them to anyone.
  • Amanda Mitchell
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Josh did an amazing job working with our German Shepard-husky mix, Bear! I liked having a combination of in-home, outdoor, & public location sessions for training. You have to make sure you are willing to put in the time, but the results are great, and it’s so worth it!
  • Susmita Subba
    Oct. 31, 2024
    I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough! From the start, Lexi made everything easy to understand and gave us the confidence we needed to train our German Shepherd. I knew owning such a strong, intelligent breed would be a challenge without proper guidance, so I’m grateful to have found Dog Training Elite. Thanks to Lexi’s expertise, Ace has come so far! She even provided tips to help us reinforce good habits at home, making the progress stick. I also had the pleasure of meeting Josh during a group class at the facility, and he’s just as amazing and passionate about his work. I can’t wait to take Ace on many for group classes in future.
  • Jenna Bowles
    Oct. 30, 2024
    Everyone was very knowledgeable and polite. And were willing to help answer any questions about dogs.
  • Thomas Kozub
    Oct. 30, 2024
    I am extremely impressed and thankful for Dog Training Elite, especially Josh. I have a 3 year old Doberman rescue (Hank) who needed the training and discipline. From day one Josh provided exactly what Hank and I needed. Hank is obedient and a completely different dog. This helped us bond, build trust, and grow the relationship. Thank you Dog Training Elite and Josh, I am grateful and I appreciate your services.
  • Jacob Oberst
    Oct. 5, 2024
    I’ll try to keep it short. I wish I could add videos because these pictures are just a sneak peak of the incredible things he will be able to get your dog or dogs to do! JOSH IS THE MAN!! Listen if you’re looking for a great dog trainer this is the place to go. You truly must be willing to do your part just like you’re paying them to do. This place really knows how to dial your dog in. They also take the time to teach you what they do which is truly amazing ! I would recommend anyone to go here for their dog! Josh is a very genuine human. Very warm kind heart guy. Have absolutely nothing but great respect for that man. Very intelligent when it comes to working with animals. He knows the breeds inside and out knows a lot of great great information. The in facility portion is highly recommended in my opinion if you want those results fast and that good socialization. The at homes are just as good the in facility though man it worked wonders. Feel free to follow me and I’d be happy to share my only 5 month old Rottweilers amazing results !
  • Jacob Oberst
    Oct. 5, 2024
    I’ll try to keep it short. Listen if you’re looking for a good dog trainer this is the place to go. You truly must be willing to do your part just like you’re paying them to do. This place really knows how to dial your dog in. They also take the time to teach you what they do which is truly amazing ! I would recommend anyone to go here for their dog! Josh is a very genuine human. Very warm kind heart guy. Have absolutely nothing but great respect for that man. Very intelligent when it comes to working with animals. He knows the breeds inside and out knows a lot of great great information. The in facility portion is highly recommended in my opinion if you want those results fast and that good socialization. The at homes are just as good the in facility though man it worked wonders. Feel free to follow me and I’d be happy to share my only 5 month old Rottweilers amazing results !
  • Beth Elliott
    Sep. 21, 2024
    Josh is a great teacher. He is patient and explains everything clearly. Josh clearly loves dogs and enjoys sharing his knowledge with his students.
  • Faye Eishen
    Sep. 19, 2024
    Every trainer we worked with to learn what our newly adopted dog had learned was fantastic; patient, kind and thorough. I highly recommend them to work with you and your pup!
  • Alex
    Sep. 17, 2024
    We took our Bernese Mountain Dog/Australian Shepherd mix (Koda) to Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland. We had the best experience throughout the in-facility training. The trainers were so helpful and pleasant to deal with, and Koda learned a ton throughout the process. He completed the therapy dog training a couple weeks ago and came out of training a new dog. He is still a puppy and never lost his spunk, but we are now able to take him on walks without being pulled around the neighborhood, he knows all of his basic commands, sit, down, place and heal, and also knows how to politely meet a friend. We couldn’t recommend more this facility and are so happy with all of the services provided. We are so proud of our young Koda and he is going to make a great therapy dog one day.
  • Megan Kelley
    Sep. 16, 2024
    Amazing!! I can’t thank Josh and his team enough for all the help, support and training. My dog and I both learned so much.
