DTE offers flexible, in-house payment plan tailored to fit your budget, ensuring a worry-free experience.
A picture of a group dog training in Sarasota / Venice, FL from Dog Training Elite.

Group Classes

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida

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Our Group Classes Could Help:

Improve Socialization Skills
Foster a Supportive Community
Strengthen the Dog-Owner Bond
Reinforce Basic Obedience
Prepare for Real-World Distractions
Offer Personal Attention in Small Groups

Group Dog Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL

Expert Group Training Classes

At Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida, our group classes offer an engaging and supportive environment for dogs and their owners. These sessions go create an interactive setting where your dog will learn to focus, even around distractions, and develop essential social skills beyond basic obedience training. You can expect a mix of practical training exercises, guidance from experienced trainers, and a strong sense of community with fellow dog owners after signing up for a class.

Our group classes are a perfect blend of structure and socialization, making them an enjoyable experience where dogs can thrive and build lasting skills. Whether you're looking to refine your dog's behavior or simply enjoy a shared learning experience, our group dog training in Sarasota / Venice, FL provide the perfect opportunity.

Please note: Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.

See Training Packages

Group Sessions

Group Sessions are available to Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida Clients!


Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida offers small dog training classes after obedience training is completed and only once a puppy is fully immunized. Dog obedience classes are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our dog obedience training classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds), so that you can train your dog to obey you... regardless of the many distractions screaming for their attention!

Group Class Guidelines
  • Dogs should only attend group class after they've completed obedience training.
  • All dogs must arrive and be on-leash at all times.
  • All dogs must wear their e-collar during class.
  • Be sure to bring plenty of water and waste disposal bags and some treats.
  • All dogs with a history of reactivity or aggression must be muzzled.
  • HAVE FUN!!!

*You must register for Group Class each week.
**We do our best to find locations that are convenient for all clients.
***Group class days/times/locations are subject to change. When changes occur, the registered attendees will be notified in advance.

Laurel Park Group Class

Select Thursdays @ 6:00pm & Saturdays @ 9:00am

Dog Training Elite offers small group classes after obedience training is completed and only once a dog is fully immunized. Obedience group classes in Sarasota/Venice/Port Charlotte are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our group classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds), so that you can train your dog to obey you...regardless of the many distractions screaming for their attention! Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. We are building a community and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog owners look forward to their once a week group training sessions.

Laurel Park

509 Collins Road
Nokomis, FL, 34275

Directions
Mckibben Park Group Class

Select Thursdays @ 6:00pm & Saturdays @ 9:00am

Dog Training Elite offers small group classes after obedience training is completed and only once a dog is fully immunized. Obedience group classes in Sarasota/Venice/Port Charlotte are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our group classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds), so that you can train your dog to obey you...regardless of the many distractions screaming for their attention! Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. We are building a community, and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog owners look forward to their once-a-week group training sessions.

McKibben Park

5500 Trekell St
North Port, FL, 34287

Directions
Payne Park Group Class

Select Thursdays @ 6:00pm & Saturdays @ 9:00am

Dog Training Elite offers small group classes after obedience training is completed and only once a dog is fully immunized. Obedience group classes in Sarasota/Venice/Port Charlotte are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our group classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds), so that you can train your dog to obey you...regardless of the many distractions screaming for their attention! Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. We are building a community, and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog owners look forward to their once-a-week group training sessions.

Payne Park

2010 Adams Ln
Sarasota, FL, 34237

Directions
We meet and train in the large grass field adjacent School Avenue.
Adventure Park Group Class

Select Thursdays @ 6:00pm & Saturdays @ 9:00am

Dog Training Elite offers small group classes after obedience training is completed and only once a dog is fully immunized. Obedience group classes in Sarasota/Venice/Port Charlotte are held on a consistent basis and are included in most packages. Our group classes are designed to place yourself and your dog in public places (surrounded by other dogs, people, smells, and sounds), so that you can train your dog to obey you...regardless of the many distractions screaming for their attention! Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. We are building a community, and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog owners look forward to their once-a-week group training sessions.

Adventure Park

13326 Adventure Place
Bradenton, FL, 34202

Directions
A calm, obedient dog outside on a leash at a Dog Training Elite's group dog training in Sarasota / Venice, FL.

Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?


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Dog Training Elite knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.

It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?

We offer dog training classes near you for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.

Get Your Free Consultation

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!

