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DTE St. Louis is absolutely phenomenal. When our rescue pup (a male pitbull mix) was around a year and half, we realized as first-time dog owners that we needed professional support. Matt and the DTE Team met with us for 2 free consults as we decided between the service dog training and obedience training. After our pup had a traumatic incident with another dog while we were away and we began struggling immensely with dog reactivity (e.g., barking and lunging on leash), Matt tailored the 3-week in-faculty obedience training specifically to our needs surrounding reactivity, impulse control, and hypersensitivity. Matt, Dom, Jon, Alex, and the entire DTE Team have been incredible with us throughout this process. They made sure to explain from the beginning that though we can regulate a dog’s behaviors through training, we cannot completely change a dog’s personality, which helped us understand our pup better as we worked to strengthen the ways in which we communicate with him and assess his needs/stress levels. Within the 3 weeks of in-facility training, we saw massive improvements in neutrality while on walks in our neighborhood, and it only got better once we began attending Saturday and Monday obedience group classes. DTE focuses not just on teaching your dog, but on teaching you, as the dog’s handlers, how to effectively communicate with your dog. They use a balanced approach that includes an emphasis on your body language, lots of positive reinforcement, and importantly, the setting of clear expectations and boundaries (e.g., with e-collar training). The DTE Team excels in assessing each individual dog’s needs and adapting when the situation calls for it. To give you an example, group class is very challenging for our dog-selective pup. The first few months went well, but after a stressful period of travel, our pup regressed a bit and began barking and lunging more both on walks and in group class. The trainers worked with us to adjust how much space we gave our pup during class, and modified the way he participated in group activities so that he could remain under his emotional threshold before we asked him to do more challenging exercises again. DTE has given us a safe space to implement all that we’ve learned during training and to receive support as we navigate the difficult journey of counter-reactivity training with a pup we love tremendously. It is not easy, and we are still working towards our goal of neutrality around other dogs, but I went from experiencing debilitating panic while taking my pup for a 10-minute walk before the DTE training, to walking him for hour+ periods in more public places with confidence, both in my leadership skills and in his ability to make the right choices. And for reference, we are about 6 months into training using the DTE methodology. For anyone struggling with these types of reactivity issues, I cannot recommend DTE highly enough. Thank you to the entire DTE Team!!! We wouldn’t have made it this far without your unyielding support.

We’ve had such a positive experience with Dog Training Elite! After adding a new rescue dog to our pack, we’ve struggled with reactivity and barking from both dogs. We’ve worked with other trainers in the past, but we’ve seen more success with our older dog with DTE than anywhere else. Both dogs have responded very well to the e-collar training. We appreciate how conscientiously the trainers use the e-collars, and we have been given clear guidance on what levels of the collar to utilize with certain behaviors. The staff has been amazing with both of our dogs and are clearly invested in their success. The group classes are incredibly fun and something we genuinely look forward to each week. I can’t recommend DTE enough for anyone who needs help and guidance with their dog.

After visiting several schools to train my dog as a service animal, we chose Dog Training Elite—and it was absolutely the right decision. Matt, the director, did an amazing job tailoring the program to our needs, and Alex, my dog’s trainer, is incredibly empathetic. My dog adores him. The whole experience has been wonderful. We loved the classes, and my dog went from being extremely hyperactive to truly well‑behaved, in just 2 month. We’ve learned so much, and now we enjoy our dog more than ever

Great staff, great training, group classes fill up so fast wish there were more. Training our service dog teddy with there help and the results are astounding right from a puppy. Has competitive prices compared to other trainers. I personally have worked with Alex and Dom can't say enough nice things about them both. They whole family at DTE has been so vital in teddy being the big success he has become.

Dog Training Elite trained my seven month old Border Terrier and I know training a Border Terrier, let alone a seven month old terrier, is a challenging Job. Matt and Falisha were amazing and really know what they are doing. I take my terrier in every few months for a refresher while he’s still young. And each time I get Report card with feedback and things I can do to continuously improve his training and behavior. He’s an amazing puppy. Learns quickly and it’s all things to DTE. Knowing my puppy like I do, I’m sure it’s not nearly as easy as they make it look. Border Terriers can be very stubborn, but mine doesn’t show it.

We have had an amazing experience with Elite Dog Training. Our energetic Vizsla pup, Zoey, has so much energy, but with her trainer Jon and the rest of the staff at EDT, she has learned so much obedience and confidence. The training has made a huge difference in our everyday life. All the trainers at EDT are patient, knowledgeable, and truly care about both the dogs and their owners. They explain things clearly and make training feel doable at home. I am so grateful for everything we have learned and would highly recommend EDT to anyone looking to strengthen their bond with their dog and who wants real results and a positive experience.

