FAQs

Dog Training Elite in Phoenix, AZ

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 Phoenix.
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 Phoenix for your dog.
In most cases, the collar will run at about $250, without tax, but is subject to market fluctuation in Phoenix.
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 Phoenix.
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 Phoenix.
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!
Yes, we do offer personal protection training in Phoenix.
To be a personal protection dog, your dog will need to have some "drives" that can be utilized for the work. Generally, prey drive is the key drive that we look for (ie, chasing a tennis ball or going after a tug), but there are several forms that we can utilize. Your dog does not have to be vicious! We want your dog to be a great family dog first, then we need its obedience perfected; only then will we work on personal protection. Of course, we would be happy to assess your dog for free!

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About Dog Training Elite Phoenix

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Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite Phoenix. 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 Phoenix has transformed the lives of countless dogs and their families!
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Careers
Join the Dog Training Elite Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix, 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

  • Ryan Roudebush
    Sep. 23, 2024
    These trainers are masters at their craft! With their techniques and training our dog enjoys more freedom and the ability to go camping, hiking or whatever adventure comes our way.
  • Mari Griffin
    Jun. 15, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is all you need for the dog of your dreams. I have been working with Neal and his staff for 4 months now and I am blown away by how much we’ve accomplished in such a short time. My gorgeous Akita was very well trained by me in obedience but I wanted him to learn protection and socialization. I cannot recommend Neal and his team enough!!! Neal is the real deal!! If you want the dog you see in the movies then all you need to do is call Dog Training Elite.
  • Nick Rempel
    Jan. 27, 2024
    These guys have made a 100% difference in our dog and we are so glad we found them. Her dog reaction and aggression has gotten so much better. We're still working with her but half way through and she's a whole new dog in and out of the house.
  • Rachel Bergman
    Oct. 2, 2023
    These people really know how to help train dogs and their owners. I never thought my super obstinate Frenchie could become so well mannered. I needed a trainer who could do in home personal training and this family owned company does just that. I’d recommend them to anyone.
  • ronnwyo
    Jul. 31, 2023
    Taylor did a great job on training me to train Tosi, my German Shorthaired Pointer. Plus help me prepare him for his Public Acess Test. Tosi has turned out to be an obedient dog plus a well-behaved service animal. Thank you Taylor.
  • Heidi Hollister
    Jul. 11, 2023
    We have been participating in training since January. I was very apprehensive going into the process. At the first group class that I attended, I had an anxiety attack in my car. Upon her arrival, Taylor greeted me and immediately began asking about my needs. She stayed attentive throughout the class. After the class, I had another anxiety attack in my car. I dreaded the next group class but knew there was support for both my dog, Tod, and myself. I arrived to the next class and Taylor immediately asked if I was okay. She had witnessed my attack the week before and asked if she witnessed me in the midst of another attack, if she could interact with me and help give guidance on how Tod can help with the anxiety/PTSD. She said that I was not the first person to show these emotions and that she was there to help. It didn’t end there! At the first service dog class, I had the same anxiety. She found me sobbing on the bench and immediately went into training mode. She assured me that I could get through this. We made it through that class and continue to attend. This whole process has been made easier with supportive staff like Taylor. She has made it where I don’t feel like my questions or emotions are out of line.
  • Brittany Spatz
    Jul. 11, 2023
    We have had a great connection with Taylor when we go the Goodyear group classes, and service training classes. Our dog, Jack, was a bit shy at first, but he loves Taylor so much (and so do we!) she genuinely cares about our experience and always asks what she can do to help. She’s very attentive to all the dogs at our group class, and everyone loves working with her. It’s got to be a tough gig, but she does it extremly well! I’d recommend all my friends with dogs to her. I’m so grateful to Taylor for all she’s done to help our sweet Jack get to be the dog he is today! We had in home sessions with Savannah and we love her as well!!
  • Kyler Witt
    Mar. 15, 2023
    Dog training Elite is one of the most professional training companies I’ve seen. They trained my German Shepherd Sofia as a service dog. As a disabled combat vet, my service dog was much needed to help me with ptsd and mobility issues out in public and I could not imagine my daily life without her. Dog training elite is definitely your go to for service dogs, they will not only meet your needs and expectations but they will also exceed them!!
  • Tonya Emery
    Mar. 11, 2023
