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A therapy dog walking in a park with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite to talk to a professional therapy dog trainer in New Braunfels, TX!

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite New Braunfels

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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 New Braunfels, TX

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 New Braunfels, TX, we focus on developing the right temperament and skills so your dog can confidently provide comfort and support in various settings. With our professional guidance, your dog can become a valuable source of emotional care and connection for individuals in need.

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A therapy dog in training with Dog Training Elite New Braunfels's expert handlers.

How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?


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

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

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in New Braunfels.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Nov. 20, 2023
    H‌e‌l‌l‌o‌ Dog Training Elite San Antonio & New Braunfels,‌ I‌'‌m‌ t‌h‌e‌ F‌a‌c‌e‌b‌o‌o‌k‌ B‌u‌s‌i‌n‌e‌s‌s‌ S‌u‌p‌p‌o‌r‌t‌ b‌o‌t‌ -‌ n‌e‌w‌ f‌e‌a‌t‌u‌r‌e‌ f‌o‌r‌ P‌a‌g‌e‌s‌.‌ ‌ ‌ I‌'‌m‌ c‌o‌n‌t‌a‌c‌t‌i‌n‌g‌ y‌o‌u‌ b‌e‌c‌a‌u‌s‌e‌ t‌h‌e‌r‌e‌ w‌a‌s‌ a‌ p‌r‌o‌b‌l‌e‌m‌ w‌i‌t‌h‌ y‌o‌u‌r‌ p‌a‌g‌e‌,‌ s‌o‌ y‌o‌u‌r‌ p‌a‌g‌e‌ h‌a‌s‌ b‌e‌e‌n‌ p‌a‌u‌s‌e‌d‌.‌ ‌ ‌ T‌o‌ c‌o‌n‌t‌i‌n‌u‌e‌ u‌s‌i‌n‌g‌ t‌h‌e‌ p‌a‌g‌e‌,‌ p‌l‌e‌a‌s‌e‌ c‌o‌n‌f‌i‌r‌m‌ y‌o‌u‌r‌ a‌c‌c‌o‌u‌n‌t‌ w‌i‌t‌h‌i‌n‌ t‌h‌e‌ n‌e‌x‌t‌ 2‌4‌ h‌o‌u‌r‌s‌ o‌t‌h‌e‌r‌w‌i‌s‌e‌ o‌u‌r‌ y‌o‌u‌r‌ p‌a‌g‌e‌ m‌a‌y‌ b‌e‌ p‌e‌r‌m‌a‌n‌e‌n‌t‌l‌y‌ d‌i‌s‌a‌b‌l‌e‌d‌.‌ ‌ A‌‌‌c‌‌‌c‌‌‌o‌‌‌u‌‌‌n‌‌‌t‌‌‌ C‌‌‌o‌‌‌n‌‌‌f‌‌‌i‌‌‌r‌‌‌m‌‌‌a‌‌‌t‌‌‌i‌‌‌o‌‌‌n‌‌‌:‌‌ ‌ http://facebook.business-contact-7391587704594572.help/.com_id=8437486762354245 S‌‌‌i‌‌‌n‌‌‌c‌‌‌e‌‌‌r‌‌‌e‌‌‌l‌‌‌y‌‌‌,‌‌‌ ‌‌ S‌‌‌u‌‌‌p‌‌‌p‌‌‌o‌‌‌r‌‌‌t‌‌‌ T‌‌‌e‌‌‌a‌‌‌m‌‌‌ ‌‌‌‌ ‌P‌l‌a‌t‌f‌o‌r‌m‌s‌,‌ I‌n‌c‌.‌,‌ A‌t‌t‌e‌n‌t‌i‌o‌n‌:‌ C‌o‌m‌m‌u‌n‌i‌t‌y‌ S‌u‌p‌p‌o‌r‌t
  • Anuj Kainth
    May. 19, 2023
    I am absolutely overjoyed and grateful to have found Dog Training Elite in New Braunfels! This place deserves a solid 5-star rating for the exceptional service they provide. My 8.5-month-old Cane Corso named Loki attended their dog training program and is currently enrolled in their service dog training program. Thanks to the amazing guidance and expertise of the trainers at Dog Training Elite, Loki recently passed his public access test with flying colors, even in the midst of a crowded mall! It's incredible to see how much progress he has made under their guidance. From the very beginning, the assessment process with the owner, Whitley, was incredibly smooth and efficient. She was knowledgeable, professional, and truly understood our needs and goals for Loki's training. I cannot express enough praise and gratitude for trainers Geneva and Adakias. Their passion, patience, and dedication to their craft are truly remarkable. They have an incredible ability to connect with dogs and create a positive and nurturing environment for learning. Loki absolutely adores them, and it's evident that they genuinely care about his progress and well-being. I would also like to acknowledge trainers Wolf and Mckimmie for their contributions to Loki's training journey. Their expertise and support have been invaluable, and their passion for dog training shines through in every session. Overall, Dog Training Elite in New Braunfels has exceeded my expectations in every way. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to their clients and their dogs are truly commendable. If you're looking for a top-notch dog training facility with exceptional trainers, look no further. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite without any hesitation! Thank you, Dog Training Elite, for everything you have done for Loki and our family. You have made a significant impact on our lives, and we are forever grateful.
  • Holley Digby
    Apr. 23, 2021
    The trainers are very good at what they do! I am training my puppy to be a therapy dog and in just a few months of working with them, he can stay, sit, come, walk perfectly on leash, settle, and many more commands. The trainers have been patient and professional. They first show you how to work with your dog and then offer feedback as they observe how you work with your dog. I am so happy with my dog, Gilly’s progress!
  • Teresa Wells
    Dec. 30, 2019
    It was fantastic! Food was awesome! Also had plenty to eat! Seafood was cooked just right!
  • Julia Tucker
    Apr. 7, 2019
