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Dog Obedience Training In Des Moines


Highest Rated Obedience Training Near You

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While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.

Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite Des Moines’s programs, including in-home training!

Dog Training Elite Des Moines offers professional dog obedience training near you in Des Moines.

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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Des Moines location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


In-Home Training


Dog Training Elite Des Moines has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.

Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, stay, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.

Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.

Trainers from Dog Training Elite Des Moines seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.

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The Dog Training Elite Des Moines Difference

There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.

  1. Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
  2. Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
  3. Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.

Dog Training Elite Des Moines uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Dog Training Elite Des Moines is proud to have the highest rated dog obedience trainers in Des Moines.

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Highest Rated Dog Obedience Trainers Near You in Des Moines
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In-Home Dog Trainers Near You in Des Moines

Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


Dog Training Elite Des Moines is the top company near you that uses professional positive dog training methods.
Empowering Owners

We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.

Personalized

We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.

Environment Specific

We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).

Supportive

We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").

Involved

We work with all members of the household.

Simplified & Customized

We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.

Continued Training

Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.

Lifetime Investment

We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.

Satisfaction Ratings

Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.

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Start Your Obedience Training Journey


Dog Training Elite Des Moines knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.

Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite Des Moines today to start your dog obedience training!

Obedience Training FAQs


The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.

Besides basic commands like sit, stay, heel, etc., dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.

No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.

In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.

Dog Training Elite Des Moines provides professional and personalized in-home dog obedience training programs in Des Moines.

We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!

