Two dog owners and a group of pups in our dog socialization classes in Metro Detroit, MI - contact Dog Training Elite to schedule your free consultation today!
Dog Training Elite

Dog Socialization Classes in Metro Detroit, MI

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

Our Socialization Dog Training Could Help:
Reduce anxiety
Improve dog and other animal interactions
Build confidence with people
Reduce fear-based aggression
Encourage calm behavior in public
Teach proper responses to distractions
Strengthen bond with owner
Foster positive play

Dog Training Elite

Metro Detroit Dog Socialization Classes

Socialization is crucial for a dog’s development, significantly impacting their anxiety levels, aggressive tendencies, and overall well-being. At Dog Training Elite, we recognize this importance and offer socialization training to help your pup feel comfortable around different people, animals, and unfamiliar places.

We introduce socialization in a controlled and structured way. Once you and our trainers are confident in your dog’s obedience training, we gradually introduce them to our dog socialization classes in Metro Detroit, MI and public settings. By prioritizing obedience first, we ensure your dog has a strong foundation of self-control and responsiveness, making the process smoother and more successful.

At Dog Training Elite, we are committed to minimizing stress for both you and your dog. We use proven techniques and involve you from the very beginning. Whether you’re out for a walk, visiting a friend, or navigating a busy public space, you’ll have confidence in your abilities and your dog’s behavior.

Call us today to schedule your free consultation!

See Training Packages

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!

Three lab puppies experiencing new things together at Dog Training Elite's Metro Detroit dog and puppy socialization classes.

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan

When to Socialize Your Puppy

Read More
Read Less

Socialization for dogs should be happening throughout their lifetime. Still, getting a good start as early as possible is always best.

Socialization for puppies starts at just three weeks old as they begin to engage with their littermates and the world around them. The “sensitive period of socialization,” when puppies are primed and ready to try new things, is from 3-14 weeks of age. Because puppies can go to new homes at around eight weeks old, you only have a small window to get that necessary socialization training done.

You can start puppy socialization classes in Metro Detroit, MI with DTE as soon as you bring your puppy home at eight weeks old! Our classes are puppy safe and provide an excellent opportunity for your puppy to meet new dogs and people while having new experiences outside your home.

Multiple dogs sitting on a bench during a group class with Dog Training Elite, contact us for puppy socialization classes in Metro Detroit, MI.

Dog Training Elite

What Do Our Puppy Socialization Classes in Metro Detroit, MI Look Like?

Read More
Read Less

Puppy and dog socialization is not about teaching new commands or obedience but creating a positive experience around new stimuli. Socialization can look like taking them around your neighborhood, letting them hear and smell things at their own pace, and offering plenty of soft treats. It can also look like introducing them to a friend's healthy dog in a safe place and allowing them to greet the dog and learn about social cues and behavior from them, all while offering treats and praise.

Our socialization classes teach your puppy or dog that even if something is new, it can be safe and fun to explore! We create opportunities for your pet to safely meet new dogs, smell new things, hear new sounds, walk on different surfaces, and meet new friendly people.

Socialization is all about removing fear and entering new situations with curiosity.

Additional Behavioral Training

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Dog Training Elite. How to Stop Puppy Biting Metro Detroit

Biting

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Reactive Dog Training in Metro Detroit, MI. DTE

Fear & Reactiveness

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Destructive Chewing & Digging Training in Metro Detroit, MI

Destructive Chewing & Digging

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Metro Detroit, MI

Separation Anxiety

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Excessive Barking Training in Metro Detroit, MI. DTE

Excessive Barking

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Staying and Coming Training in Metro Detroit, MI. DTE

Staying & Coming

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Resource Guarding

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Food Guarding & Begging

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Anxiety & Submissive Urination

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Excessive Licking

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Leashing

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Escaping

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan -

Heeling

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan - Dog & Puppy Potty Training in Metro Detroit, MI. DTE

Potty Training

A group of dogs at our Metro Detroit dog socialization classes.

Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan

Discover the Benefits of Socialization Classes Today

Read More
Read Less

Proper socialization from a young age offers many benefits as dogs grow. It teaches puppies about the world from a place of safety and curiosity instead of fear and anxiety. Doing this allows them to enter any situation confidently, which grants you the freedom to bring them along for the ride as you both experience life.

Whether you have an older dog or a brand new puppy, our Metro Detroit dog socialization classes will give them the tools to be comfortable with new sights, sounds, smells, and experiences.

Give your furry companion the best chance at a happy and exciting life with our elite training. Schedule your free consultation today!

