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

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite Phoenix

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Booking Request


Dog Training Elite Phoenix online booking

Request a Callback

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 Phoenix, AZ

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 Phoenix, AZ, 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 Phoenix'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 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!

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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 Phoenix.
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

  • 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.
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 Phoenix.

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 Phoenix’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 Phoenix - Dog Obedience Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Elite Puppy Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Elite Service Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Aggressive Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Top Protection Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE
Personal Protection
Dog Training Elite Phoenix - Top Group Dog Training in Phoenix, AZ. DTE
Group Classes
A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite Phoenix.

Phoenix Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

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At Dog Training Elite Phoenix, 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 Phoenix.
Dog Training Elite Phoenix light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

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.