We can't express our gratitude enough to Dog Training Elite! Their training has transformed Archie into an incredibly well-behaved and obedient companion. Our home life has improved dramatically, thanks to their expertise. Archie is now a 'good boy' in every sense, and it's made our days together so much more enjoyable. We highly recommend Elite! Worth every penny!
— Sue B
Posted October 5th 2023
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Thank you to the whole team! I can now take Cerberus for a walk instead of him taking me for a walk. He has become more accepting of humans and we are both learning more each time we go to class! I would highly recommend DTE for anything from the minor things to complete service dog training!
— Leeja Kubik
Posted September 12th 2024
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Kim and the DTE team are fantastic! Our dog, Winston, was stubborn to say the least and his leash skills were awful - to the point that my wife hated walking him because he pulled her around the neighborhood and would go wild if he saw any sort of animal while he was out. We signed him up for their obedience training course and saw drastic improvements in his behavior and temperament after the first class! Once he got all the way through training he was a completely new dog. He is a joy to take on walks and my wife has even started running with him. As a busy body, I was skeptical, to say the least, that he would ever do place. To my surprise, after the third class, he was laying on a cot minding his own business while other dogs were training and people were coming in and out. A sight to behold. The trainers are fantastic to work with. Each day when you pick up your dog, they do a quick demonstration and then have you work on the prompts as well. They are sticklers though and expect you to do your homework with the dog. The trainers also will provide updates about the training including pictures and videos of your dog performing the training cues. Having worked with other trainers in the past, I can confidently say Dog Training Elite is the best dog obedience training program in the Des Moines Metro. If you are thinking about signing up for obedience classes for your dog, Dog Training Elite is the best bang for your buck!
— Sam Charnetski
Posted September 12th 2024
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Kim and the DTE team are fantastic! Our dog, Winston, was stubborn to say the least and his leash skills were awful - to the point that my wife hated walking him because he pulled her around the neighborhood and would go wild if he saw any sort of animal while he was out. We signed him up for their obedience training course and saw drastic improvements in his behavior and temperament after the first class! Once he got all the way through training he was a completely new dog. He is a joy to take on walks and my wife has even started running with him. As a busy body, I was skeptical, to say the least, that he would ever do place. To my surprise, after the third class, he was laying on a cot minding his own business while other dogs were training and people were coming in and out. A sight to behold. The trainers are fantastic to work with. Each day when you pick up your dog, they do a quick demonstration and then have you work on the prompts as well. They are sticklers though and expect you to do your homework with the dog. The trainers also will provide updates about the training including pictures and videos of your dog performing the training cues. Having worked with other trainers in the past, I can confidently say Dog Training Elite is the best dog obedience training program in the Des Moines Metro. If you are thinking about signing up for obedience classes for your dog, Dog Training Elite is the best bang for your buck!
— Sam Charnetski
Posted February 8th 2024
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Where do I begin? We took our sweet golden retriever, Honey, to elite dog trainings platinum 8 week training course. It was a big investment for us, so we had really high hopes. They were exceeded! Kim and Anna aren’t your typical dog trainers. In the past, with other dogs, we’ve dealt with trainers who beat your dogs personality and excitement down into submission- so I was nervous because Honey is so sweet and I didnt want her to loose that. But Elite works with your dogs personality and you can tell they actually LOVE dogs and what they do. Honey became friends with them while respecting them within 30 min of our first session. By the end, she became an independent, obedient, and happy dog who lives to please my husband and I. We will be lifelong clients of Elite!
— Olivia Mele
Posted August 29th 2024
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We have been so impressed with Dog Training Elite, from the first meeting at our home with Kimberly and Kathleen that left us with confidence that their training could help with a a hyper ambitious 15 month old Boston Terrier female. They both knew from our meeting that I was the spoiler of our baby girl and took her under their wing to training camp and completed a well behaved and obedient (with love) 10 day course of correction that changed her and me to a wonderful life together. Many kudos to their great trainers😊
— DennisDiane Harmening
Posted August 22nd 2024
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Dog training elite is literally the best. Me and my coworker felt very mislead by other training facilities in the metro because they said “our type of dog is not a good breed” for therapy dogs. DTE said that they train all breeds and sizes and don’t give up on the dogs or the owners. They have done that and so much more! We are excited to see what is to come for our therapy dogs as they start their journey helping us heal and others around us.
— Codi Deaver
Posted July 30th 2024
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I am so happy and fortunate that I found Dog Training Elite. These are the BEST trainers. They are very positive and encouraging. They are always there to help when you need it. No one believes that my puppy is 7 months old because she is so well behaved in public. If you want to have a well trained dog and work with great trainers I HIGHLY recommend DTE!
— Angie Beaudet
Posted July 30th 2024
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Kim the owner is the best. Her real passion and love for your precious pups really shows. She and all of the trainers are truly amazing at what they do. I trust and recommend this facility and each one of the trainers 100%.
— Julie Sparks
Posted July 18th 2024
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We rescued our Petra girl from ARL in August 2023, after our beloved Rosie passed. Petra was then 14 months old and a Siberian Husky Shepherd mix. High energy and reactive - but the best heart. She deserved a chance. Petra is our 5th fur baby and we thought we could train her ourselves. Our love and prior experience was just not enough to give her her best life. Special deserves special care and that’s where Dog Training Elite rescued us! Professional, compassionate, and exemplary training and care. Kim is so caring and knowledgeable - specializing in high energy and reactive breeds. Kim has created a trusting and loving bond with Petra, as well as us! Petra girl is making great progress and we are so much more confident as well! Knowing Petra has a lifelong facility to guide us and all the tools to get her towards her good girl halo is priceless! Love us some DTE!
— Becky Sue Johnson
Posted April 11th 2024
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I absolutely love this facility? They have a team of knowledgeable trainers who look at the dog in front of them and not some program that doesn’t fit every dog. They treat the dogs as they would their own and teach the owners not just the dog!!
— Kimberly Cameron
Posted December 3rd 2023
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We’ve been using Dog Training Elite Des Moines for the dog training program since October of 2022 for our puppy Jax. When Kim first walked into our lives, Jax was the co-captain of the hot mess express. He would jump up on everyone, bark at his own shadow etc. Along the way, we’ve encountered some obstacles( dog reactivity) and we enrolled him into day camp to have him evaluated to see if we could have this issue fixed because Jax is enrolled into the SDIT program. It was determined that Jax lacked confidence and I’ve been using the tools and knowledge that Dog Training Elite Des Moines has given me and each week there has been small baby steps improvements in behavioral changes in Jax. The improvement I’ve seen in him and others have mentioned seeing in him has been noticeable. I highly recommend using this company for any and all dog training needs.
— Ashley Henriquez
Posted March 30th 2024
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If you have a dog that you have concerns about give dog training elite a try first before making any decisions. You get a free demo so they meet your dog and help figure out if their right for your dog. My dog Blue has come so far in just one class. Quin is amazing, she is so patient and kind with my dog. Give them your first call it's worth it. Barry
— Barry Williams
Posted March 2nd 2024
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From the first meeting with Dog Training Elite we were excited to work with them. Kim was so great to work with and made our life with our German Shepherd puppy so much easier. We loved that they offer in-home training with group class reinforcement for their training. Our puppy is almost a year old now and doing great! I'd highly recommend DTE.
— Mallory Snow
Posted February 11th 2024
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Dog Training Elite has provided therapy dogs to the college students I work with. I have never interacted with dogs that were so well trained. And the students are over the moon about being able to interact with the dogs.
— Tim Hammond
Posted February 9th 2024
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Thank you to the amazing team at Dog training Elite for all your hard work and dedication in helping me train Clifford for service work. We have really enjoyed working along side your team as we develop the skills as a team to work.
— Shelby Diane Harrison
Posted February 8th 2024
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Thank you to the amazing team at Dog training Elite for all your hard work and dedication in helping me train Clifford for service work. We have really enjoyed working along side your team as we develop the skills as a team to work.
— Shelby Harrison
Posted February 8th 2024
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Amazing trainers and very helpful when i have questions, im very glad i took my puppy there, and I'll be taking my older dog there too because of how good things have worked out. Best place in town I've found for dog training
— Jeremy R. Hall
Posted December 12th 2023
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great training facility for our service dog for our sons service dog. I cannot say enough good things about all the trainers we have worked with in at home 1st trainings/group/obedient/sdit trainings. The owner has always been there for questions or adding value to our training. We started our journey in Oct with a consultation, then went with their preferred breeder. Which is also was a great experience. We cant thank them enough for all the help and support we have gotten in our long journey
— Warren Huggins
Posted November 22nd 2023
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If you need a dog trainer for any reason, go to Dog Training Elite! They have been training my 6 month old German shepherd mastiff mix since she was 3 months old and I am so incredibly pleased with her progress and can't wait to see her learn more from Kim and Anna. They don't just train your dog. They also train you! So it's a 2 for 1 deal really. And they have answered every question I've had about my puppy from feeding to sleeping and everything. Kim and Anna are the best trainers! I also love the fact that they are with us for the long haul. They don't just train your dog and send you off, they are there to help with any issues that may come up. Kim and Anna know dogs and they know what they are doing and they do it right! I can't recommend them enough!!!
— Jennifer Sharp-Kopf Blohn
Posted November 12th 2023
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