A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist in Connecticut.

Behavioral Solutions

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of Connecticut dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Connecticut Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist in Connecticut. CT, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and balance, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

See Training Packages

Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Connecticut Dog Socialization Classes. DTE

Socialization

Our Connecticut dog socialization classes teach dogs to maintain control and obedience around other dogs, people, and various distractions, reducing fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Stop Puppy Biting in Connecticut. DTE

Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training in Connecticut, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Reactive Dog Training in Connecticut. DTE

Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training in Connecticut, focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Digging & Chewing Solutions in Connecticut

Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training in Connecticut addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Connecticut. DTE

Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training in Connecticut helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Excessive Barking Training in Connecticut. DTE

Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training in Connecticut, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Staying and Coming Training in Connecticut. DTE

Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training in Connecticut focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT -

Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Get Your Free Assessment

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!

A dog with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite of Southern CT.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Jennifer Moylan
    Jun. 8, 2025
    A positive experience from the first point of contact - responsive, courteous, professional. I rescued a NYC dog who had a lot of baggage, none of which is her fault, but I needed a very experienced trainer and my research found Jason and Dog Training Elite. Thankfully, they could come to me across the state. Pearl's training has been specific to her needs and our needs as owners. Jason teaches you how to set your dog up for success while adapting to your home and your lifestyle. It is not a one size fits all solution. In my case, Jason has taught me how to train Pearl, it is not just him working with Pearl - so I have become a more confident handler and a better leader for Pearl. We are BOTH happier thanks to our sessions. For Pearl, it is a marathon, not a sprint, and I'm grateful that I have Dog Training Elite on our side - I feel comfortable reaching out for guidance and advice outside of our sessions. I recommend them to anyone who wants to help their dog be the best they can be. Thank you, Jason & Team! Jennifer, Granby CT
  • Rachel Kanevsky
    Jun. 7, 2025
    When I adopted Milo, he had severe separation anxiety, leash issues, and would bite when upset. I couldn’t leave the house for over a month. Iliana was patient, kind, and professional. In just a few sessions, Milo is now great on walks, less reactive, and I can finally leave the house stress-free. I’m so grateful—highly recommend her!
  • Amanda Carder
    Jun. 6, 2025
    I would like to commend Jason for his exceptional assistance. When my dog Bo began exhibiting signs of reactivity towards other dogs, I reached out to Dog Training of Elite Southern CT. Jason provided me with valuable strategies and guidance to help Bo feel more at ease and reduce his reactivity. I am eager to begin my group class sessions!
  • T Mez
    Jun. 2, 2025
    Outstanding Dog Training Experience! Dog Training Elite of Southern CT has completely exceeded our expectations! From the very first consultation, his professionalism, knowledge, and passion for dog training were clear. Jason is not only highly skilled, but also incredibly kind, patient, and dedicated to helping both dogs and their owners succeed. Our dog showed remarkable progress within just a few sessions—behaviors we thought were unchangeable quickly improved thanks to their personalized approach. What makes them stand out is how much they focus on building a strong bond between you and your dog through trust, structure, and positive reinforcement. They were always on time, communicative, and went above and beyond to ensure we felt confident every step of the way. The in-home training option was a game-changer for us, and their follow-up support has been phenomenal. If you're looking for results-driven, compassionate, and professional dog trainers, look no further than Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. Highly, highly recommend!
  • Francesca DeMaio
    Jun. 1, 2025
    Illiana at Dog Training Elite has been an absolute pleasure to work with. She has come to my house in East Haven CT for several one-on-one trainings. Illiana is extremely knowledgable, and is always in an enthusiastic mood that really proves her passion for what she does. Before training with Illiana, I reached a point where I was unable to safely walk my overly excited STRONG and stubborn dog, Baker. Illiana provided the tools, directions, and patience to correct this behavior. I have also attended a group training with Jason, and could not recommend them both enough. Having the opportunity to train Baker with other dogs in a safe (and still personal) setting, taught myself and Baker skills I didn't even know he needed! I strongly recommend Dog Training Elite of Southern CT.
