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Dog Training Services in Pittsburgh, PA


Dog Training Elite

Our Training Programs

Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh - Dog Obedience Training in Pittsburgh, PA. DTE

Obedience Training

Our obedience training for dogs in Pittsburgh, PA utilizes proven, balanced methods to ensure your dog is well-behaved—even in distracting environments. With this training, you and your pup will develop a stronger bond, leading to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience at home and in public.
Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh - Puppy Training in Pittsburgh, PA. Dog Training Elite

Puppy Training

Our puppy training program in Pittsburgh, PA lays the foundation for good behavior and socialization. We cover essential skills such as housebreaking and basic commands, setting your puppy up for success as they grow.
Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh - Service Dog Training in Pittsburgh, PA. Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training

Our service dog training in Pittsburgh prepares your pup for specific roles such as mobility assistance, autism support, PTSD service, and more. We ensure your dog is trained to be a reliable partner who is there for you whenever you need.
Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh - Anxiety & Aggressive Dog Training in Pittsburgh, PA

Anxiety & Aggression

Our aggressive dog training in Pittsburgh, PA addresses challenging behaviors using a balanced, safe, and careful approach. We provide the tools necessary for managing anxiety and aggression in your dog, helping them become a more confident and well-adjusted companion in your home and the community.
Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh - Therapy Dog Training in Pittsburgh, PA

Therapy Dog Training

Our therapy dog trainers in Pittsburgh, PA, train pups to provide emotional support and comfort to individuals or families. Whether you need soft cuddles, calming pets, or a reassuring presence, your dog will be by your side when you need it most.
Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh - Group Class Dog Training in Pittsburgh, PA. DTE

Group Training

Our group dog training in Pittsburgh, PA offers structured sessions to enhance your dog’s obedience skills in social settings. These classes provide valuable opportunities for your dog to practice commands and behaviors in a controlled group environment.
A beautiful golden retriever dog sitting on a rock - learn more about the programs offered at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh.

Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh

At DTE, we offer a range of training programs designed to meet the specific needs of you and your dog. We use balanced training techniques to foster obedience and good behavior and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Starting with in-home sessions, we involve all family members to address behaviors specific to your dog's environment. After mastering basic commands, dogs can advance to group classes to practice their skills in more dynamic settings.

Whether you're looking for basic obedience or specialized dog training services in Pittsburgh, PA, our methods are designed to help your dog become a well-behaved and happy companion.

See Training Packages

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!

A dog owner and her service puppy - we offer balanced training programs at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh, PA.

Positive Reinforcement Training


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Positive reinforcement is widely recognized as one of the most effective and humane methods for training puppies and adult dogs. This training approach focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones.

This method is especially beneficial for puppies as it helps them develop confidence and trust their owners from an early age. Rewards such as treats, praise, or toys encourage puppies to repeat good behaviors, making the learning process effective and enjoyable. For adult dogs, positive reinforcement is equally effective. It shapes desired behaviors and helps prevent the development of bigger issues like anxiety, aggression, or destructive tendencies.

Why Dog Training Elite is Committed to Positive Reinforcement

At Dog Training Elite, we believe dogs learn best when they feel secure, loved, and motivated. That’s why we incorporate positive reinforcement into all of our training programs. Our approach is based on the idea that rewarding good behavior leads to lasting results, helping your dog develop the skills they need to succeed in any environment.

