Customer Reviews. Hear from Happy Dog Training Elite St. Louis Clients

Reviews & Testimonials

Dog Training Elite St. Louis

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Lenell Moeller Weiler

Oct. 5, 2024 - facebook

Our puppy, Bailey benefited from the Puppy Training program so much. Matt and team were so great at handling her because she can be stubborn. We plan to continue her training at Elite with the Therapy classes because my husband visits homebound and nursing home members at our church. Will keep you updated!

Gina Weeks

Jul. 21, 2024 - google

If I could give this operation 100 stars, I would. We have been taking our new 10 month old beagle, which we purchased from a Craigslist ad to Dog Training Elite St. Louis for 1 week. Before Dog Training Elite, our new pup was an out of control dog with no purpose. She barked/howled incessantly and tried to chew everything in our house. We’ve had a beagle before, so we know their temperaments, and this one was off the charts. After one week at Dog Training Elite, our new pup obeys commands, has stopped pulling on leash, and no longer screams and cries in her kennel. We still have 1 more week of daily in person training and 6 more months of group training with this crew. We are so excited to see even more progress with our pup:) This operation has been worth their weight in gold. The entire staff (if I could name them all, I would) from Matt to Alecia to Tyler, the crew at Dog Training Elite St. Louis has been professional, flexible and positive. We never thought we would have anyone other than us train our pups, but this new pup of ours really pushed our limits. Without Dog Training Elite, we would not have been able to tolerate our new beagle. Thanks to Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we now have an amazing new addition to our family, who we will be able to enjoy for years to come:)

Michelle Downey

Jul. 1, 2024 - google

I do believe that they deserve a five star but I have only been training with my pup for 10 weeks so I can't fully give them an honest five just yet. I would like to make the complaint that I really wish I could tag them in the many posts that I like to give them credit for but I'm not able to tag then. With all that said about the business in general, I must give a huge shout out to number one: Matt, my original contact and an amazingly helpful person in so many different ways! Very friendly, response to messages in a timely manner and has so much knowledge in so many answers for you. Number two: Michelle, our trainer, has been absolutely fabulous! She it's not only there for the service dogs training but is also there for the client in numerous ways! She is very in tune with my health issues and is also very understanding about them. She is also very patient with my episodes that I may have while we are trying to train. She continues to do her job while still being compassionate about my Health situation at that moment. But she does not give up on the dog just because I have an episode. I would like to also add that whoever chose to put Michelle with me, made an amazing decision! We definitely work well together and have experienced a lot of the same types of issues that make her even more compassionate towards my situation. What more can I say? I've already written a book here.

Heather Mackin

Jun. 26, 2024 - google

Tyler was absolutely amazing!!!!

Alyssa Haydon

Jun. 19, 2024 - google

We love Dog Training Elite! Prior to training, our two reactive corgis were unmanageable. They were extremely aggressive and causing each other harm. After just one session with Tyler, our corgis George and Sam already made significant progress. They listened better and were fighting way less. Now, with one session to go, it’s like we have two new dogs! They are extremely well behaved! We can open the gate to our patio and they don’t run out. We can walk both of them without any issues with barking or seeing other dogs. The progress they have made has been life changing. We are so grateful for the help!!!

SHELLY MESAW

Jun. 13, 2024 - google

An absolute 5 out of 5 stars! Our dog trainer, Tyler, was a true professional with real experience. He took our dog from being wild, uncontrollable, and anti-social pup to being a straight "A" dog student. We really could not have had a better experience. We highly recommend Tyler and DTE!

Jacqueline Goering

Jun. 7, 2024 - google

We were having issues with aggression and anxiety with our dog. It was to the point where he was fighting with another dog in our home, we couldn’t have guests over, etc. We felt extremely defeated. Training with Tyler from Dog Training Elite seriously has changed our lives for the better. We feel like our dog has improved so much. We’ve been given the tools to create structure for our dog so that he can be successful. Our dog’s demeanor is so much better, he doesn’t act out toward our other dogs or guests anymore, and so much more. We are so grateful to have been able to train with Tyler and Dog Training Elite. It’s been an impactful experience and we would highly recommend them to anyone.

