FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Panama City, FL

Frequently Asked Questions

General
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.
The answer to this is in how the technology of "shock" collars (as they were called in the past) has changed a lot since they originated several years ago. The stimulation in the electronic collars we use is much like a TENS unit and provides a tapping sensation that is used to get the dog's attention on a very low level. We use a brand called Dogtra. We do not use "shock" collars, but electronic collars employed by the top obedience trainers around the world and in Panama City.
No. We use electronic collars to get the dogs attention only. When you work around distractions (which is one of our main focuses), keeping your dog's attention is paramount. The collar, combined with positive reinforcement (we like to use praise), help create a positive learning environment in Panama City for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Panama City.
No, but your dog will wear it a lot in the beginning. The objective is to create a conditioned response with your dog; meaning that when you say 'sit', your dog sits automatically without thinking about it first. Much like Pavlov's Dogs or Pavlovian Conditioning, we create a reflex response to you giving a command using the electronic collar. That being said, after your dog is "collar-conditioned", you will be able to remove the collar and still have a dog that will be obedient.
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 Panama City.
To effectively resolve specific issues, we need to start with a solid foundation in obedience. This approach helps you become a confident leader for your dog, which is key to addressing and preventing behavioral problems.
Nope. Those are dangerous grounds to tread upon. We'd much rather train a vicious dog!
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.
Yes. Working with and controlling aggression is one of our specialties in Panama City.
We focus on training companion dogs for veterans and individuals with PTSD and other psychological conditions. In addition to service animals, we also train therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes, and treatment centers.
To be a service dog, your dog needs to have an even temperament. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, etc. typically have a great temperament for service work. For some types of service work, your dog will need to have AKC certifications (such as Canine Good Citizen or Community Canine) which we are able to certify. As always, we would be happy to assess your dog's aptitude for service work for free!

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About Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast

