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An image of a happy pitbull - contact Dog Training Elite for your pitbull training in Springfield, MO.

Professional Training For

Pitbulls

Dog Training Elite Springfield

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Pitbull Training Could Help:

Jumping on people
Destructive chewing
Excessive barking
Separation anxiety
Leash pulling
Territorial behavior
Stubbornness

Pitbull Training in Springfield, MO

At Dog Training Elite, we can tailor our training method to work with any dog breed. We also understand that some dog breeds may require more training in some areas than others. Generally, all dogs share qualities of loyalty, intelligence, and compassion—regardless of what breed they are. Additionally, some breeds may have traits that require more attention and training than others.

For example, dogs within the pit bull family might possess some qualities that need training and correction that aren't an issue with other dog breeds. Whatever the case and dog breed you have, the trainers at Dog Training Elite Springfield can create a breed–specific training plan to help you and your dog. Request a free in–home assessment and start your Springfield Pitbull puppy and adult training today!

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A well-trained pitbull - contact Dog Training Elite today for Springfield pitbull puppy and adult training.

What is a Pitbull?


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A pitbull is not just one breed of dog but a collection of breeds created by crossing bulldogs and terriers. The common dog breeds that fall under the “pitbull” umbrella are:

  • American Pitbull Terrier
  • American Staffordshire Terrier
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • American Bulldog
  • English Bull Terrier

At one time, pitbulls were prized family dogs, nicknamed "nanny dogs" for their attention and care around children. Unfortunately, they were also bred for cruel and inhumane "sports" like bear–baiting and dog fighting for many years. Because of that history, their breeds have been considered aggressive and intimidating. However, pitbull owners know their dogs are highly affectionate and loyal, and this stigma is outdated and harmful.

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

  • 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!!
  • map 33387
    Dec. 16, 2024
    We adopted a 2 year old Doberman and named him blu. He came to us with no manners whatsoever. I am disabled and handling a 85 pound powerhouse was a challenge. Kristi at dog training Elite worked with us and trained us and blu so that we could all live together safely and be well behaved. She was amazing to work with and I would definitely go to her again for any training needs. If you are looking for a trainer that will work with you and your furbaby, and understand what you want and need out of your training give Dog Training Elite a call. Very good to work with. We love working with Kristi.
  • Nicole
    Dec. 12, 2024
    Wonderful people. They take their time with you and your dog. My boy is almost 5m old and he has such good manners now.
  • Amy Mclean
    Dec. 5, 2024
    My dog was a wild child. She pulled on the leash. I could not walk her due to her size and my mobility problems. My husband was ready to find her a new home. After just 1 week of training she was a different dog. She had manners and stayed in control around people. Lindy is now a service dog and has completed her testing. She is such an amazing dog. Kristi found my dogs brain. Kristi, Jeremy, and Erin are so sweet. They listen to your needs and are so amazing with the dogs. I would recommend them to anybody who needs a dog trained. I cant say enough about how pleased I am. Picture is my Lindy when she graduated.
  • Amy Mclean
    Dec. 5, 2024
    My dog was a wild child. She pulled on the leash. I could not walk her due to her size and my mobility problems. My husband was ready to find her a new home. After just 1 week of training she was a different dog. She had manners and stayed in control around people. Lindy is now a service dog and has completed her testing. She is such an amazing dog. Kristi found my dogs brain. Kristi, Jeremy, and Erin are so sweet. They listen to your needs and are so amazing with the dogs. I would recommend them to anybody who needs a dog trained. I cant say enough about how pleased I am. Picture is my Lindy when she graduated.
  • Shairey Perkins
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Love this place teaching my dog so much very good very professional
  • Bill Virella
    Oct. 22, 2024
    The trainers are very proficient and knowledgeable. I like how they "train" the dog owners as well.
  • traveler
    Oct. 22, 2024
    Kristi and Jeremy were amazing training my 16 month old, 55 lb. dog, Wiley. They were both so knowledgeable, professional and patient. Erin in the office is wonderful too. Wiley was difficult to walk if there were other people or dogs nearby and didn’t always come when called, occasionally jumped on people, etc. I choose the 2 week day camp so I would have time to attend weekly group sessions before traveling with him. I saw improvement within a couple days! He has completed the 2 week session and attended one group session so far. He was very good around all the dogs and owners for the group session, I was so surprised. I highly recommend them!
  • ginger phillips
    Oct. 19, 2024
    When Sadie first arrived at Elite she had a big wide leash. She liked to drag me down the street. Quickly they taught she and I both how to have an obedient dog. She follows many commands now after 2 weeks and now she heals and we walk side by side with a reasonable leash. I highly recommend this team for obedience. Ginger Phillips
  • Kurt and Sally Larson
    Sep. 21, 2024
    I have owned and had dogs trained all my life. I wanted this puppy and I to understand how to communicate. Kristi and Jeremy deserve 20 stars at least. Plus don't forget Erin at the front desk she makes it all operate smoothly(she is supper sweet). They are patient kind thorough, and sincerely care that we have success. We started with the weekly puppy school. Well, I quickly decided to advance her to puppy camp best decision because they fast tracked her(us) to listening and understanding. Sophia is truly proud of herself and has such joy usually in the process. Do not hesitate to to spend the money you will not regret this decision.
  • Jade Graham
    Sep. 19, 2024
    We have been working with Kristi for 3 weeks now and have seen so much improvement in our 4 year old dog. Before training he would bark at any person, dog, or moving car he saw, pull on his leash during walks, and ignore commands he was given and after just 3 classes we were able to have a very calm and peaceful walk around our neighborhood with no pulling or barking. He has also started to listen to all commands given. If you’re thinking about training, DO IT!
  • Tani Kremer
    Sep. 18, 2024
    I am so thankful for Kristi and Jeremy, the owners and trainers for Dog Training Elite Springfield. They have been helping me train our 6 year old Boston Terrier to be a service dog. My husband has been in and out of the hospital for over 7 weeks this year. We were told by the doctors this will continue to be my husband’s life. Because of Kristi and Jeremy’s loving, positive training our sweet Bo was able to see his daddy in the hospital! Having Bo visit him in the hospital lifted his spirits so much! I can’t believe our stubborn, sweet dog is so well behaved and minds me! Bo gets so excited when I work with him and I enjoy taking him for walks, no pulling!!!!! It is obvious that Kristi and Jeremy love what they do! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Becky Fisher
    Sep. 17, 2024
    Rock-it is our 5 month Golden Retriever. He was very impulsive and difficult to manage. I thought I had made a huge mistake in bringing home this dog. ONE DAY WITH KRISTI and I have the manageable
  • Jerrica Brown
    Sep. 6, 2024
    I am speechless how amazing this Company has been for my family and my service dog. There has been many challenges that have approached since we started and no matter what the challenges are they have helped and figure out what was best for the dog and our family. We found out that our dog was deaf and I am crippled until I have Surgery plus I have ptsd towards other dogs since my attack. The whole staff has been so patient with me and my dog and understanding they have showed my kids my husband and I so many different ways to communicate with our dog now and I'm just so thankful for this opportunity. I am so glad that I found elite! 100% recommend!
  • Tina Sullivan
    Aug. 16, 2024
    If I could beam and flash spotlights on Dog Training Elite Springfield, I would! I once hated our little dog, Patsy, because of her terrible, obnoxious, and infuriating behavior. I was amazed that after the first session with Dog Training Elite, the monster became somewhat tame. I was not sold even yet. It was too good to be true for long! After a few more sessions, our Tasmanian Devil became a complete sweetheart. Our Patsy has now learned many commands which makes our lives so much easier. And I can now say, we love Patsy dearly; she is the dog we have always hoped to have.
  • Megan Snow
    Aug. 16, 2024
    I knew that my experience at Dog Training Elite of Springfield would be amazing just based on the passion that Kristi and Jeremy have for what they do, but seeing Lucy in action at a busy Kindergarten open house with a hundred excited kids (Lucy's kryptonite) and just being totally focused on me and the task at hand.. it's indescribable. I get chills just thinking about it. Lucy is kind of a celebrity around our school district because she has always come with me to drop off and pick up kids. I had several parents come up to me at open house and tell me that they couldn't even believe she was the same dog! I am forever grateful for the peace that having Lucy as my service animal has given me and for the sense of purpose it has given her. Thank you so much for helping me get my life and sense of freedom back! ❤️
  • Valerie Bradham
    Aug. 2, 2024
    Absolutely thrilled with Dog Training Elite! Their expertise and personalized approach have made a world of difference for our furry friend. The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable and patient, working diligently to address our dog's specific needs. The positive reinforcement techniques have not only improved our dog's behavior but also strengthened our bond. The transformation has been remarkable, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite for anyone looking to enhance their dog's obedience and overall well-being. Five stars without a doubt!
  • Maureen Wilson
    Jul. 29, 2024
    We can’t even begin to explain how much of a blessing Kristi and her team have been. Our sweet puppy has mastered some awesome skills and as she has grown so have we. Having gone through the service dog training with Kristi, I couldn’t imagine how we would have made it here if we didn’t have her, her team, the community to go through it with. If you’re on the fence about investing and making the commitment… just do it!
  • Ashlie
    Jul. 28, 2024
    I can’t say enough about how much Kristi and Jeremy have done for my family. They helped a shy 12 year old take her over exuberant miniature schnauzer puppy and meet her goals of an outstanding service dog. Denali shows calm demeanor and dedication to his best friend - be it at small basketball tournaments or one of the largest girls basketball tournaments in the country. Denali has become the best companion for my daughter who has big dreams and aspirations. He is going to help her meet those by keeping her calm and present when she needs to be.
  • Ruth Sonnenberg
    Jul. 28, 2024
    We had Kristi come & train our girl Bella& she did an amazing job! By the time Kristi left on training day our girl had her new command down pat. Kristi was kind but had high expectations & we have not been disappointed. We now have a well behaved, obedient dog we can take anywhere with us!! We Thank Dog Training Elite & Kristi for all of their hard work!
A happy, obedient pitbull with Dog Training Elite Springfield training.

