An obedient puppy receiving expert puppy training in Knoxville, TN from DTE.

Professional

Puppy Training

Dog Training Elite Knoxville

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Puppy Training Could Help:

Leash and potty training
Food guarding and begging
Destructive chewing and digging
Stealing food, clothing, or other objects
Barking, howling and whining
Aggression and anxiety
Jumping and hyperactivity

Dog Training Elite

Expert Knoxville Puppy Trainers

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it also comes with challenges like chewing and accidents. The most common mistake new owners make is underestimating the knowledge, commitment, and effort needed to train a new puppy.

Once a puppy begins to grow, its energy can quickly feel unmanageable. It’s all too common that a well-meaning and loving family takes on a puppy lacking the knowledge and skills to train correctly. This often results in overwhelmed owners rehoming or taking these puppies to local shelters, feeling the puppy’s disposition is bad or simply that they are not cut out to be dog owners.

At Dog Training Elite, we focus on building that bond through effective training to foster trust and communication. Our experienced Knoxville puppy trainers use proven methods to help you and your puppy succeed together.

See Training Packages
A little puppy sitting in grass, contact Dog Training Elite Knoxville today.

Puppy Essentials Webinar

Free 70-Minute video

$45 Value

See Packages

Our trusted puppy class is now available "on-demand" from the comfort of your home! This webinar video is designed for owners of puppies age 8-16 weeks old, and will be accessible to you for free after completing the form below or with the purchase of one of our puppy packages!

Access Webinar

Our webinar includes education on the following topics:
  • Introducing a new puppy to your home
  • Health & well-being
  • Veterinary care & vaccines
  • Nurturing a good temperament
  • Scruffing & calming signals (e.g. dog yoga)
  • Basic Treat Obedience Including: Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy Corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate Training / Housebreaking
  • Socialization Tips
  • Environmental Hazards
  • Puppy Enrichment
  • Caring for Your Puppy
Three puppies receiving expert training from Dog Training Elite Knoxville.

The Importance of Puppy Training


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Almost everyone and everything a puppy will encounter will be brand new, which can be exciting. However, puppies may not know how to respond positively and safely to new experiences without proper training. That's why Dog Training Elite believes in starting puppy training as soon as possible, so you and your pup can bond and start your adventures on the right foot!

Training the DTE way provides puppies and owners with a nurturing environment where they can learn to communicate and trust each other. Puppies have an innate desire to please, so training can be fun and even easy! Of course, it can be daunting to try and figure out how to make puppies understand concepts like potty training or commands like sit and stay on your own. That's where puppy training comes in.

Keeping a puppy safe should be the number one priority of new dog owners. By working with puppy trainers in, new puppy owners can learn how to teach their pup both basic and complex obedience skills effectively. Training a pup to be home alone, walk on a leash, wait on the threshold, and avoid consuming non-edible objects will help keep them safe when out of sight.

