A therapy dog walking in a park with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite to talk to a professional therapy dog trainer in Las Vegas, NV!

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas

Request Free Assessment


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 Las Vegas, NV

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 Las Vegas, NV, 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.

See Training Packages
A therapy dog in training with Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas's expert handlers.

How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?


Read More
Read Less

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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Bianca Pucci
    May. 31, 2025
    I am a first time dog owner and my Bernedoodle kind of fell into my lap one day and never left. The 1.5 year old puppy needed training in obedience and just the basics. I had no idea what I was doing and turned to Dog Elite Training. Colin was our trainer and I learned as much as my dog did. My puppy has made so much progress in the one-on-one sessions. Within a week of starting training, the most problematic behavior Colin addressed was dramatically improved. I would highly recommend Colin as a trainer. He is patient and is not an aggressive trainer as the prior one I attempted to have was. My dog loves Colin and has learned so much.
  • 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
  • Bianca Pucci
    May. 31, 2025
    I am a first time dog owner and my Bernedoodle kind of fell into my lap one day and never left. The 1.5 year old puppy needed training in obedience and just the basics. I had no idea what I was doing and turned to Dog Elite Training. Colin was our trainer and I learned as much as my dog did. My puppy has made so much progress in the one-on-one sessions. Within a week of starting training, the most problematic behavior Colin addressed was dramatically improved. I would highly recommend Colin as a trainer. He is patient and is not an aggressive trainer as the prior one I attempted to have was. My dog loves Colin and has learned so much.
  • 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
An obedient dog in a fran_territory_name} emotional support dog training program.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

Read More
Read Less

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 Southwest Las Vegas.

Therapy Dog Handlers

Read More
Read Less

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 Southwest Las Vegas’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 Southwest Las Vegas - Dog Obedience Training in Las Vegas, NV. Dog Training Elite
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas - Puppy Training in Las Vegas, NV. Dog Training Elite
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas - Service Dog Training in Las Vegas, NV. Dog Training Elite
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas - Anxiety & Aggression Dog Trainer in Las Vegas, NV
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas - Group Class Dog Training in Las Vegas, NV. DTE
Group Training
A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

Read More
Read Less

At Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas, 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 Southwest Las Vegas.
Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

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.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas Google Local Service Ads
  • Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas Google Local Service Ads
  • Dog Training Elite Southwest Las Vegas Google Local Service Ads