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Military / Retired Vet Programs

Dog Training Elite in Houston

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A military veteran and service dog - Dog Training Elite offers elite veteran service dog training in Houston, TX.

Dog Training Elite

Military Veteran Service Dog Training in Houston, TX

At Dog Training Elite in Houston, we strongly believe in the healing power of service dogs for military veterans. That’s why we dedicate our time and passion to providing veteran service dog training in Houston, TX.

Service dogs can greatly assist with both the mental and physical challenges veterans may face after serving our country. Many veterans experience PTSD, physical disabilities, or other impairments, and our service dogs have been proven to help reduce symptoms and support veterans in returning to their daily routines.

Learn more about our programs designed for veterans and discover why Dog Training Elite is committed to making a difference in the community.

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A service puppy in training - Dog Training Elite offers veteran service dog training in Houston, TX for those who have served our country.

Dog Training Elite in Houston

Why We Offer Service Dog Training for Military Veterans

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At Dog Training Elite in Houston, we are passionate about helping military veterans through the support of service dogs. We offer specialized service dog training options in Houston, backed by scientific research and proven by our own success stories.

In a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans paired with service dogs experienced a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms and fewer self-harm ideations. The mental health and medical communities increasingly recognize service dogs’ positive impact on emotional well-being and independence, making them one of the most effective tools for veteran recovery.

At Dog Training Elite, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dog training services that provide the tools and support needed for our veterans and their dogs to thrive, offering a path toward healing and better quality of life.

A beautiful golden retriever service dog - Dog Training Elite in Houston.

Popular Service Dog Breeds


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Finding a service dog that fits your individual needs is important, especially for military veteran support. While most dogs can be trained to become service dogs, a few breeds stand out due to their personalities and inherent traits.

Here are a few of the most popular service dog breeds:

  1. Labrador Retrievers: Labradors are intelligent, versatile, and eager to please, making them ideal for PTSD service dogs. Their trainability allows them to excel in roles like guide dogs, mobility support, and emotional support, making them highly adaptable for veterans.
  2. Golden Retrievers: Golden Retrievers are known for their calm, gentle nature and strong work ethic. They are excellent at providing mobility assistance and emotional support, especially for veterans with PTSD, due to their patient and loving temperament.
  3. German Shepherds: German Shepherds are strong, loyal, and highly intelligent, making them excellent service dogs. Their protective instincts and trainability allow them to assist with mobility, search and rescue, and provide emotional support for veterans.
  4. Malinois: Belgian Malinois are known for their deep loyalty and intelligence. Malinois are not for everyone due to their energy and drive, but for retired veterans who appreciate discipline, structure, and a deep connection, they can be life-changing companions.

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!

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See An Elite Dog in Action

A service dog and his veteran owner - Dog Training Elite in Houston.

Our Veteran Service Dog Training in Houston, TX

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Service dogs undergo extensive specialized training to perform their tasks and assist their owners. Our training process involves a combination of obedience training, task training, and public access training.

  • Obedience Training: This training focuses on teaching a dog basic commands, such as sit, down, heel, come, as well as proper leash manners and socialization skills.
  • Task Training: Task training is tailored to fit the needs of each individual. It involves teaching the dog to perform tasks that mitigate the person’s disability, such as retrieving items, opening doors, or providing deep pressure therapy.
  • Public Access Training: This type of training is crucial to ensure the dog remains calm, well-behaved, and non-disruptive in various public settings. This training includes exposure to different environments, distractions, and social interactions to provide a dog that can confidently navigate public spaces.
A beautiful service dog standing outside - Dog Training Elite in Houston.

Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSD

Get Specialized Training with DTE Today

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Training with Dog Training Elite is tailored specifically for military veterans dealing with PTSD and other service-related challenges. Our programs focus on helping veterans regain independence, emotional stability, and confidence through the support of a well-trained service dog.

