An image of a german shepard with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite for your german shephard training.

Professional Training For

German Shepherds

Dog Training Elite

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our German Shepherd Training Could Help:

Excessive barking
Aggression
Separation anxiety
Destructive chewing
Leash pulling
Over-protectiveness
Resource guarding

German Shepherd Training

German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America—and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!

Dog Training Elite has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.

Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly.

With our targeted and specialized breed training programs, Dog Training Elite can help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.

See Training Packages
An image of multiple german shepherd puppies - our german shepherd trainers ensure you pup is ready to be the best companion possible.

German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults


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Dog Training Elite recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.

If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite offers adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.

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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Christina Bernard
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Badgers first training session was a game changer looking forward to working with Beth! Thank you! Week 8 and I am over the moon! When Badger and me started with Beth and Rene I was skeptical as my pup had spent 15 months 24/7 with me with very little contact with other humans and that being family only . He jumped, barked pulled had no direction! Ahh 8 weeks later I ask myself who is this gentle 80 pound pup who listens to all commands, come, sit, down , heal and place! I can walk with him and take him in the public! Thank you Beth and Rene! I am a senior citizen and a 80 pound pulling jumping dog is not fun. Thanks to you I enjoy Badger and others can to! I recommend you and your business to anyone with a dog! Thank you from Badger and Christina.
  • Athena Poole
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Jeff and yaga are amazing they know their stuff. Our little pup It’s always so exciting to work with Jeff and Yaga.
  • Hoff Stauffer
    Feb. 12, 2025
    He was very helpful. She will walk on a leash now. 🤗
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • CYNDE ROW
    Oct. 1, 2024
    Meggie is always so informative and an excellent dog trainer! She everything FUN!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • Emily Fintak
    Feb. 11, 2025
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite! We’ve had the best experience!
  • j d
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Gray and Denise with Dog Training Elite Hill Country are the BEST!! Gray is an amazing trainer, such a delight to be with and Nacho adores him. We look forward to every visit. Hopefully Nacho will become a great Therapy Dog and bring joy and comfort to many in need!
  • Skally Benitez
    Jan. 15, 2025
    Anuj and his team are amazing trainers! So knowledgeable and patient answering all our questions to help us learn along with our pup. Highly recommend and support a veteran ran business.
  • Julie Braun
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Marcy was a fabulous trainer. Odie responded to his training so well. He did such a great job and grew so much. So thankful Marcy was patient and helpful. Highly recommend the program. Thank you Dog Training Elite Northeast WI.
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Cristy Estes
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Anthony was patient and gave great feedback for what I could work on with my dog. He was very helpful.
  • Fred Conley
    Feb. 11, 2025
    We had a lot of trouble controlling Bandit before he attended Dog Training Elite Upstate. Since he was trained he is a different dog. He is very obedient and very happy. We recommend Upstate to anyone who would like to have a well trained dog
  • Tj Franks
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Meggie is doing such a great job with both Dexter and myself. She’s extremely knowledgeable and supportive. Meggie is a fantastic trainer. Thank you so much for your support and help!!!
  • Tamika Bloodworth
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Craig was hired to turn our 2 year old Mini Goldendoodle into a service dog specifically so he could fly back and forth cross country with my daughter. Craig was amazing, friendly, professional, flexible and worth every cent. Our boy had his first flight yesterday from orlando to LA and did perfect! He got so many compliments on his well behaved demeanor and even the flight attendants said they forgot there was a dog onboard! Everyone wanted to know who his trainer was and we were happy to refer them to Craig! Thanks so much Craig- you changed our lives.
  • Captain Marie
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Danielle is amazing! Right in the first 45 minutes my dog learned trust and confidence. My main focus was “recall” This journey started about 8 weeks ago. Rex is now walking with me off leash. He listens , does not take off for hours anymore. Just a completely changed dog in no time. Money well spent! I do recommend Dog training elite!
  • Lisa
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Alisa came for an introduction and evaluation. She was prompt and professional and really took the time to explain the methods and goals of the available training programs. I look forward to working with her again.
  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Christina Bernard
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Badgers first training session was a game changer looking forward to working with Beth! Thank you! Week 8 and I am over the moon! When Badger and me started with Beth and Rene I was skeptical as my pup had spent 15 months 24/7 with me with very little contact with other humans and that being family only . He jumped, barked pulled had no direction! Ahh 8 weeks later I ask myself who is this gentle 80 pound pup who listens to all commands, come, sit, down , heal and place! I can walk with him and take him in the public! Thank you Beth and Rene! I am a senior citizen and a 80 pound pulling jumping dog is not fun. Thanks to you I enjoy Badger and others can to! I recommend you and your business to anyone with a dog! Thank you from Badger and Christina.
  • Athena Poole
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Jeff and yaga are amazing they know their stuff. Our little pup It’s always so exciting to work with Jeff and Yaga.
  • Hoff Stauffer
    Feb. 12, 2025
    He was very helpful. She will walk on a leash now. 🤗
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • CYNDE ROW
    Oct. 1, 2024
    Meggie is always so informative and an excellent dog trainer! She everything FUN!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • Emily Fintak
    Feb. 11, 2025
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite! We’ve had the best experience!
  • j d
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Gray and Denise with Dog Training Elite Hill Country are the BEST!! Gray is an amazing trainer, such a delight to be with and Nacho adores him. We look forward to every visit. Hopefully Nacho will become a great Therapy Dog and bring joy and comfort to many in need!
  • Skally Benitez
    Jan. 15, 2025
    Anuj and his team are amazing trainers! So knowledgeable and patient answering all our questions to help us learn along with our pup. Highly recommend and support a veteran ran business.
  • Julie Braun
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Marcy was a fabulous trainer. Odie responded to his training so well. He did such a great job and grew so much. So thankful Marcy was patient and helpful. Highly recommend the program. Thank you Dog Training Elite Northeast WI.
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Cristy Estes
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Anthony was patient and gave great feedback for what I could work on with my dog. He was very helpful.
  • Fred Conley
    Feb. 11, 2025
    We had a lot of trouble controlling Bandit before he attended Dog Training Elite Upstate. Since he was trained he is a different dog. He is very obedient and very happy. We recommend Upstate to anyone who would like to have a well trained dog
  • Tj Franks
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Meggie is doing such a great job with both Dexter and myself. She’s extremely knowledgeable and supportive. Meggie is a fantastic trainer. Thank you so much for your support and help!!!
  • Tamika Bloodworth
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Craig was hired to turn our 2 year old Mini Goldendoodle into a service dog specifically so he could fly back and forth cross country with my daughter. Craig was amazing, friendly, professional, flexible and worth every cent. Our boy had his first flight yesterday from orlando to LA and did perfect! He got so many compliments on his well behaved demeanor and even the flight attendants said they forgot there was a dog onboard! Everyone wanted to know who his trainer was and we were happy to refer them to Craig! Thanks so much Craig- you changed our lives.
  • Captain Marie
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Danielle is amazing! Right in the first 45 minutes my dog learned trust and confidence. My main focus was “recall” This journey started about 8 weeks ago. Rex is now walking with me off leash. He listens , does not take off for hours anymore. Just a completely changed dog in no time. Money well spent! I do recommend Dog training elite!
  • Lisa
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Alisa came for an introduction and evaluation. She was prompt and professional and really took the time to explain the methods and goals of the available training programs. I look forward to working with her again.
A dog owner with his German Shepherd - get your professional german shepherd training with Dog Training Elite today.

In-Home German Shepherd Training

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Dog Training Elite offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues.

Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.

Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.

Additional Breeds We Train

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The Malionois Foundation logo.
The Malionois Foundation logo.

Proud Sponsor of
The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite works with The Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.

Learn More

German Shepherd Training Tips

German Shepherds are loyal and intelligent dogs that require a thoughtful approach to training. They are eager learners, but they also need structure and clear guidance to reach their full potential.

Here are some essential training tips for German Shepherds.

Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.

Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental stimulation they need.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

An adorable German Shepherd with their owner - Dog Training Elite is your go-to choice for german shepherd trainers.

Your Expert German Shepherd Trainers

The Dog Training Elite Difference

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Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on balance and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.

The Dog Training Elite training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite’s training methods nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Contact Dog Training Elite today for professional German Shepherd training!