DTE Offers Financing Options to Help Fund your Dog's Education
Contact Us for Details
An image of two labradors - Dog Training Elite offers labrador training in Springfield, MO for puppies and adult dogs.

Professional Training For

Labradors

Dog Training Elite Springfield

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Labrador Training Could Help:

Excessive barking
Chewing and destruction
Separation anxiety
Jumping
Leash pulling
Overexcitement and hyperactivity
Begging
Digging
Mouthing and nipping

Labrador Training in Springfield, MO

If you are starting out with a brand new Labrador puppy or need some help with your full grown dog, Dog Training Elite's personalized in-home training programs can help you develop a strong bond and harness all of the incredible benefits of the breed.

Labradors are a highly intelligent breed that loves to please, making Labrador training in Springfield, MO a breeze. Working in your own home, a Dog Training Elite trainer will create a personalized training plan for you and your pet, addressing any unique needs or issues they may have.

If you need training for you puppy, socialization is a great place to start. Once they have completed obedience training, Dog Training Elite Springfield offers puppy group classes which is a great way to help your puppy socialize with other dogs and people, as well as learn to obey you in a distracting environment.

While beginning Labrador puppy training at an early age can be important and extremely helpful for dogs, if you adopt an older Labrador dog don’t worry! Our specific breed training works with older dogs too, and training your Labrador will be a snap with their eager-to-please attitude.

See Training Packages
Three labrador dogs of different coat colors - contact Dog Training Elite for adult or Springfield labrador puppy training services.

Labrador Traits and Characteristics


Read More
Read Less

Labradors have been the No. 1 most popular dog breed in America for close to three decades. It’s not hard to understand why – Labradors are playful, energetic, smart, and friendly. They make great companions for individuals and families and generally get along with children and other pets.

Although high-energy, Labradors are laidback and easy going, unfazed by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Bred originally to be working dogs, their intelligence makes them a great option for service or therapy dogs.