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Sarasota / Venice.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Michelle Balancio
    Oct. 28, 2024
    The program set my dog Teddy up for Success. Our trainer, Renee, went above and beyond. She gave me all the tools and tricks to get Teddy on the path of being obedient and mindful. Renee was confidant and well skilled when assisting me in working w Teddy. He is now doing things that I never thought were possible. Renee was so easy to work with and always answered all my questions and concerns. She is the best.
  • Susanne Adams
    Oct. 22, 2024
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite are very talented, delightful to work with and were so great with our dog. They were always able to troubleshoot any bumps in the road. Renee was his primary trainer and she was spectacular! Videos everyday that she worked with him and detailed notes on things for us to work on. Alissa was also a big help and very knowledgeable and helpful with teamwork. After 4 weeks our dog was able to be a certified service dog and handled flights and airports with ease and comfort. We can’t recommend this training program enough! A+++
  • AJ Schlake
    Oct. 16, 2024
    Whiskey was sweet but unsure of himself. He could be testy with new people. Whiskey’s demeanor and posture has shifted beautifully. Renee has been amazing in helping both of us. We look forward to continuing our journey as companions. Whiskey says, ‘obedience is hard work’ he takes himself to bed by 830p.
  • Jerome Schwich
    Oct. 15, 2024
    It all started when Denise came for our in-home assessment, and she heard all of our concerns about our dog and was very honest about what the path(s) were for helping her. We appreciated how she made it all seem relatable and achievable. Anthony was an excellent individual dog trainer for our dog. He is patient and very instructive, and very accommodating for our dog as well as our other dog that wanted to be involved in training! Our dog has seen immense progress in just five sessions, and we are so grateful for how communicative, accommodating, and helpful Denise and her team have been. We are really looking forward to group classes!
  • Kelly Spires
    Sep. 17, 2024
    Very, very happy with our experience with Dog training, we thought there was no hope for our rat looking dog. We highly recommend!!
  • Frank
    Sep. 4, 2024
    I couldn’t be happier with the team from Elite dog training. From my very first meeting to having now been thru my 11 home sessions, puppies then advanced obedience, Anthony has been a true delight to work with. Their methodology and hands on training of dogs and me has been excellent. After 30 years of showing English Setters I really wanted an intelligent highly trainable dog, which has turned out to be a Moyen poodle and she has been great. Planning on taking her into therapy and service work and can’t wait to continue now with group classes. Look no further, Elite is exactly that, highest quality. We’ll worth the money!!!
  • Anne Gornto
    Aug. 24, 2024
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite and have had a very positive experience with our trainer Chris, who has given us such valuable puppy and obedience training lessons with our border collie Theo. Denise, the owner is also fabulous! We just came back from a group training session and noticed how much our 1 year old dog’s behavior has improved over the past few months, especially around other dogs. Thanks, Chris, Denise and group trainers for the top notch training which has been so helpful to us and Theo! 🐾
  • Marcella Di Santo
    Jul. 17, 2024
    I can't thank Chris from Dog Training Elite enough for the Service Dog Training of Leroy he provided. Quite thorough and rigorous, my (now) little service man learned quickly and the skills he gained have been so valuable for my well being I almost can't put into words what it means to me. I travel quite frequently and being able to confidently navigate busy spaces with Leroy in public not only helps keep me calm but also provides a life line if needed. This has improved my experiences not just in airplanes and at the airport but out and about as well, allowing me to feel safe and enjoy myself again, wherever we are. Most important is the specific task Leroy learned, which is now an invaluable part of my life. I recommend setting up a consultation to go over your unique dog training needs and determine the right path for your pack, whether basic obedience or service dog training. Our plan consisted of intensive in-home training to start, then once a regiment of commands were mastered we started attending group sessions, which were both fun and challenging. Surprisingly, training isn't just about our dogs, and Chris tailored some very unique public sessions for us (so grateful). This included going to the airport as well as other public spaces (mall, pet food store, dog park etc) in order to make sure I knew how to take the lead and maintain it in a variety of environments. BTW, the whole team is great ~ Anthony, Alisa and Denise were on hand during the group training, putting all the dogs through their paces and helping them master their newfound skills. Extra special thanks to Chris though, who was very patient, accommodating and put up with me getting stressed out, which was more than once! DTE SW Florida overall is a very caring group and I wouldn't hesitate to contact them and find out for yourselves how they can help you help your dogs put their best paws forward!
  • Nikki Hampton
    Jul. 14, 2024
    Chris was an amazing asset to our puppy’s training. With him we have a completely different pup. Not only is our puppy’s obedience under control he is much calmer, especially in walking him. Chris changed our lives forever and taught me the tools to continue with Chevys training once he’s a year old. We look forward to seeing Chris at our group sessions.
  • Katherine Mitchell
    Jul. 13, 2024
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite of SWF specifically CHRIS has been life changing for us. Chris has travelled far out of his usual travel zone to help us with our adopted 8yr old Lab Winter.Seriously, his patience and kind supportive instruction has made all the difference in helping Winter become a well behaved dog. Today was our first group lesson and I was very anxious as to how it would turn out. Winter did fabulous!!! I highly recommend Chris and the DTEOSWF group. They really have made a difference and it has been worth every penny. Thank you.
  • Harry schoenfeld
    Jul. 12, 2024
    Overall we were pleased with the 5 in-home sessions. Marshall is doing well with all of his commands. Loose leash training is still somewhat difficult, especially in the early morning when he is most excited. We could have benefitted from more calming techniques.
  • Mai Tran
    Jul. 8, 2024
    Such an amazing team! Anthony did a wonderful job at training both German Sheps and myself! Highly recommend 🙌
  • Dundie Crisp
    Jul. 3, 2024
    Anthony was great! Cooper loved him too and we all learned a lot !!
  • Brittany Ortiz
    Jun. 19, 2024
    We love DTE! Highly recommend to anyone. Everyone tells me my dog is so well behaved. He’s only 7 months and listens incredibly well. He sits at the front door (with it open) and doesn’t run out before our outings. Enough said??! Chris did our in-home visits and we always felt encouraged after seeing him. Honestly I thought all this training was going to be a lot harder than it has been. They break it up so it’s little by little, and more fun and focused rather than rigid. Also they are QUICK to respond. Always. Whenever I needed to talk to Chris, he would call me soon after I texted the team. They know what they’re doing. Totally worth it. I guess you should know that we were very committed also… I was consistent in training daily and our hard work paid off. This wasn’t a once every two week training session and then expecting the dog to act right. The in-homes help with answering questions and moving to the next phase of things to work on, but if that’s the only training you do with the dog, I can’t imagine how that would be effective. Thank you Chris and DTE!!! What an awesome experience - you guys make this FUN!
  • Corrie Bexley
    Jun. 5, 2024
    10/10 would recommend. Chris was very caring in communicating different ways to help me train my high energetic dog. My dog now looks for me for direction and commands. I cannot recommend DTE enough for training!
  • Michael Heaton
    Jun. 1, 2024
    The in-home classes and group classes are great. My trainer Chris has helped me with training my dog Benjamin and takes time to make sure that I'm doing ok with the training. He is wealth of knowledge that has made me a better dog handler. I would recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone.
  • Seraina Leubin
    May. 21, 2024
    Chris was great to work with and our Girl Chica did amazing with him. He‘s reliable, his knowledge with dogs and how he trains is great! Chica didn’t need a lot of training and got it down really well and understood it quickly. We can definitely recommend him and Dog Training Elite to anyone that is looking to get their dog trained on or off leash at home. We are super happy. Thank you so much
  • Joan Flynn
    May. 14, 2024
    Chris was amazing.
  • Marjorie Shoobe
    Apr. 3, 2024
    We have a reactive dog who has done really well with the training. I appreciate Anthony’s patience and knowledge. He made it fun. I’m looking forward to getting our dog to some of the group training as well
  • Andrea Couture
    May. 9, 2024
    I can't recommend Chris from Dog Training Elite highly enough! From the very first session, it was clear that Chris is not just a dog trainer but a true professional who genuinely cares about the success of every dog he works with. My experience with him while training my pup Gaia has been exceptional in every way. Chris's patience throughout the training process was remarkable. He took the time to understand Gaia's unique personality and tailored the training sessions accordingly. His punctuality was also impressive; he always arrived on time with a smile, ready to dive into the training sessions. What sets Dog Training Elite apart is their commitment to excellence. They have a well-organized approach with a clearly defined roadmap to success. Whether it's one-on-one sessions or group classes, every aspect of the training is well-planned and executed. One thing that stood out to me was the personal touch. The team at Dog Training Elite knows their customers by name and goes above and beyond to provide help and support. This level of dedication is rare to find and speaks volumes about the company's values. But what truly sets Dog Training Elite apart is the passion that Chris and the entire team bring to their profession. They make training fun and engaging, and my pup Gaia always looks forward to her classes—a sure sign that they're doing something right!
A group of dogs and their owners building community at a Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida group training class.