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

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Paulette Adams
    Oct. 2, 2025
    We have had our puppy in the Service Dog Program since he was 10 weeks old. He is now 6 months and is exceeding all our expectations. Hailey has been an awesome partner for us to work with. She knows just what our puppy needs and we feel so fortunate to have her as part of our team. Being able to train your dog in their home environment is a game changer. I cannot recommend this program enough!
  • Garnet Potter
    Sep. 21, 2025
    Hailey, and our dog (Miss Ann) became friends and was night and day better. We can’t thank Hailey enough for her dedication to helping our project rescue.
  • Jenna !!!!!:)
    Sep. 9, 2025
    Hailey is absolutely amazing with our rescue bulldog! She is determined to never give up on our sweet girl who has some serious reactivity problems. She loves Hailey and we are so lucky to have found Dog training elite and Hailey!
  • Donna Rinnas
    Sep. 3, 2025
    Steven is fabulous! He explains everything as many times as we need to hear it and so clearly and patiently. Here are some pics of Leo at 5 months old and first visit to Home Depot.
  • CarolAnn McConnell
    Aug. 21, 2025
    Every aspect of our experience with DTE Southeast Michigan has been awesome. Hailey was great with our Goldendoodle pup, Maizy. Not only did she help Maizy quickly learn obedience and self-control, she taught us how to continue working with her and tailored her training specifically to our needs with two little ones. We're looking forward to continuing Maizy's progress with the included group classes!
  • Amy Johnson
    Aug. 18, 2025
    Our trainer, Steve, was so knowledgeable and patient with me and my dog! Ha ha My dog caught on quickly so we were able to work on some additional things so they really do work at your dog’s pace. It was worth the effort and money to have a well behaved dog.
  • Tristan Kesselring
    Aug. 18, 2025
    My wife and I have never done dog training before and our trainer Steven was extremely patient and informative to help us better understand our dog. Quick story. After just 2 months of training our 7 month old pitbull mastiff pup did an absolute outstanding job listening to commands and being polite in very intense situations during a local festival. I seriously cannot give enough praises to our trainer. Thank you to Dog Training Elite and an even bigger thank you to Steven.
  • Donna Robinson
    Aug. 14, 2025
    Definitely 5 stars for Dog Training Elite! Steven Dennison was fantastic! He listened to my goals and concerns for training my two young Great Dane boys. He worked with us to transform our chaotic walking experiences to walks we all enjoy! Steven was able to train them and me to create expectations and be consistent in delivering them. We have erased pulling behavior, aggression towards other dogs, and are able to move freely in together in environments I never thought possible. So excited to continue our learning journey in a group environment with this amazing training team!
  • Lana
    Aug. 6, 2025
    I am glad I found Dog Training Elite and went with them to help train our puppy. We have been working with them for a couple months now and it has been working very well for a number of reasons. The trainer comes to the home which is, first of all, very helpful. Beyond that, they have an organized system that really gets at the heart of dog behavior, which is not intuitive, at least for people who are new to the dog world. A shout out to Ryann, who is our dog's trainer. She is patient, kind, and we dub her the dog-whisperer. She is entirely knowledgable, effective, encouraging, positive, and truly talented at what she does. Dog training is a process and she has really helped us get used to this new world! Yay!
  • Grace Foster
    Jul. 31, 2025
    I can’t say enough great things about Dog Training Elite—and especially our trainer Ryann! She worked with me and my service dog and was absolutely incredible throughout the entire process. Ryann not only helped train my dog with patience and expertise, but also took the time to train me so I could feel confident handling my dog in all kinds of real-world situations. Her approach was clear and consistent, and I could see real progress after every session. Ryann genuinely cares about our success, and it shows in every detail of her work.
  • Ashlee Clifton (Tarkowski)
    Jul. 28, 2025
    We had a wonderful experience with Dog Training Elite. From the start, they came out and met with us and our pup in person and free of charge. They offered different training programs based on our needs. We did six weeks of private training and it was worth every penny. Steven was our primary trainer and I wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. He was great with our dog and patient with my husband and I. He helped us navigate various challenges with our dog but also interactions between our five year old and dog. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Ken Coker
    Jul. 23, 2025