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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Desirae Wagnon
    Jun. 9, 2025
    Graci came and helped us with our needs!! She made sure we understood everything about the training. I can’t wait to work with the team on training!
  • Calie Benke
    Jun. 5, 2025
    Reina is a wonderful trainer for our needs. She was straightforward, understanding, transparent, helpful, confident - all the necessary traits for a couple of newbies like us. She is an invaluable resource to rely on as our rambunctious puppy is turning into a well-behaved pup. The cost feels a little pricey, but our journey with Reina has eased the anxiousness around it. Highly recommend!
  • Jen Newell
    May. 8, 2025
    Great job. So far. Been working with our puppy now for 7 weeks. Thank you Cost is expensive but well worth it. Reina is amazing she's very patient very understanding very loving caring group of people. We have worked with a couple of other trainers but I really like Reina. If you get a chance take it
  • Wendy Mendelsohn
    May. 28, 2025
    Will start training tomorrow, but the initial assessment went well. Was very impressed with what to expect from the outcome of the program. 1st session: Kenna was my trainer today and it went very well. She was kind and positive, my pup responded wonderfully.
  • Dannie Harris
    Jan. 14, 2025
    Another great trip out with Kenna! She was so helpful! I highly recommend this company…next to the mall.
  • Herbert Knapp
    May. 30, 2025
    Awesome very knowledgeable and understanding really was interested in what I was looking to get out this Training very much put my mind at ease
  • APRIL MCVAY
    May. 30, 2025
    Dog Training Elite provide top-notch training for your dogs. Parker worked directly on leash aggression with Sam. The problem was corrected during our session. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Lori-Anne Williams
    May. 29, 2025
    Reina's dedication to excellence helped "my Hannah" become a happy, obedient, and confident dog. When I adopted Hannah as a puppy from a shelter, she came to me with absolutely no training or discipline. I felt extremely frustrated because I was so unprepared to provide the training she needed, but Reina came right in and confidently met BOTH of our needs. She quickly made the adjustments we needed and personalized our program for us with tremendous patience and incredible kindness. Ultimately, she taught us both exactly what we needed to know!
  • Christie Steier
    May. 28, 2025
    I cannot say enough about how pleased I am with the services of Dog Training Elite of Nashville. Reina was wonderful. She was very professional but at the same time very friendly and kind. I can tell she really loves dogs and her job! The difference in my dog’s behavior is amazing. I no longer worry about being injured by being dragged down the street when I walk him, or having to lift him into the car. I can take him out with me more and he is so well behaved that everyone that sees him loves him. Thank you Reina!
  • Carmen McKinley
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Montana was extremely professional, very nice, friendly and LOVES DOGS! She was very helpful from our first training session on. I look forward in seeing how she can help in so many ways with my new puppy!!
  • Ashley Reynolds
    May. 27, 2025
    So friendly and knowledgeable! Millie is making progress in less than a week!
  • Kristy Schnetzler
    Apr. 3, 2025
    Reina is wonderful! Our fur baby continually has progress week over week!! Our goal is to have Gabby trained as a service companion for our little one, with Raina's help, we are confident we will get there! We so appreciate all you do for us and think you, you are absolutely amazing!!!!
  • Saba Chishti
    Apr. 10, 2025
    Lots of patience and guidance! Would highly recommend. She answered all of our questions and more!
  • Robert Law
    May. 19, 2025
    We did the assessment with Reina and they are fantastic! I would 100% recommend their services over anyone else.
  • Dale Herrington
    May. 9, 2025
    She was very knowledgeable and helpful.
  • Taeron Thomas
    May. 8, 2025
    It was a very straightforward process and very detailed price wise was the only hit definitely looking in to it
  • Joe Coomer
    May. 6, 2025
    Excellent
  • S Nabrotzky
    May. 4, 2025
    Dog Training Elite, especially Parker has helped us enjoy our dog so much more. He does have the annoying troublesome behaviors. He’s more content and obedient. We can have guests over and everyone is comfortable. We are so pleased with what Dog Training has done for us.
  • Kyle Wagner
    May. 2, 2025
    Second in home visit and my pup is making amazing progress. Very happy with the service!
  • Holly Homant
    Apr. 30, 2025
    Carol was super kind and helpful!
