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Dog Agility Training Through Basic Obedience

Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas

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A dog sitting at a park - discover how DTE can help you start dog agility training in Las Vegas, NV with our obedience program!

Obedience Training from DTE

The First Step Toward Dog Agility Training in Las Vegas, NV

Agility is a fast-paced sport that involves guiding dogs through different obstacle courses. The best candidates for this type of training are energetic, athletic dogs with a strong drive to work and learn, such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Jack Russell Terriers, and Belgian Malinois. However, any dog with enthusiasm, focus, and basic obedience training can benefit from agility exercises.

Many owners choose DTE for basic obedience before starting dog agility training in Las Vegas, NV. While we don’t offer competition-level training, our obedience programs help build key skills like focus, impulse control, and responsiveness.

Our trainers will work closely with you throughout the obedience program, ensuring your dog masters fundamental commands and you feel confident to continue agility training on your own.

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Why Start Obedience Training Before Agility Training?

Dog Training Elite

Agility training demands focus, discipline, and responsiveness. Before tackling obstacle courses, dogs need a solid foundation in obedience to ensure they can follow commands, stay engaged, and work as a team with their handler.

Here’s how obedience training with Dog Training Elite sets dogs up for success in agility:

Agility courses can be full of distractions, including large crowds, other dogs, and loud noises. Obedience training teaches your dog to stay focused on you and respond to commands, even in high-energy environments.

Agility courses require dogs to pause and wait at key thresholds, such as the start line, and only move when directed. Obedience training reinforces patience and discipline through commands like “sit,” “heel,” and “down,” ensuring your dog stays focused and follows the rules of the sport.

Obedience training deepens trust and communication between dog and handler, making teamwork in agility training much more effective. A confident dog is more likely to take on new challenges with enthusiasm.

Before dogs can learn agility-specific commands, they must first master basic obedience. Training in focus, recall, and impulse control lays the groundwork for advanced commands like “jump,” “tunnel,” “weave,” and “climb.”

At Dog Training Elite, we don’t teach advanced agility commands, but our training makes it easier for your dog to learn and respond to agility training in the future.

A dog sitting on park equipment - start obedience training with Dog Training Elite if you want to start dog agility training in Las Vegas, NV.

Skills, Obstacles, and Owner Training Techniques

Learn About Dog Agility

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If your dog has mastered basic obedience and you're interested in starting agility training on your own, understanding what obstacles to train for is the first place to start.

Here are some common agility challenges and training tips:

Jumps

Dogs must leap over hurdles at varying heights without knocking the bar down. In competitions, jumps can include single bars, double jumps, and tire jumps.

  • Training Tip: Start with low jumps and use treats or toys to guide your dog over. Gradually increase height as their confidence and ability grows.

Weave Poles

Dogs weave through a series of upright poles in a precise pattern. This is one of the most challenging agility obstacles, requiring speed, flexibility, and precise footwork.

  • Training Tip: Use a lure-and-reward method or guide your dog through the poles with a leash. Begin with wider pole spacing and narrow the gaps as your dog improves.

Tunnels

Dogs run through enclosed tunnels, which can be straight or curved. Some dogs may hesitate at first, especially if they are unfamiliar with dark or enclosed spaces.

  • Training Tip: Start with a short, straight tunnel and use treats or a favorite toy to encourage your dog through. Gradually introduce curved tunnels to increase difficulty.

A-Frame & Dog Walk

These obstacles require dogs to climb, balance, and descend elevated surfaces. The A-frame is a tall, triangular ramp, while the dog walk is a narrow, elevated plank with ramps on both ends. Both require precise foot placement and body control.

  • Training Tip: Use a leash or hand signals to guide your dog slowly up and down. Reward calm, controlled movements to prevent them from rushing or jumping off too soon.

Additional Obedience Training Info

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A pup walking through a tunnel - find Las Vegas dog agility trainers.

Obedience Training From DTE: A Great Start for Las Vegas Dog Agility Trainers


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If you’re looking to hire a agility trainer or want to start agility exercises on your own, consider obedience training from Dog Training Elite first.

While some professional agility trainers and classes may introduce basic obedience, Dog Training Elite’s personalized, in-person obedience program ensures your dog masters focus, impulse control, and responsiveness. These key skills make agility training safer, more enjoyable, and more effective for you and your pup.

Get started today and contact Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas for expert obedience training!

