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A therapy dog walking in a park with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite to talk to a professional therapy dog trainer in Springfield, MO!

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite Springfield

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Our Therapy Dog Training Could Help:

Those managing chronic pain
People looking to increase social interaction
Anyone seeking enhanced motivation and purpose
Individuals in need of emotional comfort
Those experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression
People wanting to boost overall optimism
Anyone feeling lonely or isolated

Therapy Dog Trainer in Springfield, MO

What is a Therapy Dog?

A therapy dog is trained to provide emotional support and comfort to people in need, often visiting hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. These dogs must be friendly with strangers, able to handle high levels of distraction, and understand personal boundaries like not jumping, licking, or mouthing. With proper training, therapy dogs can bring joy and emotional relief to those they interact with, offering companionship in stressful environments.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer programs to help your dog become a certified therapy dog. As a leading therapy dog trainer in Springfield, MO, we focus on developing the right temperament and skills so your dog can confidently provide comfort and support in various settings. With our professional guidance, your dog can become a valuable source of emotional care and connection for individuals in need.

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A therapy dog in training with Dog Training Elite Springfield's expert handlers.

How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?


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While the companionship your dog brings you may inspire you to share that with others, not every dog is suited to be a therapy animal. Beyond a friendly, loving personality, several important qualifications must be met for a dog to be considered for therapy work:

  • Age: Puppies are typically too energetic and lack the focus to be therapy dogs.
  • Obedience: A therapy dog must follow commands reliably. Dogs that have completed obedience training with Dog Training Elite have the solid foundation needed to begin therapy dog training.
  • Social Skills: Therapy dogs need to naturally enjoy meeting new people and must handle being petted and approached by strangers without anxiety. Their ability to remain calm and friendly, even in unfamiliar situations, ensures they can provide emotional support to those they interact with.

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 Springfield.
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

  • 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. 18, 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. 28, 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. 27, 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!
  • Jamie Perkins
    Jul. 25, 2024
    Kristi and Jeremy are amazing trainers! I love that they have put my dog to the test and he is now able to do things other trainers have told us he would not be able to do! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for everyone and I will definitely be sending every other dog I get to Kristi for training.
  • Elizabeth
    Jul. 24, 2024
    If you are looking for a great dog training experience, look no further!!! I enrolled my two-year-old Golden Retriever and saw results on the first day. I cannot say enough positive things about the Dog Training Elite team!!! Kristi, Jeremy, and Erin are all amazing professionals who are extremely knowledgable and also give encouragement and support (both to you and your dog) throughout the whole training process. 100000/10 recommend!!!!!!!
  • Riley Woodward
    Jul. 8, 2024
    Truly grateful for Kristi and her team for helping us with our German Shepherd (Angus). He is the best big boy ever but after training he's even more amazing. I can finally take him for a walk instead of him taking me for a walk! Kristi came to our house once a week and did an hour training with Angus and made sure we knew exactly what was going on and helped guide us through the whole training. We're so thankful for all they have done and continue to do to help us have a well-behaved dog!
  • Heather Bicknell
    Jul. 2, 2024
    Amazing company, Kristi and her daughter are wonderful to work with. They accommodated our busy schedules, and broke down the training process making it easy to learn and implement. Their training was a big positive in my, and my pets lives. Would certainly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone interested in training their pups!
  • Tessa Irvine
    Jun. 28, 2024
    We have taken our German shepherd to just 2 sessions and she has improved SO much already. We have been trying to work on her leash reactivity (barking & lunging around dogs) for awhile now, and within these two sessions she hardly makes any noise when passing a dog now. Her recall has also gotten a lot better. I can’t wait to see what else she learns and improves on as we continue through these sessions!
  • Penny Jackson
    Jun. 26, 2024
    Been working with Kristi for the last couple of months with my two standard poodles. One is 3 years old and one was 8 months when starting. I learned so much and my dogs are so much better behaved. I wanted more training with my dogs because my elderly parents come to visit and I was afraid they would take them out running around because the puppy has almost taken me out several times. Now when my parents come I can tell the doggie’s to go place and get my mother settled before releasing them for pets. I highly recommend if you are having issues with your dog or dogs Kristi can help you out.
An obedient dog in a fran_territory_name} emotional support dog training program.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

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Therapy dogs have a profound impact on individuals’ emotional and physical well-being. Research demonstrates that therapy dogs can improve a patient's mood, reduce stress, and even lower pain levels during hospital stays or medical treatments. Their calming presence provides comfort and relief in challenging moments.