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

  • Tricia Fest
    May. 7, 2025
    We started training for our dog a couple months ago. The classes have been amazing, and our dog is now responding to commands. We can safely go out to the park, to the local dog friendly stores. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
  • Suzanne Lynch
    May. 3, 2025
    We are so impressed with Dog Training Elite! Our little pug is happier, better behaved and so much calmer. The staff is amazing and professional in dealing with the owners as well as the dogs. They are focused on clients being successful with the the training and having a happy and well trained puppy.
  • Daniel Hoppman
    Apr. 4, 2025
    The biggest thing my wife and I struggled with was the knowledge and confidence to give our dog what he needed. Kristi, Jeremy, Kenzi, Sara, and the rest of the Dog Training Elite team were nothing but exceptional and provided us exactly what we needed. The step by step videos, the hands on training at the end of the day, and of course their hands on work throughout the dog camp were worth every penny. The professional, friendly, and honest culture allowed us as dog owners to ask questions, participate and make mistakes and get help when needed. Our dog worked hard, but was still excited to go back to “school” everyday! We’re very thankful to have had the opportunity to work with them!
  • Shaela Jones
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We had nicknamed our 5-year old Retriever "Maniac", but Kristi and Jeremy and their team weren't the least bit intimidated by his high energy and stubbornness. They very lovingly held him (and his people!) accountable, and taught us how to do the same. I appreciated their calm, "no excuses" methods and the opportunity for ongoing support. Life with our "Maniac" is a much better experience because of the folks at Dog Training Elite. We're very thankful for them.
  • Emalu Byrd
    Mar. 20, 2025
    I am so pleased with the trainers and methods at Dog Training Elite. My Daisy puppers was very full oh high energy. I could not control her at all. She has become quite the well behaved lady! I can keep her from attacking my senior blind dog, get her “Off” my kitchen cabinets and have a pleasant walk with her without pulling. It’s a dream come true! We play and have a good time now! Thanks Kristi and crew especially McKenzie she treats my Daisy so nicely! Becky Cook (I don’t know why my aunties name is showing here 🤷‍♀️
  • Cari Morey
    Mar. 3, 2025
    Magnolia and I are so thankful for the love and support of these amazing trainers! From day one Kristi came with us to make sure Magnolia was the girl for me. Kristi listened to my needs of a new dog and the plans I had for her. Magnolia is only 10 months old and has exceeded our expectations of adding a new family member. Kristi and Jeremy are patient, kind, and push both of us to do better every day. All of the trainers have ensured Magnolia and I are a team and I feel equipped to work with Magnolia. In a few months, Magnolia will become a certified therapy dog and I feel confident in our ability to serve the community in many capacities including going into the schools. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Kristi and Jeremy with your dog training needs!
  • Ella Messier
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Our 3-year-old Bernedoodle, Mozzie, knew basic commands but did not listen to my husband and me. Before Dog Training Elite, we had to give him the same command multiple times before he would finally comply. After his 2 weeks with Kristi and her staff, he is listening the first time, every time. Mozzie is over 100 lbs, and with the "heel" command, he is able to come with us even to crowded/tighter spaces. This is something we weren't able to do previously due to his poor leash manners and disobedience. With the help of Kristi and her team, Mozzie has met his full potential, and we could not be more pleased. Our 4-month-old Goldendoodle puppy, Birdie, was a tornado in dog form. She did not listen, and we could not control her energy; we had no tools to communicate what behavior we wanted from her. Today, she is wrapping up week 1 of her 2-week program and she is remaining in the "place" command next to her big brother, who is a very large distraction for her. She will sit until released, and we can go on pleasant walks with no pulling. Kristi and her team have allowed us to actually enjoy the puppy phase, knowing we can prevent bad behavior early. We could go on and on about how Kristi and her team have transformed our day-to-day lives with our dogs. We would give Dog Training Elite 100 stars if it were an option.⭐️🐶
  • Alexa Willard
    Feb. 28, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about Dog Training Elite Springfield. Rocky used to be a stubborn puppy, and he could not walk on a leash without pulling to wherever he wanted to go. Kristi and Jeremy took his driven behavior and steered him in the right direction. Within just one week, I saw a huge difference! I now take Rocky on walks wherever. He is even training to become a service dog! Kristi and Jeremy get results and teach you how to maintain them. If you have a dog, do yourself a favor and take them to Dog Training Elite Springfield!!! They’re the best!!
  • Eric Skasik
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Kristi, Jeremy and the whole team at Dog Training Elite Springfield provided expert guidance throughout our service dog training program, offering encouragement and reassurance as Chloe (my 6 month old GSD) learned new skills. Their patience, understanding and care allowed me to feel confident in my ability to improve Chloe's behavior and meet the goals and progress in record time. I am still impressed daily by Chloe's ability to understand and work in unison with me as we navigate new obstacles and settings.
