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Reviews & Testimonials
Dog Training Elite Richmond
Hear From Our Customers
justin barnes
Nov. 14, 2025 - google
Paul brings the highest level integrity to everything he does. Couldn’t recommend him more!
Chris Owens
Nov. 9, 2025 - google
Dog Training Elite Richmond has been fantastic for Champ and myself! We did the in-home program with Matt and the results have been above and beyond what I expected. Champ was a very reactive dog that had trouble focusing. It was a challenge to get him to go on walks around my apartment complex with out being overly exited about other dogs, constantly pulling. I was hesitant to take him out to other places.
Matt was able to provide both me and Champ the correct way to handle these situations and the walks are now so much fun for both of us! We now know all the commands, sit, down, come, off and place. My own anxiety about some of the previous ways Champ use to act has gone down tremendously and it has been wonderful for both of us. I cannot say enough good things about Matt's approach and instruction how to address situations and his training methods. We have attended the group classes with both Matt and Paul as well which are a must. This really allowed Champ and myself to gain the confidence and experience needed in an interactive environment with other dogs. Overall, Dog Elite Training Richmond has been fantastic and I could not be more please or recommend enough!
Ben Lever
Oct. 20, 2025 - google
Matt did a great job training our dog. He is very knowledgeable about dog behavior and personalities. He is very friendly with the dog and vice versa. The dog seemed to like him very much
tara boyle
Oct. 15, 2025 - google
Matt took the time to listen to my concerns and address them…hopefully Otis the wonder dog will find some zen!
Nancy Smith
Jul. 11, 2025 - google
From the moment Matt arrived to our home we felt so comfortable with his energy. He is incredibly knowledgeable. His calm and positive approach ensured us we have chosen the right person to move forward with training for our anxious german shepherd. Thank you Megan and 'Matt!
Joshua Kidd
Jul. 11, 2025 - google
Very knowledgeable! Great first experience! Excited to continue classes
Georgia Delamar
Jul. 10, 2025 - google
Matt answered all my questions and was very informative!
Jeannie Friedrich
Jul. 10, 2025 - google
Matt just left after the initial assessment. I am blown away. He had Chloe calm within 20 minutes. Can’t wait to work with him!
Kristine Adams
Jun. 19, 2025 - google
I believe we are on our third in home and Matt has been amazing!! Our rescue that has gone thru severe abuse has grown to not be afraid in a short period of time and Matt has been amazing with me to answer all my questions each visit and again the most patient. I’m so happy that Elite is whom I have chosen to help us and my sweet rescue. Thank you is not enough
Nicole Nikolis
Jun. 24, 2025 - google
Matt was awesome. He was punctual, polite and talked us through their approach. He also told us what to expect when he was introduced to our pack. We were able to see right from the beginning how the approach worked with them!
Aaron Swart
Jun. 23, 2025 - google
Great experience with Matt today- knowledgeable, calm, and kind. Jocko can’t wait to be a therapy dog!
Josh K
Jun. 20, 2025 - google
Great meeting Matt very informative looking forward to working together with my German Shepard
Mary Kay Romaine
Jun. 20, 2025 - google
I met with Matt today and I was impressed with all his information
Arjun Kainth
Jun. 6, 2025 - google
Paul and his team are fantastic and their love of animals shines in the training experience!
Ellan Armstead
Jun. 2, 2025 - google
Very pleased with the assessment! Matt was calm, courteous and friendly with both of the dogs, and was able to very quickly and accurately understand what my dog needs to improve and was able to recommend the exact program that we need, definitely recommend!
Dave McGrath
May. 22, 2025 - google
Dublin was a rowdy silver lab puppy. Thanks to Paul, and the Dog Training Elite program, he’s now an amazing Service Dog! Dublin’s progression from basic obedience through final Service Dog Certification was remarkable. This dog has directly impacted my quality of life. I’m constantly getting comments of how well-behaved he is and I can’t thank the DTE Richmond team enough! Their personal commitment to build on the unique bond between dog and owner is what makes them different. They are the best!
Linda Huckstep
Mar. 31, 2025 - google
Matt Perales is a great trainer, and a very nice person.