  • Desirae Wagnon
    Jun. 9, 2025
    Graci came and helped us with our needs!! She made sure we understood everything about the training. I can’t wait to work with the team on training!
  • Calie Benke
    Jun. 5, 2025
    Reina is a wonderful trainer for our needs. She was straightforward, understanding, transparent, helpful, confident - all the necessary traits for a couple of newbies like us. She is an invaluable resource to rely on as our rambunctious puppy is turning into a well-behaved pup. The cost feels a little pricey, but our journey with Reina has eased the anxiousness around it. Highly recommend!
  • Jen Newell
    May. 8, 2025
    Great job. So far. Been working with our puppy now for 7 weeks. Thank you Cost is expensive but well worth it. Reina is amazing she's very patient very understanding very loving caring group of people. We have worked with a couple of other trainers but I really like Reina. If you get a chance take it
  • Wendy Mendelsohn
    May. 28, 2025
    Will start training tomorrow, but the initial assessment went well. Was very impressed with what to expect from the outcome of the program. 1st session: Kenna was my trainer today and it went very well. She was kind and positive, my pup responded wonderfully.
  • Dannie Harris
    Jan. 14, 2025
    Another great trip out with Kenna! She was so helpful! I highly recommend this company…next to the mall.
  • Herbert Knapp
    May. 30, 2025
    Awesome very knowledgeable and understanding really was interested in what I was looking to get out this Training very much put my mind at ease
  • APRIL MCVAY
    May. 30, 2025
    Dog Training Elite provide top-notch training for your dogs. Parker worked directly on leash aggression with Sam. The problem was corrected during our session. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Lori-Anne Williams
    May. 29, 2025
    Reina's dedication to excellence helped "my Hannah" become a happy, obedient, and confident dog. When I adopted Hannah as a puppy from a shelter, she came to me with absolutely no training or discipline. I felt extremely frustrated because I was so unprepared to provide the training she needed, but Reina came right in and confidently met BOTH of our needs. She quickly made the adjustments we needed and personalized our program for us with tremendous patience and incredible kindness. Ultimately, she taught us both exactly what we needed to know!
  • Christie Steier
    May. 28, 2025
    I cannot say enough about how pleased I am with the services of Dog Training Elite of Nashville. Reina was wonderful. She was very professional but at the same time very friendly and kind. I can tell she really loves dogs and her job! The difference in my dog’s behavior is amazing. I no longer worry about being injured by being dragged down the street when I walk him, or having to lift him into the car. I can take him out with me more and he is so well behaved that everyone that sees him loves him. Thank you Reina!
  • Carmen McKinley
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Montana was extremely professional, very nice, friendly and LOVES DOGS! She was very helpful from our first training session on. I look forward in seeing how she can help in so many ways with my new puppy!!
  • Ashley Reynolds
    May. 27, 2025
    So friendly and knowledgeable! Millie is making progress in less than a week!
  • Kristy Schnetzler
    Apr. 3, 2025
    Reina is wonderful! Our fur baby continually has progress week over week!! Our goal is to have Gabby trained as a service companion for our little one, with Raina's help, we are confident we will get there! We so appreciate all you do for us and think you, you are absolutely amazing!!!!
  • Saba Chishti
    Apr. 10, 2025
    Lots of patience and guidance! Would highly recommend. She answered all of our questions and more!
  • Robert Law
    May. 19, 2025
    We did the assessment with Reina and they are fantastic! I would 100% recommend their services over anyone else.
  • Dale Herrington
    May. 9, 2025
    She was very knowledgeable and helpful.
  • Taeron Thomas
    May. 8, 2025
    It was a very straightforward process and very detailed price wise was the only hit definitely looking in to it
  • Joe Coomer
    May. 6, 2025
    Excellent
  • S Nabrotzky
    May. 4, 2025
    Dog Training Elite, especially Parker has helped us enjoy our dog so much more. He does have the annoying troublesome behaviors. He’s more content and obedient. We can have guests over and everyone is comfortable. We are so pleased with what Dog Training has done for us.
  • Kyle Wagner
    May. 2, 2025
    Second in home visit and my pup is making amazing progress. Very happy with the service!
  • Holly Homant
    Apr. 30, 2025
    Carol was super kind and helpful!
A Knoxville puppy trainers giving a puppy positive affirmation during an in-home training session.