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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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • ELAINE HARMAN
    May. 9, 2025
    Nick Smith is the best dog trainer we have ever had. Over decades as dog owners, we've had numerous dog trainers and by far, Nick's patience and love for dogs shines through. We had recently adopted a pitbull from the shelter that had severe anxiety issues. There was some destructive behavior because of separation anxiety. We started training with Nick and our dog changed overnight. She's in therapy dog training with him right now and I cannot explain how much she enjoys going through her training regime each day. I implore people to get Nick to train their dog if they're having issues because you will not regret it.
  • Andrew Magness
    May. 9, 2025
    We were incredibly lucky to welcome our goldendoodle, Fozzie, into our family at just 4 months old. As he grew (and grew!), his energy and strength became a challenge — especially with him jumping on guests and pulling on the leash when our kids walked him. More than just obedience, we were looking for a lifestyle change. I didn’t want to keep taking Fozzie out while constantly worrying about his behavior instead of enjoying the moment. Several coworkers recommended Nick’s dog training company, and after seeing the results firsthand, we decided to reach out. From our very first consultation, we knew we were in good hands. Nick immediately connected with our family and with Fozzie, and he created a training plan tailored specifically to our needs. Within just the first two sessions, the biggest concerns — leash pulling, jumping — had already improved dramatically. The remaining sessions helped us build a whole new rhythm with Fozzie. He now responds to commands like come, off, place, heel, stay, and lay down, and he even walks off-leash with confidence and control. It’s important to say this: Nick gives you the tools and structure, but it’s the consistency at home that brings lasting change. That balance is what makes his approach so effective — it’s not just about training the dog, but about equipping the whole family. A few more things we loved: 1. Nick worked with our sons as well, showing them the same patience and guidance he gave Fozzie. 2. Even after the 5 private sessions, he offers Saturday group classes to continue building skills and socialization. 3. He’s reliable and flexible — scheduling was always smooth, and he never canceled or no-showed, which means a lot to a busy family of five. 4. He makes it all feel doable. His calm, patient approach builds confidence in both people and pups. We truly couldn’t recommend Nick more. If you’re looking not just for training, but for a real lifestyle shift with your dog, don’t hesitate to reach out to him. 5 stars
  • Jodi James
    Mar. 14, 2025
    Thank you Nick and Dog Elite Training for being the best dog trainer out there for our silly bull terrier Rocket. We have been seeing Nick for a full year now. We appreciate his patience and how thorough he is when he is training our pup. We have learned so much about dog training and we know this investment will be great for our pup’s future. Highly recommend !!
  • Libby Anderson
    Mar. 10, 2025
    Nick is amazing! He is patient and very knowledgeable!!!
  • TIMOTHY MORRISSEY
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick, the owner and trainer, for Dog Elite Training, worked wonders with our Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mixed breed; named Buddy. Nick provided five in person training sessions, and we are in the midst of 12 group lessons, for Buddy. Buddy was a shy 15 month old puppy when Nick started training him. Nick brought Buddy out of his shell. Buddy gained confidence in learning how to come to his name, sit, lie down, go to place, break from place, heal, and use the dog door. We work with Buddy on what was learned, and continue to take him to group sessions. Now Buddy is a confident and loving dog. Thanks Nick!
  • Lauren Medina
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick is patient and has a calm demeanor that makes it easy for my dog to trust him. He is a great teacher and gives me the tools to continue training until our next session. I’ve recommended him to others without hesitation. Amazing service!
  • Korth Alan
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick did awesome job training my wife and me in techniques for how to train our dog. Nick used techniques for training that has helped Merlin be the best dog ever. When meeting up with other dog walkers and people on the street, they all comment about how well trained Merlin is. I credit that to the basics that Nick taught us. We would not hesitate to recommend Nick and his staff train your dog. Next group training session at the park was very helpful as well. Ask him about it.
  • beth bennett
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick of Dog Training Elite is on time and is responsive to questions I have as a first-time dog owner. The training he provided was well-paced and practical. I appreciate his availability to attend group training for refresher training and socialization with others dogs, even after the individual sessions are utilized. Nick is pleasant and firm with each of the dogs at the group training, and consistently caring.