    I have worked with Dog Training Elite with two of my dogs. My first dog Branch who was 6 months when we started the program. Branch was very aggressive towards other dogs. Thanks to the owner Neil and his helper Chris my dog Branch is a well rounded dog who became my Service Dog. Unfortunately, Branch who is 6 yrs old now, has hurt his leg and needed to be retired so I began Training my new dog Felicia who is now enrolled with Dog Training Elite. She is only 11 months old and has past her Service Dog Test. Neil came to our home to evaluate Felicia and assisted in getting the process started. Taylor was the trainer who came to my home to continue training with me and Felicia. Taylor also met me and Felicia for our public training and made sure she was completing the task she will be providing. If there was something I needed to work on or if I had any questions Taylor was always able to provide me feedback. Taylor is very passionate and very knowledgeable with the process for continued training. Aspen was the trainer who completed the Service Dog Test and I appreciate how thorough she was at making sure Felicia was able to complete the task she will provide for me ongoing. I would recommend Dog Training Elite and have given out their information as we have traveled in our RV across country because they are wonderful at what they do. I greatly appreciate how much patience Neil and his Team have with dogs and their families. Especially, when helping us train Branch through his aggressive behaviors. As you can see in the photo Branch is able to lay down beside Felicia. Prior to Dog Training Elite working with him this would have never been possible.
  • Danielle Geist
    Mar. 9, 2023
    Worth every penny!!! The trainers here are very knowledgeable, patient, and understanding. Especially Savanna and Taylor, they have gone above and beyond to help out with our dog. In a few short weeks he has made big changes in his obedience and aggression. I am super impressed and glad to have them as our dogs trainers
  • Rachel
    Mar. 9, 2023
    I actually found them by google and boy was I so happy I did. This team is just perfect and full of knowledge on dogs. We went through the Service dog program they have and I can’t begin to explain how grateful I am to now have my own service dog. Each training session was fun and my dog and I learned so much in each class. Group classes with Savanah Taylor and Aspen were insightful and inspirational because we were around others like us. Also so much fun! Service dog group training with Mark, Savanah and Taylor was perfectly designed to help accustom our dogs to so many distractions. I appreciated it. But Taylor was outstanding, knowledgeable, full of energy, kind, patient, if you get to work with her your dog will gain a friend and work with a respectful trainer! Thanks DTE!
  • Jill Clark
    Mar. 9, 2023
    I can’t say enough about the amazing team at Dog training elite! We signed up our two dogs for their programs and it has been worth every penny! Taylor has been amazing and incredibly helpful with our puppy Sunny In our home. Reno took on our Portuguese water dog for the 10 day training at their facility and was amazing as well! Worth it! You won’t regret it!!
  • Jessica Duran
    Feb. 6, 2023
    Worth it! I selected this training program because they were the most professional of the companies I met with. Savannah has routinely been punctual, prepared and 100% focused on my dog’s (and my) learning. I have seen great progress in my dog’s obedience since we started. You definitely get out of this program what you put into it so plan time to train at home between sessions. They update their training techniques to what is most effective which means they care about your success in the program. One thing that could help clients like me stay on track is calling or sending reminders to book the next training session or attend the next class. Thanks Dog Training Elite!
  • Lucas Kolacki
    Nov. 28, 2022
    I cannot give enough praise to Savannah and the team at Dog Training Elite. I worked with shepherds for years teaching them the basics on leash for a rescue in town and I am flabbergasted at the transformation of mine. She is going to be a great companion for life thanks to this team. Cannot recommend them enough!
  • Larry&Deb Daniels
    Nov. 17, 2022
    Thanks to Neal and his team for helping our 6 yr old Puggles learn some manners for our new full time RV lifestyle. 5 yrs of growing up with invisible fence and back yard enclosure, our boys needed to learn obedience with distractions and how to share dog parks. We are so pleased with the results. Thanks again! Larry & Debbie Daniels Leo & Reggie 🐶🐶
  • Debbie Miller Daniels
    Nov. 17, 2022
    Thanks to Neil and his team for helping our 6 yr old Puggles learn some manners for our new full time RV lifestyle. 5 yrs of growing up with invisible fence and back yard enclosure, our boys needed to learn obedience with distractions and how to share dog parks. We are so pleased with the results. Thanks again! Larry & Debbie Daniels Leo & Reggie 🐶🐶
  • Maggie Rogers
    Sep. 25, 2022
    Very professional friendly
  • Annette Bowers
    Sep. 16, 2022
    We went through off leash k9 training Phoenix. We have a 70+ pounds male Sheepadoodle, Murphy, who needed help with jumping on people, a calm behavior around strangers and grandchildren and taking walks. Our trainer, Brienna Ewoldt, was excellent. She is a calm, consistent trainer who tackled all of Murphy’s issues with confidence and presented us with a new and improved Murphy. Brienna mixed training with play and even got Murphy to ignore cats. His most important skill for me was the “heel” command. Murphy went from pulling on the leash and “greeting” every dog/owner he came across during a walk to staying right by my side without tugging. I heartily recommend both Off Leash K9 training Phoenix and Brienna Ewoldt. Annette Bowers, Chandler, AZ.
  • Zo
    Aug. 30, 2022
    Called dog training elite, the person who picked up the phone was very kind, helpful and social. They were informing us with many info that I am glad I heard of. I called to plan on an evaluation for my puppy, to be a service dog. Now I just can't wait for that day to come. Thank you so much trainers! (WILL BE UPDATING IF PUPPY PASSES)
  • Joseph Vijungco
    Jul. 12, 2022
    My wife decided to surprise me by bringing home three Malinois Puppies. I called Dog Elite Training Because I quickly got overwhelmed with these high-energy dogs. Can you imagine how crazy it was for me, a simple dog owner, trying to train 3 Malinois puppies? Dog Elite came to my rescue. Lexi, the trainor, has been amazing with the Malys. They are so much more obedient. They respond to my commands. It’s amazing. Everyone who meets our dogs are so impressed.

