A group of different dog breeds sitting on grass in St. Louis, MO.
Dog Training Elite

Breed Specific Dog Training in St. Louis, MO

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A goup of dogs training at a park for breed specific dog training in St. Louis, MO.

St. Louis Breed-Specific Plans for Effective Obedience and Socialization

Tailored Training for Every Dog

At Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we know that every dog is an individual and requires different training methods. Maybe your dog needs to work on separation anxiety or learn how to stop barking at the mailman. Dog Training Elite stands out by also looking at what breed your dog is when making training goals.

We don’t discriminate when it comes to breeds, but we know that some species need more specialized training in certain areas. Whatever your dog’s breed, DTE can help you and your dog overcome any obstacles related to obedience and socialization. Regardless of breed, size or temperament, Dog Training Elite St. Louis is capable of breed specific dog training in St. Louis, MO for all dogs that come to our doorstep.

See Training Packages

Breeds We Train

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - German Shepherd Training in St. Louis. DTE

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are a popular breed for herding and other working roles. They have many beautiful traits, including strength, vigilance and confidence. German Shepherds are very intelligent as well, making them excellent candidates for dog training with their quick learning.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis can help bring your German Shepherd’s great qualities to the forefront and allow them to be the best companion for your family.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Labrador Dog Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Labrador

Labradors make great family dogs. They are an intelligent breed that loves to please. Labradors take direction well and are easy to train.

This breed is also perfect as a companion dog, making them suitable for work as a therapy dog. Early socialization and professional training are crucial to raising a well-behaved Labrador. The experienced trainers of Dog Training Elite St. Louis can assist you in training this impressive breed.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Goldendoodle Training in St. Louis, MO. Dog Training Elite

Goldendoodle

Goldendoodles are a special breed that possesses the loveable traits of the Poodle and Golden Retriever. They are eager to learn, compassionate, patient and very loving.

Goldendoodles’ nature makes it a perfect breed candidate for training in general obedience and service dog training. They are an excellent breed for families, and Dog Training Elite St. Louis knows how to turn this breed into the perfect companion.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Beagle Dog Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Beagle

Beagles have historically been bred for pack hunting, making them an intelligent and curious breed. Beagles are very compassionate and companionable dogs, making them perfect for families and work as therapy dogs.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis harnesses the strong qualities your Beagle has and turns them into a well-trained companion.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Pitbull Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Pitbull

Pitbull breeds include the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and other bull-type dog breeds. Sadly, Pitbulls have a history of being bred for blood sports. This history has caused fear and misinformation when it comes to Pitbull temperament.

The breed has been known for being aggressive or intimidating, but the breed is better understood for being tender and loving with its owners and companions. Dog Training Elite St. Louis is experienced in handling Pitbulls and helping owners build loving and loyal relationships with them.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Boxer Dog Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Boxer

The Boxer breed is known for its muscular build and expressive face. They’re also very alert and energetic.

Boxers have a rich history of being bred for hunting and herding. They make excellent companions for active families, and with proper training techniques from Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we’ll ensure your Boxer is happy and fulfilled.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Doberman Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Doberman

Dobermans are mighty and loyal dogs. As companion dogs, they will adopt a protective nature when it comes to family and property. Because of these traits, it’s important to begin their training early.

Proper socialization and obedience training will help prevent unwanted aggression and behavior. Dog Training Elite St. Louis can help you maintain your dog’s outgoing and playful nature while reining in the fierce attitude they might have.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Border Collie Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Border Collie

Border Collies are known for their incredible intelligence and boundless energy, making them one of the most agile and trainable breeds. Often regarded as the best herding dogs, they thrive on mental and physical challenges.

Their sharp minds and strong work ethic make them ideal for advanced training and dog sports. Dog Training Elite St. Louis is ready to harness your Border Collie’s potential, turning them into a well-behaved and focused companion that excels in any task you set before them.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - Golden Retriever Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

Golden Retriever

As one of the most popular breeds to have as companions, Golden Retrievers are wonderfully outgoing and loving. They are excellent working dogs and commonly used as service animals as they are knowledgeable and possess a calm temperament.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis is ready and capable of turning your Golden Retriever puppy/dog into the perfect family companion.

Dog Training Elite St. Louis - French Bulldog Training in St. Louis, MO. DTE

French Bulldog

French bulldogs are a great addition to any home and especially well-suited to city life. Even though this breed is fairly easy-going, training is crucial to keep your dog safe in and out of your home.

At Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we specialize in breed-specific training. Contact us today to schedule a free training demo!

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!

A child sitting on an outside bench with his dogs in St. Louis, MO.

What Role Does Breed Play?


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When it comes to training your dog, understanding their breed can be crucial for achieving the best results. While all dogs generally share qualities like loyalty, kindness, and intelligence, specific breeds often have unique traits that influence their behavior and learning style. For instance, dogs bred for working roles, such as Border Collies or German Shepherds, tend to be more energetic and intelligent, excelling in tasks that challenge their minds and bodies. On the other hand, companion breeds like Bulldogs or Shih Tzus may have a more laid-back demeanor, requiring a different approach that emphasizes patience and balanced training.

At Dog Training Elite St. Louis, we recognize the importance of considering these breed-specific tendencies when developing a training plan. Our approach tailors methods to suit your dog’s natural instincts and behaviors, whether they are a high-energy herder, a protective guardian, or a relaxed companion. This personalized strategy ensures that your dog reaches their full potential, creating a well-behaved and happy companion that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • chris perkins
    Sep. 29, 2025
    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.
  • D
    Sep. 21, 2025
    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.
  • Emelie Fredrikson
    Aug. 14, 2025
    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!
  • Jeffrey Russell
    Aug. 14, 2025
    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!
  • paige schulze
    Aug. 11, 2025
    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!!
  • Luke Paino
    Aug. 5, 2025
    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.
  • Cynthia Coleman
    Jul. 30, 2025
    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!
  • Kamryn Wileman
    Jul. 26, 2025
    Both of our two-year-old girls absolutely love DTE—and so do we! Our pups—a Beagle and a Rottweiler—used to struggle a lot. They often fought, dealt with serious jealousy issues, were completely unwalkable, and were reactive toward strangers. It was overwhelming, to say the least. But even after just a few in-home sessions, we saw a huge difference. Dom got us started, answered all of our questions, and explained everything so clearly. Then Alex became our main trainer, and it truly warmed my heart to see how confidently they handled our fearful Rottie—who has never liked strangers. Watching her open up to them was incredible. Dom and Alex weren’t just amazing with our dogs—they were amazing with us, too. We’ve learned so much. Now we have multiple tools at our disposal (like e-collars, prong collars, and leash pressure), but more importantly, we know how to use them safely and effectively. That’s all thanks to DTE! We now attend group classes every Monday and Saturday, and it’s been a game-changer. Our girls are doing things I never imagined they could. Their confidence has skyrocketed! Axel leads the group classes and he’s fantastic—always staying late to answer questions and keeping the sessions fun and engaging for both dogs and humans. Today, both of our girls are walkable (I can even walk them by myself without getting dragged around!), and I trust them even when neighborhood dogs run up to us unexpectedly. They can be around other dogs and people without being reactive, and our relationship with them is so much stronger now. There’s trust on both sides—and that’s priceless. We’re not done with our training journey yet, but I’m genuinely excited to keep going. I’ll recommend DTE to everyone I know! I wish I had more action shots of the girls—but here they are after a Saturday class! 😂
  • Omar
    Jun. 7, 2025
    A Game-Changer for Our Reactive German Shepherd! Our family was at our wits' end with our German Shepherd, Journey. We love her dearly, but her reactivity towards other dogs and sometimes even people had become a significant source of stress. Walks were a nightmare, and having guests over was always a gamble. After extensive research, we decided to entrust Dog Training Elite with our beloved Journey, and we can honestly say it has been a life-changing experience, thanks to the incredible guidance of Matt and Michelle. From our very first session, Matt’s calm confidence and deep understanding of dog behavior put us at ease. He didn't just train Journey; he trained us. He patiently explained the psychology behind Journey's reactivity and equipped us with the tools and techniques to become the confident leaders she needed. Michelle’s compassionate and encouraging approach was the perfect complement. She helped us understand Journey's perspective and celebrated every small victory with us, which kept us motivated throughout the process. The transformation in Journey has been nothing short of remarkable. While she is still a work in progress, the dog we have today is worlds away from the anxious, reactive girl we brought to them. She is calmer, more focused, and looks to us for guidance in situations that would have previously sent her into a frenzy. We are now able to enjoy walks with her, and she is learning to coexist peacefully with the world around her. What we appreciate most about Matt and Michelle's approach is their emphasis on real-world application. The tips and strategies they provided were not just for training sessions; they have become an integral part of our daily routine. The work with Journey continues, as true behavioral change takes time and consistency. However, we are now armed with the knowledge and support to continue her progress. Matt and Michelle have given us hope and, most importantly, a more manageable and enjoyable life with our sweet Journey. We are incredibly grateful for their expertise and dedication and wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite to any family struggling with a reactive dog.
  • David Wells
    May. 7, 2025
    Matt and his Staff are true professionals! The Staff at DTE worked with our dog “Ryker” and we are very pleased with the outcome. Throughout the entire process the Staff was helpful, positive, flexible, and were always giving tips to help you understand what they were teaching. It has been a very rewarding experience and I would recommend DTE highly to anyone! R. Wells
