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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.
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 Columbia.
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 Columbia.
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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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!

About Dog Training Elite Midlands SC

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In the Community

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Susan Pyritz
    Jun. 4, 2025
    We love Justin and Crystal! They are both incredible and we love working with them. I have some memory issues so they're really struggling, I'm sure, to deal with my forgetfulness. But they never ever seem impatient or anxious with me. I look forward to their visits. There are lots of trainers out there, but these guys are the best ! I highly recommend them!
  • Jaclyn Willis
    Jun. 4, 2025
    Justin and Laird both came and were very informative. I previously had my dogs in training with Off Leash and was not satisfied because my final 3 lessons were never set up by the owner after my trainer resigned because she was close to having her baby. The other issue with Off Leash was that we were never really instructed on the proper way to use the e-collar. We were told that what we were doing was not conducive to learning. I was very glad that Justine set up my remote so that I would be using it correctly now.
  • Blake Carlton
    May. 26, 2025
    Justin was so informative and kind and calm. I haven’t decided if I’ll proceed just yet, but he’s my top choice now!
  • sondria schabner
    May. 13, 2025
    Justin was very thorough and informative. Charlie was behaving like a good pup by the end of the first hour
  • Matt Hancock
    May. 9, 2025
    Very friendly, seemed knowledgeable about training dogs. Looking forward to the experience.
  • Jeri England
    Apr. 15, 2025
    Crystal is wonderful and knows just how to relate to Archie. She's training us both to be better and much happier. We are enjoying our sessions.
  • Katherine Anderson
    Apr. 24, 2025
    Crystal is marvelous with my dog, Earle. She gives him very clear commands, that he usually obeys. She explains what she’s doing to me very clearly. I would highly recommend Crystal and Justin. In fact, I have recommended them.
  • Dottie Reynolds
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Crystal is amazing. Each time she tells us what she plans to have our dog Ocho do in each session, I think to myself— yeah, good luck with that. But, she is in full command but in a very positive and supportive way. The Elite process is well organized and systematic. In just 3 weeks, we have seen a remarkable difference. Thank you, Crystal!
  • Peyton Cross
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Justin and his team were amazing throughout the entire process. They explained in depth the reasons and processes of training my dog. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a trainer for their pup.
  • Sprint Data Solutions
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Elite did a good job with the lesson and training as always
  • John Ogle
    Apr. 23, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has done an exceptional job with our puppy. The transformation after five sessions is amazing. It is worth the investment!
  • Shawn Covington
    Mar. 14, 2025
    I feel as if we made the right decision using Dog Training Elite. They are very knowledgeable and friendly.
  • Betty Pearson
    Jan. 14, 2025
    Take his time and shows a LOT of patience with my CoCo and me. Highly recommend!
  • Cathy Blanks
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Instructors are extremely knowledgeable and my dog responded immediately. Already seeing behavior improvement after 2 sessions.
  • Rhonda VanMeter
    Apr. 17, 2025
    Crystal is outstanding. The program is well designed and has been very effective so far.
  • Janet Dennis
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Justin is very patient with our fur baby and with us. We are more than pleased with our experience.
  • Alec Pettigrew
    Apr. 11, 2025
    Our initial assessment with Crystal went well. Packages and expectations for results were made clear. Crystal was accommodating and respectful.
  • Brian Pioreck
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Professional, polite, straight forward, and honestly. Crystal explained the whole process as well as expectation that would be set. She provided a skills demonstration in a practice environment and made it clear that success relied on my investment.
  • Bonita Dominique
    Apr. 11, 2025
    Excellent Dog Traing
  • Amanda Boozer
    Apr. 7, 2025
    Crystal came to our house for an initial evaluation. She was patient, kind, and seemed confident and knowledgeable.
  • Susan Pyritz
    Jun. 4, 2025
    We love Justin and Crystal! They are both incredible and we love working with them. I have some memory issues so they're really struggling, I'm sure, to deal with my forgetfulness. But they never ever seem impatient or anxious with me. I look forward to their visits. There are lots of trainers out there, but these guys are the best ! I highly recommend them!
  • Jaclyn Willis
    Jun. 4, 2025
    Justin and Laird both came and were very informative. I previously had my dogs in training with Off Leash and was not satisfied because my final 3 lessons were never set up by the owner after my trainer resigned because she was close to having her baby. The other issue with Off Leash was that we were never really instructed on the proper way to use the e-collar. We were told that what we were doing was not conducive to learning. I was very glad that Justine set up my remote so that I would be using it correctly now.
  • Blake Carlton
    May. 26, 2025
    Justin was so informative and kind and calm. I haven’t decided if I’ll proceed just yet, but he’s my top choice now!
  • sondria schabner
    May. 13, 2025
    Justin was very thorough and informative. Charlie was behaving like a good pup by the end of the first hour
  • Matt Hancock
    May. 9, 2025
    Very friendly, seemed knowledgeable about training dogs. Looking forward to the experience.
  • Jeri England
    Apr. 15, 2025
    Crystal is wonderful and knows just how to relate to Archie. She's training us both to be better and much happier. We are enjoying our sessions.
  • Katherine Anderson
    Apr. 24, 2025
    Crystal is marvelous with my dog, Earle. She gives him very clear commands, that he usually obeys. She explains what she’s doing to me very clearly. I would highly recommend Crystal and Justin. In fact, I have recommended them.
  • Dottie Reynolds
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Crystal is amazing. Each time she tells us what she plans to have our dog Ocho do in each session, I think to myself— yeah, good luck with that. But, she is in full command but in a very positive and supportive way. The Elite process is well organized and systematic. In just 3 weeks, we have seen a remarkable difference. Thank you, Crystal!
  • Peyton Cross
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Justin and his team were amazing throughout the entire process. They explained in depth the reasons and processes of training my dog. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a trainer for their pup.
  • Sprint Data Solutions
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Elite did a good job with the lesson and training as always
  • John Ogle
    Apr. 23, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has done an exceptional job with our puppy. The transformation after five sessions is amazing. It is worth the investment!
  • Shawn Covington
    Mar. 14, 2025
    I feel as if we made the right decision using Dog Training Elite. They are very knowledgeable and friendly.
  • Betty Pearson
    Jan. 14, 2025
    Take his time and shows a LOT of patience with my CoCo and me. Highly recommend!
  • Cathy Blanks
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Instructors are extremely knowledgeable and my dog responded immediately. Already seeing behavior improvement after 2 sessions.
  • Rhonda VanMeter
    Apr. 17, 2025
    Crystal is outstanding. The program is well designed and has been very effective so far.
  • Janet Dennis
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Justin is very patient with our fur baby and with us. We are more than pleased with our experience.
  • Alec Pettigrew
    Apr. 11, 2025
    Our initial assessment with Crystal went well. Packages and expectations for results were made clear. Crystal was accommodating and respectful.
  • Brian Pioreck
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Professional, polite, straight forward, and honestly. Crystal explained the whole process as well as expectation that would be set. She provided a skills demonstration in a practice environment and made it clear that success relied on my investment.
  • Bonita Dominique
    Apr. 11, 2025
    Excellent Dog Traing
  • Amanda Boozer
    Apr. 7, 2025
    Crystal came to our house for an initial evaluation. She was patient, kind, and seemed confident and knowledgeable.

