A well-trained dog with training from an expert Dog Training Elite dog behaviorist in Tampa, FL.

Behavioral Solutions

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

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A happy leash trained dog walking with their owner - if you are in need of Tampa dog behavior training, contact Dog Training Elite today!

Tampa Dog Behavior Training

Does your dog chew on things, pee indoors, or bark excessively? If so, your dog may benefit from a dog behaviorist in Tampa. FL, and DTE is here to help. Our experienced trainers specialize in correcting unwanted behaviors and can address various issues your dog may face at home.

Behavior-focused training differs from basic obedience training and requires knowledgeable, experienced trainers. DTE trainers can identify and address the root causes of problematic behaviors, such as separation anxiety or excessive barking, and teach your dog to respond more appropriately to those triggers.

Through consistent training and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn new, desirable behaviors that last.

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Our Behavioral Solution Programs

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Tampa Dog Socialization Classes. DTE
Socialization

Our Tampa dog socialization classes teach dogs how to interact positively with other dogs and people, which helps reduce fear and aggression while promoting calm, confident behavior.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Stop Puppy Biting in Tampa, FL. DTE
Biting

Through targeted puppy biting training in Tampa, FL, we address aggressive tendencies and teach dogs to inhibit biting, helping them develop better self-control.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Reactive Dog Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Fear & Reactiveness

Our reactive dog training in Tampa, FL, focuses on managing and reducing fear-based reactions to common triggers, helping dogs be more relaxed and well-adjusted.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Destructive Chewing and Digging Training in Tampa, FL
Destructive Chewing & Digging

Our destructive chewing and digging training in Tampa, FL addresses your dog’s destructive chewing and digging by redirecting these behaviors toward more appropriate and constructive outlets.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs in Tampa, FL. DTE
Separation Anxiety

Our separation anxiety training in Tampa, FL helps dogs overcome the stress of being alone, which curbs destructive behaviors and makes departures easier for everyone.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Excessive Barking Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Excessive Barking

We address the root causes of barking with our excessive barking training in Tampa, FL, teaching your dog to communicate appropriately and reduce unnecessary noise.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Staying and Coming Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Staying & Coming

Our staying and coming training in Tampa, FL focuses on improving your dog’s reliability in following essential commands like down and come, ensuring they respond promptly in any situation.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Stealing Food, Clothing, or Other Objects

Our trainers work with your dog to curb the habit of stealing items, teaching them to respect boundaries and avoid problematic behaviors.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Resource Guarding

We tackle resource guarding behaviors by addressing the underlying causes of your dog's insecurity. Our training helps your dog feel more secure, which reduces aggression over food, toys, or personal spaces.

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Food Guarding & Begging

Through consistent and focused training, we teach dogs to eat politely and reduce persistent begging behaviors. This approach creates a more peaceful and enjoyable mealtime experience for everyone involved.

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Mouthing, Nipping & Rough Play

Our program teaches dogs to play gently, reducing the risk of injury and making playtime safe and enjoyable.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Anxiety & Submissive Urination

We work with anxious dogs to build their confidence. This program will help to reduce incidents of submissive urination and make your dog feel more secure.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Jumping Up & Hyperactivity

This program helps dogs learn to greet people calmly and manage their energy levels, reducing hyperactivity and inappropriate jumping.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Excessive Licking

We address compulsive licking behaviors, helping dogs find more appropriate ways to express themselves and reducing skin issues.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Leashing

Our leashing program teaches dogs to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your dog.

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Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

We help your dog break free from compulsive actions like spinning or tail chasing, focusing their energy on healthier habits.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Escaping

We train your dog to respect boundaries, significantly reducing the risk of escape and keeping them safe at home.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa -
Heeling

Our training improves your dog’s ability to heel, keeping them close by your side during walks and improving their overall leash manners.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Dog & Puppy Potty Trainer in Tampa, FL. DTE
Potty Training

We help dogs learn to relieve themselves outdoors with our Tampa dog potty training, reducing accidents in your home and fostering good habits that last a lifetime.

Get Your Free Consultation

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 dog with expert behaviorial training from Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

What is Behavioral Training?


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Behavioral and regular obedience training serve different but equally important roles in shaping a well-behaved dog.

Obedience training teaches your dog basic commands like sit, heel, and come. This training helps your dog follow instructions in different situations and builds clear communication between you and your pet.