By focusing on positive reinforcement, we teach your dog obedience and strengthen the bond between you and your pet, making the training experience rewarding for both of you. Whether you’re working on basic commands, advanced obedience, or addressing specific behavioral issues, our commitment to positive reinforcement ensures your dog’s training is effective and humane.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • The English
    Nov. 22, 2025
    Exceptional Results and Unwavering Professionalism from Elite Dog Training! We couldn't be more thrilled with the transformation of our miniature schnauzer after completing the in-home private sessions with Elite Dog Training. From our very first consultation, Vince's communication and professionalism were nothing short of excellent. He meticulously explained the training philosophy, set clear expectations, and consistently provided constructive, easy-to-follow guidance in every session. Crucially, our pup was immediately comfortable and obedient with Vince, which speaks volumes about his effective and humane approach. The results we've achieved are genuinely impressive. Our schnauzer has mastered all the basic commands, but more importantly, she has developed an incredible ability to focus and maintain control even when exposed to high-level distractions. Situations that were previously challenging—like passing other dogs or reacting to passing cars—are now handled with a calmness we didn't think possible. She now has a strong, reliable foundation that we are excited to build upon. Having successfully completed the private training, we are eagerly looking forward to the outdoor group sessions to further solidify her control in complex, real-world environments. I highly, highly recommend Elite Dog Training!
  • lori wilson
    Nov. 10, 2025
    Vince from Pittsburgh Elite Dog Training is an amazing dog trainer. He is so patient, kind and knowledgeable of dog behaviors. Our journey of owning a service dog started a little over 2 years ago when a doctor suggested to my daughter that a service dog might be very helpful to her. She decided she wanted a Doberman Pincher. We never owned this breed and definitely needed help. Vince spent a long time explaining the process of obedience training and service dog training. Vince came to our house weekly and spent time with our dog and my daughter training not only the dog but my daughter to be a handler. After weeks of home training they were ready to introduce distractions and group training. Our experience with Vince will forever hold a special place in my heart. His training enabled my daughter to have her service dog and life a full life. Rowe went to College with Keria full time at 1year old, she is fully off leash and made a trip to Disney with us. Rowe and my daughter now work a full time job and they are both happy and thriving. Thankyou Vince, we could not have done it with out you.
  • Candace Shoenberger
    Nov. 2, 2025
    We have had a really good experience with Vince! Our puppy was a little shy at first and it took her a few days to get used to the e-collar. Vince was very patient and went slow with her and worked with me to be consistent with her. We are hoping to train her as a service dog and she has made so much progress!
  • Sheri Dusse
    Oct. 2, 2025
    We needed a service dog and fast. Finding a dog was easy, finding someone to provide service training was a challenge. I called Tonya at DTE-Tampa as my last chance to find someone who could help. Her first words “don’t worry, I can definitely help”. We now have a dog that helps support my husband through his challenges and is certified to be with him at all times. Tonya was patient and helped us through the process. If you need a trained or certified dog, I highly recommend you contact them.
  • Tina Fletcher
    Aug. 19, 2025
    We cannot thank Vince at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh enough for the work he’s done with our American Bully, Rooney. When we reached out, we were desperate for answers. Rooney had become very anxious and reactive after we had kids, and we weren’t sure how to help her. Vince came in with so much expertise and a deep understanding of dog behavior. He walked us through every step of the training process and gave us the tools to help Rooney manage her anxiety. His approach not only helped Rooney become more confident and calm, but also empowered us as owners. Thanks to Vince, Rooney has made amazing progress. She listens to us more each day and handles her usual high-stress situations so much better than before. Most importantly, we now understand why she reacts the way she does, and that knowledge has made the biggest difference. We highly recommend Vince to anyone struggling with their dog’s behavior.
  • Tammy Birmingham
    Aug. 16, 2025
    Vince is a kind, patient, and phenomenal trainer. He has certified two service dogs for me, and without his expertise, I could not have had such well trained dogs.
  • Dianne Glave
    Jul. 15, 2025
    Vince did an excellent job training Marley. My dog is much improved reacting to strangers and other dogs. He now know heel, leave-it, place, down, sit, and off. My neighbors have even commented how Marley has improved with his behavior.
  • Emily Stayshich
    Jun. 17, 2025
    Vince is a great trainer. Prior to Vince, my husband and I could not take our dogs for a walk. Now, our dogs are well-behaved and walks are enjoyable. Our dogs are learning better behavior around other dogs. In the process, my husband and I learned how to be better dog owners, too. :-)
  • Amber Morris
    Jun. 17, 2025
    We had a great experience with Vince! Oakley responded very well to the techniques and I was impressed by how quickly she picked up on the training. We will continue to use the lessons that we learned from Vince, and are excited to join the group classes.
  • Margaret Sams
    Jun. 16, 2025
    Our 8-month-old Golden retriever, Henry, was energetically pulling us by the leash and reacting to every person, dog, and squirrel in view. We are not inexperienced - he is our 6th dog over the past 38 years, but we could not get his attention to slow him down! He was so excited to see our grandkids that we were afraid that he would knock them down. Vince showed us how to use an "e-collar" and worked with Henry and with us for 6 private lessons. What a difference! Henry now walks by my side and no longer jumps up on people. We have now attended two of the 12 group sessions with other dogs Vince trains, and Henry is SO much easier to control, even while walking past other dogs and all the distractions in a public park. Vince is kind, patient, and obviously loves dogs. We are so glad that we found him! AND - I have held the e-collar while the transmitter button is pushed, and I could barely feel it. It is more like a tapping - not a shock.
  • Thom Barnes-Wise
    Feb. 26, 2025