I cannot express have grateful we are to the Dog Training Elite Team for their full support working with our Doberman Pincher, Rani. Rani’s journey at DTE started when she was 10 weeks old. She gained her AKC Star Puppy Certificate and with the help of DTE, she is now a Certified Therapy Dog and has earned her Canine Good Citizen Certificate. DTE’s due diligence and knowledge of dogs and training, made such a huge impact on Rani. The DTE team have unwavering dedication to each and every dog they work with. They greet every dog and owner and are available at any time to listen to your concerns or issues with training. It did help that they also trained me as well (and free of charge). Rani is now a year old and is a well-trained, obedient, and happy part of our family. I have never been witness to an unkind word spoken or mistreatment towards any dog. All trainers know how to deal with different dog personalities and handle all dogs with care and respect. I would recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone that is interested in obedience and other courses offered. To begin your journey give Matt a call. It’s your first step to owning a beautiful, happy, and obedient dog. Our journey with Rani continues with DTE and we will always take her in to refresh her skills and continue her growth in the community. Proud to be associated with this hardworking team: Alecia, Dominic, Alex, Jon, Matt (and Rani).

We have had an excellent experience with Dog Training Elite. Our dog, Walter, became extremely reactive and we were becoming overwhelmed with his training. The team here completely changed that. We’ve worked with the owner Matt and several trainers including Jon, Dom, and Alex (among others) and each of them has been knowledgeable, patient, and consistent in their approach. It is obvious that everyone here LOVES dogs and are passionate about dog training. After several months of training, Walter has made huge improvements. We are now able to walk him with far more control and confidence, which has been life changing for our daily routine. We did the initial in-facility training program which was fantastic and got things kick started. The follow up group training classes have been a great way to reinforce his skills and gives us the chance for controlled exposure to other dogs. We’re incredibly grateful for the progress Walter has made in the first ~4 months of his training. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone dealing with reactivity or looking for a supportive, effective training program.

After researching a bunch of local options, this program was the clear outlier. Their program is the most extensive I found, and as someone who has been through structured training programs with both my current puppy and past pets, I really value a long-term approach. That is exactly what you get here. We are just wrapping up the 3-week course plus three private lessons, and we are headed into group lessons next. The progress has been huge. Every trainer we worked with was a wealth of knowledge, and they took the time to explain not just what to do, but why it works, so it actually sticks at home. I honestly wish they were the first place I found. I spent valuable time and money on other companies before landing here, and the difference is night and day. Yes, there were closer and cheaper options near us in Wildwood. But the positive changes I am seeing in my dog, and the long-term commitment this program offers, are worth every penny and every extra minute in the car. Easily the best dog training experience I have seen in the St. Louis area.

Dog Training Elite has been so much more than we expected! When Boomer started with DTE he was a 4 month old rescue. We just expected some typical obedience training. We got exceptional training from knowledgeable and caring trainers, including Dom, Alex and Jon, who have treated us like family. Boomer is just over 1 year old now. He loves to go to day trains at DTE for tuning up :) and group sessions in the park. We always get comments about what a well mannered dog he is. He goes to restaurants, tball, soccer and stores with us and is always well behaved. I highly recommend DTE for your dog training needs. They are easy to work with and all of their staff is always helpful and responsive. We love DTE and will be lifelong customers.

Little girl Lumi is loving her time and experience training at Elite! She’s making great progress and that is because the trainers are excellent! They hear the struggles and walk you through solutions. So glad we jumped in asap.

Matt, Dom, John and the whole staff were awesome. Highly recommend. They’re great at communication and they get results.

We took are dogs Batman and Lexi here back in June or July and I have nothing but positive things to say about these dog trainers they know what to do and how to make your dog listen the right way. Before I could barely walk are pity and he used to scream every time the saw a dog or a person. Walks were miserable… now today we took him down to the park with so many people and he walked past them like everything was normal. I couldn’t say enough positive things about Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Elite Helped Brody Become a Certified Service Dog—Thank You, Matt! When we first brought Brody, our golden retriever puppy, to Dog Training Elite, we were hopeful but unsure of what to expect. We knew we wanted him to become a service dog for our 10 year old daughter but we also knew that would take serious training, consistency, and the right guidance. From the very beginning, the team at Dog Training Elite impressed us with their professionalism, experience, and genuine care for both dogs and their owners. Each session was thoughtfully structured and tailored to Brody’s personality and learning pace. The trainers were patient, clear, and incredibly knowledgeable—not just about dog behavior, but about how to build lasting habits that stick. They didn’t just teach Brody commands; they helped him develop focus, reliability, and calmness in a wide range of environments. Today, at 10 months old, Brody is a certified service dog, and the difference in his behavior and confidence is remarkable! He’s attentive, well-mannered, and capable of handling complex tasks in public and at home. We’ve seen firsthand how much effort and expertise went into his training, and we couldn’t be more grateful. A special thank you to Matt, the owner of Dog Training Elite. Matt’s leadership and hands-on involvement made a huge impact. He was always available to answer questions, offer advice, and make sure Brody was progressing the right way. His commitment to quality and care is reflected in every part of the program. If you’re looking for serious training with real results, Dog Training Elite is the place to go. They helped Brody reach his full potential, and we’re incredibly thankful for the journey.

My dog Kate has been with this company for a few years now. We still go to group classes. Matt and the people that work for him are just outstanding, would highly recommend this company to anyone with a dog!!! It’s exactly what your dog needs.

Huge improvements with our miniature dachshunds! Our 5yr old doxie had gotten tough to walk over the past couple of years - she was very reactive on the leash and constantly barking at other dogs. We couldn't let her say hi to other dogs because she would lunge and show aggression. This behavior is completely gone after in-facility training and several group classes where she has learned confidence, focus, and appropriate behavior with other dogs. This was the third training facility we tried with her and it finally worked!! This was also the first training session for our 1yr old dachshund, who has made huge improvements in understanding and listening. We are staying patient with her as she is still easily distracted as a young puppy, but this has given her such great exposure to other people, dogs, and different environments. Our dogs absolutely love the group training classes and adored all of the trainers. You know its a good sign when they can't stop wagging their tails when they recognize the instructors!

Really couldn’t be happier with the results from Matt and his staff. Despite persistent training, our golden doodle remained a problem and we were faced with a decision whether he could be managed at all. We elected the intensive two-week training option. He came home a bit “down” the first couple days, something mentioned in their materials since he is learning his place in the pack for the first time. After those first couple days, however, he became happier than we had ever seen and we started to see immediate improvement. His progress continues with the follow on classes, which are great for reinforcing and strengthening obedience. Our dog now comes reliably, can greet guests and share life with our family. Matt and his staff really know the dogs, both by name and temperament. Thank you for coming to the rescue!

We've had a bit of bad luck in the past when it came to finding the right trainer for our Malamute, Mako. When he was still a puppy, we tried a newer daycare and training facility, thinking it would be a great way for him to socialize with other dogs while getting some basic training. Unfortunately, after just a couple of weeks, he was removed from the program without any clear explanation. I was worried it might have been due to aggression, but they assured us it wasn't that. We then worked with another trainer for a few months, and she was wonderful. However, we had to part ways when she started her family. As Mako grew older, his energy turned to reactivity, leading to constant conflicts with our other male Malamute. He became reactive around other dogs, weary of new men, and his leash manners were getting too challenging for me to handle. On top of that, he had no recall at all. Our main goal was to train him on recall so we could safely take him to the river. One afternoon, I happened to drive by Dog Training Elite (DTE) and decided to stop in. From the moment I walked through the door, I was impressed by the calm atmosphere and the sight of several dogs patiently holding their place commands along the walls. That day, I met with Matt and shared my concerns about our 120-pound, reactive, intact Malamute. He listened attentively and expressed strong confidence that he and his team could help get Mako on the right track. He was absolutely right. I had the pleasure of working with Amanda during our one-on-one training sessions. She taught me how to recognize subtle body language cues that signal when my males might be about to fight, and she showed me effective ways to prevent those situations from escalating. Since starting with (DTE)several months ago, we've gone from fights every few days to just two incidents in total since we started at (DTE)!—remarkable improvement! We absolutely love the group classes, too. They've helped build Mako's confidence around other dogs tremendously. He's come so far from making intense, prolonged eye contact that would set off other dogs, to now just glancing briefly before turning his attention back to me. I'm incredibly proud of his progress. I'm so glad that I drove by (DTE) that day and took a leap of faith by walking in. The team at (DTE) has equipped me with the tools and confidence I needed to make life less stressful and much happier for both me and my dog. I posted a photo of Taco Mako OFF LEASH (with his e collar) at the River. We are so excited that we can now take him swimming with his siblings. We have gone 4 times so far this summer and he listen's very well and sticks close to us. Thank you Dog Training Elite for giving us our dog back!!

Dog training elite has been worth every penny. Their staff is very friendly and knowledgeable and they have helped our dog tremendously. I can’t recommend enough.

Highly, highly recommend!! We had an incident with our dog that left us wondering if we could keep him. I reached out to Matt and he was quick to respond and met with us right away squeezing us in with my tight schedule. I could tell right away this was the place to help us. I had called several other places, and they did not have the confidence that Matt had! We had 8 in home training sessions with Dom- who is absolutely amazing!!!! He always brought such great energy to the sessions, and not only trained my dog but trained me as well! Dom was very patient with me and my millions of questions. It turned out though, that my dog was having a reaction to the collar, and developed a small sore. I was so upset, and unsure if I wanted to continue with this type of training. I reached out to Matt who truly took the time to talk through it with me and help me figure out what happened. Turns out my dog was allergic to it! He found a collar for my dog that did not hurt him, and was very patient with me as we worked it out. All I can say is that now I have confidence with my dog again! His behavior has changed so much, and I am no longer nervous around him! Thank you guys so much!