Elite

Dog Training Services


Professional Dog Trainers in Pittsburgh, PA

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724-299-1371


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Contact Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh

Or Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

724-299-1371


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When you first brought home your dog, you most likely envisioned long walks, a game of fetch at the dog park, extended cuddle time, and an overall enjoyable life with your new best friend. This vision probably didn't include excessive barking, cat terrorizing, leash pulling, and other disobedient behaviors. Building a relationship with your pet is difficult when you have a pup who just won't listen. But don't stress - the obedient, loyal friend you dreamed of is just a few professional dog training sessions away!

No matter your dog's behavioral problems, appropriate training can eliminate disobedience and encourage a healthy dog-owner relationship.

Dog Training Elite is proud to have some of the highest rated private dog trainers near you in Pittsburgh.

Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Silver

$1,395

Equipment Included: E-Collar

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 8 Sessions
  • Come
  • Heel(walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
  • Sit(next to you & at a distance)
  • Place(go to bed)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Off(furniture when desired)

Gold

$1,895

Equipment Included: E-Collar

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 6 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 12 Sessions
  • Come
  • Heel(walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
  • Sit(next to you & at a distance)
  • Place(go to bed)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Off(furniture when desired)
  • Down(lay next to you & at a distance)
  • Load Up(go into kennel, car, or dog house)
  • Manners, Safety and Boundaries
  • Build Confidence and Calm Anxiety
  • Housebreaking / Potty Training
  • STOP Jumping on People
  • STOP Mouthing & Nipping
  • STOP Chewing & Digging
  • STOP Begging & Stealing Food
  • STOP Running Away & Bolting Through Doors
  • STOP Chasing Animals, Cars, Bikes, etc.
  • STOP Reactivity(dog & human)

Platinum

$2,495

Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.

Equipment Included: E-Collar

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 9 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 16 Sessions
  • Come
  • Heel(walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
  • Sit(next to you & at a distance)
  • Place(go to bed)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Off(furniture when desired)
  • Down(lay next to you & at a distance)
  • Load Up(go into kennel, car, or dog house)
  • Manners, Safety and Boundaries
  • Build Confidence and Calm Anxiety
  • Housebreaking / Potty Training
  • STOP Jumping on People
  • STOP Mouthing & Nipping
  • STOP Chasing Animals
  • STOP Chewing & Digging
  • STOP Begging & Stealing Food
  • STOP Running Away & Bolting Through Doors
  • STOP Chasing Animals, Cars, Bikes, etc.
  • STOP Reactivity(dog & human)
  • *Stay With You on a Jog, or Bike Ride(off-leash)
  • *Emotional Support Training(ESA)
  • *Control Aggression(dog & human)
  • *Calm Extreme Anxiety (behavioral modification)
Best In-Home Dog Trainers Near Me in Pittsburgh
Highest Rated Dog Obedience Trainers Near You in Pittsburgh
Top Dog Trainers Near Me in Pittsburgh
In-Home Dog Trainers Near You in Pittsburgh

Why DIY Training So Often Fails


No dogs are truly bad. They are just dogs, trying to navigate a human world. What we consider bad behavior is a result of anxiety, fear, or misunderstanding. Dogs are eager learners and can easily be taught the appropriate behaviors to follow. For that reason, disobedience usually stems from improper training techniques.

It can be difficult for new dog owners to train their pets without the proper knowledge or time. Training takes more than a few sessions and treats, and it certainly does not involve punishment, yelling, or aggression. If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior, you’re not alone. The most common mistake pet owners make is underestimating the knowledge, commitment, and effort needed to train a dog.

Proper training requires:


  • Experience and education
  • A deep understanding of dog behaviors
  • Patience and commitment
  • Knowledge of various training techniques
  • Experience with dogs of various breeds and ages
  • Ability to teach people as well as dogs
  • Detecting emotional changes in dogs (anxiety, aggression, fear)
  • Skills for training in distracting environments
  • Ability to recognize problem behaviors

The average pet owner does not have the above skills. It takes more than a deep love for doggies to know how to train them! Fortunately, professional dog trainers do have these skills. Education, certification, and experience are all marks of a well-qualified dog trainer.

When it comes to dog training, you want to find someone that you can trust. Many dog owners are reluctant to entrust their pets to a stranger. That is why it is important to find a trainer that fits you and your dog’s needs.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


  • Empowering Owners
    We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
  • Personalized
    We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
  • Environment Specific
    We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
  • Supportive
    We support Owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
  • Involved
    We work with all members of the household.
  • Simplified & Customized
    We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
  • Continued Training
    Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
  • Lifetime Investment
    We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
  • Satisfaction Ratings
    Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.

