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A German Shepherd laying on the floor - Dog Training Elite offers aggressive dog training in Richmond, VA thats designed to help your dog's anxiety and build confidence.

Professional Training For

Anxiety & Aggression

Dog Training Elite Richmond

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Anxiety & Aggression Training Could Help:

Excessive barking
Growling or snapping
Lunging
Pacing or restlessness
Trembling or shaking
Destructive chewing
Nipping or biting
Resource guarding

Helping Dogs Feel Calm & Confident

Aggressive Dog Training in Richmond, VA

One of the most difficult, necessary, and rewarding behaviors to correct in a dog is anxiety and aggression. These behaviors can be learned, genetic, or innate. When a dog feels threatened, their natural response is either fight or flight.

Most dogs will try to distance themselves from the perceived threat; if that's not possible, they may resort to aggression or submission. Some dogs, particularly those who see themselves as confident pack leaders, may turn to aggression as their first response.

Both of these reactions are rooted in anxiety and can be effectively addressed with Dog Training Elite's balanced aggressive dog training in Richmond, VA.

See Training Packages
An adorable pitbull outside on the grass - Dog Training Elite helps dogs of all breed manage their anxiety with our Richmond aggressive dog training.

Understanding Aggressive Behaviors in Dogs


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Aggression is one of the most concerning behaviors your dog can exhibit. If left unchecked, an aggressive dog can pose a serious threat to family members, strangers, other dogs, or even themselves.

Many dog owners struggle with how to recognize early warning signs of aggression or how to effectively address these tendencies. Identifying and managing aggressive behavior early on is crucial in preventing it from escalating into more dangerous situations.

Common signs of aggression in dogs include:

  • Growling or bearing teeth
  • Threatening barks
  • Standing rigid and/or taller
  • Raised fur
  • Nipping and biting

Aggression often stems from underlying issues like fear, anxiety, improper training, or negative environments. Dogs that have been rescued from poor situations or found on the street are particularly susceptible to developing aggressive behaviors.

At Dog Training Elite, we specialize in professional dog training for aggression, helping your dog transform from fearful or aggressive to a happy, friendly, and loyal companion.

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

  • Amina Alidina
    Apr. 24, 2025
    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
    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
    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
    Excellent information for my introductory meeting. Would trust working with him!
  • C Pessemier
    Mar. 14, 2025
    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
    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
    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
    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
    We enjoyed the visit.
  • Lissette Ramirez
    Feb. 17, 2025
    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
    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
    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
    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
    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
    Matt gave so much information and I appreciated it.
  • janet geisler
    Dec. 6, 2024
    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
    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
    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
    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
    Paul is such a caring and knowledgeable trainer. I have a difficult dog and Paul is very patient and helpful. Highly recommend.
  • Amina Alidina
    Apr. 24, 2025
    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
    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
    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
    Excellent information for my introductory meeting. Would trust working with him!
  • C Pessemier
    Mar. 14, 2025
    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
    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
    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
    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
    We enjoyed the visit.
  • Lissette Ramirez
    Feb. 17, 2025
    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
    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
    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
    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
    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
    Matt gave so much information and I appreciated it.
  • janet geisler
    Dec. 6, 2024
    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
    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
    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
    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
    Paul is such a caring and knowledgeable trainer. I have a difficult dog and Paul is very patient and helpful. Highly recommend.
A dachshund in their home - contact Dog Training Elite today for in-home anxiety and aggressive dog training in Richmond, VA.

Our Personalized Aggressive Dog Behavior Training

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At Dog Training Elite, we understand that every dog is unique, and we have developed a comprehensive training program specifically to eliminate aggressive behaviors across various breeds.

  1. Initial In-Home Assessment: We begin with a free in-home assessment where we meet your dog to understand the underlying causes of their aggression, anxiety, or fears. During this session, we identify triggers and gather the necessary information to develop a personalized training plan.
  2. Personalized Training Plan Development: Based on the assessment, we create a customized training program tailored to your dog’s specific needs. This plan targets the unique behaviors and triggers that contribute to their aggression.
  3. Building Confidence and Establishing Leadership: Our trainers work closely with you to establish your role as the pack leader in your home. For fearful and anxious dogs, we focus on building confidence and reducing the fears that trigger aggressive behavior.
  4. Desensitization and Obedience Training: For overly aggressive dogs, we use desensitization techniques to reduce reactivity to triggers and anxieties. Obedience training are key components of this stage.
  5. Group Class Integration: Once your dog reaches a safe baseline of obedience, we gradually introduce them to group class settings. These classes are designed to help your dog reintegrate into social environments successfully. For safety, a muzzle is required during these sessions to protect all dogs involved.
  6. Ongoing Support and Reinforcement: We continue to support you and your dog throughout the training process, offering guidance and reinforcement to ensure lasting success. Our goal is to help your dog become a loving, loyal, and well-behaved member of your family.

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An adorable dog outside - Dog Training Elite offers training for all kinds of dog breeds.

Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

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At Dog Training Elite, we approach aggressive dog behavior with the utmost care and attention. Here are some key aspects of our methods that set us apart:

  • Trainers Who Care and Listen: Our trainers are genuinely invested in the well-being of both you and your dog. We take the time to listen, understand your dog’s unique needs, and provide personalized, long-lasting solutions that truly make a difference.
  • Commitment to Excellence: We stand behind our work with a strong commitment to delivering the highest quality training. At Dog Training Elite, we strive for excellence in every session, ensuring your dog receives the best possible care and that you are completely satisfied with the results.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Richmond.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

An adorable golden retriever and their owner - get your Richmond aggressive dog training consultation today and take the first step towards a long-lasting relationship.

Take the First Step Today

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Aggression is a complex behavior best handled by professional trainers like Dog Training Elite. We love dogs and believe that punishment should never be used in our training programs. We rely on proven, balanced training methods to achieve consistent and long-lasting results.

For elite aggressive dog training, contact our team and schedule your free consultation today.