  • danny perez
    May. 15, 2025
    The staff at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT impressed me with their patience, kindness, understanding, experience, and authority, making them a standout in professional dog training, particularly in Puppy training classes, where attentive trainers helped us overcome challenges with gentle guidance.
  • Fatima Randolph
    May. 14, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT was supportive, with excellent communication and helpful in figuring out what kind of program I needed. Trainer Jason listened to my expectations and successfully guided me in achieving good obedience training with my 8 month old puppy. We had 5 private sessions, both at my house and outside, and now I’m looking forward to joining the group sessions. I’m very happy with the results that provided me with a new bonding experience with my puppy. Thank you Jason and Dog training Elite of Southern CT !
  • Christine Midola
    May. 9, 2025
    The professional team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT provided exceptional care and instruction, offering patient and kind puppy training classes that truly made a significant impact on my pet's behavior and overall well-being. As an expert in their field, they expertly guided me through even the toughest dog obedience training techniques and helped me address my pup's anxiety issues, making them undoubtedly the best dog trainer for me.
  • Ivan Vega
    Apr. 18, 2025
    Dog Training Elite of Southern CT's professional dog trainer has a remarkable grasp on pet training and obedience, effortlessly addressing my concerns while helping my dog to grasp new behaviors during the puppy training classes. Their extensive knowledge and warm demeanor made me feel at ease, and I'm thrilled with the results of our anxiety training for dogs sessions.
  • curtis ferree
    Apr. 14, 2025
    We've had a great experience with Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. We have a rescue dog that has a lot of anxiety, and Jason provided us with guidance about how to give him more confidence. Jason was great about answering our questions, and provided a good mix of behavioral analysis and hands on training.
  • Mary DaSilva
    Apr. 12, 2025
    I have had only three private lessons, at my home and cannot express how Elite’s techniques has helped me train my rough collie. Jason and his team knowledge of the different breeds of dogs and the use of that knowledge to help me with techniques of owning a herding dog. They taught me techniques you can not learn on your own by getting to know my dogs living environment and my desire for Finnegan’s obedience training. All in my home within the distractions Finnegan deals with and I needed to understand to achieve obedience. I cannot praise their knowledge, care and thoughtfulness and it is proven in a short time. My fellow dog walkers, neighbors, expressed how much Finnegan has learned with this one on one in home training approach. I am thankful and highly recommend dog elite training. They even traveled to Woodbury CT for my one on one lessons. Thank You Jason, Loren and your team.
  • Arkadiy Stepanskiy
    Apr. 11, 2025
    We were almost at the point of looking for a new home for our dog..until we found Dog Training Elite services of Southern CT. In the past, we've worked with a number of well-regarded local dog specialists, sadly without much progress. After an in-home evaluation and a full session with the Dog Training Elite team, we quickly determined a plan for managing our dog's high anxiety and addressing his aggressive behavior. The trainers at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT helped us expand our training options, that yielded amazing results. They were prepared with many ideas to consider, to try and helped us 'see' and 'mark' our dog's positive behavior. We jointly figured out what works better, and made both a short and longer term plans to work on. We are looking forward to continuing group sessions and expanding our dog's social circles in Fairfield and beyond. This has truly become a life-changing process for our dog and us! Thank You!!
  • Gabriel Atkinson
    Mar. 28, 2025
    The staff at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT consistently demonstrated a supportive and knowledgeable approach to pet training and obedience, providing expert guidance throughout Marco’s behavior modification journey. Jason's patience and understanding allowed me to build a strong bond with my dog and confidently apply the techniques I learned during in-home dog training sessions in Norwalk, ultimately transforming our lives with anxiety-free walks with our calm and well-behaved Pup.
  • Bridget Cassidy
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We contacted Dog Training Elite just a few days after adopting our very sweet but very large one year old dog, Rusty, and are so glad we did. We’ve worked with both Jason and Illiana and can’t say enough good things about our experience with them. Rusty came to us with little to no structure in his world and some agent-of-chaos energy but we could tell he was ready to learn, and we were eager to start his training right away. Having Jason and Illiana in our home to help get us on the right track with training has made a world of difference for all of us and has helped us bond quickly with our lovable but energetic boy. Each session they’ve been able to directly address and help problem solve anything that’s come up as we’ve gotten to know Rusty’s personality and quirks a little more. Their instruction has been clear, simple, and easy for us to follow on our own. If anything isn’t working for Rusty or for us, they help us incorporate different techniques until we find what clicks. We have and will continue to recommend them to anyone looking for a dog trainer in southern Connecticut!