Angela Haule
May. 19, 2025 - google
I learned so much during our first session. I'm looking forward to continuing to work with Matt to help Ruby achieve her Therapy Dog certification.
Willie Addison
Apr. 29, 2025 - google
Matt was prompt exactly early and seemed knowledgable.
Amina Alidina
Apr. 24, 2025 - google
It has been pleasure meeting you Matt for home assessment it was wonderful experience and we are looking forward to start regular training.
Rebecca Taylor
Mar. 7, 2025 - google
I absolutely believe we have the best trainer, Matt. He has come into our home and won the trust of our 10 month old GSD, Bocephus. It’s amazing the transformation we have witnessed by Matt’s training. Not only is Bocephus retaining what he has taught him, Matt, has taught us how to understand our dog as well. So, if you are reading the reviews to make sure this is the place for your dogs, then please trust in this company!! Best decision we have ever made!! Matt is THE BEST!!!
Katie Gurrentz
Jan. 30, 2025 - google
We had our consult with Matt today for our puppy. He was very organized and helpful. We discussed a plan for our dog and I’m very excited to select a program and begin training! The whole process has been simple and straight forward.
We also met and worked with Paul during our process. He was great to work with and our puppy is really catching on well to the training!
Kelly Gartner
Mar. 14, 2025 - google
Excellent information for my introductory meeting. Would trust working with him!
C Pessemier
Mar. 14, 2025 - google
When we started working with Paul at Dog Training Elite, our newly adopted one-year-old German Shepherd, Wyatt, was not leash trained, had tons of energy, and just about knocked us over when he jumped on us. If Wyatt saw another dog while we tried to walk him, he barked and lunged like crazy, and it was tough to hold him back. He's a big boy! He wasn't aggressive but just wanted to play with other dogs, and he made it known. After we started lessons in our home with Paul, we saw the difference immediately. By the fifth lesson, Wyatt's leash walking improved significantly, and he learned and followed the place, sit, down, heel, and off commands. Now, we can walk him anywhere and he does an amazing job. Other dogs, kids playing, and wild rabbits are still triggers for him, but it's easy to get him back in the zone with all the training we learned to apply with him. Yes, Paul trained us too! 😊 We have graduated to group lessons with other dogs, which Wyatt loves. Below is a picture of Wyatt in the place command, on a platform, in group training. We are so thankful to Paul for showing us how to train Wyatt. It has given us so much freedom to know we can take him for walks and do so many things we couldn't before because he is a pretty well-behaved dog now. 100% worth every penny!
Rebecca McMahan
Feb. 21, 2025 - google
Matt was excellent! I am hoping to contract them to help train my greyhound to be a service animal. Fingers crossed!
N Carter
Mar. 7, 2025 - google
Very kind and very knowledgeable with my dog! Great customer service and we so glad we made the right choice to pick Dog Training Elite! Matt is the best!!!!
Christopher Splisgardt
Feb. 24, 2025 - google
Matt did a great job explaining how the training will work and what to expect. Looking forward to begin training with him!
Al Becker
Feb. 18, 2025 - google
We enjoyed the visit.
Lissette Ramirez
Feb. 17, 2025 - google
We have just recently had our 5th class with Dog Training Elite of Richmond and Matt has been great to work with. As I have an older dog, his body tires out faster than his brain… Matt gave me ideas on activities/things I can teach my dog to tire out his brain.
He’s been patient and offered a wealth of knowledge on the importance of confidence building with my reactive dog.
I’m am looking forward to the day that we can easily to regular dog things: walk around other dogs, go to the park, hike a trail, walk Cary street, go to the pet expo, and maybe even run the lure course at the pet expo! I’m hopeful that sometime we’ll be able to these things soon!!
Alexandra Kerlin
Feb. 7, 2025 - google
Matt was professional, nice, and knowledgeable at our free home assessment for my dog Butch! I'm excited to start scheduling training sessions to help with Butch's separation anxiety behaviors and basic training. Thanks Matt!
Angel Inspire
Feb. 6, 2025 - google
Very informative, knowledgeable with dog training and puppies behavior, learning tips for puppy, training programs and payment plans are available with ease. All in all a pleasant visit and looking forward to participating in a training program.
Hannah Mayton
Jan. 23, 2025 - google
Paul was a pleasure to work with! He helped bring structure into myself & my dog’s life which has substantially improved her behavior & willingness to obey! He was so patient with her & helped me adapt & learn how to take control back over my home. I would recommend he & his business to everyone! The training techniques they use are beyond effective & I saw improvements in as little as 2 sessions.
Kathleen Adams
Jan. 5, 2025 - google
Matt Perales gave an interesting and persuasive presentation; and I have no doubt that he would have helped me to train my dog very well. The ONLY reason that I didn't sign up for training right then and there is because Dog Training Elite uses electronic collars during their training sessions. As Matt explained, only very low settings are used except in cases of dogs who know what the commands are and the dog is refusing to obey. But I don't want to use any amount of aversive conditioning to train my dog. Thank you for coming out to see us, Matt.
Hannah Baker
Dec. 20, 2024 - google
Matt gave so much information and I appreciated it.
janet geisler
Dec. 6, 2024 - google
Matt was very professional, assessed quietly with great observations. Took his time quietly getting to know teddy's personality. Was very honest and fair in his explanation of assessment. Explained program very thoroughly. I would feel very comfortable and confident with Matt guiding us through the process.
Rhalynn Blackburn
Dec. 5, 2024 - google
I've only had an assessment session with Matt, but it was great! I might be seeing what i want to see, but my dog was more calm and her behavior was better for the rest of the day after meeting with him!
sally bobbitt
Dec. 4, 2024 - google
Matt is great with both Mercy our GSD and her two humans.
Calm, steady, thorough - he teaches all of us with clear instruction and walk-through, then guides us through hands on work with her. She really loves him and is "getting it". Thanks Matt!
Richmond Family Magazine
Dec. 4, 2024 - google
Dog Training Elite did wonders for our dog, Charlie! We thought he was untrainable, but Paul worked his magic, and it's like we have a new and improved pooch! Thank you, Paul!
Kathleen Fulton
Dec. 3, 2024 - google
Paul is such a caring and knowledgeable trainer. I have a difficult dog and Paul is very patient and helpful. Highly recommend.
Kathleen Fulton
Dec. 3, 2024 - google
Paul is such a caring and knowledgeable trainer. I have a difficult dog and Paul is very patient and helpful. Highly recommend.
Cliff Gregory
Nov. 26, 2024 - google
Matt handled Ponyo so smoothly and she learned so much this week. He helped us learn to walk her better
Dawn White McGuire
Dec. 3, 2024 - facebook
Third session:
Sadie Mae is quite the character. Timid and shy, fearful, but yet curious, and stubborn when she doesn’t want to.
Matt surprised us today, as Sadie came out of her shell for him, and responded to his gentle commands.
Paul and Matt have both been very patient with her and we see PROGRESS
before our eyes😊 thank you…
Julie
Nov. 21, 2024 - google
I cannot say enough good things about Dog Training Elite. Paul is basically a dog whisperer! He is the fourth trainer we worked with and nothing has worked other than this. Please take a chance...you will not regret it. Even our family members have noticed the improvement in our pup's behavior and asked us what we did!
Katy Carter
Oct. 29, 2024 - google
Patient. Kind fun, sweet, good at the dogs. Excellent
Dave Traub
Nov. 12, 2024 - google
Paul is a very good dog trainer. He understands dogs and is very patient. He always explains the reasons behind the training methods.
Mary Mills
Nov. 8, 2024 - google
Ella lives working with paul! We've learned a lot from his methods of training!
Dallas Weston
May. 30, 2024 - google
Paul, our trainer is very easy to work and give us needed help. Our dog has improved greatly.
david palombo
Nov. 5, 2024 - google
Matt was friendly and knowledgeable.
Cari Dixon
Oct. 31, 2024 - google
Very knowledgeable very patient with us and our Bear❤️We have learned so much He breaks things down so we understand we are doing what we are doing. It makes is so much easier to work with our Bear. He doesn’t talk above our knowledge. He is very sincere. It has been a wonderful experience.
Merrilea Goulet
Oct. 25, 2024 - facebook
We were so discouraged prior to our first appointment with Paul, we have a 2yr old German Shepherd rescue who is very reactive and high energy. Paul has done two sessions with her and the transformation has been nothing short of incredible! She has gone from being anxious and unruly to much more calm and listening. Paul is so patient explaining the “why” as well as the “how” to us. We couldn’t be happier!
Abigail Blaha
Oct. 14, 2024 - google
Working with Dog Training Elite Richmond and having Paul as our trainer has been a treat. I interviewed a lot of trainers in the area, as I was very particular in who I wanted to work with and the results I was trying to accomplish with my dog. I am glad I chose to work with this company. Paul helped us to set the ground work obedience needed to accelerate to the more complex goals I had. He is detailed and thorough in his education, and answered any questions I had along the way. They were very flexible in scheduling visits around my work schedule, and Paul was enthusiastic about working in public places once we were ready for it. The group classes that this company adds to the training plan are such a bonus, especially for a dog recovering from reactivity. Paul is clearly passionate about his work and the wellbeing of dogs, and I have gained so much confidence as a handler. He is encouraging to both dogs and humans as they learn together. My dog and I are now able to do things together that I didn’t dream would have been possible before this experience. Our world has opened up in such a positive way, and our bond is even stronger. If you are a dog guardian considering training, especially if you are facing reactivity concerns, reach out to Dog Training Elite Richmond to help.
Ellen Moriarty
Aug. 18, 2024 - google
Outstanding! Paul was exceptionally patient training our puppy during obedience training, and then in preparing her to be a therapy dog. He was also very good at training me to be a good handler. They were accommodating in setting up the training schedule and were flexible when we had to make last-minute changes. Highly recommend them for training your dog!
Alexa McBride
Jul. 9, 2024 - google
Cannot recommend this program enough! I live roughly an hour south of Richmond and was pleasantly surprised to find a training program of this caliber able to complete sessions in my home!
David Hamilton
Jun. 7, 2024 - google
If you have a new puppy or young teenager who needs training, DTE is the company to choose. Paul and his team are first rate and will help much in growing your pet into a well mannered friend. His methods are sound and us old folks are learning all the ways we have been wrong in trying to manage our energetic Sheltie. Give them a call you won't be disappointed.
Sioux Hudson
May. 30, 2024 - facebook
Amazing program with great results!
I love that the first few lessons are at home. My service dog has delighted and amazed people for his wonderful manners and obedience. Thank you Paul
John Lore
Apr. 1, 2024 - google
Paul at Dog Training Elite Richmond is outstanding. He genuinely cares about the dogs he trains and shows great interest in their progress. His training methods are effective, and our dog has improved immensely thanks to Paul. Highly recommend his services for anyone looking for real results.
Leigh Rooke
Feb. 15, 2024 - google
Wonderful owner, kind and patient. Thank you Paul!
Susan Hudson
Feb. 13, 2024 - google
We have mastered, SIT, PLACE(STAY implied) COME, OFF and now DOWN( STAY implied)from up close, to 100 feet away. Zipper is 7 months old and we are only 5-6 weeks into Dog Training Elite with Paul.
I could not be more pleased!
I have trained dogs and horses in the past so the language and intentions are clear. I ask 15 minutes of questions before in home training starts. I am always validated and enlightened.
Amanda Bulifant
Feb. 5, 2024 - google
This training is the real deal. What I love (besides my dog that listens) is that I know the way to help her to be a better behaved dog.
MARIELLA WRIGHT
Nov. 11, 2023 - google
I started training for my dog Nala about 2 months ago.
She is a petite size 18 Pound Golden doodle and overall a good dog she just needed some manners when I have company especially.
She use to jump , nibbles ,on people’s feet incl. our and was very territorial in our home when we had anyone showing up. Always barked at strangers or anything comes her way.
To be honest I thought about rehome if no improvements are made.
Then I signed her up for training with ELITE.