What a Professional Dog Trainer Can Do For You

Most people see dog trainers as canine teachers when they are more people teachers. Professional dog trainers teach you how to communicate with your dog. During dog training sessions, you must actively participate to learn how to establish boundaries with your dog. The dog trainer teaches you how your dog learns so that you can give him or her the right cues.

Common areas covered in dog training sessions include:

  • Obedience
    Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” form the foundations of training, and most dogs learn them quickly. These cues keep your dog safe and help him or her confidently navigate the world. Once your dog has mastered obedience, more advanced training can take place.
  • Behavior
    While obedience commands are easy for every dog to learn, behavior issues are unique to each dog. Examples of behavior issues include chasing the mailman, jumping up during greetings, excessive barking, and destroying the house when left alone. These behaviors have an underlying cause that must first be addressed before the appropriate behavior can be learned.
  • Pet-Owner Relationship
    The most important part of any dog training program is the bond formed between dog and owner. Without a strong relationship, your dog simply won’t listen. A true professional will work side by side with you to ensure that your dog understands you and responds appropriately.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Dog Training Elite has the best dog trainers near you in Pittsburgh that provide professional dog training services.

We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!

Nick and I reached out to Vince to help with our 4 year old German Shepard, Rosa, with reactivity issues, leash training, and to help boost her self obedience. We knew the moment we met with Vince he was going to be super helpful to our family. He took the time and patience to explain all the ins and outs of this journey. He never was watching the clock during our training sessions, was great in making suggestions to get the biggest bang for our buck during sessions, and captured this awesome photo of us on Rosa’s last in house training session. We still have group sessions available to us that we are very excited to start with Vince and the other clients/dogs that he works with. We are grateful for his services and see the improvements in our pup!
— Kayla Burzio
Posted June 17th 2024
google
I knew training would be very important for my very energetic Aussie. Vince from Dog Training Elite has been the perfect person to train us! Liam had several issues causing him to not be able to enjoy life to the fullest. However these last few weeks with Vince he has progressed to a more confident and happy pup. I can't wait to see where he goes from here! Thanks so much for the help.
— Rebecca Gillenwater
Posted June 17th 2024
google
I am so glad we found Vince. We've had other dogs over the years, but never sought out a trainer. And never could bring our dogs out much to public events or handle them well on walks.I always felt a little inadequate as a dog owner. Lots of love, but little discipline. We wanted a smaller dog this time, thinking she would be easier to control for a 70-something couple. This time we decided to seek help from a trainer. Vince has essentially given us the skills, the techniques, the patience, and the understanding of consistency to make all our lives better...including Olive. Vince is gentle, knowledgeable, and a very good teacher. He has made the training process seem so easy and the results are often instant (and lasting as long as you practice, practice, practice). Olive is a happy, well-behaved, loving dog (2-years old in September). I had a dream for years of having a "therapy" dog to take into healthcare facilities. We are now confident that Olive will be able to fulfill my dream and that she will continue to build her confidence without stress or frustration. Vince made this all possible. He is the best!!
— Judith Gusky
Posted June 17th 2024
google
Vince has been the best experience for training with loki. Loki was scared and, Vince took his time in building trust with loki. Loki has come a far way and building confidence and obedience, thanks to Vince. Vince is easy to work with and always there if you have any questions. I’m glad I found Vince for loki, it’s been a pleasure continuing to working along side a great trainer.
— karie turner
Posted June 2nd 2024
google
Our family couldn't be happier with the results of our training sessions with Vince! It was worth every penny! Admittedly, we were nervous about e-collar training at first. Vince answered all of our questions calmly and reassuringly. Having Vince train our 18 month old lab in our home was a real game changer. He addressed challenges in real time and was always happy to work with us to customize the training to our needs. Best of all, it is clear that Vince loves his canine clients. This alone made it so easy to trust him with our puppy. His calm and confident demeanor put both our dog and his pack (our family) at ease. Vince clearly puts the client's needs first. He never seemed like he was in a hurry to leave and he was always available for questions when they occurred outside of our training time. The opportunity to continue practicing with the group sessions is another benefit that we just love. We completed our 6 sessions recently and continue to practice regularly with our dog. Already he is calmer at the door, more polite when greeting guests and his regular recall is outstanding. Additionally, his recall with distractions is noticeably improving. We live near a lake in the summer and our pup is living his best life as he can be off leash more and more. Everyone who sees him comments on what a well-behaved boy he is . I am so glad we found Dog Training Elite!
— M P
Posted May 30th 2024
google
Super excited to get started on training with Dog Training Elite. We just had our consult and feel great and very hopeful that our Jasper is going to have every opportunity to be the best doberman ever and for us as owners to be the best owners for Jasper.
— DeAnna Harris
Posted May 11th 2024
google
Mr Conrad is an excellent trainer he has helped my fear aggressive border collie gain confidence now our daily walks have become a lot easier and she hardly reacts to people and other dogs. Overall this was an amazing experience
— Briana Lanay
Posted January 28th 2024
google
I have a 2 year old. Lab and I can’t say enought. About how her training from Vince at Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh has helped her and is! Vince is very knowledgeable about training with individual one on one class and group classes. Whatever you need help with your dog Vince can fix it! I have a well behaved dog now that only continues to get better as she gets older . He is reasonably priced and is always available for questions or new concerns. DTEP gets my outstanding review. Give Vince a call ! You will be very happy with his training for your dog!! Sincerely, Linda Z