  • Cate Steczkowski
    Mar. 25, 2025
    I can’t recommend Dog Training Elite of Southern CT enough! From the moment they arrived at my home in Trumbull, CT, I felt confident that both Althea and I were in great hands . The trainer we have been working with is beyond patient and has given me great tips to set me up for success for taking the therapy certification test we are working towards passing. It is clear that she is passionate about working with dogs and their owners towards building a trusting & loving bond! I saw massive improvements after only two visits and always look forward to what we will work on next. The company has always made scheduling easy and made me feel supported the entire time! I can honestly say we will maintain an ongoing relationship with Dog Training Elite of Southern CT and continue to work towards new training goals in our future!
  • Bobby Franz
    Mar. 19, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT went above and beyond to ensure our dog received top-notch pet training and obedience. We have two golden retrievers that are wonderful dogs but lacked any structure. After a few sessions with Jason they are incredibly well behaved but just as fun loving as ever (and they seem genuinely happier). The training was very well thought out and we could practice during the week. We now feel comfortable bringing the dogs on walks in the mall and all around New Canaan. We could not be happier. thank you !!!
  • Zoe Odlum
    Mar. 14, 2025
    Jason came to my home in Guilford to help train my 10 month old puppy who had developed anxiety about going for walks. He gave me the tools to help her overcome her fears and we also worked on general obedience training, recall, and heel which have been amazing. I told him I was only interested in using a positive reinforcement approach and he encouraged it and helped me understand the benefits and scenarios of both methods, which was really helpful. Thank you Jason and Loren!
  • Noa Eisenberg
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Jason at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT was incredibly patient, friendly, knowledgeable, and calm, making it a joy to work with him and see our pup thrive during the service dog training classes. Jasons keen energy and professional approach helped get our once bossy Bernedoodle to tip top shape and a certified Psychatric Service Animal.
  • Nicole Dessin
    Feb. 22, 2025
    Jason at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT conducted pet training and obedience sessions with our dog River at our home in Middletown. He demonstrated exceptional patience, professionalism, experience, kindness, and clarity in his instruction. The professional and specialized in-home obedience and anxiety training was impressive, clearly tailored to our dog's unique needs.
  • Savta Cakes
    Feb. 21, 2025
    The staff at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT possesses a remarkable level of patience, kindness, empathy, experience, and praise that instilled a sense of confidence in our dog's behavior, making the pet training and obedience process a truly effective and satisfactory experience especially during puppy training classes.
  • Jennifer Moylan
    Jun. 8, 2025
    A positive experience from the first point of contact - responsive, courteous, professional. I rescued a NYC dog who had a lot of baggage, none of which is her fault, but I needed a very experienced trainer and my research found Jason and Dog Training Elite. Thankfully, they could come to me across the state. Pearl's training has been specific to her needs and our needs as owners. Jason teaches you how to set your dog up for success while adapting to your home and your lifestyle. It is not a one size fits all solution. In my case, Jason has taught me how to train Pearl, it is not just him working with Pearl - so I have become a more confident handler and a better leader for Pearl. We are BOTH happier thanks to our sessions. For Pearl, it is a marathon, not a sprint, and I'm grateful that I have Dog Training Elite on our side - I feel comfortable reaching out for guidance and advice outside of our sessions. I recommend them to anyone who wants to help their dog be the best they can be. Thank you, Jason & Team! Jennifer, Granby CT
  • Rachel Kanevsky
    Jun. 7, 2025
    When I adopted Milo, he had severe separation anxiety, leash issues, and would bite when upset. I couldn’t leave the house for over a month. Iliana was patient, kind, and professional. In just a few sessions, Milo is now great on walks, less reactive, and I can finally leave the house stress-free. I’m so grateful—highly recommend her!
  • Amanda Carder
    Jun. 6, 2025
    I would like to commend Jason for his exceptional assistance. When my dog Bo began exhibiting signs of reactivity towards other dogs, I reached out to Dog Training of Elite Southern CT. Jason provided me with valuable strategies and guidance to help Bo feel more at ease and reduce his reactivity. I am eager to begin my group class sessions!
  • T Mez
    Jun. 2, 2025
    Outstanding Dog Training Experience! Dog Training Elite of Southern CT has completely exceeded our expectations! From the very first consultation, his professionalism, knowledge, and passion for dog training were clear. Jason is not only highly skilled, but also incredibly kind, patient, and dedicated to helping both dogs and their owners succeed. Our dog showed remarkable progress within just a few sessions—behaviors we thought were unchangeable quickly improved thanks to their personalized approach. What makes them stand out is how much they focus on building a strong bond between you and your dog through trust, structure, and positive reinforcement. They were always on time, communicative, and went above and beyond to ensure we felt confident every step of the way. The in-home training option was a game-changer for us, and their follow-up support has been phenomenal. If you're looking for results-driven, compassionate, and professional dog trainers, look no further than Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. Highly, highly recommend!
  • Francesca DeMaio
    Jun. 1, 2025
    Illiana at Dog Training Elite has been an absolute pleasure to work with. She has come to my house in East Haven CT for several one-on-one trainings. Illiana is extremely knowledgable, and is always in an enthusiastic mood that really proves her passion for what she does. Before training with Illiana, I reached a point where I was unable to safely walk my overly excited STRONG and stubborn dog, Baker. Illiana provided the tools, directions, and patience to correct this behavior. I have also attended a group training with Jason, and could not recommend them both enough. Having the opportunity to train Baker with other dogs in a safe (and still personal) setting, taught myself and Baker skills I didn't even know he needed! I strongly recommend Dog Training Elite of Southern CT.
  • danny perez
    May. 15, 2025
    The staff at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT impressed me with their patience, kindness, understanding, experience, and authority, making them a standout in professional dog training, particularly in Puppy training classes, where attentive trainers helped us overcome challenges with gentle guidance.
  • Fatima Randolph
    May. 14, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT was supportive, with excellent communication and helpful in figuring out what kind of program I needed. Trainer Jason listened to my expectations and successfully guided me in achieving good obedience training with my 8 month old puppy. We had 5 private sessions, both at my house and outside, and now I’m looking forward to joining the group sessions. I’m very happy with the results that provided me with a new bonding experience with my puppy. Thank you Jason and Dog training Elite of Southern CT !
  • Christine Midola
    May. 9, 2025
    The professional team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT provided exceptional care and instruction, offering patient and kind puppy training classes that truly made a significant impact on my pet's behavior and overall well-being. As an expert in their field, they expertly guided me through even the toughest dog obedience training techniques and helped me address my pup's anxiety issues, making them undoubtedly the best dog trainer for me.
  • Ivan Vega
    Apr. 18, 2025
    Dog Training Elite of Southern CT's professional dog trainer has a remarkable grasp on pet training and obedience, effortlessly addressing my concerns while helping my dog to grasp new behaviors during the puppy training classes. Their extensive knowledge and warm demeanor made me feel at ease, and I'm thrilled with the results of our anxiety training for dogs sessions.
  • curtis ferree
    Apr. 14, 2025
    We've had a great experience with Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. We have a rescue dog that has a lot of anxiety, and Jason provided us with guidance about how to give him more confidence. Jason was great about answering our questions, and provided a good mix of behavioral analysis and hands on training.
  • Mary DaSilva
    Apr. 12, 2025
    I have had only three private lessons, at my home and cannot express how Elite’s techniques has helped me train my rough collie. Jason and his team knowledge of the different breeds of dogs and the use of that knowledge to help me with techniques of owning a herding dog. They taught me techniques you can not learn on your own by getting to know my dogs living environment and my desire for Finnegan’s obedience training. All in my home within the distractions Finnegan deals with and I needed to understand to achieve obedience. I cannot praise their knowledge, care and thoughtfulness and it is proven in a short time. My fellow dog walkers, neighbors, expressed how much Finnegan has learned with this one on one in home training approach. I am thankful and highly recommend dog elite training. They even traveled to Woodbury CT for my one on one lessons. Thank You Jason, Loren and your team.
  • Arkadiy Stepanskiy
    Apr. 11, 2025
    We were almost at the point of looking for a new home for our dog..until we found Dog Training Elite services of Southern CT. In the past, we've worked with a number of well-regarded local dog specialists, sadly without much progress. After an in-home evaluation and a full session with the Dog Training Elite team, we quickly determined a plan for managing our dog's high anxiety and addressing his aggressive behavior. The trainers at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT helped us expand our training options, that yielded amazing results. They were prepared with many ideas to consider, to try and helped us 'see' and 'mark' our dog's positive behavior. We jointly figured out what works better, and made both a short and longer term plans to work on. We are looking forward to continuing group sessions and expanding our dog's social circles in Fairfield and beyond. This has truly become a life-changing process for our dog and us! Thank You!!