BEST thing I could have done. I was mad at my self that I haven’t done it sooner.
Completely different dog after the first 2 in home sessions
Paul knows his stuff and he is so awesome to work with.
Nala love him and is very comfortable with him now.
I recommend ELITE 100 Prozent to anyone.
Do not hesitate.
Money so well spent for a piece of mind.
Megan Eik
Aug. 8, 2023 - google
We love working with Dog Training Elite! Paul is such a phenomenal trainer and is extremely knowledgeable in his trade. Everyone in our family has mentioned how our corgi Gingers training has transformed him into a completely different dog from where we started. He used to bark at everything that moved, jump up on guests, and barely ever listen to a command. It’s a night and day difference from the first training session.
Sloan Lennon
Aug. 8, 2023 - google
Our experience with Paul from Dog Training Elite Richmond has been nothing short of transformative. One of the standout features of their service is that they come to your home, providing personalized training in an environment familiar to your pet. From the very first session, the shift in behavior of our corgi, Ginger, was clearly evident. Anyone familiar with corgis knows of their characteristically headstrong nature, and Ginger was no exception with his stubborn streak. However, with Paul's guidance, we saw immediate results within a couple days and an awe-inspiring transformation in Ginger within mere weeks.
Previously, Ginger's challenges, like bouts of incessant barking, jumping on visitors, and his inherent stubbornness, had us at our wit's end. However, under Paul’s expert training, we were not only able to curb these behaviors but Ginger also swiftly passed his AKC Canine Good Citizen test and subsequently achieved his Service Dog Certification. It's a joy to see him thrive!
The freedom we now enjoy with Ginger is incomparable. Being able to take him anywhere without a second thought about his behavior is liberating. Everywhere we venture, we are met with admiring glances and praises for Ginger's discipline and training. Our Saturdays are further enriched by the group classes at Dog Training Elite, where Ginger mingles with other well-trained dogs, continuously expanding his learning in a lively community atmosphere.
Paul's personable demeanor, coupled with his expertise, ensures that every training session is both enjoyable and productive. And whenever we encounter a new challenge with Ginger, Paul's readiness to assist, combined with his patience and enthusiasm, shines through.
In conclusion, Dog Training Elite Richmond comes with my highest recommendation. For anyone hoping to transform their furry companion's behavior while building a strong bond, this is undoubtedly the place to be!
Christi Dorrell
Aug. 7, 2023 - google
Loved working with Paul! Great guidance and very good with communication. We have now implemented their training techniques to our other 2 dogs as well.
Harlss James
Aug. 3, 2023 - facebook
We love working with DTE Richmond! Paul has helped our dog so much and his team continue to be a huge support to us as new dog parents!
Mike Greaser
Jun. 27, 2023 - google
Paul and his operation are first class! Highly recommend that you hire them to train your dog. So much to learn and Paul will guide you through all of it.
Daniel and Angie Hughes
May. 1, 2023 - google
Paul has been working with us and is simply fantastic. He is very friendly, patient and very knowledgeable. He is absolutely the best and really cares about your family as his own.
Gabriella Mireles
Apr. 17, 2023 - google
Paul and Brooke are amazing to work with, from how attentive they are to my dog's personality and needs, to how accommodating they are to my schedule. They are also incredibly flexible when it comes to financial planning. Definitely a five-star dog training experience.
Lorri B
Apr. 14, 2023 - google
Our trainer Brooke is awesome. She is working with our 1 year old German Shepherd rescue that knows a few commands, has high anxiety and is very dog reactive. After 6 home visits along with our follow through Bear knows all his commands. His anxiety level is next to none and he can actually go on a walk with little to no reaction to other dogs. I never thought Brooke could manage the walk with other dogs near Bear. But miracles do happen and she did it to my surprise. I can't say enough how pleased we are with Bears training and are looking forward to group training.
Joe Maryland
Mar. 5, 2023 - google
Would definitely recommend, Brooke is an amazing trainer!
Justin
Feb. 23, 2023 - google
Paul is great, reliable, trustworthy and very professional. He made both our GSD puppy and our adult Rottweiler feel very at ease and we can’t wait for what’s to come! Thanks!!!
Diana White
Feb. 2, 2023 - google
Paul is awesome. My German Shepherd is a new boy.
Stuart Flinn
Jan. 31, 2023 - google
Our two-year old schipperke was half-trained, but would frequently test the limits or be defiant and stubborn at times. We have him in public frequently and worried for his safety if he ever got away from us. After his in-home sessions with Paul, he now listens all the time and with time and practice is becoming the well-trained companion we knew he could be.
Katie Zacherle
Dec. 10, 2022 - google
This is truly the last dog trainer you'll ever need. The in home, the site visits and the group classes -- they're fantastic.
The best part? They teach YOU how to teach YOUR dog ANYTHING. Once you know the foundation, your dog can learn anything.
Why does this work? The correction and praise are so clear that your dog learns quickly-- and without the need for treats. That means that your dog listens when it counts, not just when you have a goodie bag. I recommend them to everyone I can!
Mareena Clotfelter
Dec. 6, 2022 - google
We are so happy with this group! They were very professional and tailored their training to our dog's personality and needs. Our dog has learned so much and most importantly, how to relax! She is a happier dog because of it. Thank you.
Carol Straus
Nov. 29, 2022 - google
Fantastic program! Very systematic, sensible and clear. My dog and I found it easy to commit to the 15-20 minutes of practice a day and the results are life changing! THANKS Paul!
joesph williams
Nov. 17, 2022 - google
Paul is absolutely wonderful! Empowering me as the owner to be an important part of the process. My family and I are very happy with the results! Thank you Paul And DTE!
Natalia Segarra
Nov. 9, 2022 - google
I'm so grateful for Paul and DTE. The progress my dog has done in these last couple of months has been amazing. I'm looking forward to my dog's service dog training after completing her obedience training. She's been great to me so far and has helped me through tough times, but I know Paul with DTE can make sure she's doing the best she can and help me better than she is now.
Christina Marie
Oct. 25, 2022 - google
I definitely recommend Dog Training Elite! Paul is very friendly, patient and informative. He sets you and your pup up for success with hands-on instruction as well as giving you a better understanding of how dogs think. I'm looking forward to seeing my pup's progress continue!
Becky Carmean
Oct. 6, 2022 - google
Paul has been great with my German Shepherd! He doesn't pull on a leash and is well behaved in public.
Megan O'Leary
Jul. 9, 2022 - google
Paul with DTE was absolutely wonderful to work with! We all feel lucky to have found him and incredibly pleased with our investment in our fur babies. You most certainly CAN teach an old dog new tricks! Patience and consistency are virtues you will need through this endeavor, but the satisfaction and pride you'll feel both for your own perseverance, as well as your pups, is so worth all of the time and hard work!! We're looking forward to group sessions and are excited to see what new adventures we'll enjoy as a family. Buster, Mae, and Goose fell "in love" and "in line" when Paul entered our home and we'll be forever grateful for his knowledge and expertise. Many people are quick to judge when discussing e-collars but we truly feel that if they took the time to go through even one training session with Paul, their perception WILL be shifted, especially after witnessing the power of redirection and repetition first hand. Dogs love structure and they love pleasing their humans, so if you're in need of some excellent training with the option to gain a lifetime friend, give Paul with DTE a call! ~M&M
Christie Pitsinger
Jun. 24, 2022 - google
We were at the end of our rope with our dog and were extremely frustrated with his misbehavior. Dog Training Elite changed our life and our relationship with our dog. Thank you for helping us save our dog!!!
Cassie Frank
Jun. 16, 2022 - google
I highly recommend Dog Training Elite! From their training methods to the care and respect they show towards the dogs and owners, you can’t go wrong!
Jen Baker
Jun. 13, 2022 - google
I had just about lost hope for my overly excited but super loving pup. We had tried other training methods to no avail, but meeting Paul Hearn was a game changer! In just six weeks she went from excessive barking, bolting out doors, jumping, etc to super chill and well behaved. We appreciate you so much, Paul!