  • Melissa Gelsinger
    Sep. 12, 2024
    I cannot begin to thank Josh and his wonderful employees for working so hard for our dog Rocky, also known as RJ. And rescue it's very hard for us to see our dogs struggling mentally and not knowing the proper way to be a dog and to share. We had one dog that had resource guarding, and that was Rocky, he worked with him for two weeks and we could not be any more happy if we tried. They went up and beyond what I feel was 2 weeks of training guidelines. I felt very safe knowing my dog was in their hands every day. I knew I would get back the new and improved dog, a happier dog and a well-rounded dog. They did not prove me wrong. It's just so beautiful to see Rocky now thriving in his new home with his new adapters. Thank you Elite Dog Training of Greater Cleveland for giving us a peaceful and loving dog, that we can confidently adopt out. All my best Melissa Daniels-Gelsinger Lake Erie Labrador Retriever Rescue Trustee
  • Anthony Della Vella
    Aug. 28, 2024
    I can’t explain my gratitude of what a great experience me and Romeo have had with Josh at elite dog training. We look forward to going there every week and can’t believe the progress Romeo has made going there. He gets so excited every week when we go there, and there are amazing staff is the best thing I’ve ever done for my dog. 💯💯💯💯
  • Jennifer Smith
    Aug. 28, 2024
    we reached out to Josh from a recommendation of a friend of ours, who had used the services in the past and swore up and down it was a game changer. When I tell you, it’s a game changer please believe me we were at the end of our rope with our dog saw no hope in sight. We finally made that call and got him started with training. By far, the best call and best decision that we made in just a little bit of time we have noticed quite a difference with our dog and his behaviors. We as pet owners have learned quite a few things from Josh and his crew as well. They are very knowledgeable. I am thankful for the training and even more thankful for the outcome, thank you guys! John &Jennifer Morris
  • Anne Waters
    Aug. 28, 2024
    K9 Elite is top notch all the way. Josh and everyone he hires has exceptional knowledge of dog training using both positive reinforcement & correction. The training is tailored to you & your dog & the end result is a happy, well trained dog that is comfortable in any environment. My goal in choosing K9 Elite was advanced obedience and therapy dog certification. I couldn’t be happier, my dog just passed his certification test & we’re ready to begin work in the community!
  • Susan Patterson
    Aug. 26, 2024
    Our dog did very well and we were very pleased with the results. The team members are all great with the dogs and we look forward to future training sessions.
  • Garima Garg
    Aug. 14, 2024
    My husband and I are extremely pleased and very happy about learning this unique way of communicating with our boy. Our puppy was a little over 4 months old when we started the training and it took about 8-10 weeks for training. Josh is extremely intelligent, passionate, patient, professional and punctual. He came out to do our puppy’s evaluation and explained everything in detail about the process and different types of packages available, which was very thorough and helpful. We then started the training at our home. Josh always put in 100% effort and would wait patiently until the command is grasped by our puppy. Josh is very friendly and was always available to answer any questions about the training process. We are also very happy about doing the continued group classes with our puppy. You want to work with Josh as it’s very evident that he is passionate, dedicated and truly enjoys what he does!
  • Jackie Roff
    Aug. 14, 2024
    We rescued a one year old Saint Bernard and when we realized that she is too strong to even walk around the block I said we need to get her trained. The one and only call I made was to Dog Training Elite. From the initial phone call to Josh coming out for our free evaluation I knew it was the right choice. Josh said we would notice a difference after the first session and we were skeptical. When we picked Baby up we were in complete shock, our little girl was listening and seemed like a difference dog. She completed her 2 weeks of Camp and is a totally different dog. We are all happy now and can take her to the park and on walks. Josh and the team are absolutely incredible! We are so grateful for them! Our little girl is so well behaved and so happy. If you need obedience training do not waste another second Josh is amazing and so caring and truly loves what he does! Best decision ever!!!
  • brooke eckley
    Aug. 13, 2024
    I can’t recommend Elite Greater Cleveland enough! I was particularly looking for someone that would come to my home to train my mini aussie doodle. Lexi is a great trainer, very knowledgeable, and patient. She even got me out of the house to try training at different public locations!
  • Anthony Winfield
    Jul. 24, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is a great organization with a truly phenomenal group of individuals. I’ve had the pleasure to be trained by Lexi & Josh on how to properly work alongside Maizy. From the initial free in home assessment to the weekly sessions & public access training, the team has been amazing! Maizy & I are grateful for the team and look forward to getting into the Service training aspect. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite!