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

Dog Behaviorist in Connecticut

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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, 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 - Dog Socialization Classes in Connecticut

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 - Dog Training Elite. How to Stop Puppy Biting Connecticut

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 - Destructive Chewing & Digging Training 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

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.

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT - Dog & Puppy Potty Training in Connecticut. DTE

Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our Connecticut dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

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

  • Alex Blum
    Jan. 11, 2026
    If you want an extremely professional, knowledgeable and talented animal training organization to support you and your animal for service needs, Dog Training Elite is the way to go. Loren set up the training schedule to fit my calendar. Jason, who trained my dog, very quickly understood my dog's personality and trainability and what he needed to work on to become a true service dog and to pass the service dog test. I should have found Dog Training Elite years ago!
  • Elizabeth Morgan
    Jan. 9, 2026
    My dog has had MAJOR improvements after working with Illiana!!! I used to be so anxious about how he was towards people and I no longer feel that way!! Illiana will customize the training to be exactly what you need, she’s great!!! My dog Finn is visibly less stressed whenever people come to the house!
  • martha bases
    Jan. 7, 2026
    Never ever did i think i would be able to train my dog!!! I tried to follow online programs and gave up every time, then I heard about Dog Training Elite. I called them, they were super friendly and informative and they suggested a consult. Best decision i have made! Looking back at the first meeting I think there was skepticism on both sides whether my dog could be service trained. I started working with Illiana who is extremely positive, friendly, patient and definitely knows her dogs. By the second session she instantly saw the potential my dog Poppy had. She thoughtfully and patiently taught us together, her detail and focus made it not only easy but fun and I now have a fully trained service dog. They make it so easy as they come to your home, they bring you into group settings and they work with you until you and your dog have succeeded. I cannot say enough great things about Illiana and the team, like i said, I was a huge skeptic and was proven wrong.....and it happened so much faster then i could ever imagine. Thank you so much, i am beyond grateful!!!
  • Amy Bodnar
    Jan. 3, 2026
    I worked with Dog Training Elite to train my 2 year old corgi into a service dog. Jason did a wonderful job of helping Bagel (and especially me) of reaching that goal. At the start of the program, Bagel was not disciplined on leash. Within a few sessions with Jason and our dedicated practice, he was a completely different dog. Jason gave me and my family the confidence and offered constructive feedback to help us improve. The training has allowed me to form a stronger connection with my pup, and his new service dog status is a great asset to me. Just recently, we completed a trans-Atlantic flight to Europe, and Bagel was a model citizen. I would recommend Jason and his team to anyone in the CT area. His sessions are done with care and intention. They also build a strong community through the group training sessions.
  • Andrea Cofrancesco
    Dec. 16, 2025
    Elite Dog Training has been an incredible experience for both me and my dog, Ryder. After just a few months of training, Ryder successfully passed the therapy dog test, and I truly couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Jason is an outstanding trainer - knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in both the dogs and their owners. He took the time to understand Ryder’s personality and tailored the training to help him succeed, building confidence, focus, and reliability every step of the way. Loren does an amazing job managing the program and keeping everything organized and supportive from start to finish. The communication, structure, and encouragement made the entire process smooth and motivating. Elite Dog Training exceeded my expectations, and I’m incredibly grateful for the role they played in helping Ryder reach this milestone. If you’re serious about professional, results-driven training, look no further than Elite Dog Training! 🐾❤️😊
  • laurie bridger
    Dec. 13, 2025
    Working with Jason at Dog Training Elite has been awesome! We started when Max our Shepard was about 1 1/2 and now he is almost 3. Jason and Illiana are both patient and encouraging and have given us great instruction. Visits to our home in New Haven help them to meet us where we are at. We appreciate the mix of the individual training along with group classes. We are grateful to be lifelong customers!
  • Kristen Csizmar (Kris)
    Dec. 12, 2025
    So far my husband and I have really enjoyed our experience with D.T.E. CT! We have no negative concerns to express. The team is knowledgeable, kind, and professional and they are always willing to answer any and all questions that you may have. They have all made this process as easy and as pain free as possible, while also making it a fun and rewarding experience for us and our pup, Maddie!
  • Elizabeth Cosco
    Dec. 5, 2025
    I recently used Dog Training Elite of Southern CT for my dog’s obedience training and was impressed by the knowledgeable, patient, and effective approach of the trainer. The sessions were encouraging and the staff were friendly throughout, making each class enjoyable and easy to follow. I especially appreciated the clear guidance that I could use at home, which helped improve my dog’s behavior quickly. The entire experience felt professional and supportive, and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for dog training near me.