Jon Dossie
Jun. 12, 2022 - google
We got Paul to help us with our two year old lab so she would come and stay when we needed. He helped teach her a new command every visit so she could understand and we could understand what to do so she would be better behaved.
Nadia Summo
Jun. 3, 2022 - google
Paul will undoubtedly take amazing care of your dog. Don’t hesitate to call him if you are in need. He’s a great guy and a great trainer!
Shelby Thomas
May. 25, 2022 - google
I 100% recommend Dog training elite Richmond Paul has done wonders with my once rowdy German shepherd tremendous results in just a little bit of time! I really look forward to continue to use them for dog training! If you are looking for a dog trainer look no further!💗
Shelby Taylor
May. 25, 2022 - facebook
I 100% recommend Dog training elite Richmond Paul has done wonders with my once rowdy German shepherd tremendous results in just a little bit of time! I really look forward to continue to use them for dog training! If you are looking for a dog trainer look no further!💗
Kyle Christie
May. 12, 2022 - google
Paul is a great guy! He is professional, punctual and committed to delivering results. Paul is very family forward with excellent customer service skills. He is passionate about giving back to the community and driving quality results. Highly recommend if you are looking to improve your relationship with your furry friend!
Robert Fischer
May. 10, 2022 - google
Paul and Elite training has been a great help with my two year old westie. Being able to work in my own home on a one to one basis is a real plus.
His explanations are easily understood by the dog and owner!
Fronkie L'Heureux
May. 9, 2022 - google
Good training starts with understanding how dogs think and how to integrate their needs into a schedule. Consistency is key. We appreciated having help in our own home to make sure we got off on the right foot with our puppy. Service was professional and friendly!
Jacquelyn Canaday
Apr. 5, 2022 - google
I’ve known Paul for 15+ years and know him to be an outstanding and honest person. I’m so happy for his new career. He’ll be great!
Kathleen Dooley-Wolfe
Mar. 31, 2022 - google
Paul is absolutely amazing. Very professional, answered our questions, reasonably priced. Highly recommend.
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About Dog Training Elite Richmond
Meet the Team
FAQs
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Our Team
Paul Hearn
Owner
A Virginia native who has never left, Paul loves the variety the state has to offer, such as beaches, mountains, countryside, and urban destinations. He has been fortunate to have had the opportunity to see much of it in his travels during his previous 22-year career in the electronic security industry. His love for dogs began when his father brought home a stray puppy when he was very young, the family naming her Tippy. Sadly, she ran away not too long after, but Paul’s love of dogs remained. A fan of dog training for many years, in December 2021, he decided to change careers and jumped at the opportunity to join the Dog Training Elite family. He is extremely excited to better the lives of families through their relationships with their dogs and thrilled to offer service and therapy dogs to those who need them in the future.
Paul lives in Chesterfield, VA, with his wife Shanon, two boys, Caiden and Evan, and their two dogs, Milo and Amber. In his spare time, he enjoys Mountain Biking, hiking, and tinkering in his garage with electronics, car stereo, and small construction/woodworking projects. He is also his family’s pro-bono handyman and jack of all trades.
Matthew Perales
Trainer
Matt is a man of many talents and has worked in many different fields, but he always knew his dream was to be able to work with dogs. He grew up raising and handling a variety of different breeds both small and large, and has always felt a close bond with every dog that he’s had the opportunity to interact with. He is excited to now be with Dog Training Elite, working with lots of dogs and their owners! Matt loves all dogs, and believes each dog has their own potential to be their best self when given the right leadership! Keep an eye out for Matt and his dog Eko at the many events they attend!
Megan Celestino
Office Administrator
As the office administrator, Megan is the welcoming voice that greets you at the start of your journey with Dog Training Elite Richmond. Megan's passion for helping others shines through in every interaction. Her journey with DTE began as a client, working alongside Paul to train her dog, Pixie. Inspired by the transformation she witnessed, Megan decided to dedicate herself to helping other families achieve the same success with their dogs. She believes in the life-changing power of our training methods and is eager to share this with everyone! In addition to Pixie, she lives with her husband, three children, and two ferrets.
