Group Training
Practice Skills in Structured / Social Environments
Get A Free Consultation
The Art of Dog Training
Any breed. Any age. Any size.
At Dog Training Elite Michiana, we're not just dog trainers; we're your elite partners in creating a happier, harmonious life with your cherished canine companion. Through carefully crafted programs and expert trainers, Dog Training Elite ensures that each pup attains a level of mastery that sets them apart. As the premier choice for canine training and behavior modification in the South Bend / Elkhart area, we're dedicated to transforming your beloved furry friend into a champion of obedience and a source of boundless joy for your family.
Obedience Training
Our obedience training for dogs in South Bend / Elkhart, IN is designed to teach essential commands and reinforce good behavior, ensuring your dog is well-mannered in any situation.
Puppy Training
Our puppy training in South Bend / Elkhart, IN builds a strong bond between you and your new puppy by focusing on early socialization, basic commands, and good behavior.
Service Dog Training
Our South Bend / Elkhart service dog training turns dogs into dependable companions, trained to perform tasks like retrieving items, providing stability, or alerting to medical conditions.
Anxiety & Aggression
Our South Bend / Elkhart aggressive dog training targets and corrects behaviors driven by anxiety and aggression, helping your dog stay calm and well-behaved in challenging situations.
Therapy Dog Training
Our South Bend / Elkhart therapy dog training equips dogs with the skills needed to provide comfort and emotional support in various settings. These trained dogs help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve the overall well-being of their owners.
Group Training
Our group dog training classes in South Bend / Elkhart, IN offer a structured environment where dogs can learn and practice essential skills while socializing with other dogs and their owners.
Our Story
Dog Training Elite Michiana
Our programs are flexible and designed to meet the needs of each client’s schedule and their dog’s unique behavior, home environment, and situation. We are a family-owned, professional dog training company with over 40 years of experience specializing in strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
We offer in-home dog training, basic obedience, advanced training, and specialized programs like Service Animals and Therapy Dogs. No matter the breed, size, or behavioral issue, the Dog Training Elite team is here to help. Let our professional South Bend / Elkhart dog trainers help you today.
About Us
Rich Naponelli
Owner/Trainer
Hi, my name is Rich and I own Dog Training Elite Michiana. I have always had a love for animals as far back as I can remember, but being 1 of 6 kids, my mother was slow to believe my unconvincing arguments that I could handle a pet. Finally, at the age of 10, she broke down and let me get my first parakeet, Petey. Since Petey, I have had more birds, a few hamsters, a frog, fish, dogs, and even bunnies. Currently, we have our dog, Ajax, and our bunnies, Cooper and Lenny.
While I am an attorney by training, I got into the pet care business in 2022, when I opened Fetch! Pet Care of Michiana, a dog walking and pet sitting franchise. My day-to-day interaction through Fetch! with people and their dogs showed me the immense impact dog training can have on people, families, and their dogs and the incredible need for experienced dog trainers. That is why I decided to bring Dog Training Elite to Michiana.
Dog Training Elite brings a proven system to teach basic obedience to dogs, but couples that with a passion for training service and therapy dogs, all while basing its philosophy in community and helping people and pets. We look forward to meeting you and your pup and starting the Dog Training Elite journey with you.
Close
Ajax
Demo Dog
Hi, I’m Ajax and I am a Basenji. Basenjis are known as the barkless dog. That’s right, I don’t bark, but instead I like to yodel, especially when the piano is playing. Rich is my dad, but I also have 3 others in my family. My mom is Jenn and my two favorite smaller people are Ally and Trey. When I’m not training, I love lounging in the sun, chasing my toy duck, and chewing my bully sticks.
I’m just a pup right now, but I’m training to help my dad in Dog Training Elite. My favorite part is getting to meet all the people at different events. Come by sometime and see how much I’ve learned.
CloseGet 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!
The Solution to your Dog’s Behavior Problems
We're Ready for Our Doggy Make-Overs
Dear Pup Parents, we're the troublemaking squad, a.k.a. the canine chaos creators. We've chewed shoes, dug craters, and claimed your house as our own personal domain, pushing you further away with each crime we commit. We're not just about social mishaps; we've excelled in causing all sorts of furry commotion!
But here's the scoop: We're willing to learn, and are ready for our doggy make-over! Help us be the good citizens you've always dreamed of by hiring Dog Training Elite. They'll guide us with pawsitive training methods, making us the well-behaved, model pups you deserve. Let's emBARK on this journey of boundless happiness and obedience together!
My Problem:
Poor Socialization
My name is Milo
Hi. My name is Milo, and I have a bit of a 'ruff' time making friends with my fellow canines. You see, I'm all about making new friends, but when it comes to meeting other dogs, I get a tad overwhelmed. I’d like to get out more, please.
My Problem:
Nipping & Biting
My name is Scout
Hello, everyone, my name is Scout, and I have a little, um, 'nipping' habit. I'm all about spreading love and happiness, but sometimes, my excitement gets the best of me, and I end up with a playful nibble or two. I want others to feel safe around me.
My Problem:
Fear Aggression
My name is Zuko
Hi…I get afraid when strange dogs or people get near me so I try to scare them off to protect myself. I want to make new friends and not worry my parents, but someone has to protect them. Can you help me?
My Problem:
Separation Anxiety
My name is Nora
I'm Nora, and I'm in the process of tackling something called 'separation anxiety.' While I thrive in family togetherness, there's a hiccup when my beloved humans step out – I tend to get a little jittery. I would love to feel more confident.
My Problem:
Excessive Barking
My name is Link
Woof! I'm Link, and I've got a little quirk – a tendency to let my barks fill the air a bit more than necessary. I'm all about helping to maintain a harmonious vibe, but sometimes, I just can't resist the call of the wild, or the squirrel on the neighbor's fence.
My Problem:
Staying & Coming
My name is Dexter
I'm Dexter, and I've got a bit of a wild streak when it comes to the 'down' and 'come' commands. Sometimes my adventurous spirit leads me astray when those commands are in play. It would really make me happy to learn how to listen.
My Problem:
Chewing & Digging
My name is Charlie
I'm Charlie, and I've got a little hobby, or shall we say, an issue – destructive chewing and digging. I simply can't resist the allure of gnawing on furniture or unearthing buried treasures in the garden. I'm on a mission to mend my ways.
Military & Veteran Discount
We proudly support our military members and veterans with discounts on our dog training services. Thank you for your service; let us serve you and your loyal companion.
Active Public Service First Responders Discount
We understand the important role that first responders play in our communities. Whether you are a police officer, an EMT, a firefighter, or nurse, Dog Training Elite Michiana offers a 10% discount to first responders in the South Bend / Elkhart community.
Video Gallery
Videos
E Collar. Dog Training Elite
Dog Training Elite is a professional, family-owned dog training company with over 40 years of experience that specializes in strengthening the bond between your dog and your family, with a strong emphasis on teaching your dog the highest level of obedience, despite even the toughest level of distractions.
Group Focus Exercise. Dog Training Elite
In a safe, controlled environment, we guide your dog through essential socialization skills, teaching them to remain calm, focused, and well-mannered, even in the midst of distractions.
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 South Bend / Elkhart.
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.
We Train Every Breed
Read More
Read Less
Each dog breed has different behaviors and personalities due to a combination of genetics, selective breedings, and environmental factors. At Dog Training Elite, we work with every dog. Our team understands canine behavior and the unique challenges of every breed.
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we apply specific breed training techniques to bring out the best in your dog. From impulse control in terriers to focused mental stimulation for herding breeds, we’ll work with you and your dog to design a personalized training plan.
Dog Training Elite Michiana Service Areas
Dog Training in South Bend / Elkhart, IN
Read More
Read Less
At Dog Training Elite, we’ve seen how DIY dog training can lead to inconsistent results and frustration. Our qualified professionals bring the expertise needed to assess your dog’s unique needs and apply methods that work. Choosing experienced trainers makes a noticeable difference in attaining reliable, lasting behavior changes.
We rely on positive reinforcement, a training method that delivers lasting results, even with the most challenging dogs. Our trainers are skilled in addressing any behavioral issue and can help your dog to reach their full potential with encouragement and proven techniques.
Affordable Dog Trainers in South Bend / Elkhart, IN
Read More
Read Less
At Dog Training Elite, we believe every pet owner should have access to expert dog training without breaking the bank. To make this a reality, we offer our training programs at fair and affordable prices so that cost is never a barrier to a well-behaved and happy dog. Whether you’re looking for basic obedience training, specialized behavior modification, or advanced service dog training, our programs fit various budgets.
Investing in dog training is one of the best decisions you can make for your pet's long-term happiness and health. Proper training helps curb unwanted behaviors, reduces anxiety, and builds a strong, lasting bond between you and your dog. By providing low-cost dog training without compromising quality, our dog trainers in South Bend / Elkhart, IN make it possible for more families and dogs to benefit from professional training.
Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite
Unleash Your Dog's Potential
Award-Winning
Dog Training
With Dog Training Elite
At Dog Training Elite, we are proud to offer training services recognized for outstanding results and effective methods. With skilled trainers dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting relationships, we guarantee your dog receives the best care and guidance.
Our programs cover everything from basic obedience to advanced behavior modification, customized to your dog’s needs. Whether you’re addressing behavioral issues, improving obedience, or strengthening your bond, our methods deliver reliable results.
Experience the difference our award-winning training can make in your dog’s life.