Behavioral training, however, goes deeper by addressing the root causes of problematic behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. While obedience training tells a dog what to do, behavioral training focuses on changing undesirable habits and reactions.

Combining obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions helps dogs overcome specific issues, resulting in a more balanced and adjusted pet.

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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 Tampa.
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

  • Heather Vicioso
    Oct. 6, 2024
    I cannot speak highly enough of Dog Training Elite Suncoast and their exceptional work in training my service dog, Sammy. From the moment we began working with them, it was clear that their expertise and dedication were unparalleled. The team at Dog Training Elite Suncoast transformed Sammy from a loving companion into an indispensable service dog. Their training methods were not only effective but also compassionate, ensuring that Sammy's natural personality shone through while developing the skills necessary for her important role. Thanks to their thorough and professional training, Sammy has become an integral part of my daily life. She's mastered a wide range of tasks that help me navigate my day-to-day challenges with confidence and independence. The impact of their training extends far beyond our local community - Sammy has since accompanied me on travels around the world, adapting seamlessly to new environments and situations. What truly sets Dog Training Elite Suncoast apart is their ongoing commitment to Sammy's development. They continue to work with us, teaching her new tasks and reinforcing her existing skills. This dedication ensures that Sammy remains at the top of her game as a task-trained service dog, constantly evolving to meet my changing needs. The bond I share with Sammy, and the freedom and security she provides me, are testaments to the incredible work of Dog Training Elite Suncoast. They haven't just trained a service dog; they've given me a loyal partner and a new lease on life. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone in need of professional dog training, especially for service animals. They truly are elite in every sense of the word.
  • Kaitlyn Thornhill
    Sep. 19, 2024
    We cannot say enough good things about Dog Training Elite and Tonya. We recently rescued our sweet boy and quickly realized that he has reactive tendencies due to his rough past. We seeked out Dog Training Elite after reading reviews about success with Tonya. We just finished our in-home sessions and wow, our pup has done a 360. With daily training and hard work, we have been able to gain confidence in him and feel more comfortable in public places. He has nailed commands such as sit, place, quiet, down, leave it, and the biggest one, heel! He seems to look to us for guidance now instead of reacting on his own terms which is huge! Thank you Tonya, we are forever grateful for your teachings, time, and patience.
  • Kalie Irwin
    Sep. 12, 2024
    We reached out to Dog Training Elite when our golden was about 3 months old. He was jumping over everything, peeing when he would encountered new people and trying to eat anything he could get his mouth on. The trainers were so helpful with their suggestions and we really felt like our concerns were addressed. After 6 weeks of one on one training, we have seen a huge improvement in his behavior at home and we have the tools to correct any unwanted behavior and we are really able to see his potential and know how to motivate him. We look forward to attending group sessions and using the skills we have learned to take him out into the community. I cannot recommend them enough.
  • Samantha Young
    Sep. 9, 2024
    Marissa has been great with my little pug Lucy! She has taught me so much and has helped us have a calmer dog. She’s very informative and takes the time to explain everything that she is doing and why. She is flexible with appointment times and is very accommodating. It’s been great having her help!
  • Casey Mortensen
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Both myself and Yoshi (1 year old German Shepherd) have had the most wonderful experience with Dog Training Elite. Marissa was our trainer and we couldn’t have picked anyone better for the task! Yoshi went from just about dislocating our arms from pulling on his leash, being terrified of other people, not listening at all, potty in the house on purpose, you name it. Marissa worked perfectly with him showing the ins and outs of the e-collar. Now here we are 2 months later and he’s a perfect gentleman, walks perfect at my side and is able to go places with us. I’m so grateful ❤️
  • Rozette
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Wonderful experience for both me and my dog! Marissa is well educated and knowledgeable about what each individual dog needs to succeed. Patient and willing to take the time to explain so you can be prepared to meet your dogs needs.
  • Kimberly Gillin
    Aug. 20, 2024
    We just moved to Tampa in an apartment complex and my 2 year old Hamilton became reactive and anxious. After 5 lessons I have a totally different fur baby. Ryan, Kimberly and Aaron are the best. I can now walk Hamilton in our complex with no reaction to other dogs and people.
  • Porter Family
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Awesome experience. Tonya was amazing and gave me and my dog exactly what we were looking for and even exceeded our expectations! Thank you so much for everything!
  • C CJ
    Jun. 14, 2024
    I am very happy with my experience with Dog Training Elite Suncoast. The training tools have helped us get a difficult and at times dangerous situation with multiple large dogs under control. The team are always willing to listen and offer advice, they even helped us when it became clear one of our dogs needed to be rehomed for safety reasons. She is now living her best life and is very happy! Our other dogs have responded so well the training and love the group classes. The team goes above and beyond helping two people wrangle many more dogs and we are all happier for it. Thank you all!