— Linda Zemanick
Posted December 8th 2023
google
Vince was always punctual and sympathetic to my concerns regarding dog training/behavior. He gave thorough explanations and was flexible with the agenda of each class, tailoring them to my priorities. Even before signing on with him, he provided an in-depth consultation and answers, with examples, to all my questions. He was encouraging, yet realistic, and openly discussed the ongoinging responsibilities of the dog owner throughout the training process. I highly recommond Dog Training Elite Pittsburgh to any owner who wants to reach the next level of dog obedience and is willing to put in the required work necessary thereof.
— Czarina Grace Michka
Posted November 13th 2023
google
Vince is the trainer that I needed for Dakoda-my 9mth old German shepherd. I tried other trainers and didn't get results. Vince is calm and patient and works to train you, not just your dog. I live a little bit out of his usual area, but Vince went the extra miles for me, and I am so thankful he did!
— Lynn Bacha Antonucci
Posted September 11th 2023
facebook
Vince is the trainer that I needed for Dakoda-my 9mth old German shepherd. I tried other trainers and didn't get results. Vince is calm and patient and works to train you, not just your dog. I live a little bit out of his usual area, but Vince went the extra miles for me, and I am so thankful he did!
— Lynn Antonucci
Posted September 11th 2023
google
My dog Teddy is still in training. He got nearly all his one to one trainings at our home with Tonya and now he has been in 3 group sessions so far. Tonya is not just knowledgeable and experienced as a dog trainer but her best qualities are her natural love for animals, her patience and her way to make them what we considered impossible. Teddy is a 7 MO sheepadoodle puppy and gets too excited around dogs and other people. He wish to play all the time so he gets jumpy and drags us whenever he wants to be playing. Tonya has been able to teach him basic commands and has been helping us to teach him to stay quieter. If you are in the need to get professional help along with loving care with your pup, Tonya and Luis are your answer. I recommend them 100%!
— Steven Padin-Aquino, P.E.
Posted July 21st 2023
google
Vince is a wonderful dog trainer. He met Henry and I at no cost to assess his good and bad behaviors at home. Vince’s calm, patient and kind demeanor made me confident that he would be able to train Henry and educate me every step of the way. After our first training session Henry stopped nipping “puppy biting” at my sleeves and ankles. We have since worked on learning new commands and skills together that make having a puppy more enjoyable and even fun. I would recommend Vince to anyone who is looking to have a better relationship with their dog and who is even interested in service dog training.
— Taylor Koch
Posted July 6th 2023
google
Vince is a wonderful dog trainer. He met Henry and I at no cost to assess his good and bad behaviors at home. Vince’s calm, patient and kind demeanor made me confident that he would be able to train Henry and educate me every step of the way. After our first private training season Henry stopped nipping “puppy biting” at my sleeves and ankles. We have since worked on learning new commands and skills together that make having a puppy more enjoyable and even fun. I would recommend Vince to anyone who is looking to have a better relationship with their dog and who is even interested in service dog training.
— Taylor Koch
Posted July 6th 2023
facebook
Vince is a calm, intelligent, and highly skilled trainer. He is patient and corresponds very well with the client. His demeanor is top notch and his training invaluable. Would highly recommend!
— Tammy Birmingham
Posted June 11th 2023
google
Vince was amazing! We were really impressed with the progress our dog made! We would highly recommend Vince
— Dana Collins
Posted March 29th 2023
google
Vince is not only a wonderful trainer, but an amazing human being. I notice a changed in my dog after our first private session. His knowledge of dog psychology and behavior has really helped my dog work towards becoming an ESA. Vince also is so flexible and considerate when it comes to schedules, he will go above and beyond to make sure his customers feel important and accommodated. I highly recommend his services.
— Shelby C
Posted February 20th 2023
google
Vince is not only a wonderful trainer, but an amazing human being. I notice a changed in my dog after our first private session. His knowledge of dog psychology and behavior has really helped my dog work towards becoming an ESA. Vince also is so flexible and considerate when it comes to schedules, he will go above and beyond to make sure his customers feel important and accommodated. I highly recommend his services.
— Shelby Lynn
Posted February 20th 2023
facebook
Vince is a compassionate and knowledgeable trainer, and I'd recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone!
— Aidan Rosequist
Posted November 28th 2022
google
(Translated by Google) My son was diagnosed with autism and I started looking for information about the help he could have for his social development and his verbal problem and I discovered that service dogs are a very important help. Thank God they gave my son a beautiful dog but he needed his training. From so many searches I found Dog Training Elite Tampa and the best of them speak Spanish and have been a blessing for my son and his great friend. I never thought I would have a dog inside my house, but the training received has made it part of the family and I think with more education and more respect. Thank you, thank you so much because with your help my son has shown changes, he has a friend to play with, he no longer plays alone and I am calmer because my son has a friend who will ensure his safety. (Original) Mi hijo fue diagnosticado con autismo y me puse a buscar información sobre las ayudas que el podía tener para su desarrollo social y su problema verbal y descubrí que los perros de servicio son una ayuda muy importante. Gracias a Dios le regalaron a mi hijo a un hermoso perro pero necesitaba su entrenamiento. De tantas búsquedas encontré a Dog Training Elite Tampa y lo mejor hablan español y han sido una bendición para mi hijo y su gran amigo. Jamás pensé tener un perro dentro de mi casa, pero el entrenamiento recibido lo ha hecho ser parte de la familia y creo que con más educación y más respeto. Gracias, mil gracias porque con su ayuda mi hijo ha demostrado cambios, tiene un amigo con quien jugar ya no juega solo y yo estoy más tranquila porque mi hijo tiene un amigo que velará por su seguridad.
— Kamirelis Ramirez Ortiz
Posted November 17th 2022
google

