An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training in Connecticut.

Professional Training For

German Shepherds

Dog Training Elite of Southern CT

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our German Shepherd Training Could Help:

Excessive barking
Aggression
Separation anxiety
Destructive chewing
Leash pulling
Over-protectiveness
Resource guarding

German Shepherd Training in Connecticut

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 Connecticut 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 of Southern CT 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 Connecticut 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 of Southern CT 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.

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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • 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.
  • Matthew Ames
    Feb. 20, 2025
    After four years of good but hyperactive behavior, River seemed to reach an uncharacteristic level of anxiety. This resulted in her becoming territorial and lashing out at our other dogs. One incident led to an accident and a trip to the ER. Seeing my fiancé devastated and at wit's end, I found Dog Training Elite. She called, and by that evening, we had an in-home appointment scheduled. I had never had to do obedience training for an adult dog before, so I was unsure what to expect. The clear instructions provided by Dog Training Elite of Southern CT made the entire learning process and training journey seamless and easy to follow. From dog obedience training and the anxiety training for dogs, I cannot say enough good things about our sessions. Within the first week, River was like a new dog; though she still had many issues, she followed commands and enjoyed the training. By the third visit, we had been instructed on many training options, techniques, and tools and given the choice of which we preferred. We appreciated the expertise and personalized attention of the professional dog trainer, who successfully bridged the gap between the concept and practical application. While every dog is different, I recommend that anyone in Middletown or surrounding areas who has a dog like River and thinks they may have to give it up, check out Dog Training Elite. We can not say thank you enough for helping with the tools and training us to keep River as part of our family, next up on the block are our other two dogs.
  • Alison Gold
    Feb. 10, 2025
    Oliver and I had an excellent training from both Jason and Illana. Easy to book with and always on time.
  • Claire Watson
    Feb. 3, 2025
    They are amazing! I have been working on making my dog Maddie a service dog and they offer personalized in home visits as well as traveling to areas near by. I live in Fairfield county and they don’t mind it at all!
  • oded Biran
    Jan. 30, 2025
    Jason was very patient with my dog and provided all the necessary information and tools to get our dog trained in the fastest way possible
  • Amy White
    Jan. 28, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT demonstrated exceptional patience, kindness, experience, compassion, and professionalism throughout our interactions, making us feel confident in their abilities to help us with our dog's pet training and obedience needs. Their professionalism was on full display during their dog obedience training sessions, which were both effective and enjoyable for our entire family.
  • Angela Deslauriers
    Jan. 23, 2025
    Jason, the owner/trainer is excellent! He came to my home in Bristol and helped us with obedience training for our newly adopted 4 yr old dog Max. Prior to Jason‘s arrival, Max had no formal obedience training-and it showed…literally within the week Max was heeling and walking politely on leash, instead of pulling and tugging!! Jason also worked with Max and gave us easy to follow instructions with all of Max’s basic commands-and they WORK! Jason is patient and personable and HE KNOW DOGS!! Worth every cent, and Jason’s always willing to take a phone call if you have a question. And the mobile service coming to your home is so convenient!!!!!
  • Jake Sturrock
    Jan. 15, 2025
    We have had our puppy Cooper for just over 9-weeks now, and puppy training with Illiana has been nothing short of perfect. She is very knowledgeable and shows us exactly what to do moving forward on any given training activity. She is very responsive by phone if we have any questions, and is overall very passionate about what she does. We will be moving forward with Dog Training Elite, and specifically Illiana for the next training program!
  • 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.
  • Matthew Ames
    Feb. 20, 2025
    After four years of good but hyperactive behavior, River seemed to reach an uncharacteristic level of anxiety. This resulted in her becoming territorial and lashing out at our other dogs. One incident led to an accident and a trip to the ER. Seeing my fiancé devastated and at wit's end, I found Dog Training Elite. She called, and by that evening, we had an in-home appointment scheduled. I had never had to do obedience training for an adult dog before, so I was unsure what to expect. The clear instructions provided by Dog Training Elite of Southern CT made the entire learning process and training journey seamless and easy to follow. From dog obedience training and the anxiety training for dogs, I cannot say enough good things about our sessions. Within the first week, River was like a new dog; though she still had many issues, she followed commands and enjoyed the training. By the third visit, we had been instructed on many training options, techniques, and tools and given the choice of which we preferred. We appreciated the expertise and personalized attention of the professional dog trainer, who successfully bridged the gap between the concept and practical application. While every dog is different, I recommend that anyone in Middletown or surrounding areas who has a dog like River and thinks they may have to give it up, check out Dog Training Elite. We can not say thank you enough for helping with the tools and training us to keep River as part of our family, next up on the block are our other two dogs.
  • Alison Gold
    Feb. 10, 2025
    Oliver and I had an excellent training from both Jason and Illana. Easy to book with and always on time.
  • Claire Watson
    Feb. 3, 2025
    They are amazing! I have been working on making my dog Maddie a service dog and they offer personalized in home visits as well as traveling to areas near by. I live in Fairfield county and they don’t mind it at all!
  • oded Biran
    Jan. 30, 2025
    Jason was very patient with my dog and provided all the necessary information and tools to get our dog trained in the fastest way possible
  • Amy White
    Jan. 28, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite of Southern CT demonstrated exceptional patience, kindness, experience, compassion, and professionalism throughout our interactions, making us feel confident in their abilities to help us with our dog's pet training and obedience needs. Their professionalism was on full display during their dog obedience training sessions, which were both effective and enjoyable for our entire family.
  • Angela Deslauriers
    Jan. 23, 2025
    Jason, the owner/trainer is excellent! He came to my home in Bristol and helped us with obedience training for our newly adopted 4 yr old dog Max. Prior to Jason‘s arrival, Max had no formal obedience training-and it showed…literally within the week Max was heeling and walking politely on leash, instead of pulling and tugging!! Jason also worked with Max and gave us easy to follow instructions with all of Max’s basic commands-and they WORK! Jason is patient and personable and HE KNOW DOGS!! Worth every cent, and Jason’s always willing to take a phone call if you have a question. And the mobile service coming to your home is so convenient!!!!!
  • Jake Sturrock
    Jan. 15, 2025
    We have had our puppy Cooper for just over 9-weeks now, and puppy training with Illiana has been nothing short of perfect. She is very knowledgeable and shows us exactly what to do moving forward on any given training activity. She is very responsive by phone if we have any questions, and is overall very passionate about what she does. We will be moving forward with Dog Training Elite, and specifically Illiana for the next training program!
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training in Connecticut 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 of Southern CT 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.

Additional Breeds We Train

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Pitbull
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Doberman
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Border Collie
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French Bulldog

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 of Southern CT.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

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

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers in Connecticut

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 Connecticut!