  • Stephanie M
    Mar. 9, 2025
    They helped us train our two dogs to be better with listening and obeying commands. Our life with these puppers went from horrid to amazing with their help. They also have helped me find replacement parts for their training collars.Thank u so very much.
  • Katie Gould
    Feb. 1, 2025
    Matt and his staff are amazing!!!! They are patient and kind. While getting our service dog trained they were supportive through every step. I have owned dogs all my life and I never thought about going through training but through out this whole process I have watched not only my dog but others in the classes transform into amazing animals :)
  • Lenell Moeller Weiler
    Oct. 5, 2024
    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!
  • Bev D
    Sep. 23, 2024
    We were very pleased with DTE program and our trainer Chelsea! Tinkerbelle is a better dog and we are better owners since in home classes.
  • Gina Weeks
    Jul. 21, 2024
    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. 2, 2024
    I started dealing with Matt. He was always professional yet personable and very knowledgeable. I could always rely on him to get back with me, if he was unavailable, in a very timely manner. He was so very helpful and a lot of advice and helping me to make sure that I had enough information to choose inappropriate rescue dog and then he also did the assessment on her and got her approved for training. I started one-on-one home training with Michelle on I believe April 23rd. Michelle was the perfect match for Saffron and myself! She relates to a lot of my issues and my life. Funny, because she's like 25 years younger than me, LOL She has done amazing things with training me and my beautiful German Shepherd in the last 10 weeks. We did our first group training session last night, which was held inside the facility and Matt was the trainer for the class that night. He was a very informative. He comes up with these ideas that no one in a million years would never come up with but it totally makes sense! This class was awesome for Saffron, and myself. We are looking forward to our next group training class which will be outside in a park. Before I go, I must mention that Matt had a young lady that was helping him with class last night, chelsea, I believe that was her name, and she was just as friendly and helpful and I was really shocked at how knowledgeable she was especially since she seemed so considerably Young lol. It has been 10 weeks and so far it has been a very pleasant and educating experience for both myself and my dog. I am looking forward to the rest of our journey to her becoming my psychiatric service dog and my life partner.
  • Michelle Downey
    Jul. 1, 2024
    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
    Tyler was absolutely amazing!!!!
  • Alyssa Haydon
    Jun. 19, 2024
    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 M
    Jun. 13, 2024
    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!
  • chris perkins
    Sep. 29, 2025
    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.
  • D
    Sep. 21, 2025
    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.
  • Emelie Fredrikson
    Aug. 14, 2025
    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!
  • Jeffrey Russell
    Aug. 14, 2025
    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!
  • paige schulze
    Aug. 11, 2025
    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!!
  • Luke Paino
    Aug. 5, 2025
    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.
  • Cynthia Coleman
    Jul. 30, 2025
    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!
  • Kamryn Wileman
    Jul. 26, 2025
    Both of our two-year-old girls absolutely love DTE—and so do we! Our pups—a Beagle and a Rottweiler—used to struggle a lot. They often fought, dealt with serious jealousy issues, were completely unwalkable, and were reactive toward strangers. It was overwhelming, to say the least. But even after just a few in-home sessions, we saw a huge difference. Dom got us started, answered all of our questions, and explained everything so clearly. Then Alex became our main trainer, and it truly warmed my heart to see how confidently they handled our fearful Rottie—who has never liked strangers. Watching her open up to them was incredible. Dom and Alex weren’t just amazing with our dogs—they were amazing with us, too. We’ve learned so much. Now we have multiple tools at our disposal (like e-collars, prong collars, and leash pressure), but more importantly, we know how to use them safely and effectively. That’s all thanks to DTE! We now attend group classes every Monday and Saturday, and it’s been a game-changer. Our girls are doing things I never imagined they could. Their confidence has skyrocketed! Axel leads the group classes and he’s fantastic—always staying late to answer questions and keeping the sessions fun and engaging for both dogs and humans. Today, both of our girls are walkable (I can even walk them by myself without getting dragged around!), and I trust them even when neighborhood dogs run up to us unexpectedly. They can be around other dogs and people without being reactive, and our relationship with them is so much stronger now. There’s trust on both sides—and that’s priceless. We’re not done with our training journey yet, but I’m genuinely excited to keep going. I’ll recommend DTE to everyone I know! I wish I had more action shots of the girls—but here they are after a Saturday class! 😂
  • Omar
    Jun. 7, 2025
    A Game-Changer for Our Reactive German Shepherd! Our family was at our wits' end with our German Shepherd, Journey. We love her dearly, but her reactivity towards other dogs and sometimes even people had become a significant source of stress. Walks were a nightmare, and having guests over was always a gamble. After extensive research, we decided to entrust Dog Training Elite with our beloved Journey, and we can honestly say it has been a life-changing experience, thanks to the incredible guidance of Matt and Michelle. From our very first session, Matt’s calm confidence and deep understanding of dog behavior put us at ease. He didn't just train Journey; he trained us. He patiently explained the psychology behind Journey's reactivity and equipped us with the tools and techniques to become the confident leaders she needed. Michelle’s compassionate and encouraging approach was the perfect complement. She helped us understand Journey's perspective and celebrated every small victory with us, which kept us motivated throughout the process. The transformation in Journey has been nothing short of remarkable. While she is still a work in progress, the dog we have today is worlds away from the anxious, reactive girl we brought to them. She is calmer, more focused, and looks to us for guidance in situations that would have previously sent her into a frenzy. We are now able to enjoy walks with her, and she is learning to coexist peacefully with the world around her. What we appreciate most about Matt and Michelle's approach is their emphasis on real-world application. The tips and strategies they provided were not just for training sessions; they have become an integral part of our daily routine. The work with Journey continues, as true behavioral change takes time and consistency. However, we are now armed with the knowledge and support to continue her progress. Matt and Michelle have given us hope and, most importantly, a more manageable and enjoyable life with our sweet Journey. We are incredibly grateful for their expertise and dedication and wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite to any family struggling with a reactive dog.
  • David Wells
    May. 7, 2025
    Matt and his Staff are true professionals! The Staff at DTE worked with our dog “Ryker” and we are very pleased with the outcome. Throughout the entire process the Staff was helpful, positive, flexible, and were always giving tips to help you understand what they were teaching. It has been a very rewarding experience and I would recommend DTE highly to anyone! R. Wells
  • Stephanie M
    Mar. 9, 2025
    They helped us train our two dogs to be better with listening and obeying commands. Our life with these puppers went from horrid to amazing with their help. They also have helped me find replacement parts for their training collars.Thank u so very much.
  • Katie Gould
    Feb. 1, 2025
    Matt and his staff are amazing!!!! They are patient and kind. While getting our service dog trained they were supportive through every step. I have owned dogs all my life and I never thought about going through training but through out this whole process I have watched not only my dog but others in the classes transform into amazing animals :)
  • Lenell Moeller Weiler
    Oct. 5, 2024
    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!
  • Bev D
    Sep. 23, 2024
    We were very pleased with DTE program and our trainer Chelsea! Tinkerbelle is a better dog and we are better owners since in home classes.
  • Gina Weeks
    Jul. 21, 2024
    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. 2, 2024
    I started dealing with Matt. He was always professional yet personable and very knowledgeable. I could always rely on him to get back with me, if he was unavailable, in a very timely manner. He was so very helpful and a lot of advice and helping me to make sure that I had enough information to choose inappropriate rescue dog and then he also did the assessment on her and got her approved for training. I started one-on-one home training with Michelle on I believe April 23rd. Michelle was the perfect match for Saffron and myself! She relates to a lot of my issues and my life. Funny, because she's like 25 years younger than me, LOL She has done amazing things with training me and my beautiful German Shepherd in the last 10 weeks. We did our first group training session last night, which was held inside the facility and Matt was the trainer for the class that night. He was a very informative. He comes up with these ideas that no one in a million years would never come up with but it totally makes sense! This class was awesome for Saffron, and myself. We are looking forward to our next group training class which will be outside in a park. Before I go, I must mention that Matt had a young lady that was helping him with class last night, chelsea, I believe that was her name, and she was just as friendly and helpful and I was really shocked at how knowledgeable she was especially since she seemed so considerably Young lol. It has been 10 weeks and so far it has been a very pleasant and educating experience for both myself and my dog. I am looking forward to the rest of our journey to her becoming my psychiatric service dog and my life partner.
  • Michelle Downey
    Jul. 1, 2024
    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
    Tyler was absolutely amazing!!!!
  • Alyssa Haydon
    Jun. 19, 2024
    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 M
    Jun. 13, 2024
    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!

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Dog Training Elite St. Louis, MO

Is Training Affected By Breed?

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While we look at what challenges owners face with specific breeds, the key to dog training is maintaining a consistent schedule to ensure the desired behavior you seek.

The training programs offered at Dog Training Elite St. Louis come in a general form, but we also provide breed-specific training to target breed-specific issues. Suppose your breed is highly energetic. In that case, we have programs to help you and your dog maintain an active and healthy lifestyle while ensuring that your dog retains the standard obedience training that any dog needs.

Though breed-specific training is taken into account, all of Dog Training Elite’s training programs are based on a foundation of consistency and balance.

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Dog Training Elite St. Louis, MO


Dog Training Elite St. Louis offers training programs not just for large breeds but smaller breeds as well. We don’t discriminate based on breed; we just know that some breeds require more specific and specialized training, especially if they intend to become service animals.

Large, small, purebred or mutt - Dog Training Elite’s program trains dogs for life. Contact us today for more information on when and where we can train your dog to become the best companion for your family.