A happy, well trained dog from Dog Training Elite, your trusted source for dog training in Pensacola, FL
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Where Education
Meets Excellence

Elite Methods. Elite Results.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast

We offer in Home & Facility Training Options
Coronado Village
103 W. 23rd Street
Suite W-6
Panama City, FL 32405
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast

Get A Free Consultation

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The Art of Dog Training

Transform your pup with Dog Training Elite


At Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast, we're not just dog trainers; we're your elite partners in creating a happier, harmonious life with your cherished canine companion. Through carefully crafted programs and expert trainers, Dog Training Elite ensures that each pup attains a level of mastery that sets them apart. As the premier choice for canine training and behavior modification in the Pensacola area, we're dedicated to transforming your beloved furry friend into a champion of obedience and a source of boundless joy for your family.

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Our Story

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast

Our programs are flexible and designed to meet the needs of each client’s schedule and their dog’s unique behavior, home environment, and situation. We are a family-owned, professional dog training company with over 40 years of experience specializing in strengthening the bond between you and your dog.

We offer in-home dog training, basic obedience, advanced training, and specialized programs like Service Animals and Therapy Dogs. No matter the breed, size, or behavioral issue, the Dog Training Elite team is here to help. Let our professional Pensacola dog trainers help you today.

About Us

Our Services

Behavioral Solutions

Fear & reactivity, staying & coming, barking and more

Training Programs

Obedience, Service, Group Classes and More

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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The Solution to your Dog’s Behavior Problems

We're Ready for Our Doggy Make-Overs


Dear Pup Parents, we're the troublemaking squad, a.k.a. the canine chaos creators. We've chewed shoes, dug craters, and claimed your house as our own personal domain, pushing you further away with each crime we commit. We're not just about social mishaps; we've excelled in causing all sorts of furry commotion!

But here's the scoop: We're willing to learn, and are ready for our doggy make-over! Help us be the good citizens you've always dreamed of by hiring Dog Training Elite. They'll guide us with pawsitive training methods, making us the well-behaved, model pups you deserve. Let's emBARK on this journey of boundless happiness and obedience together!

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Pensacola Dog Socialization Classes. DTE
My Problem:
Poor Socialization
My name is Milo
Hi. My name is Milo, and I have a bit of a 'ruff' time making friends with my fellow canines. You see, I'm all about making new friends, but when it comes to meeting other dogs, I get a tad overwhelmed. I’d like to get out more, please.
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Stop Puppy Biting in Pensacola, FL. DTE
My Problem:
Nipping & Biting
My name is Scout
Hello, everyone, my name is Scout, and I have a little, um, 'nipping' habit. I'm all about spreading love and happiness, but sometimes, my excitement gets the best of me, and I end up with a playful nibble or two. I want others to feel safe around me.
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Reactive Dog Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
My Problem:
Fear Aggression
My name is Zuko
Hi…I get afraid when strange dogs or people get near me so I try to scare them off to protect myself. I want to make new friends and not worry my parents, but someone has to protect them. Can you help me?
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Pensacola, FL. DTE
My Problem:
Separation Anxiety
My name is Nora
I'm Nora, and I'm in the process of tackling something called 'separation anxiety.' While I thrive in family togetherness, there's a hiccup when my beloved humans step out – I tend to get a little jittery. I would love to feel more confident.
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Excessive Barking Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
My Problem:
Excessive Barking
My name is Link
Woof! I'm Link, and I've got a little quirk – a tendency to let my barks fill the air a bit more than necessary. I'm all about helping to maintain a harmonious vibe, but sometimes, I just can't resist the call of the wild, or the squirrel on the neighbor's fence.
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Staying and Coming Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
My Problem:
Staying & Coming
My name is Dexter
I'm Dexter, and I've got a bit of a wild streak when it comes to the 'down' and 'come' commands. Sometimes my adventurous spirit leads me astray when those commands are in play. It would really make me happy to learn how to listen.
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training in Pensacola, FL
My Problem:
Chewing & Digging
My name is Charlie
I'm Charlie, and I've got a little hobby, or shall we say, an issue – destructive chewing and digging. I simply can't resist the allure of gnawing on furniture or unearthing buried treasures in the garden. I'm on a mission to mend my ways. 
A line of dogs at one of Dog Training Elite group training classes.

We Offer Group Classes

Social Savvy & Ongoing Skill Development

Socialization is a fundamental aspect of a dog's development, and continual group classes play a pivotal role in fostering positive social interactions and behaviors in our furry friends.

Training Programs

Flexible & Customized for your Pet

At Dog Training Elite, we go beyond basic obedience and train dogs to excel in real-world situations. Our programs cover everything from service dog preparation to therapy dog training, emphasizing practical skills and reliability.