Crystal Buss

Apr. 3, 2024 - google

Tyler was/is amazing! Our 4yr old mix breed dog was usually terrified of any man that walked into our house. Binny and Tyler became friends after the second training session. We learned SO much and it is very refreshing to have a properly trained dog. Our lives are changed as well as Binny’s. He is now able to just chill and be a dog in his place instead of barking and being scared. We can go to our camper by the river and not worry about him bolting out of the door as soon as someone opens it and he likes to sit outside with us now. We practice everyday and he’s still learning but we were given the proper direction to be able to make Binny more comfortable and our lives less stressful. Thank you so much Tyler we appreciate you and also enjoyed getting to know you as well. 10/10 recommend!

Valeri Pearon

Mar. 29, 2024 - google

My 3-year-old Bernedoodle, Millie, was very reactive to practically any person, dog or thing that moved before training began. After even the first couple sessions with Cameron, she was already showing signs of improvement. Today was her last one-on-one (her eighth session) and we went to the park, which I haven't been to for a walk since getting Millie six months ago. I now have the confidence to walk in the park with her beside me and know that I have everything under control. She's miles from where she was in the beginning, and I'm so proud of her. I could never thank Dog Training Elite enough to see how reactive she was in the beginning and have the confidence to say it could be turned around. I'm also grateful for Cameron's patience with Millie and ME. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect trainer for us. I'm eternally grateful.

Rachel McAllister

Mar. 14, 2024 - google

I contacted Dog Training Elite late last year about my 3 year old Pomeranian, Gus, whose dog and human reactivity has been a problem for the majority of his life. I had taken him to another trainer prior to Dog Training Elite, and my next stop was a priest for an exorcism because his reaction to other people and dogs was demonic. Since working with dog training elite, I have been able to walk him and have people in my home without a nuclear response. We can pass people on walks without him going full demon mode, and for the most part, I no longer see any reaction. He is still a work a work in progress, but I now know how to handle situations better to set him up for success. Kelvin, his trainer, was wonderful to work with and extremely knowledgeable. The group classes have been great to attend to strengthen his training with high distractions, and Gus did not, in fact, ever need an exorcism!

JoAnne Stanfield

Mar. 12, 2024 - google

DTE is a wonderful organization! Iam now able to safely take a walk with my 100 lb dog Bailey. No more pulling and aggressive behavior. Tyler is an excellent trainer and advisor. It is amazing how much he taught my dog and me in just 6 hour lessons. The park group lessons are also a great adventure and learning experience! I recommend DTE without reservations!

Jeffrey Rose

Mar. 7, 2024 - google

I had a fantastic experience with these folks training my English Bulldog (I know unusual breed for service animal) to be come a formally trained task-complete service dog. From the initial evaluation with Matt, and the basic training with Kelvyn through the advanced training with Cameron we had a consistently excellent interaction with DTE. Trainers were knowledgable, patient, professional punctual and enthusiastic; expectations were always set appropriately. Use of the e-collar was very sensitive and caring (since my dog was very positively food motivated treats sufficed for the vast majority of her training and we didn't need the collar very much--but it was great learning how to carefully use the device when necessary). The sessions in public places (malls, stores and airport) were terrific in addition to the in home sessions and communications and scheduling were easy and diligent. I look forward to traveling with my pup with confidence in her training and ADA qualifications. Materials provided along with the classes were terrific. This was obviously more intensive (and yes expensive) than simple obedience training, but with patience and consistency it is amazing what can be done. I think the cheap on-line alternatives and shortcut 'take a few video lessons and get a certificate' are nonsense and bogus. This elite training was worth every dollar and DTE stands behind their training and certification for the long run. Special thanks Matt and Cameron!!