Children, in particular, often respond well to therapy dogs. The companionship and playful interaction of a therapy dog can motivate children to engage more fully in treatments, helping them overcome fear or reluctance. With a therapy dog by their side, children tend to feel more optimistic and less anxious.

Beyond medical settings, therapy dogs also foster social interaction, especially in autism and mental health communities. These dogs offer non-judgmental companionship and serve as a bridge for individuals who may struggle with social connections. By reducing feelings of loneliness and anxiety, therapy dogs offer their owners comfort and companionship that enhances the overall quality of life.

A therapy dog handler with their dog trained by Dog Training Elite Springfield.

Therapy Dog Handlers

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If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful impact in your community, becoming a therapy dog handler offers a unique opportunity to do so alongside your dog. You can choose where to volunteer based on your interests, such as schools, hospitals, or senior living centers.

Once you’ve decided, therapy dog training is the next step. Dog Training Elite Springfield’s expert trainers will help your dog master essential behaviors like loose-leash walking, “leave it,” and not jumping on people. After completing training, you can apply for therapy dog certification, but it’s essential to keep up with ongoing training to ensure your dog remains well-behaved and ready to assist.

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Group Classes
A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite Springfield.

Springfield Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

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At Dog Training Elite Springfield, our training programs prepare your dog for real-world situations where their presence can provide emotional support and comfort. Beyond just obedience, our training teaches your dog how to handle stressful or highly stimulating environments like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes.

We also place a strong emphasis on socialization and adaptability, making sure your dog can confidently engage with people of all ages and backgrounds. Therapy dog work requires attentiveness and empathy, and our training helps your dog develop these traits. With a foundation of trust, consistency, and patience, your dog will be fully equipped to offer comfort and companionship wherever it’s needed.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Springfield.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

ESA vs. Therapy vs. Service Animals

What's the Difference?

Animals that provide assistance and companionship can be classified into three main groups: service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs), and therapy animals. Each has different responsibilities, training requirements, and legal protections. Knowing the differences can help you choose the right type of support for a disability, emotional needs, or therapy purposes.

Here are the defining features of each type:

Service animals are trained to help individuals by performing tasks that meet their specific needs, such as:

  • Redirecting attention when an individual is beginning to feel overstimulated
  • Reminding owners to take medication
  • Waking someone who is having a nightmare

Service dogs are highly valued in the mental health and disability community and are protected under ADA laws, allowing them to accompany their owners anywhere. At DTE, we provide specialized training for service dogs that assist individuals with autism, diabetes, and PTSD.

The key difference between ESAs, therapy dogs, and service dogs is that service animals are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This means they are allowed to go anywhere their owner goes. ESAs and therapy dogs do not have the same protections as service dogs, and public places can set their own rules about allowing them.

ESAs are prescribed by licensed mental health professionals to help individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. These animals provide emotional support simply by being a comforting presence. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks related to their owner's condition.

ESAs can be of any breed or age, and while they do not require the same level of training as service dogs, many owners choose to seek additional training. This can help strengthen the bond between the owner and the animal and improve the ESA's ability to provide consistent emotional support in different situations.

Therapy animals provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in need. They are not trained to assist a single person but are instead taught to be well-behaved and sociable around various groups of people. These animals help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness for those they visit.

Unlike service animals, therapy animals are not required to perform specific tasks. Their calming presence is what makes them valuable in therapeutic programs.