At Dog Training Elite, we are dedicated to providing service dog training that strengthens the bond between veterans and their dogs, guiding them toward a brighter future and supporting their healing journey.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Claudia Rubio
    Jun. 9, 2025
    We’ve had a fantastic experience with Dog Training Elite West Houston. The team is professional, knowledgeable, and consistently reliable—always organized, punctual, and responsive to any questions we have. Our dog has shown major improvement in the behaviors we wanted to work on, and we’ve learned a lot about how to support her confidence and obedience. The training has helped both our dog and us grow together. We highly recommend this company and plan to keep working with them as we continue building our skills and helping our dog overcome her fears!
  • Alana Newman
    Jun. 2, 2025
    We have had an amazing experience so far. Especially with our trainer Jan Hernandez! He is great with Oliver - patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly effective. He has helped us make great progress.
  • Mark Miller
    May. 16, 2025
    Bob was An amazing trainer who took control of my dogs quickly and made them manageable. I have two 100 pound English labs who would just drag my wife and kids when they try to walk them. After several visits with Bob my dogs are the best behaved pets on our neighborhood trails. I would highly recommend Bob he did an outstanding job!
  • Alisa Borisovsky
    Apr. 2, 2025
    Excellent training service! Rachel transformed my service dog in a matter of days with her methods working better than any I have tried previously. Rachel and Daniel are both amazingly experienced trainers. You can tell they have a passion for it which makes it much more motivating for both the handler and the dog. Rachel went above and beyond with scheduling me and accommodating my crazy work schedule as a traveling healthcare worker. I couldn’t thank them enough for helping me with my sweet girl Ellie!
  • carey swan
    Mar. 7, 2025
    We were extremely impressed with wonderful Alex who came to the house for initial review and training. Then we met Jan for the in depth instruction. Jan Hernandez is the GOAT-Greatest Of All Times- dog trainer. His explanations and directions are comprehensive but clear. He is kind, intelligent, funny, professional and PATIENT…with dogs as well as humans. Our puppy is a pistol, but Jan maintained the perfect pitch with her throughout. VERY PLEASED.
  • Thomas Cramer
    Mar. 5, 2025
    Jan Hernandez is the best trainer for Us. Beckett has learned so much and will shape into a great service dog. Highly recommend the Dig Training Elite program and. Especially Jan!
  • Stacie Stagg
    Oct. 7, 2024
    I researched this facility after my neurologist and therapist agreed my needs required a service dog. Getting the dog was one thing. Training him? Another thing. Due to some medical issues, Cyno had to be quarantined from the public. Cyno started to be a lot to handle with puppy energy. Nibbling, chasing our cats, barking at people wearing hats (weird trigger, I know) disobedience, nervousness, seperation anxiety, etc. I was completely worried he was not cut out to be a service dog. We brought Cyno to DTE West Houston. Jan has been working with us and within TWO weeks of obedience, I have a completely different dog. We were given homework each day to strengthen skills with Cyno. Jan answered any questions, no matter how small or dumb I thought they might be. Jan answered with utmost patience and understanding. It's not just the dog who needs training. A human also needs to be trained just as well as their dog to be keep up the good work the trainers put in! Cyno is now more confident, well behaved and interested in his work. My cats are chill with Cyno now. He's a completely different dog from before DTE. I have no doubts now that he's cut to be a service dog. From service dog to companion dog, i have no doubts DTE West Houston can help. And I am super glad they exist honestly. Without them, I don't think my boy would be as wonderful as he is without their guidance and help.
  • Mary Ann Carey
    Jan. 23, 2025
