A therapy dog walking in a park with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite to talk to a professional therapy dog trainer in Kansas City, MO!

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite Kansas City

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Dog Training Elite Kansas City  online booking

Request Free Assessment

Booking Request


Dog Training Elite Kansas City  online booking

Request Free Assessment

Our Therapy Dog Training Could Help:

Those managing chronic pain
People looking to increase social interaction
Anyone seeking enhanced motivation and purpose
Individuals in need of emotional comfort
Those experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression
People wanting to boost overall optimism
Anyone feeling lonely or isolated

Therapy Dog Trainer in Kansas City, MO

What is a Therapy Dog?

A therapy dog is trained to provide emotional support and comfort to people in need, often visiting hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. These dogs must be friendly with strangers, able to handle high levels of distraction, and understand personal boundaries like not jumping, licking, or mouthing. With proper training, therapy dogs can bring joy and emotional relief to those they interact with, offering companionship in stressful environments.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer programs to help your dog become a certified therapy dog. As a leading therapy dog trainer in Kansas City, MO, we focus on developing the right temperament and skills so your dog can confidently provide comfort and support in various settings. With our professional guidance, your dog can become a valuable source of emotional care and connection for individuals in need.

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A therapy dog in training with Dog Training Elite Kansas City 's expert handlers.

How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?


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While the companionship your dog brings you may inspire you to share that with others, not every dog is suited to be a therapy animal. Beyond a friendly, loving personality, several important qualifications must be met for a dog to be considered for therapy work:

  • Age: Puppies are typically too energetic and lack the focus to be therapy dogs.
  • Obedience: A therapy dog must follow commands reliably. Dogs that have completed obedience training with Dog Training Elite have the solid foundation needed to begin therapy dog training.
  • Social Skills: Therapy dogs need to naturally enjoy meeting new people and must handle being petted and approached by strangers without anxiety. Their ability to remain calm and friendly, even in unfamiliar situations, ensures they can provide emotional support to those they interact with.

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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FAQs