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Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.
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Reviews
Our testimonials showcase the success stories of dogs and their owners who have benefited from our training programs. From basic obedience to advanced service dog training, see how Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
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Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.
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Gallery
Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.
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In the Community
At Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • DJ Mc
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Second to None! My Belgium Malinois (Scout) is a well-trained, obedient Service Dog thanks to Dog Training Elite. The one-on-one training, group training, compassion, love, and dedication are what set these trainers apart. I'm very confident in taking my service dog anywhere and rely on the training we have received together. The key to success is doing what you love, and the trainers and administration personnel, display it always. I'm very satisfied and will return to them for any other training for future pets.
  • Steve Trythall
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Tina and Lilly have done a great job with our puppy JJ. From the first day we took him to the time training completed was a wonderful experience. They love their dogs and it shows everyday I picked JJ up. JJ looks forward to going to school. He loves it there and he would go everyday if he could. Thank you again to the complete staff at EDT. We are glad we found you and if you are considering dog training, you do not have to look any further. This is the place to go. And no, I am not getting paid to post this. Thank you again.
  • Rio Oros
    Sep. 6, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has helped our dogs reduce their anxiety and become fantastic family pets! They are the only people I would trust with our dogs!
  • Heather Hawthorne Phillips
    Jul. 4, 2024
    Josh was great with our Lab puppy! Very professional, kind and loving to our Croaker. I would highly recommend him and Dog Training Elite!
  • jay g
    Jun. 26, 2023
    I hired them to help me train my service dog. The trainers have been great and have provided good communication and service. I would definitely recommend them for dog training.
  • Susan Balk
    Jun. 28, 2024
    Anthony has been great in training me and my puppy. He’s a wealth of wisdom and is always available for questions, etc. He is able to uncover my dog’s best potential. Strongly recommend!
  • Kathy Swigler
    Jun. 25, 2024
    What was I thinking??? Getting a new puppy at my age??? THANK GOODNESS I stopped in Dog Training Elite here in Panama City to inquire. It had only been 5 days, 6 hours, 22 minutes and 16 seconds since we picked up our Portugese Water Dog from the Breeder. I WAS WORN OUT and he was only 11 weeks old! After talking with Lily about the options of what they could do to 'help'....and of course puppy training, lol, I left to think it over. I had already potty trained him but the puppy obedience course was an investment in time and money. When I got back home, it only took a minute to see our adorable puppy, Buoy, and realize he needed obedience training beyond what I could give him for all of us to be happy. I contacted Lily and signed up, then started the puppy program on the following Monday. Being greeted on Monday morning by Tina was one of the biggest reliefs of my life....and Buoy just layed at her feet like the most obedient dog ever! Was I dreaming? Not at all. Tina has a gift at dog training and Buoy could feel it and I could, too!!! Our new 'baby' spent the week at Dog Training Elite in Panama City, working with both Tina and Anthony, going on field trips, and by the end of the week, our little boy Buoy had some manners! They had familiarized him with the commands of sit, place, come, stay, lay, off, drop it. We sure use "off' a lot as he is still a puppy and needs to be reminded often. I'm not sure who learned the most, Buoy or me??? but I can tell you for sure that Dog Training Elite has changed our lives with a puppy here at home FOR THE BEST! Now they will be coming to our home for 3 visits as part of the program and then we will have some follow up classes. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite here in Panama City, Florida, for dogs of all ages, if they need to learn to behave.
  • Caren Grey
    Jun. 21, 2024
    Josh, our trainer, literally saved my dog's life. Rocco was scheduled to be put down due to severe aggression issues. I was devastated to say the least. Josh came out to our home, free of charge, and on the weekend I might to add, to evaluate and help determine if Rocco could possibly be trained. Josh's ability to help train both my dogs (he trained two of them) exceeded my expectations. Josh continually exhibited an incredible amount of patience and respect with us and the dogs during our training sessions. Josh actively listened to our needs and concerns and worked with them. Rocco has earned a "stay of execution " for now and this is all due to Josh's vast amount of experience and level of expertise he brings to the dog training sessions. We cannot express our gratitude enough to Josh for helping us navigate through this difficult situation with Rocco. Lily, my contact person, and Josh are both wonderful to work with. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all of your dog training needs.
  • Zxj Jb
    Apr. 22, 2024
    Josh our trainer saved our dog's life. Our dog's reactive behavior was out of control. We were provide techniques through behavior modifications, consistency and patience to help our dog overcome his reactivness and become well behaved. Their guidance and professionalism is phenomenal. We could not have done this without Dog Training Elite's stupendous trainer and expertise.
  • Thomas Cox
    Apr. 16, 2024
    Having recently added a Standard Schnauzer to my family, I quickly realized it had been a long time since I had raised a puppy. My experience with Elite Dog Training has been fantastic and fun! Everyone is very knowledgeable and our little puppy Memphis enjoyed his week of puppy training. Everyday he went on a field trip and he made a lot of progress. I am looking forward to continuing to use Elite Dog training as Memphis grows. Thank you so much for helping us!
  • Tiffany VanSant
    Apr. 9, 2024
    I signed my little Schnauzer up for training with dog training elite and I am so thankful for doing it. Schnauzers can have a tendency of being a bully and he was starting to show those traits. They helped me get him under control. Plus, he is a happier puppy because he now has direction. Someone had referred me to Dog Training Elite and I am so happy for it. Thank you so much for helping my puppy. Another wonderful thing about this place is that it is owned in ran by a very kind, loving person that really loves dogs. Tina is always available to answer questions or concerns. Also, once they are done with training, you can do group training for life, Every week if you want. If you need help with a specific issue, just give them a call and they will help you with that even after training. This is not a place that trains and then drops you. They care and for the life of your puppy will be there to help. Best decision we have made with him.
  • Maranda Griffin
    Mar. 25, 2024
    Our almost 3 year old miniature schnauzer barked constantly when around other people and dogs. In addition, he had horrible impulse control. As a puppy we had attended training classes at a local pet store. Those classes centered around treat training, which is fine if you want to carry a bag of treats everywhere you go and constantly feed your dog. For us this was unsustainable. We signed up with Dog Training Elite and have seen amazing results! Anthony is wonderful with dogs and their owners! We can now take our Winston to stores and restaurants without issue (after only 6 in home sessions)! Thank you Dog Elite and Anthony!
  • Sean Eversole
    Mar. 11, 2024
    What truly sets Anthony and Tina apart is their genuine passion for what they do. They’re not just trainers; they’re true dog lovers who are deeply invested in the well-being and progress of every dog they work with. Thanks to their expertise and guidance, not only has my dog Maya made remarkable progress, but I have also been equipped with the essential tools and knowledge to effectively continue her training at home. This empowerment is exactly what every dog owner needs to build a lasting and loving bond with their pet. Anthony and Tina’s approach is both professional and personal, making the entire training experience enjoyable and highly effective. For anyone seeking dog training services, I wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Ken Cochran
    Mar. 10, 2024
    We began the training with an energetic, reactive standard poodle somewhat skeptical about what could be accomplished in two weeks, but working with Anthony his behavior has totally changed for the better. Anthony has also worked with us to help us understand how to use the commands and corrections to benefit us and our dog. As a result, our dog walks calmly on a leash is much more confident and less anxious and nervous. We are all much happier because instead of leaving our dog behind, he is a joy to bring along anywhere we go. He is well behaved in crowded environments and around other dogs. He barks less at dogs and strangers and is much easier to control when we are out. We also now understand how to practice and reinforce these commands and behaviors to continue to help our dog improve. The tuition is significant, but worth every penny and I highly recommend this training and Anthony as trainer. 10 out of 10.
  • Leanna Miller
    Mar. 9, 2024
    Anthony is very patient and calm with our five-year-old boxer. He spends a good amount of time in our home showing us how to give commands with rewards and at the same time trains her to be obedient and control her impulses. Very pleased with the company and trainer.
  • Gina B
    Mar. 9, 2024
    Anthony Vick is awesome. He is very passionate and compassionate with not only training my Frenchie Briggs but also very patient with me. He has excellent customer service skills and he is very understanding. I highly recommend DTE. Briggs has come along way with his training and socialization.
  • Renee Larson
    Mar. 4, 2024
    I've been pleasantly surprised with this training at Dog Training Elite Panama City. Professional, personalized and kind. I was leary putting my trust in with anyone regarding my pups. They have been through it as rescues. Both were deemed to not live through treatment, they did. They have my heart. Anthony couldn't have been more on point with them and me. He has years of service with dog training and it shows. The best part for me personally is his directness. Not a sugarcoat reasoning with him. He is clear to reason and approach. In just 2 weeks, both of the pups have learned so much. I can't wait to see them in 10 weeks.
  • A Harris
    Feb. 23, 2024
    Tina & her team have been absolutely FANTASTIC with my two girls! We chose the two week in facility training after searching through multiple obedience schools in our surrounding area. My girls cannot wait to go to school every morning! I would absolutely recommend Tina to anyone who asks. A well trained dog is a happy dog. Thank you Tina, Lily, Josh & Anthony!
  • Gary doll
    Nov. 16, 2023
    Anthony was are trainer for Axel, his delivery was far and above previous sessions as we attended our first group session. Anthony is a true dog whisperer. I hope to have Anthony for all our future Sessions, Axel loved him!
  • Specialists of the South
    Feb. 18, 2024
    Finding Tine Ruffin of Dog Training Elite of Panama City was the best answer to solving problems we faced with our two little dogs (one a puppy!). Our older dog was a runner and had gotten out multiple times ( I fell once trying to capture her with three other people trying to help corral her). In one session my problems on this issue were solved and I have been able to apply my training and get my runner to come to me and get her home when she gets loose! Potty issues, kennel training, anxiety issues and solving problems with walking our dogs are but a few of the other difficulties Tina has helped us master. We are in Pensacola so Tina does travel. I highly recommend Tina and her team!