    We adopted a rescued Chihuahua, Lynda, from Mutts and Meows. We were told she was the longest resident no one wanted her because she was what Mutts and Meows said skittish and not social. This was far from the truth this girl was filled with fear from abuse and probably from a man. However we were not going to let her go back and live in fear. Looking at our options we chose to try a trainer, we choose, Dog Training Elite West Houston and it was the best decision we could have made. The very first home visit, Alex had this girl calm, we could get a harness and leash on her, we were able to walk her, was able to touch Lynda and we could pet her, before Alex, we could not even get close to her or she would run and hide anywhere and anyway. She was so scared of us and everybody she was so sad. I swear Alex is part dog we were so amazed and impressed over the weeks she has improved 90% she still has a problem with Cliff but Loves Mary Ann and that’s enough for now. We want to send a heartfelt thank you to Alex of (Dog Training Elite West) and the entire staff that helped make the process so easy Lynda is happy, calm, and knows that this is her forever home. Linda still gives Cliff the stink eye but we are working on that. She will walk past him and will sleep in the bed with him and let him feed her. Thank you
  • Herbert Davis
    Nov. 14, 2024
    Jan has worked with my German Shepherd for 2 months now and the experience has been great! Very informative, helpful and the results have been noticeable from the start! I would absolutely recommend the training that your dog or pup will receive from dog training elite. Trainers and staff are very kind, patient and will work through all problems or concerns you bring to their attention.
  • Rebekah Crowder
    Oct. 12, 2024
    Bob is amazing! Our puppy was a poor emaciated rescue in need of love and security and once settled and healthy, was a very rambunctious pup. Bob has the patience of a saint in working with our baby and giving us practical milestones, lots of encouragement and advice along the way. Our puppy is MUCH better behaved and providing the structure needed makes for a happier household all around.
  • Jason Beeson
    Sep. 6, 2024
    Rachel and Daniel with Dog Training Elite are the best! They went above and beyond to meet my training needs for my service dog Pearl. Extremely knowledgeable in obedience and service dog training. I highly recommend going to Rachel and Daniel for your service dog or obedience training.
  • Tim Williams
    Sep. 7, 2024
    From the moment they stepped in my house I could see the passion for training and the lov for dogs they had. They move as slow or as fast as your dog needs. Shaping the training to suit your pet always reminding you that you are now a part of their family and they will always be there to help. Not only did they teach my Goose(dogs name) to be my battle buddy(service dog) but they taught me how to work with him. They have given me the ability to start to get my life back. I can’t ever repay them for that.
  • Ashley Upton
    Sep. 2, 2024
    Gosh, I can't love this place more. Jan is FANTASTIC. He trained our service dog, Leia, and I have zero negative things to say. He is thorough, patient, and so knowledgeable. If we ever get another dog we will 100% come back here and request him. You won't be disappointed in using DTE!
  • Wesley Whitley
    Aug. 24, 2024
    I can’t believe how wonderful it has been working with these two veterans. They both are so easy to get along with and so flexible with their schedules. This team of trainers love your dog as much as you do. They are on time and attentive to your questions at just about any hour. The e collar, treats and the understanding to your dogs needs are the tools to success. If you put in the work and do their exercises you to can have success with your dog. I loved being in their company and feel like they are family. Thank y’all for a job well done. I’ll see you on Saturday!
  • Kale and Beckie Sanders
    Jun. 20, 2024
    Could not say enough great things about Dog Training Elite!! Daniel and Rachel are the absolute best! They are beyond knowledgeable in their field, they are excellent with our Taco and the rest of our pack. they are kind, caring and compassionate. They are just the best people and run an excellent training program. They will be the ONLY dog training service we recommend. A+++
  • Leah Miller
    Apr. 28, 2024
    We have been working with Daniel and Rachel for almost a year and have been so pleased with their training. We are in the process of getting our dogs trained to be service animals. We recently took the dogs to Disney World and they did amazing. Super grateful for all the help and training from Daniel and Rachel.
  • Mark Miller
    Apr. 28, 2024
    They are Amazing!
  • pamela elliott
    Apr. 16, 2024
    Dog Training Elite, with Alex and Talia, has worked wonders with my.dog Jack and myself. Talia has pushed, prodded and pulled Jack & I to where we are a pretty good team about to take our Public Access Test!!! Wish us luck. If you have a Jack in your family, this is the place for you! Terrific training, professional and friendly 🐶🐶
  • j gonzalez
    Mar. 25, 2024
    Daniel and Rachel are truly exceptional. We’re delighted to have chosen them as our dog, Cooper’s, trainers. Thanks to their professionalism, Cooper transitioned from being a rescue to a service dog. They are focused on doing a great job and attentively addressed every concern we had, always ready to assist. They make us feel more like friends than just Cooper’s trainers. Thanks to their guidance, Cooper accompanies us everywhere. Even through life’s ups and downs, they are always there for Cooper and us. If you’re seeking dog trainers who are genuine and love dogs, Daniel and Rachel are the perfect team for you!
  • Samantha Christina
    Jan. 11, 2024
    I am thrilled to share my incredibly positive experience with Dog Training Elite services. After just three weeks of in-facility training, my beloved dog Freya has transformed into an outstanding service animal, exceeding all expectations. I couldn't be more delighted with the results, and I wholeheartedly give Dog Training Elite a well-deserved 5-star review. From the moment we enrolled Freya in their program, the professionalism and dedication of the team were evident. Talia tailored a comprehensive training plan specifically for Freya's needs, ensuring a personalized approach that addressed her unique qualities. Talia exhibited a genuine passion for her work, creating a positive and supportive environment that fostered Freya's development. One of the most remarkable aspects of Dog Training Elite is their ability to achieve results quickly without compromising the well-being of the animals. Freya's newfound skills, include nudging, cover, and 6 showcase the effectiveness of the training methods employed by Talia. Not only did Freya exhibit remarkable progress during the in-facility training, but she also successfully passed her service dog test with flying colors. This achievement is a testament to the expertise and commitment of the Dog Training Elite team. I am immensely grateful for the positive impact this has had on Freya's life and, consequently, on mine. Thanks to their exceptional services, Freya is now officially my service dog, providing invaluable support and companionship. The bond between us has deepened, and I credit Dog Training Elite for facilitating this transformation. In summary, if you are looking for top-notch dog training services that yield remarkable results, look no further than Dog Training Elite. Their commitment to excellence, personalized approach, and quick, effective results make them the go-to choice for anyone seeking professional dog training services. I wholeheartedly recommend Talia and Dog Training Elite and award them a well-deserved 5 stars!
  • Claudia Rubio
    Jun. 9, 2025
    We’ve had a fantastic experience with Dog Training Elite West Houston. The team is professional, knowledgeable, and consistently reliable—always organized, punctual, and responsive to any questions we have. Our dog has shown major improvement in the behaviors we wanted to work on, and we’ve learned a lot about how to support her confidence and obedience. The training has helped both our dog and us grow together. We highly recommend this company and plan to keep working with them as we continue building our skills and helping our dog overcome her fears!
  • Alana Newman
    Jun. 2, 2025
    We have had an amazing experience so far. Especially with our trainer Jan Hernandez! He is great with Oliver - patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly effective. He has helped us make great progress.
  • Mark Miller
    May. 16, 2025
    Bob was An amazing trainer who took control of my dogs quickly and made them manageable. I have two 100 pound English labs who would just drag my wife and kids when they try to walk them. After several visits with Bob my dogs are the best behaved pets on our neighborhood trails. I would highly recommend Bob he did an outstanding job!
  • Alisa Borisovsky
    Apr. 2, 2025
    Excellent training service! Rachel transformed my service dog in a matter of days with her methods working better than any I have tried previously. Rachel and Daniel are both amazingly experienced trainers. You can tell they have a passion for it which makes it much more motivating for both the handler and the dog. Rachel went above and beyond with scheduling me and accommodating my crazy work schedule as a traveling healthcare worker. I couldn’t thank them enough for helping me with my sweet girl Ellie!
  • carey swan
    Mar. 7, 2025
    We were extremely impressed with wonderful Alex who came to the house for initial review and training. Then we met Jan for the in depth instruction. Jan Hernandez is the GOAT-Greatest Of All Times- dog trainer. His explanations and directions are comprehensive but clear. He is kind, intelligent, funny, professional and PATIENT…with dogs as well as humans. Our puppy is a pistol, but Jan maintained the perfect pitch with her throughout. VERY PLEASED.
  • Thomas Cramer
    Mar. 5, 2025
    Jan Hernandez is the best trainer for Us. Beckett has learned so much and will shape into a great service dog. Highly recommend the Dig Training Elite program and. Especially Jan!
  • Stacie Stagg
    Oct. 7, 2024
    I researched this facility after my neurologist and therapist agreed my needs required a service dog. Getting the dog was one thing. Training him? Another thing. Due to some medical issues, Cyno had to be quarantined from the public. Cyno started to be a lot to handle with puppy energy. Nibbling, chasing our cats, barking at people wearing hats (weird trigger, I know) disobedience, nervousness, seperation anxiety, etc. I was completely worried he was not cut out to be a service dog. We brought Cyno to DTE West Houston. Jan has been working with us and within TWO weeks of obedience, I have a completely different dog. We were given homework each day to strengthen skills with Cyno. Jan answered any questions, no matter how small or dumb I thought they might be. Jan answered with utmost patience and understanding. It's not just the dog who needs training. A human also needs to be trained just as well as their dog to be keep up the good work the trainers put in! Cyno is now more confident, well behaved and interested in his work. My cats are chill with Cyno now. He's a completely different dog from before DTE. I have no doubts now that he's cut to be a service dog. From service dog to companion dog, i have no doubts DTE West Houston can help. And I am super glad they exist honestly. Without them, I don't think my boy would be as wonderful as he is without their guidance and help.
  • Mary Ann Carey
    Jan. 23, 2025
    We adopted a rescued Chihuahua, Lynda, from Mutts and Meows. We were told she was the longest resident no one wanted her because she was what Mutts and Meows said skittish and not social. This was far from the truth this girl was filled with fear from abuse and probably from a man. However we were not going to let her go back and live in fear. Looking at our options we chose to try a trainer, we choose, Dog Training Elite West Houston and it was the best decision we could have made. The very first home visit, Alex had this girl calm, we could get a harness and leash on her, we were able to walk her, was able to touch Lynda and we could pet her, before Alex, we could not even get close to her or she would run and hide anywhere and anyway. She was so scared of us and everybody she was so sad. I swear Alex is part dog we were so amazed and impressed over the weeks she has improved 90% she still has a problem with Cliff but Loves Mary Ann and that’s enough for now. We want to send a heartfelt thank you to Alex of (Dog Training Elite West) and the entire staff that helped make the process so easy Lynda is happy, calm, and knows that this is her forever home. Linda still gives Cliff the stink eye but we are working on that. She will walk past him and will sleep in the bed with him and let him feed her. Thank you
  • Herbert Davis
    Nov. 14, 2024
    Jan has worked with my German Shepherd for 2 months now and the experience has been great! Very informative, helpful and the results have been noticeable from the start! I would absolutely recommend the training that your dog or pup will receive from dog training elite. Trainers and staff are very kind, patient and will work through all problems or concerns you bring to their attention.
  • Rebekah Crowder
    Oct. 12, 2024
    Bob is amazing! Our puppy was a poor emaciated rescue in need of love and security and once settled and healthy, was a very rambunctious pup. Bob has the patience of a saint in working with our baby and giving us practical milestones, lots of encouragement and advice along the way. Our puppy is MUCH better behaved and providing the structure needed makes for a happier household all around.
  • Jason Beeson
    Sep. 6, 2024
    Rachel and Daniel with Dog Training Elite are the best! They went above and beyond to meet my training needs for my service dog Pearl. Extremely knowledgeable in obedience and service dog training. I highly recommend going to Rachel and Daniel for your service dog or obedience training.
  • Tim Williams
    Sep. 7, 2024
    From the moment they stepped in my house I could see the passion for training and the lov for dogs they had. They move as slow or as fast as your dog needs. Shaping the training to suit your pet always reminding you that you are now a part of their family and they will always be there to help. Not only did they teach my Goose(dogs name) to be my battle buddy(service dog) but they taught me how to work with him. They have given me the ability to start to get my life back. I can’t ever repay them for that.
  • Ashley Upton
    Sep. 2, 2024
    Gosh, I can't love this place more. Jan is FANTASTIC. He trained our service dog, Leia, and I have zero negative things to say. He is thorough, patient, and so knowledgeable. If we ever get another dog we will 100% come back here and request him. You won't be disappointed in using DTE!
  • Wesley Whitley
    Aug. 24, 2024
    I can’t believe how wonderful it has been working with these two veterans. They both are so easy to get along with and so flexible with their schedules. This team of trainers love your dog as much as you do. They are on time and attentive to your questions at just about any hour. The e collar, treats and the understanding to your dogs needs are the tools to success. If you put in the work and do their exercises you to can have success with your dog. I loved being in their company and feel like they are family. Thank y’all for a job well done. I’ll see you on Saturday!
  • Kale and Beckie Sanders
    Jun. 20, 2024
    Could not say enough great things about Dog Training Elite!! Daniel and Rachel are the absolute best! They are beyond knowledgeable in their field, they are excellent with our Taco and the rest of our pack. they are kind, caring and compassionate. They are just the best people and run an excellent training program. They will be the ONLY dog training service we recommend. A+++
  • Leah Miller
    Apr. 28, 2024
    We have been working with Daniel and Rachel for almost a year and have been so pleased with their training. We are in the process of getting our dogs trained to be service animals. We recently took the dogs to Disney World and they did amazing. Super grateful for all the help and training from Daniel and Rachel.
  • Mark Miller
    Apr. 28, 2024
    They are Amazing!
  • pamela elliott
    Apr. 16, 2024
    Dog Training Elite, with Alex and Talia, has worked wonders with my.dog Jack and myself. Talia has pushed, prodded and pulled Jack & I to where we are a pretty good team about to take our Public Access Test!!! Wish us luck. If you have a Jack in your family, this is the place for you! Terrific training, professional and friendly 🐶🐶
  • j gonzalez
    Mar. 25, 2024
    Daniel and Rachel are truly exceptional. We’re delighted to have chosen them as our dog, Cooper’s, trainers. Thanks to their professionalism, Cooper transitioned from being a rescue to a service dog. They are focused on doing a great job and attentively addressed every concern we had, always ready to assist. They make us feel more like friends than just Cooper’s trainers. Thanks to their guidance, Cooper accompanies us everywhere. Even through life’s ups and downs, they are always there for Cooper and us. If you’re seeking dog trainers who are genuine and love dogs, Daniel and Rachel are the perfect team for you!
  • Samantha Christina
    Jan. 11, 2024
    I am thrilled to share my incredibly positive experience with Dog Training Elite services. After just three weeks of in-facility training, my beloved dog Freya has transformed into an outstanding service animal, exceeding all expectations. I couldn't be more delighted with the results, and I wholeheartedly give Dog Training Elite a well-deserved 5-star review. From the moment we enrolled Freya in their program, the professionalism and dedication of the team were evident. Talia tailored a comprehensive training plan specifically for Freya's needs, ensuring a personalized approach that addressed her unique qualities. Talia exhibited a genuine passion for her work, creating a positive and supportive environment that fostered Freya's development. One of the most remarkable aspects of Dog Training Elite is their ability to achieve results quickly without compromising the well-being of the animals. Freya's newfound skills, include nudging, cover, and 6 showcase the effectiveness of the training methods employed by Talia. Not only did Freya exhibit remarkable progress during the in-facility training, but she also successfully passed her service dog test with flying colors. This achievement is a testament to the expertise and commitment of the Dog Training Elite team. I am immensely grateful for the positive impact this has had on Freya's life and, consequently, on mine. Thanks to their exceptional services, Freya is now officially my service dog, providing invaluable support and companionship. The bond between us has deepened, and I credit Dog Training Elite for facilitating this transformation. In summary, if you are looking for top-notch dog training services that yield remarkable results, look no further than Dog Training Elite. Their commitment to excellence, personalized approach, and quick, effective results make them the go-to choice for anyone seeking professional dog training services. I wholeheartedly recommend Talia and Dog Training Elite and award them a well-deserved 5 stars!