FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Huntsville, AL

Frequently Asked Questions

General
One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
The answer to this is in how the technology of "shock" collars (as they were called in the past) has changed a lot since they originated several years ago. The stimulation in the electronic collars we use is much like a TENS unit and provides a tapping sensation that is used to get the dog's attention on a very low level. We use a brand called Dogtra. We do not use "shock" collars, but electronic collars employed by the top obedience trainers around the world and in Huntsville.
No. We use electronic collars to get the dogs attention only. When you work around distractions (which is one of our main focuses), keeping your dog's attention is paramount. The collar, combined with positive reinforcement (we like to use praise), help create a positive learning environment in Huntsville for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Huntsville.
No, but your dog will wear it a lot in the beginning. The objective is to create a conditioned response with your dog; meaning that when you say 'sit', your dog sits automatically without thinking about it first. Much like Pavlov's Dogs or Pavlovian Conditioning, we create a reflex response to you giving a command using the electronic collar. That being said, after your dog is "collar-conditioned", you will be able to remove the collar and still have a dog that will be obedient.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Huntsville.
To effectively resolve specific issues, we need to start with a solid foundation in obedience. This approach helps you become a confident leader for your dog, which is key to addressing and preventing behavioral problems.
Nope. Those are dangerous grounds to tread upon. We'd much rather train a vicious dog!
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.
Yes. Working with and controlling aggression is one of our specialties in Huntsville.
We focus on training companion dogs for veterans and individuals with PTSD and other psychological conditions. In addition to service animals, we also train therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes, and treatment centers.
To be a service dog, your dog needs to have an even temperament. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, etc. typically have a great temperament for service work. For some types of service work, your dog will need to have AKC certifications (such as Canine Good Citizen or Community Canine) which we are able to certify. As always, we would be happy to assess your dog's aptitude for service work for free!

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About Dog Training Elite Huntsville