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.
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 Kansas City.
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.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Emily LaMar
    Aug. 24, 2024
    Cat is the best. She worked with our dog in a way that helped them learn quickly. She was patient and kind. I was not expecting our dog to learn as quickly as she did.
  • Amanda Kunkel Beech
    Aug. 13, 2024
    Haylee with Dog Training Elite has been doing an awesome job of teaching us to work with our dogs, Penelope and Oliver. Haylee has made sure each lesson has been tailored to the individual issues we were trying to work on with them. Additionally, she verifies that we have understood what is being taught so that we can continue to work with the dogs on our own. Chuck, Kaylee and Haylee have been completely invested in our progress. We were impressed both with our dogs and our own progress after each lesson! His prices were reasonable which was another plus! Chuck and his team have always been responsive and returned our messages and calls quickly or could easily reschedule if something arose that would conflict. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for training your dogs of any age.
  • Amanda Beech
    Aug. 13, 2024
    Haylee with Dog Training Elite has been doing an awesome job of teaching us to work with our dogs, Penelope and Oliver. Haylee has made sure each lesson has been tailored to the individual issues we were trying to work on with them. Additionally, she verifies that we have understood what is being taught so that we can continue to work with the dogs on our own. Chuck, Kaylee and Haylee have been completely invested in our progress. We were impressed both with our dogs and our own progress after each lesson! His prices were reasonable which was another plus! Chuck and his team have always been responsive and returned our messages and calls quickly or could easily reschedule if something arose that would conflict. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for training your dogs of any age.
  • DAVID DREDGE
    Aug. 10, 2024
    This company is very very accommodating, flexible and understanding. They are super good at training and explaining how to do it. They are patient with the dogs and really know how to get it done. In short THEY ARE THE BEST. I highly recommend 👌
  • Diane Gardner
    Jan. 21, 2023
    Wonderful people who know dogs. Took our 5 month old Standard Poodle from a great puppy to my licensed diabetic service dog in 6 months. Just do the homework. They continue to provide weekly learning activities. Great group. Highly recommend.
  • Kimberly Christopher
    Aug. 6, 2024
    My trainer, Cat, was wonderful to work with, as was the entire team. Training was kind, efficient and effective from Cat, and I’m very glad that training was held mostly at my home. Juniper and I put in the hard work each week - which is a must. It paid off- Juniper passed her certification, and we’re looking forward to the unlimited group classes. Another great feature of Dog Training Elite’s program! I would definitely recommend this group to anyone looking for a solid training program.
  • Bill Fry
    Apr. 11, 2024
    Love Chuck and all of his team they were able to help our crazy mastiff that is 250 lbs and thinks he was a lap dog and could jump on everyone ! He loves people and acts right now without dragging me down the street ! Thanks for what you do ! Can’t wait for weekend group events !
  • Benny Smith
    Mar. 23, 2024
    Our experience with Chuck and the entire team at Dog Training Elite has always been great! They offer so much more than just training for your pet. Would recommend to anyone wanting to train there beloved pets!
  • jodi khazin
    Mar. 22, 2024
    The group class is great for the dogs. It helps with socializing and group work. The trainers are all great. I love the classes
  • Paul Rieck
    Oct. 12, 2023
    Dog Training Elite is the real deal! Professional, accomodating and really good people. They take the time to explain and teach my service dog (and me as his handler). Highly recommend!!
  • Heather Massey
    Jan. 28, 2024
    Best trainers ever!!!! I have tried many. These are the best! I recommend them to everyone.
  • Samantha Stallman
    Jan. 5, 2024
    If I could give more than five stars I would. Very knowledgeable on different dog behaviors and really focusing their attention on what the dog and owners need/want from training. Chuck came out for a consult prior to committing and he really walked us through their program and listened to all of our concerns and our reasonings for getting our dog training. We worked with Nate and now my dog looks forward to weekly visits. Great company and employees!
  • Mike Wentworth
    Sep. 20, 2023
    The Dog Training threw ELITE is wonderful
  • Aaron Mizell
    Sep. 19, 2023
    Truly phenomenal team! They train you in order to train the dog rather than just focusing on the dog. Very much a "Teach a man to Fish" type of training. Our Service dog was the Royals Buck O'Neil Honoree because of their tremendous skill.
  • Dennis Aldy
    Jul. 21, 2023
    I absolutely loved Dog Training Elite. They came weekly to help both me and my dog to learn how to work together. DTE both demonstrated and allowed me to learn how to train my dog. DTE also answered all my questions, even making themselves available to continue and support my efforts in having a well trained family dog.
  • Douglas Scott
    Apr. 15, 2023
    Our Buster Brown has improved so much, Never likes the dogs on the TV but now we can tell him off and he just grumble talks to them. We are still working on boats that pass by on the lake but consistency will win the game. cheers to the Elite team!
  • Charles Huddleston
    Mar. 28, 2023
    Great group to work with and training approach if very effective and gets results.
  • Darla Hawkins
    Mar. 17, 2023
    Working Willow with Kaylee was the best! She is very good at what she does and you can tell she genuinely loves it, she never hurts your furbaby. Kaylee explains how to teach them each step in easy to understand language. She makes sure you understand before you start training at each step. This was not the cheapest place, but I feel it was the best choice. Both before and after she was trained. My dog was so skiddish, she has learned to be calm and not bark so much as she has more confidence. I would give my highest recommendations to Dog Training Elite! If I ever get another dog I'd do it again. Worth every penny. They go above and beyond to your dog be everything you dream of!
  • Shelby Flowers
    Feb. 27, 2023
    Haley with Dog Training Elite did an amazing job training our dog, Dingo. When we rescued him he didn't have really any house manners and would chase our cats, after the first lesson he was acting so much better! He gets along with our cats now and listens to us, we are beyond happy with the training! Their trainers definitely know what they're doing!
  • Molly Schwery
    Feb. 22, 2023
    Our trainers were very helpful in teaching us and helping train our 2 yr old dog.
An obedient dog in a fran_territory_name} emotional support dog training program.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

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Therapy dogs have a profound impact on individuals’ emotional and physical well-being. Research demonstrates that therapy dogs can improve a patient's mood, reduce stress, and even lower pain levels during hospital stays or medical treatments. Their calming presence provides comfort and relief in challenging moments.