Dog Training Elite Knoxville, TN

In-Home Puppy Training

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Dog Training Elite Knoxville offers comprehensive in-home training. For the first 4-6 weeks, trainers use “treat training” before moving onto more advanced puppy training. Puppies will learn the following behaviors:

  • Come, down, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate training/ housebreaking
  • Focus around distractions

Trainers will also help owners learn about the following:

  • Socialization tips
  • Environmental hazards
  • Positive reinforcement techniques
  • Puppy enrichment
  • Caring for your puppy
  • And more!

Training a puppy can feel overwhelming. By pairing you with a professional trainer, not only will your puppy learn quickly, but you will feel confident and empowered to continue training your puppy after the sessions are completed. Training in your own home will help you bond with your pup so even after the professional trainer leaves, you and Fido can continue to progress together.

A puppy ready to start training with Dog Training Elite Knoxville.

Start Puppy Training Early

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First-time dog owners are often unsure of when to begin training their dogs. For the best results, it’s essential to start training your puppy as soon as possible. You can start socialization and basic commands as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Puppies are open to new experiences and people and learn quickly while they are young. It is beneficial to take advantage of this stage. Start with basic commands like "down," "come," and "stay." If you are searching for classes, Dog Training Elite offers puppy obedience classes.

Additional Puppy Training Info

Dog Training Elite Knoxville - Puppy Crate Training in Knoxville, TN. DTE
Crate Training
A well-manered puppy receiving positive reinforcement from their owner.

Knoxville Puppy Trainers

The DTE Approach

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We have developed a highly successful and unique positive puppy training program empowering dog owners to train. Hence, their dog knows who to obey at all times, in all situations or environments. We offer personalized training to deal with specific issues and behaviors. We even offers customized training schedules to offer you the support you need as a dog owner.

Involvement is Key!

Most dog training programs don’t allow for the involvement of owners and families. Our trainers greatly encourage owners and their families to be involved in the training process. Why? This ensures you and your family know what’s expected, allows for continued education and means all the progress isn’t lost. Your puppy won’t come home and forget everything he’s learned.

Our puppy training program consists of two phases, early training and advanced training. Puppies as young as eight weeks can begin learning with Dog Training Elite Knoxville. Our process allows us to efficiently complete in-home puppy training services at your home or within the environment where behaviors manifest - such as in the park or around other dogs in the neighborhood.

A Dog Training Elite Knoxville puppy training outside.

Dog Training Elite Knoxville

How Puppy Training Works

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We use a positive puppy training method paired with an electronic collar - not a shock collar. Unlike shock collars, electronic collars do not hurt or harm the pup. They are used only to obtain their attention, not to punish bad behavior. We believe in using constant praise to encourage good behavior. The difference becomes apparent when comparing a puppy trained out of fear to a puppy who truly desires to please.

Positive Reinforcement for Positive Pups

Positive reinforcement is the best option in puppy training. Punishments will only scare your dog, and fear can lead to aggression problems later in life. Our trainers use a classical conditioning program focusing on positive reinforcement of basic commands.

Dogs are eager to please. When they learn following basic commands results in affection or a treat, they will be happy to do as you ask. With patience - and the assistance of a professional puppy trainer - you'll be rewarded with a lifelong loyal pal.

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model, also known as the "Pavlovian" response or "respondent conditioning." This means developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands, so when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking. Our unique technique ensures our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.

Contact us today to learn more about our training programs !

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Knoxville.
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Victory Begins With Elite Education

Dog Training Elite Knoxville

Tips on How to Bond

Training is a great way to establish a deep, loyal bond with your puppy. Outside of your training sessions, there is more you can do to strengthen your bond. Here are some more tips for how to bond with your puppy:

Your puppy may not understand the words you’re saying, but he or she will understand your tone of voice. Speaking in an excited tone of voice will get your pup excited and motivate them to do what you want them to. Speaking in a low, calm voice can help soothe and relax your puppy.
Puppies thrive on routine. A consistent schedule will help your puppy adjust to their new home, and to you and your family. A puppy’s schedule needs to include eating, playtime, puppy training, potty breaks, and nap times.
As mentioned above, playtime is an important part of your puppy’s schedule. Playing with your puppy will help strengthen your bond and stimulate their brains. Walks are an easy and great way to give your puppy much-needed exercise. Start small, walking around in your yard or driveway and gradually extending the distance around your neighborhood.
Creating boundaries in your home for your puppy helps strengthen your bond because your puppy will look to you for direction and guidance. It will also help your puppy avoid bad habits. Baby gates and playpens are a useful way to create physical boundaries.
Puppies can become overwhelmed about all the new things they’re exploring. Crate training is a perfect way to allow your puppy to have their own space where they feel safe and comfortable and help them develop some independence so they grow into a well-adjusted dog.
The most adorable way to bond with your puppy is by cuddling them! Snuggling with your pup can help him or her feel comforted and safe. The best time to get a cuddle session with your puppy is when they are sleepy. Cuddling also helps puppies get used to having their paws, belly, face, etc. handled, and can be a good time to introduce light grooming practices like brushing their fur.