Our Team

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Jeff Collett - Owner and Trainer
Jeff Collett
Owner and Trainer

Hi, I’m Jeff Collett. I have lived in SC for almost 20 years. I’ve spent the past 25 years in medical device sales. I have grown up with dogs and appreciate the value pets add to our lives. I recognize a great need for obedient dogs in the home as pets and as service animals throughout the community. My wife and I just added our sweet girl, “Millie” to our family. We’ve had so much fun playing with and training her.

When I’m not working as a professional dog trainer, I enjoy golfing, lake time and fellowship with family and friends.

I’m looking forward to helping enhance the relationship between you and your dog.

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Justin Collett - Owner and Trainer
Justin Collett
Owner and Trainer

Hi, My name is Justin Collett. I grew up in Chapin, SC, and graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2018. I married my beautiful wife, Kiley, in 2020. I’ve grown up with dogs and my wife and I have enjoyed countless hours of fun with “Louie”, our long haired miniature dachshund. We recently added “Josie” our golden retriever pup to add to our joy.

My working background was on the water selling boats and then in the water selling water filtration systems. I now enjoy my exciting role as a business owner and professional dog trainer which speaks to both my passions for people and dogs. Whether you need a well-trained dog or a service animal for your family, investing in this special relationship will reap rewards for the life of your dog.

When I’m not working, I love golfing, playing on the lake, and spending time with family and friends. My pups and I can’t wait to meet you!

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Darlene Collett - Owner and Trainer
Darlene Collett
Owner and Trainer

Hi, I’m Darlene. I’m a wife of 36 years to Jeff, mother of 2 sons, and lover of our sweet new golden, “Millie”. Most of my working career was in the insurance industry, followed by my role as a stay-at-home mom. I was blessed to be able to help care for both of my parents. I’ve always been devoted to my family and will bring this same level of care to the Midlands area dogs and their families. As you probably know, there is something special and expansive that happens in your heart when you share it with a furry family member.

When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, exercising, bike riding and hiking in the mountains.

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Crystal Byler - Trainer / Administrator
Crystal Byler
Trainer / Administrator

Hi, I'm Crystal! I was born and raised in Northeast Ohio and recently moved to South Carolina after graduating from Kent State University in 2022. I am loving life in Columbia with my 2 pups, Nala and Raya. Nala is a rat terrier mix with lots of love to share, and Raya is a toy Australian shepherd who is full of energy and very eager to please.

Dogs have always been a special part of my life, and I'm so blessed to be able to connect my passion for people with my love for dogs as a professional dog trainer. Providing dog owners with the tools they need to maximize the life of their pups is such a fun and rewarding challenge! 

When I'm not working, I enjoy reading, adventuring with my own dogs, and spending time with my family and friends.

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