  • Linda O
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick was great at teaching Lila how to behave and react to commands - I would definetly recommend him - His group lessons worked great for Lila in regards to socialization.
  • Duane White
    Mar. 5, 2025
    My dog Wilson was trained by Nick. Wilson gets many compliments on his behavior in public. Nick takes the time to educate us on how best to handle circumstances that Wilson might encounter. He follows up on Wilson’s progress and even offers weekend group classes. I would highly recommend Nick.
  • Chandra Vaisman
    Mar. 5, 2025
    Nick is great and provides a wonderful service. I would highly recommend this company.
  • Nikki Goodden
    Jun. 25, 2023
    When we brought our 8-week-old English lab pups home I knew I wanted professional help with training. Nick went above and beyond our expectations. We did the work. Two years later, my girls are the most responsive dogs I've ever known. Nick's technique and approach are unmatched. I've known him to train the most challenging dogs. While mine were easy by Nick's standards, you owe it to yourself to invite him to make dog ownership all you ever dreamed it could be, and more.
  • BrennanOMalley
    Oct. 16, 2024
    Nick is doing a wonderful job training my mother in laws Yorkie! Last week was the first time Penny didn’t try to turn my pants in to shorts when we came to visit! I thought she had gotten a new dog! Dog Training Elite and Nick are the best trainers, they not only train dogs but mother in laws too!
  • Steph Straub
    Oct. 15, 2024
    Working with Nick was an excellent experience! When our son started walking his relationship with our dog went downhill fast. Nick gave us simple but effective tools to keep everyone safe and build a better relationship between the two. The weekly group sessions are a great way to keep the training relevant and front-of-mind. Highly recommend!
  • Tanner Mann
    Jul. 19, 2023
    Nick was incredible with my dog, Kaya. He showed me what to do with her when she gets too excited around other dogs. My favorite was learning heel, and noticing how fast she picked up on it. If you’re looking for a place to help you and your dogs, your search is over! Thanks again, Nick!
  • Kelsey Pugliese
    Aug. 29, 2024
    I knew there would be obstacles adopting a young rescue shepherd from the Animal Foundation so I immediately reached out to Nick to see if he could help. I am so pleased with the experience I have had with both at home sessions as well as group training. Wynnie has made tremendous progress with basic training commands (sit, stay, heel) and has overcome the obstacle of learning to play nicely with her 12-year-old dog brother at home. The socialization skills she has gained in the group setting have made me comfortable enough to bring her out in public and to the dog park. Nick does a wonderful job accessing the needs of your dog at each session and making sure to leave you with knowledge and homework to maintain the work put in during the session. I would 100% recommend this program as it not only teaches the animal but more importantly the owner so much. Thank you Nick!
  • Mary Vander Veer
    Aug. 29, 2024
    I highly recommend Nick with Dog Training Elite. He is knowledgeable, professional, personable, and training with him has been such a success for my mini dachshund, Desi. She is a therapy dog and I have so much confidence in the skills Nick has helped us with. She is attentive and off leash most of the day and I have full confidence in this due to the skills she's learned with Nick's guidance. The skills he's helped us with has made her progression into the office such a breeze. The ability to go to the group classes ongoing is so helpful to keep her skills sharp and continue to socialize with other dogs as well. Not only did he help her with baseline obedience training but she has also mastered following through with therapeutic commands as well. Any questions I have, he always has a plan ready to deal with it. Could not recommend enough!
  • Jodi Lopez
    Aug. 28, 2024
    Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas! The one on one classes with Nick were awesome. He taught us how to have patience and to be consistent. We have seen a tremendous amount of improvement with our bull terrier, Rocket’s attention and behavior. Rocket always looks forward to group classes on the weekends !
  • Mark Gordon
    Nov. 6, 2023
    Nick is the best. He makes sure he gives the dog his utmost attention and makes sure you understand what he is trying to accomplish and makes sure your dog understands it as well. Highly recommend this person to fulfill all your training needs for your dog
  • Sonja M
    Aug. 28, 2024
    I cannot express how grateful we are to have found Nick! He is so knowledgeable, professional, personable, and ever so patient with our big puppies! We rescued two brothers and we were worried about litter mate syndrome, along with just the training involved with puppies (we're too old for all that energy ha-ha). But Nick is so fantastic, our pups love him and so do we!! He is a continuous learner and if you ask him something and he's never encountered it, I guarantee he will leave and find it out for your next training session. You can't find another more dedicated trainer than Nick!! Simply stated, he is THE BEST!!!