  • Johanna Maisonet
    Jun. 8, 2024
    We are extremely grateful to Luis and Tonya. Our puppy's behavior is totally different. From the first classes the improvement of our dog (Niko) was noticed. They have been very attentive and have answered each of our questions. Thanks to them today we have our service dog. Totally recommended! Niko loves them and always enjoys the group classes.
  • Sheri-Rob Dusse
    Jun. 3, 2024
    Due to rapid decline of health, getting a service dog through standard means (2-3 year process) wasn’t an option. I found a dog I thought could be trained but had trouble finding a trainer willing or able to help. I reached out to Tonya at Dog Training Elite pretty much at wits end and she immediately responded and put me at ease. She came out to the house within days and started the training journey for/with us. Our dog is making wonderful progress already in just 2 months and we should have a dog that is ready for service soon thanks to the Dog Training Elite team.
  • Annmarie Gardiner
    May. 31, 2024
    Tonya and Marissa were awesome with our Luna. She is well behaved when we have company over and loves place. We look forward to the group classes to make her continued training fun.
  • Amy Reyes
    May. 29, 2024
    Tonya was a big help during the new puppy stage of our Cavalier. We felt very comfortable with her and the techniques she used. She was very patient and made the training fun and successful. We highly recommend her.
  • J C
    May. 28, 2024
    Kim, Jana, and Ryan have been great to work with. They have turned Benny's behavior around and are helping me to get him trained as a service dog. They have been very considerate and helpful with my physical limitations. We look forward to every session with them.
  • brandon brady
    May. 24, 2024
    We’ve been with DTE for about 7 months now for our Doberman, Bruce. For anyone that knows how stubborn a Doberman puppy can be knows just how challenging it can be to train him, especially with the very little knowledge we had. That’s where Dog Training Elite came in. They’ve been with us from the start, and any question or concern we have they make it known that they are always one text or call away. Over the course of training Bruce, his attitude has changed, or he's gotten used to one method of training, and where we get stuck, is where DTE comes in and helps us overcome these new challenges my wife and I face with Bruce. Long story short they’ve been great trainers to us, and have became great friends to us all, at our weekly group sessions. I would recommend them to anyone with any dog. At training we’ve seen people with giant Great Danes, to small chihuahuas, and even with the very diverse breeds they encounter they might change the way they train some dogs, but it all leads to the same goal, a well trained dog, and trained puppy parents. Thanks again for the help and constant support Kim, Ryan, and Aaron!
  • Richard Butler
    May. 24, 2024
    My dog was a handful for me and I had no clue what to do I saw a tire cover with there phone number advertised on it! so I looked them up and liked what I saw. So I gave them a chance and I’m glad I did. Aaron had my dog listening immediately on day one like it was my dogs job to listen to him lol now my boy walks on leash most what perfect ignoring other dogs and people. I call him he comes! I am very proud of the fact my 7 year old nephew can work him!!!
  • CAROL LONG
    Feb. 16, 2024
    First a little background.... I have this sweet, very active, energy plus Staffordshire Terrier that was my daughter's. She became very ill and couldn't handle him. I am 83 and couldn't handle him, also. I decided I needed to rehome his ad it was not fair to keep him where he was getting no exercise and little attention. We were unsuccessful in finding someone (truthfully, I was very picky and down deep didn't want to let him go). I decided to look for training and hopefully, keep him. This is where ELITE comes to the rescue! I was impressed with them right away. They are professional, friendly, animal lovers. Ryan came to interview TAZ and me and brought one of his own babies to show how little time it takes just get them understanding the basics. He even worked with TAZ for a short while and was impressed at how quickly he responded. We have had 4 sessions, and I am so impressed and proud of my boy! Because of the professionalism and dedication, they show these animals, I am able to keep my baby!! THANK YOU, ELITE: RYAN, AARON AND KIM. Carol Long
  • Amber Mayne
    May. 24, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been phenomenal to work with! Kim, Ryan, and Aaron know what they are doing and have helped me tremendously with my new puppy. 12/10 would recommend to everyone!
  • vita marie
    May. 24, 2024
    The team at Elite is outstanding; very professional and personable. I get so many compliments on how well-behaved my dog is and I always tell them that it’s due to the training that we received from Elite.
  • Living With Giants
    Feb. 2, 2024
    I decided to enlist some trainers, with my great Dane puppy, Moon Pie. I chose Elite after meeting with them because I found them to be both professional and knowledgeable. I thought they could teach me how to train my dog properly and when you’re dealing with a dog that will eventually outweigh you, training is a great idea. I can’t say enough good things about these folks. I have been with them for about five months now and definitely see a difference in the puppy. You have to do the work after the lessons, but it’s so worthwhile. I’m really loving the group classes too because training outside of your home is essential to having a great dog. I highly recommend these folks.