  • Donna Williams
    Nov. 25, 2025
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite of Southern Connecticut!!! Jason and Illiana are amazing instructors that are very patient and very informative. They are very good at providing a comfortable environment that facilitates training for both dogs and owners. Sosa has come along way after the training with Jason and Illiana. The training has made her a more calm and sweet girl. We can’t say enough about how the school’s training program works when the dog and the owner put in the time. I think it’s also important to give a shout out to Loren who is very helpful with informative emails on upcoming training sessions and general administrative assistance.
  • Sarah Obremski
    Nov. 30, 2025
    Dog Training Elite of Southern CT is great! Iliana was knowledgeable, patient, and kind as well as reliable and the results were effective. My puppy progressed in obedience training faster than I expected and the sessions felt fun and supportive. Highly recommend this trainer for anyone looking for dog obedience training or puppy training classes.
  • Alicia DiGennaro
    Nov. 18, 2025
    The trainers are very patient and always remember key challenges of the dogs even in group classes. They make sure you’re comfortable with and understand the chosen training technique. And they never make you feel as though you’re doing something wrong.
  • Joanne Rocco
    Nov. 13, 2025
    Dog Training Elite and trainer Justin have been terrific to work with and I have seen very positive results with my dog. My dog and I have worked with Jason over several 1-1 sessions and his training is clear and easily applied. His feedback to me has been very helpful in addressing issues such as barking, reactivity, leash pulling and basic obedience. In addition to 1-1 sessions, the group training sessions have been great opportunities to expose my dog to other dogs in a controlled environment. These sessions also reinforce the training received in individual sessions. My dog loves Jason and responds very well to him, and I appreciate his patient approach to me as I learn to address issues with my dog. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite and Jason to receive positive results with your dog!
  • Lucas B
    Nov. 13, 2025
    So glad I choose these guys, from private sessions at my house (or even at a public place if I choose) to the group sessions they offer at various locations, it all helped my dog with everything she needed! They are knowledgeable, consistent, considerate, and very kind!
  • Vanessa Rodrigues
    Nov. 12, 2025
    Great training in home and group training. Saw improvements in my dogs leash walking.
  • Doreen Sudol
    Oct. 29, 2025
    Our Raina did so well. Jason was awesome he really tunes into a dogs personality! Raina is a 125 adopted malamute so she can be a lot😃 She has learned all her commands and can now go in public and behave like a lady😃
  • Sophie Michels
    Oct. 22, 2025
    I was impressed by the patience, knowledge, professionalism, and consistency of the team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. The service dog and medical response training sessions were clear and effective, and the trainer always took the time to explain each step. I appreciated how consistent the approach was, which helped my dog make steady progress. Highly recommend them as a professional dog trainer in Greenwich, CT
  • Angelo Trimarchi
    Oct. 2, 2025
    I would like to provide a five-star review to express my sincere appreciation for the exceptional training program offered by Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. My dog, Khloe, underwent training in Norwalk, CT, where she required obedience training prior to her service dog training. Jason, the trainer, demonstrated remarkable professionalism and expertise, effectively guiding my dog to successfully complete all necessary tasks for this process. The transformation in my dog’s behavior and performance has been significant. I am truly grateful for my decision to choose this company for my dog’s training, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. Thank you, Jason, for all that you have done for my dog.
  • Joell Pine
    Sep. 22, 2025
    I am very happy with Dog Training Elite of Southern CT. Top 3 things I loved: 1) Their knowledge and experience made every session effective. 2) Their patience and consistency built real confidence in my dog. 3) Their professionalism and friendly communication made the whole process smooth. I highly recommend them for dog obedience training and puppy training classes—they truly are the best dog trainer in the area.
  • JoAnn Sullivan
    Sep. 22, 2025
    Wonderful experience working with Jason. Our dog, Ruby, learned quickly and looked forward to seeing Jason each week. He explained everything very clearly and made sure we were comfortable with the training to be done on our own during the week. In addition, he always says to call with any questions or concerns so you fell completely confident as you guide your dog to living their best trained life. We Thank Dog Training Elite for a great training experience for us and our dog!
  • Kierra Parlagreco
    Sep. 15, 2025
    Dog Training Elite of Southern CT was amazing. Jason, our trainer, was very knowledgeable and patient, working with each member of the family to make sure we understood the obedience training methods and psychology. The whole team was great when our dear puppy broke his leg and we had to work around his healing process. I also really appreciate how Jason would respond to texts and give us some extra things to try, like when our puppy regressed and started pooping in the house. Thankfully, Jason helped us turn that around within a few days! Kepler, our puppy, looooooves Trainer J, too. And he is a very happy, (mostly) obedient seven month old pup now after working Elite! We all look forward to some upcoming group sessions with Elite!

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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.
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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!