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Positive Reinforcement -
The Recommended Technique

While there are various dog training techniques, positive reinforcement is the only recommended method. Trainers that offer programs based on punishment, “alpha dog” methods, and fear should be avoided.

Dogs must be taught which behaviors to perform, not punished for doing something wrong. Our canine companions don’t understand why we are yelling at them, they just fear us. When we catch our dog doing the right behavior and award him for it, he learns which behaviors are acceptable.

At Dog Training Elite, we combine positive reinforcement techniques with a private training setting. Our in-home approach has a high success rate.

Years of training experience have taught us in-home dog training is the most effective as it offers a personalized training experience for both dog and owner.

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  • No Distractions
    Your home is where your dog feels most comfortable, and where he is most likely to exhibit problem behaviors. Jumping on guests or destroying the home when you leave are behaviors that only occur inside the home. A private dog trainer that assesses your dog in his or her home environment catch and correct these behaviors on the spot.

    The home is a calm, relaxed place for your pal. There are no other dogs or large crowds to distract him from the lesson at hand. Once your dog has learned the basics at home with a private dog trainer, his or her new skills can be practiced out in public.

  • Family Involvement
    Ingrained behavioral changes only take place when the entire family is committed to training your dog. When a trainer comes to your house, you can take advantage of the times when everyone is home and willing to participate. Once you all agree on appropriate behaviors and the associated cues, your dog can happily learn from everyone.

Dog Training Elite is the top professional dog training company with the best local dog trainers near you in Pittsburgh.

The Private Dog Trainers in Pittsburgh That You Can Trust


At Dog Training Elite, we understand your dog is like a family member and that you want the best for your pet. That’s why we use positive reinforcement in all of our training procedures. We never use punishment or pain techniques - training should be an enjoyable experience for your pet. Our combination of positive reinforcement, an electronic collar (not a shock collar), and including family members is a well-rounded training experience. Dog Training Elite stands behind our training programs, and we are focused on empowering owners with our established techniques.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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