Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

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An adorable puppy being held by their owner - get professional puppy obedience training in Tampa, FL with Dog Training Elite today.

Dog Training Elite

Puppy Obedience Training in Tampa, FL

When it’s time to bring your new puppy home, one of the best things you can do for their well-being and your sanity is to start obedience training as soon as possible. Puppies are eager to learn and starting training early can prevent unwanted behaviors like chewing, whining, nipping, and accidents.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer professional puppy obedience training in Tampa, FL. Our team has the resources and knowledge you need to feel confident in controlling your new companion and setting your puppy up for lifelong success.

Learn more about our specialized approach to obedience training and book a free consultation with our team to eliminate those unwanted behaviors!

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Puppy Essentials Webinar

Free 70-Minute video

$45 Value

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Our trusted puppy class is now available "on-demand" from the comfort of your home! This webinar video is designed for owners of puppies age 8-16 weeks old, and will be accessible to you for free after completing the form below or with the purchase of one of our puppy packages!

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Our webinar includes education on the following topics:
  • Introducing a new puppy to your home
  • Health & well-being
  • Veterinary care & vaccines
  • Nurturing a good temperament
  • Scruffing & calming signals (e.g. dog yoga)
  • Basic Treat Obedience Including: Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy Corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate Training / Housebreaking
  • Socialization Tips
  • Environmental Hazards
  • Puppy Enrichment
  • Caring for Your Puppy

Understanding Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite

Many behaviors that puppies exhibit are completely normal during the “puppy stage,” but if left unaddressed, they can develop into more serious concerns as your puppy grows.

Early obedience training is key to preventing these issues from becoming ingrained habits. Below are some common issues puppies often display, along with the underlying causes:

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and teething puppies chew to soothe sore gums. While this is natural, it can become a problem when they chew on furniture, shoes, or other household items.
Nipping is a way for puppies to play and communicate, but as they grow, this behavior can become painful and unwanted. Puppies often learn bite inhibition from their littermates, but without proper guidance, they may continue to nip or bite when interacting with people.
Puppies often whine to express discomfort, fear, or a desire for attention. While it may seem cute at first, persistent whining can be a sign of anxiety or other underlying issues, and it may lead to attention-seeking behaviors if not addressed properly.
Jumping is a natural behavior for puppies as they seek to get closer to their handlers. Puppies jump to greet people, but as they grow, this behavior can become overwhelming or even dangerous, especially for small children or elderly individuals.
Puppies are still learning bladder and bowel control, so accidents are common. Without consistent training and guidance, house soiling can become a persistent issue.
Puppies are naturally excited about exploring their surroundings and often pull on the leash to get to where they want to go. Without proper leash training, this behavior can lead to difficulties controlling your dog on walks as they get bigger and stronger.
Puppies bark to communicate, get attention, or out of excitement. However, excessive barking can indicate boredom, fear, or territorial behavior. If not addressed, barking can become a nuisance, especially in social settings or shared living environments.
Digging is often a natural instinct for puppies, especially certain breeds. They may dig to bury toys, cool off, or out of boredom. Without proper intervention, this behavior can lead to damaged lawns and gardens, as well as unwanted messes.
Some puppies develop anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Signs of separation anxiety can include destructive behavior, excessive barking or whining, and even accidents inside the house. Without addressing the root of the anxiety, this behavior can escalate into more severe emotional and behavioral problems as the puppy grows.
Puppies have a natural prey drive, causing them to chase after fast-moving objects, such as squirrels, cars, or even children. Without training, this instinctual behavior can become dangerous, putting the puppy and others at risk, especially in busy areas or near roads.
An adorable puppy being trained by the experts at Dog Training Elite - get Tampa puppy obedience training today.

Puppy Training 101

How to Train a Puppy

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The #1 mistake new puppy owners make when learning how to train a puppy is waiting too long to start puppy training. Other common mistakes include:

  • Avoiding Crates: Crate training is not meant to be a form of punishment or isolation for a puppy or dog. Not only can it help with potty training, as dogs instinctively don’t want to soil their own space, but a crate can provide a safe place for a puppy or dog to go when they are feeling overwhelmed in their environment.
  • Not Puppy-Proofing Your Home: Much like baby-proofing, puppy-proofing a home is necessary to prevent the destruction of personal items, as well as to protect a puppy from harmful things like wires or toxic chemicals. Make sure these things are out of reach, or protected with a gate or another kind of barrier.
  • Scolding or Harmful Punishment: Pushing a puppy’s face into a mess or scolding them after an accident is a prime example of when focusing on positive reinforcement is far more effective than punishment. Puppies don’t understand what they’ve done wrong after the fact. Instead, they’ll associate their owner’s anger with the mess, which can lead to anxiety and cause them to hide their accidents in less obvious places around the house.
  • Failing to Socialize: The window of time between eight weeks and 16 weeks in puppy time is critical for learning to socialize with other dogs and humans. This can lead to antisocial, anxious, or even aggressive behavior when the puppy becomes a dog. Puppy classes at Dog Training Elite are a great way to achieve socialization.

Additional Obedience Training Info

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Classical Conditioning Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Positive Reinforcement Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Off Leash Dog Training in Tampa, FL. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training
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Agility Through Basic Obedience Training
An adorable golden doodle puppy with Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

Puppy Training with Dog Training Elite

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Dog Training Elite can help puppy owners learn how to train a puppy and avoid common mistakes, empowering owners to train at home with all the right tools. This is accomplished with our comprehensive in-home puppy training. For the first 4-6 weeks, trainers use “treat training” before moving on to more advanced puppy training. Treat training helps with the following behaviors:

  • Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy Corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate Training/ House Breaking

Trainers will also help owners learn about the following:

  • Socialization Tips
  • Environmental Hazards
  • Puppy Enrichment
  • Caring for Your Puppy
  • And more!

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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.
A dog being trained with {Fran_brand_name} - puppy obedience training in Tampa, FL.

Start Puppy Obedience Training Today


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After initial training at home, obedience classes are also a great option for exposing a young puppy to other dogs, people, new sounds, and sights. Combining obedience classes with training at home will ensure a well-behaved puppy that learns quickly.

The Dog Training Elite training method focuses on encouraging proper behaviors with positive reinforcement. Punishment is never used as a form of training as it can lead to aggression and fear in dogs.

Positive reinforcement teaches a puppy that performing obedient behaviors wins love and affection from their owner. Our professional puppy trainers include owners in the training process so that puppies learn who is in charge. By working alongside owners, trainers will help owners and puppies build a strong, healthy relationship founded on loyalty and trust.

Contact us today to start your puppy training journey!

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!

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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.