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See An Elite Dog in Action

Behavior Training Techniques

At DTE, we use techniques rooted in positive reinforcement to encourage lasting behavior changes in dogs. Our methods focus on rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, creating a positive association that motivates dogs to repeat those actions.

Here’s how we do it.

We use a clicker to mark the exact moment your dog performs the correct behavior. The click signals a coming reward and helps your dog learn which actions are worth repeating.
Similar to clicker training, this method uses a specific word or phrase like "yes" or "good" to mark the behavior. This verbal cue reinforces positive behavior and strengthens the communication between you and your dog.
By demonstrating correct behaviors with a "model" dog, other dogs in the group learn through observation. This method taps into dogs' natural tendency to imitate, making it easier for them to adopt positive behaviors.
Building a strong bond between dog and owner is key. We build trust and understand your dog's needs to create a cooperative training environment where your dog is more likely to respond positively.
A stick or specific spot is used to guide your dog to the desired behavior, encouraging them to touch or follow the target. Once they succeed, we reinforce the action with a reward. This technique is ideal for teaching complex behaviors and improving focus.
An owner and their happy, healthy dog with expert training from Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

Classical Conditioning, or the Pavlovian Model

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Classical conditioning, pioneered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov's work, is a fundamental principle in dog training. Pavlov’s study showed dogs could learn to associate a neutral stimulus, like a bell, with food, prompting them to respond to the bell alone.

At Dog Training Elite, we apply this principle using positive reinforcement in our behavioral training programs. We pair a command with two stimuli: a clicker (or marker word) and a reward like a treat or praise. The clicker signals the correct behavior, and the reward reinforces it. This method helps dogs quickly understand what’s expected and encourages them to repeat desired behaviors.

Unlike punishment-based methods, classical conditioning with positive reinforcement shapes behavior effectively and creates a well-adjusted, happy dog.

A dog with classical conditioning training from Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

Your Expert Dog Behaviorist in Tampa, FL

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Our certified, experienced trainers are experts in solving various behavior problems, from aggression and anxiety to excessive barking and destructive habits.

We focus on understanding your dog’s personality, environment, and behavior triggers to develop customized training plans. Our trainers will work to resolve these issues and their root causes to prevent them from returning.

What Makes Our Trainers Stand Out?
  • Certified and Experienced: Our trainers are certified professionals with years of experience handling behavioral challenges. With a proven track record of success, they’re equipped to deliver the best results for your pet.
  • Breed-Specific Knowledge: We understand the unique traits of different breeds and customize our training methods to match your dog’s natural behaviors, making the training more effective.
  • Friendly and Understanding: Our trainers are approachable and empathetic, working closely with you to build trust and create a supportive training environment for your dog.
A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite in Tampa.
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Why Choose Dog Training Elite?

Proven Methods for Successful Dog Training


If you're looking for a top dog behaviorist in Tampa, FL, Dog Training Elite is the top choice.

Our experienced trainers handle various issues, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking, and more. With a personalized approach focused on positive reinforcement, we help dogs overcome their challenges and build stronger, happier relationships with their owners.

No matter how challenging your dog’s behavior may seem, there is hope. Whether your dog’s behavioral issues are minor or more serious, we’re here to help.

Reach out today for a free consultation!