    Vince has been fantastic in training our dog. Before Vince, our dog was a well-meaning but poorly behaved 100ib doberman that pulled on leashes and jumped on passing dogs and people constantly. Since training with Vince, he has had a total transformation into a well-behaved, gentle, and thoroughly enjoyable hound. Vince's in-house sessions were thoughtful and highly effective, and his weekly group classes are enjoyable. It has been a real pleasure to watch my dog transform before my very eyes!
  • Nadiya Greaser
    Feb. 26, 2025
    Dog Training Elite was an excellent support and choice for my dog. As a first-time dog owner, Vince made training goals for our dog clear, practicable, and achievable. Our dog is a rescue, and came into our home with jumping, leash-pulling, and inattentive behavior/a hard time responding to commands. With Vince, we have eliminated leash-pulling, had significant progress with heeling, threshold training, and jumping. Our dog loved Vince, we have utilized his group training sessions and plan on training our dog for service with Dog Training Elite
  • Raffy Kramer
    Feb. 21, 2025
    Working with Vince was invaluable. It not only taught my new puppy the building blocks for a great start at a good skill set to improve upon and a solid foundation to continue the next phase of group sessions and then onto specialized training. The in-home sessions were invaluable and very convenient. Learning and training in our own environment was great. I considered other options and tried dropping him off but was unable to leave him due to his initial separation anxiety. In home training was solved that. I start the group sessions next and will follow this up with another narrative on those and the continued specialized training. I would recommend Vince and Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh.
  • Maria Gross
    Feb. 21, 2025
    I highly recommend Vince Conrad as he is top notch, knowledgeable dog trainer. “Wits end” describes me prior to hiring Vince to train my out-of-control Bichon Frise puppy, Dixie. She had very few listening skills and thought she was running our household. Now, thanks to Vince’s patience and expertise and our six in-home training sessions, Dixie is obedient and listens to me! We are looking forward to our outdoor training sessions! Thank you Vince!
  • Nicole Allen
    Feb. 4, 2025
    Vince came out for an introductory visit to meet with us and our dog, Gabriel, and to walk through the training expectations based upon Gabriel’s behavior. Over the course of six weeks, Vince worked one-on-one with our dog and with us to make sure we were doing the proper work with Gabriel. We are exceptionally impressed by Vince’s technique and the positive affect it has had on Gabriel. More importantly, my family now has the tools to continue this training Thanks Vince!
  • M K
    Dec. 28, 2024
    I have had nothing but good experiences with Dog Training Elite. Vince was SO helpful and supportive even before we began working together. He gave me great insight and knowledge as I navigated the process of picking out a puppy to be a therapy dog. We spoke quite a few times before he even met with us. With my busy schedule, traveling to training appointments could have been a major hinderance - Vince came to us! My puppy felt comfortable in her home environment as she learned new skills. At no point did Vince ever make me feel bad or embarrassed about our learning process. He was nothing but supportive every step of the way! His recommendation for training 15-20min/day was very reasonable and I felt like something we could manage. We came a long way and we continued to benefit from the group trainings after we finished the one-on-ones at home. Vince was available via email and phone all throughout the process and has made it worth every single penny. If you are on the fence, you will not regret working with DTE!
  • Lora
    Sep. 7, 2024
    I stopped Vince in South Park’s parking lot after he had just finished a training program out there and asked him a question about an issue I’m having with my new dog. He was so kind, helpful and informative. He gave me multiple suggestions on how to address the issue. He knew a lot specifics about my breed of dog and dog behavior in general. If you are looking for a good, honest person to help you with training your dog Vince is your guy!
  • Allie Creasy
    Sep. 2, 2024
    My wife and I now have our fifth German Shepherd. The first three lived between 10 and 14 years. Number four died unexpectedly at seven. That was 19 months ago. We've had our Long Hair German Shepherd, Teddy, for 18 months now. At four months Teddy completed her basic puppy training. Shortly after that we began looking for a seasoned, mature professional trainer. We found what we were looking for when Vince Conrad of Dog Training Elite came to our house to see if we were all a good fit for each other. We started our six in home training and finished up with Teddy making great progress! Both Teddy and I feel like we both had the best training! I like to think of the in home training as the class room work. We have now completed six of the 12 group training sessions with six more to come. I call the group sessions the "field work". Each session builds off the previous session. Vince is so skilled and patient. He is always firm, with a calming demeanor. When Teddy was about nine months old it was nearly impossible to take her for a walk. At 73 I need a dog that will walk with me without pulling me down the road. Last week we were out for a walk when we came to our neighbors house. They were out at the curb waiting to see Teddy. As we got to the couple I told Teddy to sit, and she did. They spent a bit of time to pet her and to make a fuss. I then told her down to which she got all the way down and stayed there calmly until I commanded her to "come". This couple are trained Greyhound rescue "parents", their son is a professional dog trainer and their daughter is a Vet. Their final comment to me carries a lot of weight. They said that Teddy's progress is remarkable. I hope my experience with Vince helps you make a decision about finding the right trainer. I can't thank Vince enough. Don Creasy Pittsburgh
  • Will Porter
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Wish I could give 10 stars. They are so awesome and amazing at what they do! Tonya was incredible and got me and my dog to exactly where we wanted with the training! Best in the area!
  • Cynthia Desjardins
    Aug. 13, 2024
    I only have good comments about my experience so far with Dog Training Elite. Not only with the knowledge and experience of Vince, but also his patience and generosity. He was able to assess and understand my dog very well and adapted the training according to her needs and behaviors. He was there when I was discouraged and ready to give up, I can’t be more grateful.

