Elite

Training Programs


Dog Training in South Bend / Elkhart, IN

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574-500-3647


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Contact Dog Training Elite Michiana

Or Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

574-500-3647


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At Dog Training Elite Michiana, we are also passionate dog lovers! Our program is designed from 40+ years of dog training experience gained by Dog Training Elite's CEO, John Mestas...who has created a positive dog training experience which stands apart from any other programs. What began as a small movement in the dog training world has gained incredible momentum. Dog Training Elite has attracted attention from both clients and trainers with our unique, successful in-home training model.

Dog Training Elite has developed a highly successful South Bend / Elkhart dog training program that empowers dog owners and their canines to work together, creating strong bonds and sustained obedience.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Michiana location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Our Services


Giving Back


Coupon Dog Trainer in Denver

Active Public Service First Responders Discount
at Dog Training Elite Michiana!

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.


574-500-3647

Coupon Dog Trainer in Denver

Active US Military and Retired US Veterans Discount
at Dog Training Elite Michiana!

Whether you are on active duty in the military or a retired vet, we want to show our gratitude by offering a discount on any training package. Call to learn more!


574-500-3647

Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


  • Empowering Owners
    We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
  • Personalized
    We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
  • Environment Specific
    We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
  • Supportive
    We support Owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
  • Involved
    We work with all members of the household.
  • Simplified & Customized
    We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
  • Continued Training
    Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
  • Lifetime Investment
    We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
  • Satisfaction Ratings
    Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.

We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!

The best thing I ever did for myself and my dog was reach out to Dog Training Elite. There are hundreds of dog trainers around, but what this program offers is true support and understands YOUR dog—I mean it. I cried the first day of class watching my puppy become accustom to new things (habits I allowed her into), but four weeks later...I already have a new dog. It just keeps getting better. I couldn't recommend a better program and better trainers. They teach you about their methods, they train YOU as the owner, and they listen. Huge shoutout to Rich who has been absolutely nothing but kind and gracious to me and Aspen. He's a fantastic person and trainer. I've now become the dog owner who genuinely cares about who my dog interacts with and why. She's an amazing 8 month old puppy and she deserves the best life. I will give it to her.
— Karli Saner
Posted June 22nd 2024
google
If you are looking for some training for your dog then Dog Training Elite is your answer! We just completed the last session yesterday and couldn’t be more happy with the progress made. Huge thanks to Rich for being patient and really working with my dog Cass. Cass went from a hyper active bozo to a well mannered boy!
— Taylor Feeheley
Posted June 7th 2024
google
So happy to have Richard working with my dog Elvis. We are six weeks in on classes and he is addressing all behavioral problems successfully. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
— Ziebart
Posted June 6th 2024
google
Diane is the nicest and best trainer. She found AJ my sdit when I was attending Purdue. He has become such a big part of my world! She is also a big part of his life too! I send her updates all the time about his progress and she'll answer any questions or worries I have. Definitely recommend her to help with any training for a service dog or just obedience training!
— Echo Higueros
Posted May 21st 2024
google
I have nothing but gratitude for DTE. My dog Bun has gone from a good dog who I adore to an absolute support to me on top of that. I can not wait to continue this journey with Bun and DTE. They have helped me start my journey of creating a relationship with my dog where he is truly a dog who can help me on days where I can't and that is priceless. From getting his basics in to working towards service it has been extremely clear and so easy to follow. They are truly passionate about this work and it shows. Diana has worked with me and all of my issues and how to adapt while working with my dog. I really can't thank them enough.
— Gabrielle Fisher
Posted February 19th 2024
facebook
I have nothing but gratitude for DTE. My dog Bun has gone from a good dog who I adore to an absolute support to me on top of that. I can not wait to continue this journey with Bun and DTE. They have helped me start my journey of creating a relationship with my dog where he is truly a dog who can help me on days where I can't and that is priceless. From getting his basics in to working towards service it has been extremely clear and so easy to follow. They are truly passionate about this work and it shows.
— Gabrielle Fisher
Posted February 19th 2024
google
My experience with DTE and my trainer Diana has been second to none and totally invaluable. Starting service dog training with my lab Luna has been life changing thanks to Diana providing us with the knowledge and skills we need to be successful. Diana is kind, patient, compassionate, understanding, knowledgeable, experienced— literally everything you could ever want in a trainer. I highly recommend DTE Michiana to anyone looking for dog training services. Thank you Diana for all that you’ve done for us and continue to do!
— Chubby Supreme
Posted February 13th 2024
google
Great trainers who are passionate about their work.
— Diane Hyepock
Posted November 19th 2023
google
Can't wait to have Diane train my new puppy.
— Kristin Basham
Posted July 5th 2023
google
This service absolutely changed our lives. Our dog used to have sever separation anxiety to the point where we had to kennel her while we were at work. Otherwise, our house would be chewed up when we got home. That's when we met Diana. Through her daily walks and her training sessions, our dog is almost unrecognizable. Utilizing Dog Training Elite Michigan was such a blessing. Thank you for everything!
— Austin Hale
Posted June 29th 2023
google

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