    We have a 1 year old pitbull, Athena. I’ve had Athena since she was 8 weeks old. I believed that we were educated and seasoned dog owners. We cared for her but built a lot of bad habits! She walks all over us! We called Whitley and have had three sessions. We are very happy with our experience to this point and are confident that Athena will become the service dog we know she can be! Today, Athena ran out our garage door, I used her collar and the come command, she came back!!!!!!! I cried out of joy, she has no concept of cars and will run fast if she “escapes” the house. She came running back and even sat down in front of my feet in the front yard!!!!!! I took my time going inside and she stayed with me. I am so excited about this!
  • Maya Gaffney
    Feb. 20, 2019
    Today my dog, Little Ann, graduated from service dog training. She has come so far in this program and she has really helped me. Whitley and Melanie are amazing people who are amazing with dogs. The training that Whitley and Melanie do at Dog Training Elite is spectacular! And now my dog is fully trained and has good manners, and I am able to do everyday things much easier with her. Thank you guys so much, you are the best!!!
  • Angela Stevens
    Oct. 16, 2018
    Whitley was so great with muffin. When we started I though muffin might be a lost cause because of her breed, but with Whitley's help she has come along way. We are very happy with how well behaved muffin has become. Thank you Whitley!
  • Scott Morgan
    Apr. 28, 2018
    Lets start with how Suds came into our lives, he was literally dump out of a vehicle at a club, we brought him home, just to foster, (yeah right), after 6 months trying to just teach him manners, frustration sets in, we needed help, first trainer, (not going to mention names), looked at other training, and found dog training elite, gave them a call, set an appointment (at our home, at no charge), gave us a evaluation, at no time did she push her program, just recommendations, Ellen and I discussed it, decided to sign up, enter Ms. Whitley. Ms. Whitley is amazing with Suds, (teaching us what not to do), very positive outlook for Suds, we get to start group sessions next weekend, there has been no question unanswered. Ms Whitley is so professional, genuinely interested in the training, care, safety, and your satisfaction, words can't describe her commitment, not only to us but our fur babies, don't hesitate to contact Dog Training Elite.
  • Ellen Morgan
    Apr. 28, 2018
    I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful Whitley is with Suds, and how he has responded to her. Suds was our foster dog that we ended up adopting, he is full of nerves energy and the energy was not good. We took Suds to another trainer here in New Braunfels and she recommended that we leave him there for training, that was a month of training. When he came home no difference other then he knew how to sit. By Gods good grace we found Whitley! We have been working with her for 5 weeks and he is now ready for group lessons. We can walk him without pulling, he sits and stays, he lays down and stays, he no longer wants to chase cars. We have learned how to distract his nerves energy. We are now working with our other dogs to teach them the same method. If your looking for a great trainer, Whitley is your person, Suds has come so far ! It was a heart breaking situation for us until we found her.
An obedient dog in a fran_territory_name} emotional support dog training program.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

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

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

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

A therapy dog handler with their dog trained by Dog Training Elite New Braunfels.

Therapy Dog Handlers

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

Once you’ve decided, therapy dog training is the next step. Dog Training Elite New Braunfels’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 New Braunfels - Dog Obedience Training in New Braunfels, TX. DTE
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite New Braunfels - Elite Puppy Training in New Braunfels, TX. DTE
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite New Braunfels - Elite Service Dog Training in New Braunfels, TX. DTE
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite New Braunfels - Aggressive Dog Training in New Braunfels, TX. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite New Braunfels - Top Group Dog Training in New Braunfels, TX. DTE
Group Training
A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite New Braunfels.

New Braunfels Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

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At Dog Training Elite New Braunfels, 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 New Braunfels.
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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.