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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

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


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.

See Training Packages
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 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

  • 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!!
  • 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.
  • Nichole Brady
    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.
  • 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!!
  • 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.
  • Nichole Brady
    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.
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.

Additional Training Programs

Dog Training Elite Springfield - Dog Obedience Training in Springfield, MO. Dog Training Elite
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Puppy Training in Springfield, MO. Dog Training Elite
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Service Dog Training in Springfield, MO. Dog Training Elite
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Anxiety & Aggression Dog Trainer in Springfield, MO
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Personal Protection Dog Training in Springfield, MO
Personal Protection
Dog Training Elite Springfield - Group Class Dog Training in Springfield, MO. DTE
Group Training
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.

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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.

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