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Our Balanced Theory

At Dog Training Elite, we believe in using a balanced approach for all of our training programs.

Here’s how our approach works:

We provide owners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to manage their dogs in any situation. Our hands-on training ensures owners feel confident and capable of continuing the training process independently.
Our programs are customized to the unique needs of each dog, taking into account factors such as breed, temperament, and specific behavioral issues. This personalized approach maximizes effectiveness and helps dogs reach their full potential.
We train dogs in familiar environments. Whether at home or in a public setting, we ensure the training is practical and relevant to everyday challenges. This ensures your dog behaves just as well in the doggy park as he does in the home.
Our commitment to you doesn’t end with the initial training program. We offer continued training and resources to help maintain and build on your dog’s progress, ensuring ongoing improvement for both you and your pet.
Training with Dog Training Elite is an investment in your dog’s long-term behavior and your peace of mind. Our programs lay the foundation for lifelong good behavior and strong bonds, providing lasting benefits for you and your canine companion.
A lab getting elite k9 training in Pittsburgh, PA from the team at Dog Training Elite.

In-Home Training

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When it comes to dog training, many facilities only offer group classes. While these classes can be beneficial in certain situations, they often fail to address specific behavioral issues and provide personalized attention. Group classes tend to focus on general obedience in a controlled environment, which may not accurately reflect your dog's real-life challenges at home.

Benefits of In-Home Training

At Dog Training Elite, we prioritize in-home training before introducing them to group settings. Here’s why in-home training is an important first step:

  • Training in a Familiar Environment: In-home training occurs where your dog spends most of their time. This familiar setting helps your dog feel secure and comfortable, making it easier for them to learn and retain new behaviors.
  • Personalized Attention: Our trainers focus on your dog's specific behavioral challenges, providing customized solutions. This one-on-one approach ensures your dog gets the attention they need to succeed.
  • Fewer Distractions: Unlike group classes, in-home training minimizes distractions, allowing your dog to focus better on the lessons. By eliminating the chaos of group environments, we can address behaviors more effectively.
  • Involvement of the Whole Family: In-home training encourages active participation from all family members. This collaborative approach ensures everyone is on the same page, reinforcing consistent commands and behaviors across the board.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer both in-home training and group classes. It’s important to note we only introduce your pup to group classes when our trainers and you feel comfortable doing so.

By working one-on-one with your pup before they meet other friends, we address the root causes of their behavior and ensure they are well-behaved in the place that matters most–your home.

An image of a golden retriever on the beach - Dog Training Elite offers Pittsburgh off leash k9 training.

Pittsburgh Off Leash K9 Training

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For many dog owners, having a well-behaved dog that can be trusted off-leash is a top goal, but it’s not always easy to achieve. Off-leash obedience requires a high level of training, where your dog listens and responds, even in a distracting environment.

At Dog Training Elite, we specialize in Pittsburgh off-leash training. Our programs are made to match each dog’s unique temperament and behavior, ensuring the training is both effective and long-lasting. With years of experience handling all types of dogs, Dog Training Elite helps you achieve confidence in your pet, whether on leash or off.

An image of a German Shepherd - Dog Training Elite offers retired k9 training in Pittsburgh, PA.

Retired K9 Training

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Adopting a retired K9 is a rewarding experience, but it can come with unique challenges. At Dog Training Elite, we offer a specialized K9 training program to help new pet owners create a strong bond with these highly intelligent and loyal dogs.

Our qualified trainers understand the specific needs of retired K9s, including managing their anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral issues. Though our modification training, we work directly with you and your new K9 to retrain their behavior responses.

Whether through in-home sessions or group classes, Dog Training Elite places you, the pet owner, at the center of the training process to foster a deep bond between you and your dog. By choosing our retired K9 training program, you are providing a loving home to a hardworking dog and ensuring a loyal and protective companion for your family.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh.
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Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh

Schedule Your Free In-Home Consultation Today


If you’re seeking a comprehensive solution for your dog training needs, you’ve come to the right place. At Dog Training Elite, we offer a range of training programs for puppies and adult dogs, including specialized options for obedience, service training, off-leash training, and more.

Every program we offer is designed to meet your dog’s specific needs, addressing behavioral concerns while prioritizing your goals and their wellness.

Take the first step toward a stronger bond with your pet by scheduling your free in-home consultation today. Let us show you how personalized training can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s life–and yours.