Children, in particular, often respond well to therapy dogs. The companionship and playful interaction of a therapy dog can motivate children to engage more fully in treatments, helping them overcome fear or reluctance. With a therapy dog by their side, children tend to feel more optimistic and less anxious.

Beyond medical settings, therapy dogs also foster social interaction, especially in autism and mental health communities. These dogs offer non-judgmental companionship and serve as a bridge for individuals who may struggle with social connections. By reducing feelings of loneliness and anxiety, therapy dogs offer their owners comfort and companionship that enhances the overall quality of life.

A therapy dog handler with their dog trained by Dog Training Elite Kansas City .

Therapy Dog Handlers

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If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful impact in your community, becoming a therapy dog handler offers a unique opportunity to do so alongside your dog. You can choose where to volunteer based on your interests, such as schools, hospitals, or senior living centers.

Once you’ve decided, therapy dog training is the next step. Dog Training Elite Kansas City ’s expert trainers will help your dog master essential behaviors like loose-leash walking, “leave it,” and not jumping on people. After completing training, you can apply for therapy dog certification, but it’s essential to keep up with ongoing training to ensure your dog remains well-behaved and ready to assist.

Additional Training Programs

Dog Training Elite Kansas City  - Dog Obedience Training in Kansas City, MO. DTE
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite Kansas City  - Elite Puppy Training in Kansas City, MO. DTE
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite Kansas City  - Elite Service Dog Training in Kansas City, MO. DTE
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite Kansas City  - Aggressive Dog Training in Kansas City, MO. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite Kansas City  - Top Group Dog Training in Kansas City, MO. DTE
Group Training
A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite Kansas City .

Kansas City Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

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At Dog Training Elite Kansas City , our training programs prepare your dog for real-world situations where their presence can provide emotional support and comfort. Beyond just obedience, our training teaches your dog how to handle stressful or highly stimulating environments like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes.

We also place a strong emphasis on socialization and adaptability, making sure your dog can confidently engage with people of all ages and backgrounds. Therapy dog work requires attentiveness and empathy, and our training helps your dog develop these traits. With a foundation of trust, consistency, and patience, your dog will be fully equipped to offer comfort and companionship wherever it’s needed.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Kansas City .
Dog Training Elite Kansas City  light star icon.

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Victory Begins With Elite Education

ESA vs. Therapy vs. Service Animals

What's the Difference?

Animals that provide assistance and companionship can be classified into three main groups: service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs), and therapy animals. Each has different responsibilities, training requirements, and legal protections. Knowing the differences can help you choose the right type of support for a disability, emotional needs, or therapy purposes.

Here are the defining features of each type:

Service animals are trained to help individuals by performing tasks that meet their specific needs, such as:

  • Redirecting attention when an individual is beginning to feel overstimulated
  • Reminding owners to take medication
  • Waking someone who is having a nightmare

Service dogs are highly valued in the mental health and disability community and are protected under ADA laws, allowing them to accompany their owners anywhere. At DTE, we provide specialized training for service dogs that assist individuals with autism, diabetes, and PTSD.

The key difference between ESAs, therapy dogs, and service dogs is that service animals are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This means they are allowed to go anywhere their owner goes. ESAs and therapy dogs do not have the same protections as service dogs, and public places can set their own rules about allowing them.

ESAs are prescribed by licensed mental health professionals to help individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. These animals provide emotional support simply by being a comforting presence. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks related to their owner's condition.

ESAs can be of any breed or age, and while they do not require the same level of training as service dogs, many owners choose to seek additional training. This can help strengthen the bond between the owner and the animal and improve the ESA's ability to provide consistent emotional support in different situations.

Therapy animals provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in need. They are not trained to assist a single person but are instead taught to be well-behaved and sociable around various groups of people. These animals help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness for those they visit.

Unlike service animals, therapy animals are not required to perform specific tasks. Their calming presence is what makes them valuable in therapeutic programs.