  • Tony van Dyk
    Feb. 17, 2025
    Kristi is very knowledgeable in the area of canine behavior. She is such a natural teacher, that she is seamlessly teaching not only the dog but the handler at the same time. Kristi is also very creative and uses a variety of techniques when working with the dogs. Kristi’s training was highly effective for our very stubborn and reactive dog Harley and the results speak for themselves as we saw major positive changes in the behavior of our dog. Kristi is a dog/person trainer "Rock Star". Her positive, reward-based philosophy is one we share and is most effective with our dog. Kristi was wonderful! So helpful. She listened to our priorities and implemented them into the training sessions. Our overall experience? We feel that choosing Dog Training Elite Springfield was the best decision we ever made for our Harley! I highly recommend Kristi and her team, and I can not speak more highly of our experience with Dog Training Elite Springfield. The entire team has been professional, easy to work with and friendly. A very big Thank You goes out to Kristi, Jeremy, McKenzie and Amber. You guys are the Best
  • Ashlee Van Dyk
    Feb. 16, 2025
    Harley is our 1.5 year old high-energy English Bulldog. When we first met Kristi and the Dog Training Elite crew, Harley was a brat that only wanted to do what she wanted to do and that was that. She is a very stubborn girl that did not want to listen to mom or dad. She would pull and lunge on her leash, jump all over everyone, “bulldoze” as I would call it, running through the house and at people. Just after a week of training with DTE, we had a new dog that would listen and mind us. We could go on walks without having to worry about her lunging at other dogs, people. Harley now spends most of her day with mom in her office being a well behaved baby getting ALL the positive attention she wanted before! We will forever be thankful for the transformation and tools we were given to have a well-mannered member of our family again. Worth every single penny and will recommend to everyone!
  • Kelli Holler Knoeck
    Feb. 14, 2025
    The compassion and commitment we found here was just the start of the amazing relationship we found! We looked into training for the Service Dog we had bought for our daughter. We had a proper sit down consultation, and immediately started the Journey! We started with the Platinum Puppy Program, which is AMAZING! In such a short time our 5 month old puppy could do more than I ever saw a puppy do. With more training, the confidence and intelligence I saw grow more and more helped not only our dashing doggo, but also our daughter as well. We are still on the path for completing our Service Dog certification. They have this Wonderful group training. It’s an amazing way to train your dog around other dogs, and see how/where they may need help in other categories. All in All the staff and facility are a 1000/10 in my eyes. If you want someone you can trust to go on this journey with you, Dog Training Elite in Springfield is definitely the way to go!
  • Grace Klein
    Jan. 31, 2025
    Elite went above and beyond for our dog! Our expectations were met and then some. It was worth every penny to have a better relationship with our beloved Doberman and for her to have the confidence for every situation. Highly recommend!
  • Pam Swihart
    Jan. 31, 2025
    I love dog training elite. Kristi trained Chloe, who was a very rambunctious ill behaved puppy, to behave politely in public. No jumping, barking, running wild. I’m in a wheelchair with MS. Kristi taught Chloe to also heel which is super important for me. Chloe finally walks beside me, while I’m driving my electric chair and when I stop, she sits right beside me. Anyone who is physically challenged and wants a dog but was worried it would not be safe Kristi will show you it’s possible. Dog training elite is so much more than just training, it’s caring. I’m complimented on Chloe’s manners all the time. I HIGHLY recommend dog training elite, Springfield. Kristi and team know their business.
  • Linda M
    Jan. 31, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite Springfield exhibited remarkable patience, kindness, and true dedication, making Ollie's training an amazing experience for him, and for us. His progress after only one day was remarkable, and today he graduated! From the time and interest Kristie initially took to gather information to customize the training to ours and Ollie's needs, to Jeremy's "gentle giant" approach and listening skills, we couldn't be happier. A special shout out to McKenzie, Ollie's new girlfriend for helping him become the best boy he can be and for very obviously loving him so much. We are beyond grateful to everyone and will see them at group classes very soon!
  • Kristine Carlile
    Jan. 30, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite give you the tools you need to be successful owners. Our two dogs are in the fast track day camp. We have tried other training with our pups, but never felt confident in what we learned and had issues with follow-up training at home. Every day, our pups show us what they learned and we are given the opportunity to go through that days lesson with the trainer. We never leave until we fully understand the lesson and how to confidently put that training into action at home. If we have questions or concerns (which of course we do) they take the time to listen and respond thoughtfully. Every day we leave with more knowledge and confidence than ever. The training is allowing us to more fully enjoy our pups and give them a more structured home, which in turn creates a better relationship between owner and pup, and gives them a fuller life.
  • Kimberly Tate
    Jan. 16, 2025