Our dog training in Pensacola, FL produces dogs that are prepared for real-world challenges and enrich your daily life. We focus on creating lifelong bonds of love and trust, helping your dog become a confident, trusted family member.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Dog Obedience Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
Obedience Training

Our obedience training for dogs in Pensacola, FL is designed to teach essential commands and reinforce good behavior, ensuring your dog is well-mannered in any situation.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Elite Puppy Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
Puppy Training

Our puppy training in Pensacola, FL builds a strong bond between you and your new puppy by focusing on early socialization, basic commands, and good behavior.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Elite Service Dog Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
Service Dog Training

Our Pensacola service dog training turns dogs into dependable companions, trained to perform tasks like retrieving items, providing stability, or alerting to medical conditions.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Aggressive Dog Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression

Our Pensacola aggressive dog training targets and corrects behaviors driven by anxiety and aggression, helping your dog stay calm and well-behaved in challenging situations.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Therapy Dog Trainer in Pensacola, FL. DTE
Therapy Dog Training

Our Pensacola therapy dog training equips dogs with the skills needed to provide comfort and emotional support in various settings. These trained dogs help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve the overall well-being of their owners.

Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast - Top Group Dog Training in Pensacola, FL. DTE
Group Classes

Our group dog training classes in Pensacola, FL offer a structured environment where dogs can learn and practice essential skills while socializing with other dogs and their owners.

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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 Pensacola.
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

  • Lexi Hart
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Tina has been training my dog to be a service animal and has done phenomenal. I took my husky in and he was walking me and just had very bad behavior. It caused me so much stress and anxiety. I now have been able to take him places with no stress or worry! It has grown not only his confidence, but mine as well! I full heartedly recommend this place if you’re looking for training. I’d say they can train anything you are looking for and will do a very excellent job. Also, Tina drives an hour away just to ensure my dog is ready to pass his test. She shows up and goes out of her way to make sure that he is well equipped for his test! Her heart is pure and she’s given me great advice and knowledge!!!
  • Evelyn Perillo
    Nov. 3, 2023
    Wow, Tina is an amazing dog trainer!!! From the very first session, my one-year-old pug, Pixie, began following commands. Tina made all of the sessions simple, comfortable, non-intimidating and relaxing to both my dog and me! Of course, as Tina calls it, there is homework, and it must be practiced before the next follow-up session (one week apart). This is all done at one's home which is very convenient. There are group sessions also but due to medical issues, Tina worked out a specific home program for me. If you need any behavior worked on for your dog, I strongly urge you to contact Dog Training Elite. You and your dog will forever be thankful! Thank you so much, Tina! Evelyn

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A child with their happy, obedient dog with training from Dog Training Elite.

We Train Every Breed

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Each dog breed has different behaviors and personalities due to a combination of genetics, selective breedings, and environmental factors. At Dog Training Elite, we work with every dog. Our team understands canine behavior and the unique challenges of every breed.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we apply specific breed training techniques to bring out the best in your dog. From impulse control in terriers to focused mental stimulation for herding breeds, we’ll work with you and your dog to design a personalized training plan.

Get Your Free Consultation

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!

Two dog owners with a group of trained dogs.

Dog Training in Pensacola, FL


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At Dog Training Elite, we’ve seen how DIY dog training can lead to inconsistent results and frustration. Our qualified professionals bring the expertise needed to assess your dog’s unique needs and apply methods that work. Choosing experienced trainers makes a noticeable difference in attaining reliable, lasting behavior changes.

We rely on positive reinforcement, a training method that delivers lasting results, even with the most challenging dogs. Our trainers are skilled in addressing any behavioral issue and can help your dog to reach their full potential with encouragement and proven techniques.

An obedient corgi on a leash after recieving affordable training from Dog Training Elite.

Affordable Dog Trainers in Pensacola, FL

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At Dog Training Elite, we believe every pet owner should have access to expert dog training without breaking the bank. To make this a reality, we offer our training programs at fair and affordable prices so that cost is never a barrier to a well-behaved and happy dog. Whether you’re looking for basic obedience training, specialized behavior modification, or advanced service dog training, our programs fit various budgets.

Investing in dog training is one of the best decisions you can make for your pet's long-term happiness and health. Proper training helps curb unwanted behaviors, reduces anxiety, and builds a strong, lasting bond between you and your dog. By providing low-cost dog training without compromising quality, our dog trainers in Pensacola, FL make it possible for more families and dogs to benefit from professional training.

A well-trained DTE dog on a surfboard.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Unleash Your Dog's Potential

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See An Elite Dog in Action

A dog that has just graduated from Dog Training Elite's award-winning training program.

Award-Winning
Dog Training

With Dog Training Elite


At Dog Training Elite, we are proud to offer training services recognized for outstanding results and effective methods. With skilled trainers dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting relationships, we guarantee your dog receives the best care and guidance.

Our programs cover everything from basic obedience to advanced behavior modification, customized to your dog’s needs. Whether you’re addressing behavioral issues, improving obedience, or strengthening your bond, our methods deliver reliable results.

Experience the difference our award-winning training can make in your dog’s life.

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