DTE offers flexible, in-house payment plans tailored to fit your budget, ensuring a worry-free experience.
A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist in Sarasota, FL.
Dog Training Elite

Dog Behaviorist in Sarasota, FL

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Request Free Assessment

A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of Sarasota dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Sarasota Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist in Sarasota, FL, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and balance, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

See Training Packages

Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Dog Socialization Classes in Sarasota, FL

Socialization

Our Sarasota dog socialization classes teach dogs to maintain control and obedience around other dogs, people, and various distractions, reducing fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Dog Training Elite. How to Stop Puppy Biting Sarasota

Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training in Sarasota, FL, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Reactive Dog Training in Sarasota, FL. DTE

Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training in Sarasota, FL, focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Destructive Chewing & Digging Training in Sarasota, FL

Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training in Sarasota, FL addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Sarasota, FL

Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training in Sarasota, FL helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Excessive Barking Training in Sarasota, FL. DTE

Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training in Sarasota, FL, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Staying and Coming Training in Sarasota, FL. DTE

Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training in Sarasota, FL focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida -

Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida - Dog & Puppy Potty Training in Sarasota, FL. DTE

Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our Sarasota dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

A dog with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Debbie B
    Jun. 10, 2026
    Just finished week three with Kelsie and she is absolutely fantastic to work with. My Goldendoodle Yankee responds to everything she’s teaching (and so does his mom most of the time.) Kelsie is very knowledgeable in dog training, it’s undeniable. Thank you DTE for helping me tame my baby. You have shown me just how smart he really is. I highly recommend DTE to anyone considering training for and with your pup!
  • Carole Rooney
    Jun. 9, 2026
    I generally don’t do online reviews. However, Kelsie goes above and beyond. She is personable, professional, articulate and obviously loves dogs. She has been hugely helpful to us and we feel fortunate to work with her.
  • Dana Monachello
    Jun. 6, 2026
    We hired Dog Training Elite to help with our Maltese, who had severe barking issues triggered by almost everything—the doorbell, delivery drivers, other dogs on walks, and separation anxiety. Kelsie Johnson has been absolutely incredible. She customized a plan specifically for our small dog's big personality, teaching us how to handle each separate trigger without feeling overwhelmed. We are only partway through our 5-session package, but the transformation is already noticeable. Kelsie is patient, highly knowledgeable, and fantastic at explaining dog behavior. If you are struggling with a vocal Maltese or barking in general, I highly recommend asking for Kelsie specifically!
  • Noel Falbo
    Apr. 28, 2026
    Kelsie is the best! Enzo is learning and loves her! Outstanding!
  • Ruben Gonzalez
    Jan. 31, 2025
    Thank you, Renee, for another informative great training lesson for Sailor and myself today. Going to DTE South Florida training center was very easy and cool for these hot summer Day's.
  • Angel Snyder
    Jun. 1, 2026
    Kelsie from Dog Training Elite was outstanding! She came to our home for the first training session with our long-haired Mini Dachshund, London, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. Kelsie was knowledgeable, patient, and did a great job understanding London’s abilities and attention span at his young age. She tailored the training to where he is developmentally, making the session both productive and enjoyable. We were amazed by how much London learned during just the first visit. She clearly explained the exercises and homework for us to work on throughout the week, and we feel confident continuing the training between sessions. We’re excited to see London’s progress over the next four weeks and are already encouraged by the foundation Kelsie helped establish. If the first session is any indication of what’s to come, we’re well on our way to having a well-trained dog who listens to commands and enjoys learning. Highly recommend Kelsie and Dog Training Elite!
  • MICHAEL DE ARMAS
    May. 19, 2026
    Just perfect! Thank you
  • Tracy Springman
    May. 27, 2026
    Jessica is an amazing trainer! We are just two sessions in, but she’s getting great results out of both me and my dog😜 She clearly communicates the reason behind each command and methodically builds on the previous session, creating the foundation for long-term success.
  • Cassandra Craig
    May. 27, 2026
    Although Denise was not able to help with my specific situation, she was prompt, friendly and informative. Thank you, Denise!
  • Doug S.
    May. 27, 2026
    So far so good
  • Rae Alba
    May. 26, 2026
    We truly appreciated Kelsie’s thoughtful and professional approach during Buddy’s first lesson. She arrived prepared, explained the program clearly, and set realistic goals for our energetic beagle, Buddy. What I especially value is that the training takes place in real-world settings with me as the handler, making the lessons practical and confidence-building for both Buddy and me. Kelsie was patient, encouraging, and easy to work with. We are excited to continue this journey with her!
  • Kimi G
    May. 26, 2026
    Jessica is such a pleasure to work with. She understands our needs and tailors the training at each session to meet the needs we initially discussed with her. Jessica thoroughly explains what she wants achieved at each visit and does a great job showing us how to successfully execute each command. We have a 7-year-old Corgi (Scuba Steve) and he just needed a little brush up on his manners and general behavior. Jessica helped us with leash walking (no more pulling), behavior management (jumping on people and barking at other dogs), and place to name a few. We had puppy training previously, but as SS grew up, our needs changed and new issues arose. This was the perfect refresher and I am so glad we invested in this training. I can't thank her enough for making our dog such a perfect little Corgi!
  • Steve Morse
    May. 18, 2026
    Kelsie was very patient and made sure I understood everything . Look forward to to working with her!
  • Paul Schur
    Sep. 6, 2025
    Jessica was a very good owner trainer!
  • Jory B
    May. 19, 2026
    While talking with Denise today; I felt her dedication, knowledge & passion she has working with dogs. She listened & gave me great suggestions/options for my current GSD & possibly getting a new GS puppy. When I get to training in June, I'll post an update.
  • Suzanne Martin
    Feb. 20, 2025
    We absolutely love and appreciate this fantastic business. Kind caring and understanding. Nova has learned so much. She is now attending group sessions on Saturdays
  • Maria Bankuty
    May. 12, 2026
    I always have a great experience. Renee is awesome, carrying, answering any questions I might have or explaining everything very well.
  • Pamela Simms
    May. 4, 2026
    Kelsie is so helpful and clear with her communication and demonstration of each skill. I highly recommend her!
  • Joseph Kles
    Jul. 15, 2025
    Very informative!! Follow up is outstanding!! Thank you all for helping Owen!!!
  • Robert Cantrell
    Apr. 13, 2026
    Renee was wonderful! We have a much better understanding of our dog and our training goals going forward.

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use proven techniques to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist in Sarasota, FL

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Southwest Florida.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

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Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist in Sarasota, FL, Dog Training Elite is the top choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!