  • ELAINE HARMAN
    May. 9, 2025
    Nick Smith is the best dog trainer we have ever had. Over decades as dog owners, we've had numerous dog trainers and by far, Nick's patience and love for dogs shines through. We had recently adopted a pitbull from the shelter that had severe anxiety issues. There was some destructive behavior because of separation anxiety. We started training with Nick and our dog changed overnight. She's in therapy dog training with him right now and I cannot explain how much she enjoys going through her training regime each day. I implore people to get Nick to train their dog if they're having issues because you will not regret it.
  • Andrew Magness
    May. 9, 2025
    We were incredibly lucky to welcome our goldendoodle, Fozzie, into our family at just 4 months old. As he grew (and grew!), his energy and strength became a challenge — especially with him jumping on guests and pulling on the leash when our kids walked him. More than just obedience, we were looking for a lifestyle change. I didn’t want to keep taking Fozzie out while constantly worrying about his behavior instead of enjoying the moment. Several coworkers recommended Nick’s dog training company, and after seeing the results firsthand, we decided to reach out. From our very first consultation, we knew we were in good hands. Nick immediately connected with our family and with Fozzie, and he created a training plan tailored specifically to our needs. Within just the first two sessions, the biggest concerns — leash pulling, jumping — had already improved dramatically. The remaining sessions helped us build a whole new rhythm with Fozzie. He now responds to commands like come, off, place, heel, stay, and lay down, and he even walks off-leash with confidence and control. It’s important to say this: Nick gives you the tools and structure, but it’s the consistency at home that brings lasting change. That balance is what makes his approach so effective — it’s not just about training the dog, but about equipping the whole family. A few more things we loved: 1. Nick worked with our sons as well, showing them the same patience and guidance he gave Fozzie. 2. Even after the 5 private sessions, he offers Saturday group classes to continue building skills and socialization. 3. He’s reliable and flexible — scheduling was always smooth, and he never canceled or no-showed, which means a lot to a busy family of five. 4. He makes it all feel doable. His calm, patient approach builds confidence in both people and pups. We truly couldn’t recommend Nick more. If you’re looking not just for training, but for a real lifestyle shift with your dog, don’t hesitate to reach out to him. 5 stars
  • Jodi James
    Mar. 14, 2025
    Thank you Nick and Dog Elite Training for being the best dog trainer out there for our silly bull terrier Rocket. We have been seeing Nick for a full year now. We appreciate his patience and how thorough he is when he is training our pup. We have learned so much about dog training and we know this investment will be great for our pup’s future. Highly recommend !!
  • Libby Anderson
    Mar. 10, 2025
    Nick is amazing! He is patient and very knowledgeable!!!
  • TIMOTHY MORRISSEY
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick, the owner and trainer, for Dog Elite Training, worked wonders with our Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mixed breed; named Buddy. Nick provided five in person training sessions, and we are in the midst of 12 group lessons, for Buddy. Buddy was a shy 15 month old puppy when Nick started training him. Nick brought Buddy out of his shell. Buddy gained confidence in learning how to come to his name, sit, lie down, go to place, break from place, heal, and use the dog door. We work with Buddy on what was learned, and continue to take him to group sessions. Now Buddy is a confident and loving dog. Thanks Nick!
  • Lauren Medina
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick is patient and has a calm demeanor that makes it easy for my dog to trust him. He is a great teacher and gives me the tools to continue training until our next session. I’ve recommended him to others without hesitation. Amazing service!
  • Korth Alan
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick did awesome job training my wife and me in techniques for how to train our dog. Nick used techniques for training that has helped Merlin be the best dog ever. When meeting up with other dog walkers and people on the street, they all comment about how well trained Merlin is. I credit that to the basics that Nick taught us. We would not hesitate to recommend Nick and his staff train your dog. Next group training session at the park was very helpful as well. Ask him about it.
  • beth bennett
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick of Dog Training Elite is on time and is responsive to questions I have as a first-time dog owner. The training he provided was well-paced and practical. I appreciate his availability to attend group training for refresher training and socialization with others dogs, even after the individual sessions are utilized. Nick is pleasant and firm with each of the dogs at the group training, and consistently caring.
  • Linda O