  • Gabriel Atkinson
    Mar. 28, 2025
    The staff at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT consistently demonstrated a supportive and knowledgeable approach to pet training and obedience, providing expert guidance throughout Marco’s behavior modification journey. Jason's patience and understanding allowed me to build a strong bond with my dog and confidently apply the techniques I learned during in-home dog training sessions in Norwalk, ultimately transforming our lives with anxiety-free walks with our calm and well-behaved Pup.
  • Bridget Cassidy
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We contacted Dog Training Elite just a few days after adopting our very sweet but very large one year old dog, Rusty, and are so glad we did. We’ve worked with both Jason and Illiana and can’t say enough good things about our experience with them. Rusty came to us with little to no structure in his world and some agent-of-chaos energy but we could tell he was ready to learn, and we were eager to start his training right away. Having Jason and Illiana in our home to help get us on the right track with training has made a world of difference for all of us and has helped us bond quickly with our lovable but energetic boy. Each session they’ve been able to directly address and help problem solve anything that’s come up as we’ve gotten to know Rusty’s personality and quirks a little more. Their instruction has been clear, simple, and easy for us to follow on our own. If anything isn’t working for Rusty or for us, they help us incorporate different techniques until we find what clicks. We have and will continue to recommend them to anyone looking for a dog trainer in southern Connecticut!
  • Cate Steczkowski
    Mar. 25, 2025
    I can’t recommend Dog Training Elite of Southern CT enough! From the moment they arrived at my home in Trumbull, CT, I felt confident that both Althea and I were in great hands . The trainer we have been working with is beyond patient and has given me great tips to set me up for success for taking the therapy certification test we are working towards passing. It is clear that she is passionate about working with dogs and their owners towards building a trusting & loving bond! I saw massive improvements after only two visits and always look forward to what we will work on next. The company has always made scheduling easy and made me feel supported the entire time! I can honestly say we will maintain an ongoing relationship with Dog Training Elite of Southern CT and continue to work towards new training goals in our future!
  • Bobby Franz
    Mar. 19, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT went above and beyond to ensure our dog received top-notch pet training and obedience. We have two golden retrievers that are wonderful dogs but lacked any structure. After a few sessions with Jason they are incredibly well behaved but just as fun loving as ever (and they seem genuinely happier). The training was very well thought out and we could practice during the week. We now feel comfortable bringing the dogs on walks in the mall and all around New Canaan. We could not be happier. thank you !!!
  • Zoe Odlum
    Mar. 14, 2025
    Jason came to my home in Guilford to help train my 10 month old puppy who had developed anxiety about going for walks. He gave me the tools to help her overcome her fears and we also worked on general obedience training, recall, and heel which have been amazing. I told him I was only interested in using a positive reinforcement approach and he encouraged it and helped me understand the benefits and scenarios of both methods, which was really helpful. Thank you Jason and Loren!
  • Noa Eisenberg
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Jason at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT was incredibly patient, friendly, knowledgeable, and calm, making it a joy to work with him and see our pup thrive during the service dog training classes. Jasons keen energy and professional approach helped get our once bossy Bernedoodle to tip top shape and a certified Psychatric Service Animal.
  • Nicole Dessin
    Feb. 22, 2025
    Jason at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT conducted pet training and obedience sessions with our dog River at our home in Middletown. He demonstrated exceptional patience, professionalism, experience, kindness, and clarity in his instruction. The professional and specialized in-home obedience and anxiety training was impressive, clearly tailored to our dog's unique needs.
  • Savta Cakes
    Feb. 21, 2025
    The staff at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT possesses a remarkable level of patience, kindness, empathy, experience, and praise that instilled a sense of confidence in our dog's behavior, making the pet training and obedience process a truly effective and satisfactory experience especially during puppy training classes.

Photo Gallery

See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use proven techniques to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite of Southern CT.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite of Southern CT.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist in Connecticut

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT.
Dog Training Elite of Southern CT light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist in Connecticut, Dog Training Elite is the top choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!