Pippy P

Feb. 22, 2024 - google

Michelle and Tyler were wonderful! I’m looking forward to working with my dog to make her the best she can be! Thank you for your help!

Susan Brown

Jan. 21, 2024 - google

Thank you Kelvin for all your training that you provided Rayna and myself...I've learned how important it is to know and be able to read your dog...think like your dog so they will know what to expect 😉. Thank you for showing me how to give your dog commands, positive reinforcement and praise. Rayna says thank you for fixing me.

Bill L

Dec. 27, 2023 - google

Highly recommend Elite. Matt and his staff worked with our rescued female Doberman, Carly, and we are thrilled with the outcome. Elite was recommended to us by a friend who also had a great experience with their two dogs. We believe the investment was well worth it! We also love the group classes that are available once the one-on-one training has been completed.

Savahnah Olander-Walsh

Dec. 20, 2023 - google

If you are ever thinking about going to dog training elite, go with your gut and say yes. I chose to go with dog training elite, and my dog and me came out better than ever. They don’t just work with your dog for whatever training you choose like service dog, protection work, basic obedience, therapy dog work, and more, they work with you also so when training is over you can thrive at what you have learned throughout your whole training. I got so lucky because I don’t trust my dog with just anyone especially the person who’s gonna help my dog help me out more than he already did. I got lucky with Cameron, she helped me past what you would think you would get back from dog training. She is funny, amazing, and just Cameron. If you ever get to meet her she will bring a light into your life and your dog’s life. My dog’s tail wags faster than anything in this world when he hears that he gets to see Cameron. Cameron goes above and beyond what the job entails. She shows you that dog training elite is the best choice to go with for dog training. It didn’t just make my dog a better service dog it made me a better service dog owner so my dog is and will be the best that he can be with his tasks. Kai will forever be grateful for Cameron because now he can help me his parent out with all that I go through. I will also forever be grateful for Cameron and the whole dog training elite company that has helped me and kai get through this process, but especially Cameron. Also just thought I should show you how perfect kai is, he’s in his goggled and dog training elite vest

Paula Bryant

Dec. 18, 2023 - google

Saved my dog! A totally new dog! The aggressive behavior has been changed.

Corianne B

Dec. 18, 2023 - google

I picked Dog Training Elite because of its high rating on Google. I was desperate at the time to be able to walk my 5 month old Bernese Mountain Dog with a stroller and not hurt my harms from all of his pulling. The training was simple, the trainers were great. Within a week, our dog learned to heel and walks were peaceful again. I reserved my review for over a year because they told me that with repeated, quick daily sessions, when he was closer to 2 years old I wouldn’t rely on the training collar and his training would be solid. Here we are, Boomer Sooner is 2 years old and although I still put a collar on him most days, he is so well trained in every area that I rarely use it. My 3 year old is able to walk him on a leash. He’s not a robot but he knows what we expect from him. Today, something happened to remind me to leave a review for these trainers. With all the wind, our backyard gate blew open while our dog was outside and because we’ve taught him not to rush the door or rush gates, he stood there looking at it and then his recall was immediate, the first time I called him. I’m grateful for the training we received from this company and the well behaved dog we have as a result!

Chris Reynolds

Sep. 10, 2023 - facebook

Matt and John did a great job with our 3yo Aussie, remi. She was a nightmare on leash and was very reactive. After wasting money on other training, we reached out to Dog training elite. 2 months later we are able to take Remi out to dinner on patios, and today she had her first experience at Bar K without issue. Highly recommend Matt and his team.

Robert Chen

Jul. 5, 2023 - google

Matt and his team were incredible. As an owner who had previously only used treat-based training before, I was extremely hesitant to try other methods such as an eCollar. Despite my hesitation, Matt took the time to explain to me what an eCollar was actually used for and dispelled many of the misconceptions I had heard on the internet. Like treats, an eCollar is a tool, and one that surprisingly DOES NOT HURT! How do I know? We tried it on ourselves at the setting we would be using on our dog! After our introductory meeting, we were paired with Hunter, who is just the most incredible dog trainer any owner could hope for. Our dog was working on reactivity toward other dogs. Hunter took the time to explain both high-level dog psychology to establish a framework for us to think about our dog's behavior, as well as multiple tangible tricks and training routines that we could put into daily practice. What I really like about Hunter's style of training is that he doesn't apply some inflexible, his-word-is-law approach, but meets our needs and our dog where they are. Could not recommend Dog Training Elite more highly (except by saying, work with Hunter if you can)!

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About Dog Training Elite St. Louis

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Meet Our Elite Team. Dog Training Elite St. Louis

Meet the Team

Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Dog Training Elite St. Louis. Our team of experienced trainers is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds. Learn about their backgrounds, expertise, and what drives them to deliver the highest level of training in the industry.

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Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Frequently Asked Questions. Dog Training Elite St. Louis

FAQs

Our FAQs cover the most common inquiries about our training methods, programs, and what you can expect when working with Dog Training Elite St. Louis. If you’re curious about anything related to our services, this is where you will find the information you need.

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Careers

Join the Dog Training Elite St. Louis family! If you’re passionate about dogs and interested in making a difference, explore career opportunities with us. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to excellence in dog training and customer service. Discover how you can grow with us and become a part of a team that truly cares about dogs and their owners.

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Gallery

Our gallery features photos and videos of dogs in training, successful graduates, and highlights from community events. See what Dog Training Elite St. Louis can offer your dog and get a glimpse of the work we’re passionate about.

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Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Local Dog Trainers in St. Louis, MO. DTE

In the Community

At Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we’re proud to be an active part of the community we serve. Check out recent events in our area where we’ve had the privilege to participate in local events, support fellow small businesses, and promote responsible dog ownership.

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Video Gallery

Videos

An Dog Training Elite St. Louis owner explaining the use of e-collars.

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E Collar. Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Elite is a professional, family-owned dog training company with over 40 years of experience that specializes in strengthening the bond between your dog and your family, with a strong emphasis on teaching your dog the highest level of obedience, despite even the toughest level of distractions.

A group of dogs walking at a Dog Training Elite St. Louis group class

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Group Focus Exercise. Dog Training Elite

In a safe, controlled environment, we guide your dog through essential socialization skills, teaching them to remain calm, focused, and well-mannered, even in the midst of distractions.

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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 St. Louis.

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.

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Our Team

Matt Willis

Owner & Trainer - DTE St. Louis

Matt grew up in Austin TX in a house full of animals. He began training the family dogs at an early age. Raised in a hunting family, he learned retrieving, tracking and the responsible way to incorporate e-collar use in different training aspects."I always aspired to work with animals as a career but it just didn't happen for me."

After 20 years in wholesale distribution, that chance finally came."I sold my business and decided it was time to do something I'm passionate about. I love dogs and the special bond they bring to complete a family. We can't create sharp obedience unless we make it clear and easy for our dog to understand what we expect from them."

Matt trained in many aspects once joining DTE. He has been certified in Advanced Obedience, Internal/External Scent Detection, Service and Therapy, Personal Protection and Puppy Behavior/Training. He is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a certified instructor and evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Community and Urban Canine testing.

When not working with your dog, you can find him training his 4 year old Border Collie-Cowboy or his 4 year old Chocolate Lab-Bullet. He also enjoys hiking, biking, hunting and golf.

Dominic

Trainer

Meet Dom! The second oldest of six children, their Milwaukee home was always busy. And always full of dogs too. Thats why Dom knew from an early age he would someday make a career out of helping dogs. After high school, Dominic joined the Navy and served for 7 years. "After leaving the military it was time to follow my dream and find a career with dogs. I have always known it would be in training. Seeing peoples' lives change after giving their dog structure and obedience is highly rewarding."

Dom has a 3yr old Pit Bull named Serendipity, Seren for short. When he's not training you can find him on the disc golf course, playing chess, hiking or hitting a new local restaurant.

He is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a certified instructor and evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Community and Urban Canine testing.

Jon

Trainer

Meet Jon! He grew up in Arkansas and his family always had a pack in the house. After college, Jon spent over 10 years in the coaching profession instructing high school swimming. In 2020, Jon began participating in Disc Dogs STL with his pups and realized his passion for training and dog behavior. "My first competition was a disaster, but we improved immensely after educating myself and training harder. My Belgian Malinois Jackie and I won the novice division of the Missouri State Disc Dog Championship the very next year!”

His hobby became a search for a new career. Jon reached out to DTE and it was easy to see he had the drive and certainly the love for dogs. “It's so rewarding for me to help other dog owners develop a structured and obedient dog." He is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a certified instructor and evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Community and Urban Canine testing.

During his free time, he likes spending time with his family enjoying activities outside, concerts, going to the movies, traveling and spending time with their 3 dogs. Jackie is a 3yr old Belgian Malinois, Wolfgang is a 2yr old German Shepherd and Belle is a 1yr old Belgian/GSD mix.

Alecia

Operations Manager

Meet Alecia! She has worn several hats during her tenure with DTE, but now keeps the train on the tracks as our Operations Manager. "Had I been told 5 years ago I would be switching careers into dog training, I would have more than likely laughed! I didn't foresee this industry in my future having spent 15 years in the medical field. However, now I can't imagine things any other way. Helping clients and their dogs is so rewarding and I love what I do!"

Alecia is a St.Louis native, attending St.Joseph's Academy and then graduating from the University of Missouri. She has two kids and a very energetic 2yr old Belgian Malinois, Nakita(Kita), that keep her on her toes. She is currently training Kita for Personal Protection with DTE. When not working to better serve our clients, she enjoys soccer, Cardinals baseball, gardening and playing games with her kiddos.

Michelle

Trainer

Meet Michelle! She has been an animal lover her whole life and was always bringing home dogs and critters. Michelle began her journey working at local boarding and daycare facilities around St.Louis. After gaining years of experience in canine behavior, she shifted to animal rescue and adoption. There she screened incoming dogs, helped train and acclimate them to their new surroundings and facilitated the adoption process. Michelle then took her knowledge to the veterinary world for a couple of years. But she always knew what her true calling was; to be a trainer. "I've witnessed the benefits of proper training first hand. There are so many dogs that need guidance, love and a second chance to become wonderful members of a family. I'm so excited to join the DTE team and expand my training knowledge. My true passion is working with Service and Therapy dogs. It's so rewarding to assist individuals and others in the community through the love of a dog!"

When not training your pup, you'll find her busy with her four dogs. She has two German Shepherds, a King Shepherd and a Pitbull mix. All of which she adopted of course. Michelle loves the outdoors. She enjoys hiking and camping in the mountains, and also going to concerts.

She is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a certified instructor and evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Community and Urban Canine testing.

Alex

Trainer

Meet Alex! He always knew he wanted to work with animals from a young age, but dog training is a new found passion. A St.Louis native, Alex began his journey by attending the Tom Rose School of Dog Training in 2018. There he studied advanced obedience, tracking, scent detection and also dabbled in some protection work. "I really enjoyed the thrill of the hunt with tracking. Watching your dog engaged in a search is second to none". Alex had always worked off and on at the St. Louis Zoo but knew he wanted to get more hands on with the animals.

After graduating from the Masters Program at TRS, he decided to work in the veterinary industry. "It was a short stint but it made me realize I enjoyed getting hands on with the animals I wanted to help". That led him to DTE. He has excelled in our methodology and has helped so many canines already.

When not helping you and your canine, Alex enjoys being outside; camping, hiking, and playing disc golf. He also loves going to car shows and races. He is pictured with his 2yr old Chocolate Lab Nala.

Meet the Team