Common Pit Bull Personality Traits

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Because of their tumultuous breeding past, pit bulls get a bad reputation for being mean, loud, and fierce. But if you have ever met a well–trained pit bull, you'll quickly learn that most do not possess those qualities. Below are a few common pit bull personality traits you may not know about.

  • These breeds are often easier to train than other breeds because of their loyalty and desire to please their owners.
  • Pit bulls are highly energetic and love to be active.
  • Because these dogs are usually misunderstood and consequently given up, pit bulls are the most adoptable breed in need of loving homes.
  • Pit bulls have a lifespan of 8–15 years.
  • These breeds usually don't bark a lot. However, if there is a barking problem, it's probably due to boredom or anxiety, which the trainers of Dog Training Elite Springfield can address!
  • Pit bulls are highly affectionate, making them great family and service dogs.

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A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Springfield.
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A well-trained pitbull walking with their owner.

Springfield Pitbull Puppy and Adult Training

Training for Pitbulls with Dog Training Elite

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If your pitbull is exhibiting problems with aggression, barking, or does not socialize well with other dogs or people, the trainers at Dog Training Elite Springfield can help! We have years of experience addressing behavioral problems with various dog breeds. We can create a specialized training plan with you using our proven training method.

Because pitbulls are loyal and have a high desire to please, the Dog Training Elite training method works exceptionally well for them. In all our training, we employ positive reinforcement—we reward correct, desired behaviors and ignore incorrect ones. Research shows that punishing a dog will not yield positive results and instead result in a dog obeying out of fear. We focus on building a positive, long–lasting relationship between dog and owner. Pitbulls are eager to please, and if you reward them for good behavior, they'll stick to good behavior, and you'll gain a loyal, dependent friend for life.

Our training method works with any dog because we base each training on a foundation of consistency, positive reinforcement, and creating a lasting bond between dog and owner. If you and your dog need Springfield Pitbull puppy or adult training, find a Dog Training Elite Springfield trainer near you today!