Our Team

Tina Ruffin - Owner & Trainer
Tina Ruffin
Owner & Trainer

A Florida native, Tina earned her MBA from Florida State University and worked 23 years in the public sector before becoming a Dog Training Elite franchise owner and trainer. She is passionate about helping people build a strong bond with their dog, whether through basic obedience training or specialized training programs. When she is not working, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her dogs, Siggy, Stella and Gus, and you can often find her kayaking along the coastline with Siggy.

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Lily Sundeen - Administrative Assistant
Lily Sundeen
Administrative Assistant

Lily Sundeen has had a love for animals her entire life and knew she wanted to work with dogs at a very young age. She is the new mother of a very giggly boy named Theodore and also the fur-mom of 3 dogs: Sookie, Tucker, and Bruce. In her free time, she loves to swim in our local springs, hike our state parks, and spend time with her family. She is excited to help you and your fur-baby reach your training goals!

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Sunnee Leverett - Trainer
Sunnee Leverett
Trainer

Sunnee has a love for all kinds of animals. She earned her vet assistant certification through a program offered at her high school alma mater and also completed 4 years of agriculture classes with animals. She is currently enrolled at Gulf Coast State College where she is working towards an AA in vet medicine. Great Danes are her favorite breed of dog because of how goofy they are and she recently adopted a Great Dane mix named Jinx. Sunnee is a happy going person that loves meeting new people and new dogs.

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Jeremiah Gile - Trainer
Jeremiah Gile
Trainer

Jeremiah served as a Law Enforcement Officer and Instructor at the police academy for 23 years. He completed his Doctorate from Liberty University and provides wellness training to first responders. Jeremiah is a proud fur-parent to a German Shepherd named Dogmeat and two cats, Callie and Buddy. He loves animals, being in nature, practicing bushcraft, and video gaming.

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