Our Team

Neal Mestas - Owner & Trainer - DTE Arizona
Neal Mestas
Owner & Trainer - DTE Arizona

Neal has been training dogs his entire life, participating in his first competition at the age of 9. With a lifetime of dog training experience, he can read dog body language with ease. Neal is a patient trainer, his approach to teaching and training is enhanced by his passion for what he does, whether it be basic or advanced training, he loves it! He specializes in just about everything, from basic and advanced obedience, reactivity and aggression control, calming anxious or fearful dogs, protection work, temperament testing, and service dog training. Neal has two Belgian Malinois’ of his own, a 13 year old retired demo dog named Bailey, and Chewbacca, or “Chewie”. According to Megan, “Neal is ok ".

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Karen - Trainer
Karen
Trainer

With credentials from Animal Behavior College, Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers, and over 10 years of professional dog training experience, Karen joins the DTE family. Karen can do it all, from service and obedience training, to titling dogs in AKC tricks, Schutzhund, French Ring, Canine Good Citizen, and so much more! Dog training runs in the family, as her father trained Search and Rescue and protection dogs. Karen’s first rescue Border Collie, Amy, was trained in agility, Frisbee and therapy work in 2002. Her 8 year old Belgian Tervuren, River, is a Confirmation champion, and holds titles in AKC tricks, CGC, Rally and Schutzhund. Her youngest Belgian Tervuren, Xeno, passed his Brevet in April of 2023. Karen enjoys the outdoors, taking her dogs on hikes, and overall, has love for animals!

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Azure - Trainer
Azure
Trainer

Azure was introduced to dog training by their mother who trained service dogs herself. They’ve been training dogs for over 5 years, and has recently joined our Arizona DTE family. As our lead service dog trainer, Azure is focused, determined, relationship-oriented, with a heavy focus on body language training. Azure specializes in obedience training, Canine Good Citizen testing, American Kennel Club Trick Dog testing, service training, and group park class management. Azure also has experience training disabled animals such as deaf and three-legged furry friends. Azure has a 14 year old Border Collie / Blue Heeler mix named Dash who has earned a novice trick dog title, and a Red Heeler puppy named Adrenaline, who Azure is currently training.

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Alexa - Trainer
Alexa
Trainer

Alexa checks all the boxes: patient, compassionate, caring, determined, dog lover. Everything you’re looking for in a dog trainer, Alexa is. She has experience with obedience and behavioral modification training. She is the owner of Gunner, the gentle giant, and Fudge Pop, the Frenchie with attitude.

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David - Trainer
David
Trainer

David is DTE’s newest addition, who has the motivation and passion required to be a great trainer. His dog, Tiger, a 140 pound Cane Corso, was taken under David’s wing and has become an obedient and talented dog since then. David’s interest lies in protection training, obedience, and showing people what their dog is capable of, through training with DTE.

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Ashley -  Office
Ashley
Office

Ashley is our half in-facility trainer half receptionist, manager of our social media, and the powerhouse of our side projects. She spends her free time from training in-facility client dogs, training her once street-wandering, Australian Cattle Dog mix named Ares, to excel in obedience and learn new tricks. Ares currently has his CGC and TKN titles!

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Megan - Operations Manager
Megan
Operations Manager

Megan makes the Arizona DTE company go ‘round. As our operations manager, Megan handles all things Dog Training Elite, from making sure our clients have what they need when they need it, filling in for trainers and office staff on sick days, handling the chaos of business, to making her employees laugh. Her introduction to DTE as a client in 2016 quickly transformed into employment, where she jumped around from state to state for the business. Megan currently resides in Arizona with her two dogs, Mazie the Belgian Malinois who does protection work, and Blue the super-mutt who is service trained. According to Neal “She’s pretty good”.

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