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Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Huntsville. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.
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Reviews
Our testimonials showcase the success stories of dogs and their owners who have benefited from our training programs. From basic obedience to advanced service dog training, see how Dog Training Elite Huntsville has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
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Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Huntsville family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.
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Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite Huntsville can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
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In the Community
At Dog Training Elite Huntsville, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Jacqueline Perr
    Oct. 16, 2024
    I highly recommend DTE for training your dog for obedience. They have been very helpful and kind. Their service and training has been wonderful with my puppy. We still have some training to do and I’m excited to continue to work with them and if you are in the need to train your dog I believe you should contact them.
  • Greg Wilson
    Sep. 22, 2024
    The team at Dog Training Elite are amazing! From the moment I called them for information, they have been responsive and easy to work with. My husband is a 100% disabled vet. They helped train our puppy and worked with me on the best Service Dog package. We look forward to continuing training with them!
  • Rd W
    Aug. 21, 2024
    We have been very pleased and would recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone with puppies or dogs in need of better behavior and manners.
  • P Morgan
    Jul. 26, 2024
    We have been working with them to train my daughters Autism service dog and it has been a great. There is so much to do to get him ready and they are knowledgeable, kind and supportive. It is worth every penny to see my daughter blossom with her dog.
  • Jennie Brent
    Jul. 5, 2024
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all of your dog training needs. They are extremely professional and know what they’re doing! JB and his team are phenomenal and we are so blessed to be working with them.
  • Michael B
    Jun. 19, 2024
    Service dogs cost many thousands of dollars. Through DTE, you can be trained to work with, and train, your chosen pup. The standard dog training is great. My pup and I have had great success and he will stay with me. This creates a greater bond. DTE is very receptive and easy to work with. JB has been our trainer and we have just been cleared to join the group sessions. JB has excellent delivery when he suggests a change or points out a mistake that i have made. I have a greater understanding of canine behavior through the guidance and advice. I would strongly advise anyone i know to consider training with JB and DTE. All of this is for a fraction of the price i would have paid for an already trained pup. I enjoy the classes and we will continue to enjoy the benefits of classes and group training for as long as we are a pair. Thanks to DTE, he is almost ready to go into stores with me, the ones that only allow service animals.
  • Debbie Longeddy
    Jun. 18, 2024
    Our instructor, JB, was thoroughly knowledgeable about dog training, and working with me to help my dog and me. Really liked the training classes at my home for a number of visits, and now attending classes at a park with other dogs. Excellent training organization!
  • Jerome Honeyman
    Apr. 21, 2023
    I would highly recommend Elite Dog Training. JB was found to be not only professional, but also extremely experienced with the behaviors of dogs and the mistakes that I was making as a 🐾 paw parent.This insight brought me and my dog on the same path and has given me and my dog, a stronger bond and relationship And as a treasured member of our family I could not of selected a better person to help me with Bella than JB. Thank you J B. Jerome Honeyman
  • Janna Lindsey
    Jun. 9, 2024
    JB is a phenomenal trainer.
  • Jennifer Waldran
    Jun. 7, 2024
    We have done training with our dog in the past, but JB has brought a whole new level of training. We are seeing extraordinary results! Paige has also been great with working on distractions. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Melissa Robinson
    May. 29, 2024
    JB is excellent and very knowledgeable. Be ready to work with your dog for this program to work and you will see amazing and immediate success!
  • Thomas L. Adkins
    May. 7, 2024
    JB is very knowledgeable and easily teaches others how best to train their dog. He is very patient and understanding with both the dog and its owners. He instills confidence in the owner so they can continue with the training after his personal training sessions have ended. We now have a dog that answers when called and obeys commands. Our puppy is so much more a part of the family thanks to JB at Dog Training Elite!
  • Bryan Landreth
    Apr. 13, 2024
    They have done a phenomenal job training ‘tracker’ to be a diabetic alert dog for our 4 year old. He is extremely well behaved especially in public and doing a great job alerting at such a young age already!
  • Julie Castellanos
    Sep. 13, 2023
    We have Mr JB helped us with evaluating puppies and got our servicedog puppy. This is our first dog so we followed professional instructions thru our puppy Ruby’s arrival to family , puppy training and now we are at Service Dog training session. Mr JB and his wife are excellent dog trainers. Our puppy is only four months old now but already started picking up kid from school. Ruby the golden doodle girl is already a star for being loving and obedient. We are ready to take group training class now. Very exciting and proud for our little Ruby. Thank you , Dog Training Elite ! You are the best.
  • Melanie Harries Blitch
    Aug. 31, 2023
    JB has been amazing. Our puppy has learned so much and now both of us feel confident with each other. Thanks so much JB for training us.
  • Kristin McElroy
    Aug. 4, 2023
    We have had such a positive experience with the whole DTE team! There are several packages and training by options to fit multiple needs. The trainers are all great! We worked mostly with JB working on obedience and some behavior issues we were having. Can’t say enough good things! Highly recommend!!
  • sandra hensley
    Jul. 4, 2023
    Can't believe the change in my dog. Her training made her realize that she is not the boss, and it has completely changed her.
  • Don Traut
    Apr. 11, 2023
    Very knowledgeable and flexible in assisting us train a service dog. Individual classes are very effective, and group classes are fun for both the dog and handler.
  • katandthefids everything2cellos
    Apr. 8, 2023
    I'm very pleased with JB. I have difficult dogs and he's great with them, and pretty good with training me to work with them.
  • Kent Cook
    Mar. 14, 2023
    Absolutely the TOP service dog training in Huntsville.😀

Our Team

JB Pitsinger - Owner/Trainer
JB Pitsinger
Owner/Trainer

I grew up right here in Huntsville and have always had a passion for dogs. Shortly after completing high school, I enlisted in the USMC where I served 20 years on active duty in Marine Corps Aviation. After many duty station locations throughout the world, my wife, Christie, and I decided to relocate back here to Huntsville. Prior to becoming a professional dog trainer, I was a process manufacturing engineer in the electronics industry focusing on lean and six sigma initiatives. This allowed me to enhance my interpersonal relationships by leading project teams to success. I look forward to working with you and your dog to build that lifelong relationship.

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