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Dog Training Elite

German Shepherd Dog Training in Columbus, 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 Columbus, 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 Columbus, 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 Columbus 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 Columbus 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 Columbus 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

  • Gary Duncan
    Jul. 19, 2025
    My two Pomeranians are definitely more well behaved and listen to commands!
  • Julia Huff
    Sep. 1, 2025
    Brennan did an amazing job working with Charlie! He taught us both skills to help manage unwanted behaviors. This lead to more enjoyable and less stressful situations. I would highly recommend Brennan to anyone that is struggling in managing their dog. He is a professional, knowledgeable and very patient. My only regret is that I didn't call him sooner. I could not recommend him enough!
  • Ranjan Patel
    Jul. 28, 2025
    Brennan has been amazing with our mini cavapoo Archie. He is worth every penny! We needed help with leash training and barking and the basics and he has worked magic! Don’t look any where else! Hire him! Sweetest guy too!
  • Kelly Swearingen
    Jun. 16, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is the best! They are knowledgeable, helpful, accommodating and patient with adults and pups. Highly recommend!
  • Cindy Biles
    Jun. 14, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is such a great experience! I want my golden doodle to become a registered comfort dog. Brennan was so wonderful! As soon as he comes in sight our CHEWIE is at attention and ready to please. He is so calm and focused. The dogs have no other option than to work!
  • carey wright
    Jun. 14, 2025
    Brennan is an amazing trainer. When I started with Elite dog training I was embarrassed to walk my pup, Nala. I would not take her to a park or any place she would see another dog. Nala is a great dog today! She walks beside me, does not pull towards other dogs or people and obeys commands. I now take her everywhere with me that a dog can go. I am so thankful for everything I have learned and the support from Brennan. Thank you!
  • Jen S
    Jun. 14, 2025
    Brennen was amazing to work with. Before he came our dog was a brute. But with his help and patience our dog is much more relaxed and manageable. We really appreciate everything he has done for us. Highly recommended!!!!
  • Joanne Beyer
    Dec. 12, 2024
    I am very happy with our choice of dog training. Seeing how much not only our dogs have learned, but ourselves as well. I couldn’t be happier. Thank you for all your help! Joanne and Dave / Buster and Eva
  • Tiffany Bettac
    Dec. 14, 2024
    Brennan has been amazing with our super smart high energy Australian shepherd collie mix. He’s always willing to adapt and try new things with her until we get it dialed in. Callie looks forward to all her sessions with Mr. Brennan.
  • Haley Shots
    Dec. 12, 2024
    We found Elite Dog training at the pet expo, and no other trainers caught our attention like they did. They were very welcoming , understanding, and instantly came up with a plan that was executed perfectly . She’s stubborn but caught on quickly. I’m so proud of my dog Lady and how far she has came. If it wasn’t for Brennon who knows how lady would be. We got her training just in time . I am unsure of her background history, I found her running through traffic , she was severely matted and scared. Couldn’t find the owner, and now she goes up to people , she isn’t as shy, and she really is so loved and living her best life … thanks to Elite dog training !!!
  • Haley Shots
    Dec. 12, 2024
    If you knew my dog, The picture would say it all… the fact she was able to stand on a bucket! When my lil Lady would be so scared to even be near a step… We found Elite Dog training at the pet expo, and no other trainers caught our attention like they did. They were very welcoming , understanding, and instantly came up with a plan that was executed pretty . I’m so proud of my dog Lady and how far she has came. If it wasn’t for Brennon who knows how lady would be. We got her training just in time . I am unsure of her background history, I found her running through traffic , she was severely matted and scared. Couldn’t find the owner, and now she goes up to people , she isn’t as shy, and she really is so loved and living her best life … thanks to Elite dog training !!
  • Monica Rickrich
    Dec. 11, 2024
    My rescue used to snap at everyone! After training with Brennan, she now sits on the couch with strangers after 5 minutes of meeting them! Brennan is amazing! You can't go wrong with him and Ami!!
  • Edward Solano
    Dec. 11, 2024
    They are great experts in dog behavior. Their training has been life-changing for our 9-mo the old puppy!
  • Sue Schlairet
    Dec. 11, 2024
    Very knowledgeable and helpful. Extremely pleased and would definitely recommend!
  • Sue schlairet
    Dec. 11, 2024
    Great experience - well worth the money!!
  • Laura Lawrence
    Dec. 11, 2024
    Enjoy the extra weekend sessions. My dog Cosmo is getting used to existing with the other dogs. I have learned myself how to handle him in different scenarios. Brennan had done a great job teaching us how to be comfortable around other dogs.
  • Brandi Orsini
    Nov. 16, 2024
    Very pleased with our experience with Brennan and Dog Training Elite Columbus! My girl can be a little stinker and Brennan never gives up on her (or me!)…and keeps coming up with new ways for me to challenge her and work toward our goals. Thank you, Brennan! I think you are stuck with us for a while! 😉
  • Kathy
    Nov. 9, 2024
    I would like to say our trainer Brennan was amazing ! I learned so much that I would have not thought about doing with Pickle! How to give Pickle commands when needed, and obedience training . Pickle was excited to see Brennan each visit ! Thank you Brennan!
  • Leann
    Nov. 9, 2024
    My family is so grateful for the training that Brennan was able to share with us and our dog Pickle. The training helped relieve a lot of stress we had been feeling before reaching out for help. He went above and beyond to answer any questions that we had along the way. Our lessons felt personalized, and we were grateful that he would take whatever time was needed until we felt comfortable practicing that week’s lesson on our own. Pickle also had a lot of fun during the lessons and got some treats along the way. Two months later, Pickle is still doing really well with all that he has learned from Brennan. Thank you for all that you do!
  • Simon Freitas
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Brennan is my one and only dog trainer. I got my dog army last summer and she has come so far because of all the work that Brennan has put in with us. If you need to train your animal to be a service dog, listen to your commands, or do fun tricks then sign up with this guy!!!
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Columbus, 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 Columbus 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.

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

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH!