DTE is now partnering with Scratchpay to provide simple, friendly payment plans for your dog's education!
Learn More!
Back to About Us

Reviews & Testimonials

Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Hear From Our Customers

Cathy Dunn
Apr. 15, 2025 - google
As the "Mom" of a 70lb Malinois who was a wild child, I knew I needed help. From the first lesson, Christy and Sean gave me the tools I needed to feel more in control and after several lessons adding tools to my toolbox my wild child is on his way to being a super well mannered dog who is obedient and a joy to walk! I can't thank Christy and Sean enough.
Emma Watson
Feb. 25, 2025 - google
I have so much respect and gratitude for Christy. I literally carry her business cards on my person so I can recommend folks to her. (Not sponsored!) I find Christy and her enterprise to be highly professional. + Scheduling is easy and they send great reminders. Shout out Tammy! Christy is always on time and will send you five texts if she thinks she is going to be 2-3 minutes late. + She is a great listener and never rushes me. I feel like she takes all my concerns seriously and follows up about them, whether it be my dog suddenly having a weird lump, regressing on crate training, or discovering the wonders of counter surfing. + Christy is clearly a subject matter expert and has a resource for everything. She has this really fantastic book with logs so you can basically habit track your critter. She is also very knowledgeable about laws/the rights of service animals. + Christy always comes ready. She is going to show up in her Dog Training Elite branded polo, her branded jacket on top if it's chilly, and pull her branded backpack out of her wrapped car. The backpack is the dog version of the Mary Poppins bag and seems to have a never-ending supply of leashes, poop bags, treats, collars, and pamphlets. The logistics of her empire are also just good. + She comes to your house and meets you in places you already go. It's so convenient and really makes it possible to do while WFH. It also preps your dog for the environments they will actually be in when you need them to perform their tasks. + She has a million tiers of plans and can set up a payment plan to make it work with what you need/can afford. I find her plans to be highly flexible and her rates to be very competitive. + She is highly accessible and invested. I really do feel like she cares about my dog and me, and she shows me that by checking up on us regularly and being available by text. I often refer to her as our dog doula.
Julia Falcioni
Feb. 24, 2025 - google
We had a great experience with Christy and her team! They got our service dog trained and certified within our deadline and exceeded our expectations! We tried two other training companies prior and neither came even close to Dog Training Elite!
juju sandhu
Jan. 28, 2025 - google
Sheru learnt a lot while in training. For myself being first time dog owner it meant a lot. Lots of very practical tips so that your puppy behaves the way you expect. I was very happy with conversations and timely responses. The meeting were scheduled taking into consideration of our other commitments. The staff is very trained and very professional. I personally will recommend Dog Training Elite of Central MD if you need help training your dog. Thank you Christy Richard and Tammy for your help. Juju Singh
Kate Baumgart
Jan. 24, 2025 - google
We had been looking for dog training for our headstrong dog Rudder when we met Christy at a boat show. From the moment we began talking we felt safe and heard with our goals for our boy. We are boaters and were concerned about his safety on the boat as well as day to day manners that needed some sharpening. After working with other trainers prior we hesitated to hire another trainer for fear of wasting money or being unsuccessful. We spoke to Christy and her team a few times throughout the day and had every one of our questions answered with patience and respect. We continued to research and think about starting the process for a few weeks before scheduling the evaluation and as soon as she met Rudder we were confident in her abilities and impressed with how she interacted with him. We immediately signed up with the goal of him being well mannered enough to attend a large Christmas party. The only thing we would have changed was starting sooner. After one session we immediately saw improvements and by Christmas he was so well mannered he was the talk of the party. Everyone was impressed and he has only improved more since then. I went from being a skeptic of hiring another trainer to singing the praises of Christy, Richard, and Tammy. They work seamlessly as a team to ensure success and understanding every step of the way. We could not have asked for a better experience. When they say they want you to be successful and will do what it takes to get you there they mean it. I would recommend them over and over again! Thank you Dog Training Elite!
Michelle Walker
Jan. 2, 2025 - google
Winston our puppy was crazy until we met Chrissy and Richard! The training was amazing from my first session! Chrissy answers questions 24/7 and Richard was awesome with me during my home sessions. Richard made sure I was confident with the commands before he left! Thanks Elite!
Veronica D
Sep. 4, 2024 - google
Richard and Christy helped get our puppy super well trained..Thank you Dog Training Elite of Maryland
David Schilling
Sep. 3, 2024 - google
Christy was awesome with our 2 yr old lab, Tucker. She was very patient with him and we saw great results from her work. They regularly followed up to see how he was doing with his homework and to see if we had any questions or problems. If he was slow to grasp a lesson , they were more than willing to go over the lesson again at the next session. Would highly recommend!!!
Maria Lee
Sep. 1, 2024 - google
I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. My trainer, Christy, was fantastic! I had rescued a pitbull mix (Blue). A few days later, I reached out to Christy about in-home training. Christy came to my home to do an evaluation. I really liked how comfortable and confident she was when handling Blue. I signed up for their in-home training program so that we would be in our normal environment (with distractions) during the training. The best part of the training was that Christy would work with Blue first until he understood the command. Once he knew the command, Christy would than train me on how to use the command with Blue. It allowed me to watch and ask questions before trying the command myself. In addition, I felt that Christy went above and beyond what other trainers would do. I had a lot of dog related questions beyond our immediate training session. Christy patiently answered my questions and provided her insights. Even when I texted her asking for additional help with Blue, Christy made time to help me with my request. Blue is a better dog because of the training. Blue doesn't jump on people anymore, I know how to handle him when he sees rabbits & squirrels, and he knows his commands very well. Blue and I have a better relationship because of the training. Very grateful for Christy and her Team.
KarenSue Dean
Jul. 17, 2024 - google
What a great experience we had with Dog Training Elite of CM! They took the time to understand our pooch and worked with us to help her overcome her impulsiveness and reactivity. We never dreamed in a million years that we would be able to take a walk around buses, trucks, bikes, scooter and runners let alone other dogs. We can't recommend them enough and would definitely use them again if the need ever arises.
kasey thomas
Apr. 27, 2024 - google
We have had nothing but great experiences with Dog Training Elite for the last few months. The trainers are honest, set realistic expectations, and are dedicated to helping their clients reach their training goals. The one-on-one sessions really helped set my puppy up for success for our first group session. We have seen significant improvement with every session and I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for anyone who is looking for obedience, consistency, and overall a more well-behaved dog.
Ishita Rahman
May. 10, 2024 - google
Christy and Richard have both been amazing. Helped train my not so well behaved older dog.
Kellina Nolan
May. 6, 2024 - google
We absolutely love, love, love Dog Training Elite. They were so patient training our very nervous puppy. The in home training is phenomenal & we really enjoy the group sessions. The group sessions have been so helpful in socializing our puppy. It’s worth every penny & we have been so happy with the training.
Kevin Dunn
Apr. 24, 2024 - google
A great experience and worth every penny! We are first time dog owners and this was exactly what we needed.Stanly follows all commands off, sit, down wait and finally free when he can end the commands. Walking actually became dangerous as Stanley went from 2 to 6 months we were the ones being walked or pulled down the street. We now love walks our arms are relaxed and the walks are a pleasure. Dinners are normal again as Stan will PLACE and stay down until he is told to “free” Stanley loves to please so he enjoys it also. Christie the owner is great following up and her trainer Sean is great too. Kevin
Carrie M
Mar. 22, 2024 - google
Dog Training Elite has by far exceeded my expectations when providing guidance for both my daughter's service dog and my personal dog. They worked with us 1:1 to develop a plan tailored to our family's needs and were always available for questions or concerns. Having at home training was perfect for our scheduling and then pairing with group sessions gave us a well rounded experience for our dogs. Highly recommend!
LaToya Cross
Mar. 22, 2024 - google
We had the pleasure of working with Christy to train my dog to be a service dog for me. She is so amazing, patient and understanding. My dog has fallen in love with her and lights up while wagging his tail so much when he sees her. I would HIGHLY recommend them for training.
Rachael Logan
Mar. 20, 2024 - google
Highly recommend. Christy and her team truly know dogs, understand dog behaviour, and are able to help us understand and work with our highly active dog! I have seen so much improvement. The instructions are clear and very doable.
Dave Bond
Feb. 5, 2024 - google
My Wife & I could not be more pleased with the overall experience we've had working with Christy & Richard from Dog Training Elite! We've seen a tremendous improvement in Baxter's (our 2 year old, German Shepherd Mix) responsiveness to commands, and his general behavior, and we're confident that we now have the tools we need to successfully continue his Training on our own. They came to our home for multiple sessions, addressed all of our concerns, and were very easy to work with! Their passion, communication & flexibility made Training much easier than we ever expected...Highly Recommend!
Cheri Chalk
Feb. 5, 2024 - google
Excellent business! I can’t say enough about our trainer Christy, she was amazing with our dog Beau and us. He’s a different dog after he completed his training. I highly recommend Christy and her team at Dog Training Elite Central Maryland!
Nicole Mazzella
Dec. 11, 2023 - google
This training is a game-changer! I was amazed at how quickly we saw results and how easy it is to follow. I would recommend to anyone!
Load More Reviews

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!

About Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland

Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland - Meet Our Elite Team. Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland
Meet the Team
Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland - Careers. Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland
Careers
Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland - Our Gallery. Dog Training Elite in Howard County, MD
Gallery
Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland - Local Dog Trainers in Howard County, MD. DTE
In the Community

Our Team

A well-trained DTE dog on a surfboard.
Dog Training Elite of Central Maryland light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Unleash Your Dog's Potential

Photo Gallery

See An Elite Dog in Action

Christy Dugan - Owner
Christy Dugan
Owner

A Maryland native, Christy has had dogs her entire life. She began her professional journey as a Veterinary Technician, where she developed an understanding of the unique characteristics and needs of various breeds. Later, she spent 16 fulfilling years as the owner of a business teaching sports and fitness to young children, including those with diverse abilities. This role instilled in her the importance of patience, positive reinforcement, and adapting to individual learning styles – skills she now applies to her passion for dog training.

Christy is also a passionate advocate for mental health and believes in the transformative impact that dogs can have on individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and autism. She loves being part of the journey where well-trained dogs make meaningful differences in people’s lives.

At Dog Training Elite Central Maryland, Christy helps families build stronger bonds with their dogs through balanced training methods. She's dedicated to providing in-home training for family dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs, believing that well-trained dogs can enrich lives and strengthen communities.

Close
Tammy McGrady - Administrative Assistant
Tammy McGrady
Administrative Assistant

Growing up in Anne Arundel County, dogs were my world. My family always adopted from shelters like the SPCA and the Animal Welfare Society, and I cherished the bond I had with each of our rescued pups. One shy girl we adopted spent the first few days hiding, but with patience and love, she became my shadow. That experience sparked my passion for helping dogs overcome challenges and thrive in their homes.

Over the years, I've volunteered at BARCS and a few rescues, walking dogs, assisting with adoption events, and fundraising. In 2023, I joined Dog Training Elite because of their balanced approach to training, which combines positive reinforcement with clear communication and consistent expectations. Working alongside Christy, I'm constantly amazed by her ability to clearly communicate with both dogs and their owners, creating a strong foundation for understanding and cooperation. I'm passionate about helping families develop fulfilling relationships with their dogs, whether it's through in-home training, assistance with service dog training, mastering basic obedience, or overcoming behavioral challenges.

Close
Richard Murphy - Trainer
Richard Murphy
Trainer

Richard’s love for dogs began at a young age, growing up hunting and bonding with them. These early experiences shaped his deep appreciation for their incredible potential and the unique bond between dogs and their owners. As an experienced dog trainer, Richard finds immense joy in helping families transform their dogs into well-behaved, obedient companions and assisting individuals in need of highly trained service dogs or therapy dogs.

Richard is particularly passionate about witnessing the transformation of dogs and their owners, knowing his work helps keep dogs in happy, loving homes. In his free time, he dedicates himself to training his golden retriever, who is on the path to becoming a certified therapy dog, blending his personal and professional passions.

With a commitment to providing expert dog training services, Richard strives to improve the lives of dogs and their owners. Whether working with family pets, service dogs, or therapy dogs, he ensures every dog has the opportunity to succeed, strengthen their bond with their families, and become a valued member of the household.

Close