    Wow, just wow! Had trouble with a previous dog’s behaviors and disobedience. I decided I was going to do it differently this time around. This training is worth every penny! My very energetic, stubborn boxer is now a pleasure to be around. Even my older mother and elderly grandmother can’t get enough of him, now that he shows off his polite manners. I cannot say enough about Kristi and her amazing staff. They know their stuff and answer all of my questions…so make sure to ask. The learning environment is wonderful at the facility. Every time, we are greeted warmly and no matter how my stubborn puppy doesn’t want to listen, the trainers never loose their cool. I never feel like we are rushed through training and we all learn exactly what we need to be successful. Not only that, we are so blown away and in love with our now well-behaved dog that we are sticking around even longer to get advanced training.
  • Bella Alden
    Jan. 6, 2025
    My dog moo had been attacked several times while living in an apartment. She used to love dogs but became very afraid, leading to aggression. It got to a point where I would take her to parks and have to step off the trail as she would be reactive. I was pregnant and wanted to continue taking moo on all the adventures. After only 5 weeks of training moo attended her first group class with Kristi’s team, and 14 other dogs. She completed weave drills, pack walks, and even walking towards a wall of dogs. She is a completely different dog, while still being our happy girl moo. We couldn’t believe the progress and can’t wait to continue our adventures. Kristi and her team are amazing and all so very kind. If you are thinking about it, do it!
  • Erin Duvall
    Dec. 29, 2024
    The entire DTE team has been amazing to work with my dog to make him a certified therapy dog and myself so that I have to the tools to make him successful.
  • Kiera Sadernas
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Boba and I started training with DTE in 2022. It took me quite a while to decide on which training company to go with in the Springfield area, but what stood out the most to me about DTE was the fact that they taught me how to train my companion. I didn’t just drop Boba off for a three week program and come pick up the perfect pet, or leave him at a facility for two months and come home with a fully trained service dog. They spent time with me and Boba in one on one sessions, teaching us together how to be a great team. They helped us work through issues, build a great foundation for communication, develop trust as a service dog and handler, and they continue to provide support even after Boba has passed his exams and graduated from his program. I can’t stress enough how amazing this team of trainers is and how much they care about their clients (both human and animal). They teach everything from basic obedience to personal protection, and I will always, always, ALWAYS recommend DTE to anyone who asks!!
  • Tricia Fest
    May. 7, 2025
    We started training for our dog a couple months ago. The classes have been amazing, and our dog is now responding to commands. We can safely go out to the park, to the local dog friendly stores. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
  • Suzanne Lynch
    May. 3, 2025
    We are so impressed with Dog Training Elite! Our little pug is happier, better behaved and so much calmer. The staff is amazing and professional in dealing with the owners as well as the dogs. They are focused on clients being successful with the the training and having a happy and well trained puppy.
  • Daniel Hoppman
    Apr. 4, 2025
    The biggest thing my wife and I struggled with was the knowledge and confidence to give our dog what he needed. Kristi, Jeremy, Kenzi, Sara, and the rest of the Dog Training Elite team were nothing but exceptional and provided us exactly what we needed. The step by step videos, the hands on training at the end of the day, and of course their hands on work throughout the dog camp were worth every penny. The professional, friendly, and honest culture allowed us as dog owners to ask questions, participate and make mistakes and get help when needed. Our dog worked hard, but was still excited to go back to “school” everyday! We’re very thankful to have had the opportunity to work with them!
  • Shaela Jones
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We had nicknamed our 5-year old Retriever "Maniac", but Kristi and Jeremy and their team weren't the least bit intimidated by his high energy and stubbornness. They very lovingly held him (and his people!) accountable, and taught us how to do the same. I appreciated their calm, "no excuses" methods and the opportunity for ongoing support. Life with our "Maniac" is a much better experience because of the folks at Dog Training Elite. We're very thankful for them.
  • Emalu Byrd
    Mar. 20, 2025
    I am so pleased with the trainers and methods at Dog Training Elite. My Daisy puppers was very full oh high energy. I could not control her at all. She has become quite the well behaved lady! I can keep her from attacking my senior blind dog, get her “Off” my kitchen cabinets and have a pleasant walk with her without pulling. It’s a dream come true! We play and have a good time now! Thanks Kristi and crew especially McKenzie she treats my Daisy so nicely! Becky Cook (I don’t know why my aunties name is showing here 🤷‍♀️
  • Cari Morey
    Mar. 3, 2025
    Magnolia and I are so thankful for the love and support of these amazing trainers! From day one Kristi came with us to make sure Magnolia was the girl for me. Kristi listened to my needs of a new dog and the plans I had for her. Magnolia is only 10 months old and has exceeded our expectations of adding a new family member. Kristi and Jeremy are patient, kind, and push both of us to do better every day. All of the trainers have ensured Magnolia and I are a team and I feel equipped to work with Magnolia. In a few months, Magnolia will become a certified therapy dog and I feel confident in our ability to serve the community in many capacities including going into the schools. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Kristi and Jeremy with your dog training needs!