    Mar. 6, 2025
    Nick was great at teaching Lila how to behave and react to commands - I would definetly recommend him - His group lessons worked great for Lila in regards to socialization.
  • Duane White
    Mar. 5, 2025
    My dog Wilson was trained by Nick. Wilson gets many compliments on his behavior in public. Nick takes the time to educate us on how best to handle circumstances that Wilson might encounter. He follows up on Wilson’s progress and even offers weekend group classes. I would highly recommend Nick.
  • Chandra Vaisman
    Mar. 5, 2025
    Nick is great and provides a wonderful service. I would highly recommend this company.
  • Nikki Goodden
    Jun. 25, 2023
    When we brought our 8-week-old English lab pups home I knew I wanted professional help with training. Nick went above and beyond our expectations. We did the work. Two years later, my girls are the most responsive dogs I've ever known. Nick's technique and approach are unmatched. I've known him to train the most challenging dogs. While mine were easy by Nick's standards, you owe it to yourself to invite him to make dog ownership all you ever dreamed it could be, and more.
  • BrennanOMalley
    Oct. 16, 2024
    Nick is doing a wonderful job training my mother in laws Yorkie! Last week was the first time Penny didn’t try to turn my pants in to shorts when we came to visit! I thought she had gotten a new dog! Dog Training Elite and Nick are the best trainers, they not only train dogs but mother in laws too!
  • Steph Straub
    Oct. 15, 2024
    Working with Nick was an excellent experience! When our son started walking his relationship with our dog went downhill fast. Nick gave us simple but effective tools to keep everyone safe and build a better relationship between the two. The weekly group sessions are a great way to keep the training relevant and front-of-mind. Highly recommend!
  • Tanner Mann
    Jul. 19, 2023
    Nick was incredible with my dog, Kaya. He showed me what to do with her when she gets too excited around other dogs. My favorite was learning heel, and noticing how fast she picked up on it. If you’re looking for a place to help you and your dogs, your search is over! Thanks again, Nick!
  • Kelsey Pugliese
    Aug. 29, 2024
    I knew there would be obstacles adopting a young rescue shepherd from the Animal Foundation so I immediately reached out to Nick to see if he could help. I am so pleased with the experience I have had with both at home sessions as well as group training. Wynnie has made tremendous progress with basic training commands (sit, stay, heel) and has overcome the obstacle of learning to play nicely with her 12-year-old dog brother at home. The socialization skills she has gained in the group setting have made me comfortable enough to bring her out in public and to the dog park. Nick does a wonderful job accessing the needs of your dog at each session and making sure to leave you with knowledge and homework to maintain the work put in during the session. I would 100% recommend this program as it not only teaches the animal but more importantly the owner so much. Thank you Nick!
  • Mary Vander Veer
    Aug. 29, 2024
    I highly recommend Nick with Dog Training Elite. He is knowledgeable, professional, personable, and training with him has been such a success for my mini dachshund, Desi. She is a therapy dog and I have so much confidence in the skills Nick has helped us with. She is attentive and off leash most of the day and I have full confidence in this due to the skills she's learned with Nick's guidance. The skills he's helped us with has made her progression into the office such a breeze. The ability to go to the group classes ongoing is so helpful to keep her skills sharp and continue to socialize with other dogs as well. Not only did he help her with baseline obedience training but she has also mastered following through with therapeutic commands as well. Any questions I have, he always has a plan ready to deal with it. Could not recommend enough!
  • Jodi Lopez
    Aug. 28, 2024
    Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas! The one on one classes with Nick were awesome. He taught us how to have patience and to be consistent. We have seen a tremendous amount of improvement with our bull terrier, Rocket’s attention and behavior. Rocket always looks forward to group classes on the weekends !
  • Mark Gordon
    Nov. 6, 2023
    Nick is the best. He makes sure he gives the dog his utmost attention and makes sure you understand what he is trying to accomplish and makes sure your dog understands it as well. Highly recommend this person to fulfill all your training needs for your dog
  • Sonja M
    Aug. 28, 2024
    I cannot express how grateful we are to have found Nick! He is so knowledgeable, professional, personable, and ever so patient with our big puppies! We rescued two brothers and we were worried about litter mate syndrome, along with just the training involved with puppies (we're too old for all that energy ha-ha). But Nick is so fantastic, our pups love him and so do we!! He is a continuous learner and if you ask him something and he's never encountered it, I guarantee he will leave and find it out for your next training session. You can't find another more dedicated trainer than Nick!! Simply stated, he is THE BEST!!!