    This experience blew away my greatest expectations. My dog is a rescue and was extremely aggressive and very difficult to be restrained. He was always friendly, but prior to the training, he was jumping on people, constantly pulling on walks to the point of hurting himself and he would jump over the backyard fence and take off whenever he got the chance. He was always stressed out and my biggest concern was that he was going to hurt himself or be run over in the street. From the first 1 hour session my dog had completely responded to the training and was actually manageable for the first time. Our trainer, Hailey, was friendly, knowledgeable and professional and helped me whenever and with whatever I needed. Each session was a new skill and we were able to practice while she was with us and then Buddy and I continued to practice throughout the week. I could not be more impressed with Hailey, the company and the program and I HIGHLY recommend this service! This was the best investment I will ever make for Buddy and for my own peace of mind. My dog went from being an adorable menace to a well mannered dog who can now attend family events with children without the fear of anyone being hurt. I have no fear of him running off anymore and if he does, I know I can get him to come back. The only regret I have is that I didn't do this sooner. Do yourself and your dog a favor and get them trained immediately. You will not be sorry!
  • Angeline Putnickovich
    Jun. 3, 2025
    We are SO happy that we went with Dog Training Elite. Hailey was our trainer and truly changed our dog Walter for the better. His confidence and obedience is immensely improved from when we started our training. Hailey was extremely knowledgeable, helpful and was available to answer all of our questions even outside of training sessions. She really worked with us to understand our goals for our puppy and modified our training sessions specific to those goals. Truly so happy we were able to work with her and that our little Walter is the best behaved little guy there is.
  • Janell Tadajewski
    May. 10, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been an invaluable partner in training our Scout to become a pet therapy dog. The in-home sessions focused on core skills with well thought out strategies personalized to her temperament. The group training brought out her confidence as she mastered commands amidst variable distractions and pressure. Our experience was heightened exponentially by our trainer Steve. He thoroughly explained the why behind the techniques and offered the puppy psychology to bring the concept home. He patiently weaved the lessons and tools into workable blocks which made practice more manageable. Additionally, he made himself available for texts and calls to troubleshoot issues or refresh my memory and adjust our approach. When we passed our certification exam, he was there to celebrate the accomplishment. I highly recommend Steve, Austin and all the trainers of Dog Training Elite….a magnificent organization making a difference for dogs and their families.
  • LouAnn Knaus
    Apr. 21, 2025
    The training is great! They work with you one on one your dog. Help you through the issues you may have. Great experience. Hailey is sweet, energetic and so helpful. She is a must if you want a well behaved dog. Thank you Hailey!
  • Thyra
    Apr. 18, 2025
    We had an amazing experience with Dog Training Elite and our trainer, Steven! He worked with my German Shepherd, Wolfgang, on obedience training and did a phenomenal job. Steven is not only professional and knowledgeable, but also incredibly skilled at explaining techniques clearly and reading both the dog and handler. What really stood out was his ability to pivot and adjust methods if something wasn’t clicking for us—no ego, just a real dedication to helping us succeed. His confidence and calm demeanor made Wolfgang feel comfortable and engaged, and I felt supported every step of the way. We just wrapped up our Platinum package and are really looking forward to starting the group classes soon. I highly recommend Steven and Dog Training Elite to anyone looking for effective, personalized dog training!
  • Jim Ashley
    Apr. 18, 2025
    Working with Austin was a great experience. His knowledge and patience is exceptional. He clearly explains the why, what and how of his training methods. He listens to what your goals are and tailors the training around that. They don't simply run a generic training playbook. I highly, highly recommend.
  • Cindy Warren
    Jan. 28, 2025
    I owned 4 previous dogs (labs) and trained them myself. But then I rescued a husky mix last April. I walk nearby trails everyday and I was struggling with my dog pulling, launching, and passing people and other dogs. Steven Dennison and Elite have helped me learn tips, tools, and training to allow my dog and I to enjoy our hikes without fear of falling, getting angry at her, having to get way off the trail in the poison ivy and tics when people and dogs pass, etc.. And with this new peaceful structure, my dog is more affectionate and attached to me! Steven was kind, understanding, helpful and positive in working with my dog and I. I am SO grateful!
  • Stephanie Shinkle
    Apr. 10, 2025
    Steven was amazing! We were struggling with training our very large puppy. We needed guidance from an expert in this field. Steven was knowledgeable, intuitive, creative and kind. He helped build our confidence and the results are fantastic. Our dog now has manners, doesn't jump on people and loves the "jobs" we give him. I highly recommend this company, Steven!
  • Anna Moreno
    Apr. 9, 2025
    We have used Dog Training Elite 2x now and find them to be amazing. Both our dogs are mini Australian shepherd poodle mixes and can be a handful. We have had both Austin and Hailey as Trainers, and both are exceptional. For our most recent pup,Merlin, we had Hailey as our trainer. She truly understood how worried I have been about not only the safety of our puppy but the safety of my elder mother who is home with him the most. She has made sure that my mom is comfortable using the different training techniques and even has helped us figure out a way for my mom to take merlin on walks while using her walker. Hailey has been a delight to work with. These trainers are amazing, and you are in good hands with them.