  • Ella Messier
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Our 3-year-old Bernedoodle, Mozzie, knew basic commands but did not listen to my husband and me. Before Dog Training Elite, we had to give him the same command multiple times before he would finally comply. After his 2 weeks with Kristi and her staff, he is listening the first time, every time. Mozzie is over 100 lbs, and with the "heel" command, he is able to come with us even to crowded/tighter spaces. This is something we weren't able to do previously due to his poor leash manners and disobedience. With the help of Kristi and her team, Mozzie has met his full potential, and we could not be more pleased. Our 4-month-old Goldendoodle puppy, Birdie, was a tornado in dog form. She did not listen, and we could not control her energy; we had no tools to communicate what behavior we wanted from her. Today, she is wrapping up week 1 of her 2-week program and she is remaining in the "place" command next to her big brother, who is a very large distraction for her. She will sit until released, and we can go on pleasant walks with no pulling. Kristi and her team have allowed us to actually enjoy the puppy phase, knowing we can prevent bad behavior early. We could go on and on about how Kristi and her team have transformed our day-to-day lives with our dogs. We would give Dog Training Elite 100 stars if it were an option.⭐️🐶
  • Alexa Willard
    Feb. 28, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about Dog Training Elite Springfield. Rocky used to be a stubborn puppy, and he could not walk on a leash without pulling to wherever he wanted to go. Kristi and Jeremy took his driven behavior and steered him in the right direction. Within just one week, I saw a huge difference! I now take Rocky on walks wherever. He is even training to become a service dog! Kristi and Jeremy get results and teach you how to maintain them. If you have a dog, do yourself a favor and take them to Dog Training Elite Springfield!!! They’re the best!!
  • Eric Skasik
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Kristi, Jeremy and the whole team at Dog Training Elite Springfield provided expert guidance throughout our service dog training program, offering encouragement and reassurance as Chloe (my 6 month old GSD) learned new skills. Their patience, understanding and care allowed me to feel confident in my ability to improve Chloe's behavior and meet the goals and progress in record time. I am still impressed daily by Chloe's ability to understand and work in unison with me as we navigate new obstacles and settings.
  • Tony van Dyk
    Feb. 17, 2025
    Kristi is very knowledgeable in the area of canine behavior. She is such a natural teacher, that she is seamlessly teaching not only the dog but the handler at the same time. Kristi is also very creative and uses a variety of techniques when working with the dogs. Kristi’s training was highly effective for our very stubborn and reactive dog Harley and the results speak for themselves as we saw major positive changes in the behavior of our dog. Kristi is a dog/person trainer "Rock Star". Her positive, reward-based philosophy is one we share and is most effective with our dog. Kristi was wonderful! So helpful. She listened to our priorities and implemented them into the training sessions. Our overall experience? We feel that choosing Dog Training Elite Springfield was the best decision we ever made for our Harley! I highly recommend Kristi and her team, and I can not speak more highly of our experience with Dog Training Elite Springfield. The entire team has been professional, easy to work with and friendly. A very big Thank You goes out to Kristi, Jeremy, McKenzie and Amber. You guys are the Best
  • Ashlee Van Dyk
    Feb. 16, 2025
    Harley is our 1.5 year old high-energy English Bulldog. When we first met Kristi and the Dog Training Elite crew, Harley was a brat that only wanted to do what she wanted to do and that was that. She is a very stubborn girl that did not want to listen to mom or dad. She would pull and lunge on her leash, jump all over everyone, “bulldoze” as I would call it, running through the house and at people. Just after a week of training with DTE, we had a new dog that would listen and mind us. We could go on walks without having to worry about her lunging at other dogs, people. Harley now spends most of her day with mom in her office being a well behaved baby getting ALL the positive attention she wanted before! We will forever be thankful for the transformation and tools we were given to have a well-mannered member of our family again. Worth every single penny and will recommend to everyone!
  • Kelli Holler Knoeck
    Feb. 14, 2025
    The compassion and commitment we found here was just the start of the amazing relationship we found! We looked into training for the Service Dog we had bought for our daughter. We had a proper sit down consultation, and immediately started the Journey! We started with the Platinum Puppy Program, which is AMAZING! In such a short time our 5 month old puppy could do more than I ever saw a puppy do. With more training, the confidence and intelligence I saw grow more and more helped not only our dashing doggo, but also our daughter as well. We are still on the path for completing our Service Dog certification. They have this Wonderful group training. It’s an amazing way to train your dog around other dogs, and see how/where they may need help in other categories. All in All the staff and facility are a 1000/10 in my eyes. If you want someone you can trust to go on this journey with you, Dog Training Elite in Springfield is definitely the way to go!
