A golden retriever holding a grocery bag, our obedience training for dogs in St. Petersburg, FL can help with these daily tasks.

Professional

Dog Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

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Our Obedience Dog Training Could Help:

Basic commands
Improved behavior
Socialization
Leash manners
Bonding
Mental stimulation
Confidence building
Impulse control
Good manners in public

Dog Training Elite

Obedience Training for Dogs in St. Petersburg, FL

While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training in St. Petersburg, FL is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.

Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg’s programs, including in-home training!

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A golden retriever puppy laying on the floor with its owner, contact us today for dog obedience training in St. Petersburg, FL.

In-Home Training


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Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.

Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, down, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.

Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.

Trainers from Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.

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You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in St. Petersburg.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Jessica Cahill
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Kim and her team are fantastic. They truly care about you and your dog(s) and helping your situation. Kim is very willing to adapt to your needs and has a great, no nonsense approach to dog training. She’s patient with the humans learning how to speak dog and she just makes it a fun and educational experience. So glad we picked Elite for our dog training.
  • Quincy Chambers
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Super knowledgeable about what they do and fantastic communication with customers
  • Jill M. Ott
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Cannot recommend highly enough!!!! Worked a miracle with our Doberman. Outstanding!!!!
  • Leigh Smyser
    Jul. 20, 2024
    We've had a great experience with Dog Trading Elite, specifically with our in home trainers Ryan and Janna. We called them because we rescued a Bernese Mountain Dog, Winnie, who was very fearful of almost everything and had no manners. We also wanted to try for the third time with our energetic 7 1/2 year old golden retriever, Murphy, who had some bad habits. The patience these two had with Winnie, who seemingly couldn't do anything easily, was remarkable. Murphy took to most of the training well, but needed an extra nudge when he was excited (which was often). They changed tactics often and the group classes have been so helpful to year them both in distracting environments. This training requires the owner to work with their dog, but provides long lasting results. They'll meet you anywhere, your home, Home Depot, wherever! Well worth the cost, our home is so much more balanced!
  • Izelle Fehrman
    Jul. 19, 2024
    Awesome staff, always flexible to your needs, and care so much about the dogs they work with! I feel safe and confident in my service pup’s training because of this awesome team. Highly recommend!!
  • Madison Johnson
    Jun. 26, 2024
    I put my dog Faye into Dog Training Elite at about 8 months old. I had done training classes with Petsmart before but nothing truly worked. She is super food motivated but I just needed to find the right class for her. Dog Training Elite was beyond perfect us. Faye now has a perfect recall and I am able to walk her off leash. She is so beyond obedient. Everyone we met and worked with went above and beyond to make sure Faye got the training she truly needed. Me and Faye are so happy with the outcome of the training.
  • Jenni Fajvan
    Jun. 8, 2024
    I can't thank you guys enough! you've managed to help me take my Pharaoh from out of control to my best behaved dog. it's ultimately made Pharaoh a happier dog and me a happier dog mom. forever grateful
  • Jared Rhodes
    Jun. 7, 2024
    I highly recommend these trainers to everyone!! I couldn’t be happier. They are amazing!!! They started with me right away with my puppy and now today he is passed his public access test. They are personal and really get to know you and your dog. Buddha also loves them! He’s a cane corso. They can train any dog. Thanks again for everything!!!
  • Kyle Myers
    May. 18, 2024
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite! Our 5 month old puppy learned so much over the 5 weeks of in home training and continues to learn at the Group Distractions Training on Saturdays at Seminole park in St. Petersburg. Aaron and the entire DTE training family are professional, compassionate, hands on and love what they do for you and your lovely pet. My puppy was able to learn all the commands during the one on one trainings and did a great job at home after the trainers were gone. The more we worked with her and had fun training, the more disciplined and consistent she became with commands. DTE is worth every penny on the investment and peace of mind. Please give them a call to schedule your free introduction.
  • Anthony Cistone
    Mar. 1, 2024
    We began a search for a service dog about 2 years ago. About a year ago, by a stroke of luck, we were directed to Dog Training Elite Suncoast where we met Ryan. Ryan started a search and quickly found the perfect dog for my wife. They developed an instant bond. Then Ryan, Kim and Aaron went to work with Shadow’s training. Since then, Shadow has attained the service dog certification and has been busy at work working with my wife and giving her advance notification of an oncoming episode. We feel blessed with the results of the entire process and there is no way that we could have accomplished this on our own. We are continuing to attend group sessions and strengthening his skills. I would 100% recommend Dog Training Elite Suncoast to anyone.
  • carolyn james
    Jan. 5, 2024
    I am so pleased with the training. Both the in home and group sessions have taught me and my dog so much. The trainers are patient and also make it fun for my dog. Aaron was so kind in including our older dog who wanted to learn as well. I wish I started the training years ago when my dog was a puppy.
  • Tonya Stafford
    Sep. 24, 2023
    I can't imagine a better experience! Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg will improve the relationship between you and your dog by training you (the owner) how to communicate effectively with your fur baby. Not only will they teach you how to train commands, but they will challenge you how to take those commands to the next level. So, your dog can sit or down for 30 seconds? Great! Can they sit for 5 full minutes with a bicycle, runner, ball, and squirrel going by? With Dog Training Elite, you can train them to do this and more. Truly exceptional! They will take your dog's obedience and manners beyond where you ever thought possible.
  • Alisa Kellington-Welsh
    Sep. 24, 2023
    The BEST dog training program in all of St. Pete! Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly trainers that customize to you and your dog’s needs! Can’t believe the remarkable transformation! If you’re looking to take your dog out for leisurely walks without pulling and lunging, call DTE! If you want to welcome guests to your home without barking and rushing the door, call DTE! If you want a well-mannered and behaved dog no matter the situation, call DTE! JUST CALL DTE! You won’t regret it!
A Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg owner smiling with his dog in St. Petersburg, FL.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg, FL