Building Social Skills and Community

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Classes are a mix of all dog breeds and sizes, and our classes provide necessary socialization skills and practice around high levels of distraction. We like to make our group classes exciting for both dogs and handlers, and we have created fun training games and an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing.

We are building a community and our dog training groups tend to feel like a family and less like a dog training group. Friends are made, bonds are formed, and both dogs and dog Owners look forward to their once a week group training sessions.

Three dogs sitting on a bench who are ready for group training with the experts at Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.

Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training

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Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:

  • Your Dog is Destructive: Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
  • Your Dog is Aggressive: Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
  • Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash: Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
  • Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful: If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
  • Your Dog Ignores You at the Park: Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.

Additional Training Programs

Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Dog Obedience Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Elite Puppy Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Elite Service Dog Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Aggressive Dog Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida - Therapy Dog Trainer in Sarasota / Venice, FL. DTE
Therapy Dog Training
A happy, well-trained dog and their owner at an outdoor obedience class from Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.

Group Dog Training in Sarasota / Venice, FL

The DTE Difference

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Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite training method is the same. We focus on positive reinforcement, also called “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown positive reinforcement to be more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.

We do not use punishments or shock collars and instead pairs positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.

Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. 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. Our method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.

Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida.
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Benefits of Group Classes

Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have.

Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:

Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.

Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.

Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.

In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.

Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.