  • Grace Klein
    Jan. 31, 2025
    Elite went above and beyond for our dog! Our expectations were met and then some. It was worth every penny to have a better relationship with our beloved Doberman and for her to have the confidence for every situation. Highly recommend!
  • Pam Swihart
    Jan. 31, 2025
    I love dog training elite. Kristi trained Chloe, who was a very rambunctious ill behaved puppy, to behave politely in public. No jumping, barking, running wild. I’m in a wheelchair with MS. Kristi taught Chloe to also heel which is super important for me. Chloe finally walks beside me, while I’m driving my electric chair and when I stop, she sits right beside me. Anyone who is physically challenged and wants a dog but was worried it would not be safe Kristi will show you it’s possible. Dog training elite is so much more than just training, it’s caring. I’m complimented on Chloe’s manners all the time. I HIGHLY recommend dog training elite, Springfield. Kristi and team know their business.
  • Linda M
    Jan. 31, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite Springfield exhibited remarkable patience, kindness, and true dedication, making Ollie's training an amazing experience for him, and for us. His progress after only one day was remarkable, and today he graduated! From the time and interest Kristie initially took to gather information to customize the training to ours and Ollie's needs, to Jeremy's "gentle giant" approach and listening skills, we couldn't be happier. A special shout out to McKenzie, Ollie's new girlfriend for helping him become the best boy he can be and for very obviously loving him so much. We are beyond grateful to everyone and will see them at group classes very soon!
  • Kristine Carlile
    Jan. 30, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite give you the tools you need to be successful owners. Our two dogs are in the fast track day camp. We have tried other training with our pups, but never felt confident in what we learned and had issues with follow-up training at home. Every day, our pups show us what they learned and we are given the opportunity to go through that days lesson with the trainer. We never leave until we fully understand the lesson and how to confidently put that training into action at home. If we have questions or concerns (which of course we do) they take the time to listen and respond thoughtfully. Every day we leave with more knowledge and confidence than ever. The training is allowing us to more fully enjoy our pups and give them a more structured home, which in turn creates a better relationship between owner and pup, and gives them a fuller life.
  • Kimberly Tate
    Jan. 16, 2025
    Wow, just wow! Had trouble with a previous dog’s behaviors and disobedience. I decided I was going to do it differently this time around. This training is worth every penny! My very energetic, stubborn boxer is now a pleasure to be around. Even my older mother and elderly grandmother can’t get enough of him, now that he shows off his polite manners. I cannot say enough about Kristi and her amazing staff. They know their stuff and answer all of my questions…so make sure to ask. The learning environment is wonderful at the facility. Every time, we are greeted warmly and no matter how my stubborn puppy doesn’t want to listen, the trainers never loose their cool. I never feel like we are rushed through training and we all learn exactly what we need to be successful. Not only that, we are so blown away and in love with our now well-behaved dog that we are sticking around even longer to get advanced training.
  • Bella Alden
    Jan. 6, 2025
    My dog moo had been attacked several times while living in an apartment. She used to love dogs but became very afraid, leading to aggression. It got to a point where I would take her to parks and have to step off the trail as she would be reactive. I was pregnant and wanted to continue taking moo on all the adventures. After only 5 weeks of training moo attended her first group class with Kristi’s team, and 14 other dogs. She completed weave drills, pack walks, and even walking towards a wall of dogs. She is a completely different dog, while still being our happy girl moo. We couldn’t believe the progress and can’t wait to continue our adventures. Kristi and her team are amazing and all so very kind. If you are thinking about it, do it!
  • Erin Duvall
    Dec. 29, 2024
    The entire DTE team has been amazing to work with my dog to make him a certified therapy dog and myself so that I have to the tools to make him successful.
  • Kiera Sadernas
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Boba and I started training with DTE in 2022. It took me quite a while to decide on which training company to go with in the Springfield area, but what stood out the most to me about DTE was the fact that they taught me how to train my companion. I didn’t just drop Boba off for a three week program and come pick up the perfect pet, or leave him at a facility for two months and come home with a fully trained service dog. They spent time with me and Boba in one on one sessions, teaching us together how to be a great team. They helped us work through issues, build a great foundation for communication, develop trust as a service dog and handler, and they continue to provide support even after Boba has passed his exams and graduated from his program. I can’t stress enough how amazing this team of trainers is and how much they care about their clients (both human and animal). They teach everything from basic obedience to personal protection, and I will always, always, ALWAYS recommend DTE to anyone who asks!!
A labrador sitting outdoors - with professional labrador training in Springfield, MO from Dog Training Elite, your labrador will be a great companion.