Our Difference

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There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.

  1. Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
  2. Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
  3. Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.

A golden retriever playing with its owner during a St. Petersburg dog obedience training class.

Effective Training Through Positive Reinforcement and Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

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The Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg - Classical Conditioning Dog Training. DTE
Classical Conditioning Training

Classical conditioning dog training, also known as Pavlovian or respondent conditioning, is a dog training method that involves creating automatic responses to specific commands. This approach taps into a dog’s natural reflexes, making training more effective and instinctive.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. DTE
Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement dog trainers focus on rewarding dogs for good behavior to encourage them to repeat it. Using treats, praise, or play, these trainers help your dog learn quickly and happily, building a strong bond and creating a well-behaved, motivated companion.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg - Puppy Obedience Training. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training

Taking advantage of our puppy obedience trainers is crucial for setting your puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Early training helps instill essential commands and good behavior, preventing future issues and strengthening the bond between you and your puppy.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg - Off Leash Dog Training. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training

Our off-leash dog training helps your dog achieve complete freedom and control, even in distracting environments. With expert guidance, we’ll teach your dog to follow commands confidently without the need for a leash, giving you both greater flexibility and trust in your dog's behavior.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg -
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

While we don't offer formal agility dog training, our basic obedience training can significantly enhance your dog's agility. By focusing on essential commands and improving coordination, speed, and focus, your dog will develop the skills and discipline that naturally improve their agility and overall physical abilities.

A godlen retriever at a show demo with Dog Training Elite in St. Petersburg, FL.

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

Shelter Rescue Dog Obedience Training

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With a little extra love and care, a shelter or rescue dog can be a great addition to your family. While not every dog that comes from a shelter has a traumatic past, there is really no way to know what your new dog has been through. You will need to be patient as your new pet adjusts to his new environment. It is common for shelter or rescue dogs to display aggression, anxiety, and/or disobedient behaviors. If you’re having difficulty training your new pet, a professional training program can help make the transition easier for both you and your dog. At Dog Training Elite in St. Petersburg, FL, we offer aggressive dog training and other programs designed for shelter or rescue dogs. Our personalized home training programs are developed to solve the particular behavior issues that your pet has. We work directly with you and other members of the household to ensure bonding and positive training sessions. From basic dog obedience training to customized programs, Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg offers the most professional dog training services in the area.

Dogs from a shelter or those that have been rescued from a bad situation can still lead healthy and happy lives. As a rescue dog owner, it is up to you to ensure that your new pet feels comfortable in your home.

Contact us today to learn more about our dog obedience training for rescue animals.

A Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg owner with her black lab dog, our obedience training for dogs in St. Petersburg, FL can help strengthen your bond.

Start Your Obedience Dog Training in St. Petersburg, FL Today

Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

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Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.

Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite in St. Petersburg, FL today to start your dog obedience training!

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg.
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Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg

Common Questions About Obedience Training

Still have questions about obedience training? We’ve got you covered! Below are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify any remaining concerns you have. At Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg, we're here to ensure you and your dog have the best training experience possible.

The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
Besides basic commands, dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.