What Makes Labradors Unique?

Read More
Read Less

There are many reasons to love Labradors. Here are just a few:

  1. Labradors Love the Water: You may have already known this fact, because Labs are pretty famous for loving the water. They’re actually made for it! A Lab can use their thick tail – sometimes referred to as an “otter tail” – as a powerful rudder. They also have wide, webbed feet to help them swim fast and waterproof coats that help them remain comfortable even in cold water.
  2. They were Bred as Hunting Dogs: Initially, Labs were bred as duck retrievers, and then later as game-hunting companions. They tend to excel in retriever field trials and retriever hunting tests. They’re incredibly versatile as sport dogs, excelling in agility, rally and obedience sports.
  3. Labs Come in Three Colors: Labrador coats come in three colors – black, yellow, and chocolate.
  4. Labs can do Almost Anything: Their intelligence, energy, and affectionate nature makes them a popular choice for service and therapy dogs, as well as for search and rescue teams, and bomb and drug detection. Suffice to say, all Labradors are very good dogs who do very good jobs.

Additional Breeds We Train

Dog Training Elite Springfield - German Shepherd Training in Springfield. Dog Training Elite
German Shepherd
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Goldendoodle Training in Springfield, MO. Dog Training Elite
Goldendoodle
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Beagle Dog Training in Springfield, MO. Dog Training Elite
Beagle
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Pitbull Training in Springfield, MO. DTE
Pitbull
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Doberman Training in Springfield, MO. DTE
Doberman
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Border Collie Training in Springfield, MO. DTE
Border Collie
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Golden Retriever Training in Springfield, MO. DTE
Golden Retriever
Dog Training Elite Springfield - French Bulldog Training in Springfield, MO. DTE
French Bulldog
An image of a labrador outside with their owner - get professional training services with Dog Training Elite.

Breed Specific Tips & Tricks

Keeping Your Labrador Happy and Healthy

Read More
Read Less

Although Labradors are famously laid back and friendly, that doesn’t mean they don’t require attentive care. If you’re considering adopting a Labrador, or you already have one and want to learn more about how to keep your pup happy and healthy, consider the following:

  1. Labradors Need Plenty of Exercise: Although Labs are easy going, they need plenty of exercise – even up to two hours a day. This can be made up of long walks, training sessions, playing fetch, or going to the dog park. Though it’s important to make sure they get enough exercise, you also need to be careful you don’t let your dog overdo it, especially as a puppy while their joints and bones are still growing.
  2. Groom Your Lab Weekly: Labradors have short, smooth coats that are prone to shedding. Combing them weekly with a comb or bristle brush, or combing daily during shedding season, can help keep shedding under control. Make sure you have a good vacuum!
  3. Manage their Diet: As big, energetic dogs, Labs need to eat a lot – but they can be prone to putting on pounds, as well. Follow the recommended amounts on dog food packaging, or consult with your vet.
  4. Make sure Your Labrador Gets Lots of Attention: Labradors are very social. Socialization with other dogs is important, so trips to the dog park, doggy play dates, or group training classes at Dog Training Elite can be beneficial for both you and your dog. If your Lab has to be home without you for long stretches of time, be sure to have stimulating dog toys, puzzles, and chew toys available for them, and consider hiring someone to check on and play with them during the day.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Springfield.
Dog Training Elite Springfield light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

An adorable labrador puppy getting trained with Dog Training Elite Springfield professionals.

Dog and Puppy Training For Your Labrador Breed

Schedule Your Free Training Consultation Today

Read More
Read Less

The Dog Training Elite Springfield training method is based around classical conditioning. Classical conditioning means developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands, so when you say “sit,” your dog will sit automatically. Labradors respond especially well to this technique and our trainers will focus on positive reinforcement training for your Labrador puppy.

While all dogs share qualities of kindness, loyalty and intelligence regardless of breed, Dog Training Elite Springfield recognizes that every dog is an individual and may require different training methods. We stand out by taking into consideration what breed your dog is when making training goals.

Regardless of your dogs specific breed, Dog Training Elite Springfield can help you and your pup overcome any obstacle related to obedience and socialization. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.

Ready to turn your Labrador into the best companion for you or your family? Contact us today to receive a free in-home assessment or Labrador training demonstration.