A service dog and their owner outside - find elite service dog training in Tampa, FL with Dog Training Elite.
Dog Training Elite

Service Dog Training in Tampa, FL

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Our Service Dog Training Could Help:
Veterans or civilians with PTSD, anxiety, or depression
Children or adults with autism
Individuals with epilepsy
(participating locations)
Advanced medical training (participating locations)

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

Service Dog Training in Tampa, FL

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service dog as “a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.” Disabilities include mental or physical impairments that affect an individual’s ability to perform one or more major life activities (walking, seeing, etc.).

Because service dogs play such a key role in the life of disabled individuals, they are protected by the law. Places of residence, employment, and commercial facilities cannot discriminate against disabled individuals with service animals. If you are wondering how to get a service dog, you can either purchase a fully trained dog or purchase a service puppy and train it.

With our service dog training in Tampa, FL, we ensure that your dog is trained to meet the specific needs of your disability, providing personalized support and empowering both dog and handler for long-term success.

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A man and his support service dog - learn more about our positive training methods at Dog Training Elite.

Our Positive Approach to Service Dog Training


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At Dog Training Elite, we believe that successful dog training requires dedication, patience, and balance. That’s why we are committed to using positive reinforcement techniques in all of our training programs.

Through balanced training, our team helps owners build trust with their dogs. This approach is especially important for service dog training because strong relationships and communication are essential for dogs to reliably assist their handler.

By focusing on encouragement rather than punishment, we created confident, well-behaved dogs that are eager to perform their best and impress their owners.

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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!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Katelynn Chase
    Sep. 19, 2025
    Wonderful to work with! Helped us get our big boy certified as a therapy dog!
  • Denise Bocker
    Sep. 19, 2025
    Tonya and Zach have been great. They are so easy to work with and have been amazing with my puppy. Oakley has come so far at only 6.5 months old.
  • Laura Keller
    Sep. 19, 2025
    Amp is a success story! She started off scared of everything, we couldn’t even walk her past the neighbors house, and now she is a certified therapy dog! Tonya is amazing!! 10/10 would recommend!!
  • Red Hatter
    Sep. 10, 2025
    Tanya was great! Patient and so knowledgeable and was a great help in training my wild twin puppies. Now almost 6 months old. Always great suggestions and brought me small tools that assisted greatly in the training.
  • Lanette Strong
    Sep. 8, 2025
    When my son was diagnosed with diabetes in February, I did some research on training a dog to becoming service Dog and found DTE. Tonya came and assessed our two year-old goldendoodle and we discovered she was the perfect candidate to be a service dog. The tools she gave us helped build the foundation and with our at-home work, she took off running and loves to work! Tonya really knows her stuff! She took my mostly well-behaved goldendoodle and shaped her into the most vital member of our family. Now our girl is very consistent with her alerts and we are forever thankful to Tonya and DTE. 10/10 forever recommend!!!
  • ashley simpson
    Sep. 5, 2025
    Tonya and Zach taught me how to get my aggressively biting, barking, out of control chihuahua into a sweet friendly obedient boy! And soooo fast! He can come to work, go in public, have visitors in the house, and I don’t have to worry about people being in danger. I can even get him to stop barking with his pack at the door or fence! I didn’t think this was at all possible and am so very grateful for their patience and knowledge! Strongly recommend!
  • Nicole DiBlasi
    Aug. 13, 2025
    My 1 year old Lagotto Romagnolo pup just completed his three-week obedience and service dog training camp. When he was about 4 months, I had met with Dog Training Elite, amongst many other training facilities in order to do my due diligence and make sure it was the right fit. My biggest mistake in having my dog trained was not immediately signing up with Dog Training Elite after their first meeting with me! Luckily, I circled back with them a few months later to set up training, and it was the best investment I have made in my pup! Team: The team is absolutely wonderful, and I can tell they really value and care about my goals with my pup. They are not only there to train him, but to help him build his confidence in and out of public settings. Something that stood out to me about DTE is that having met with several other facilities, the DTE team treated my pup the way I like him to be treated. Some facilities told me that the cutesy talk with your dog is wrong, and cuddling and playing with the dog too much will make him think the owner is soft and not in control. At DTE, they were SO loving with my pup, and even have one of their employees as a "Chief Enrichment Officer" to play with the pups throughout the school day. I LOVED this about the team, and this is a lot of the reason I believe my pup would always wag his tail when we would pull up to training at the facility :) Oh, not to mention, they bought him toys during some of their public access days. Training: My dog is completely different after 3 weeks, and I mean that in the best way possible. One of my hesitations and worries in having my dog service dog trained was that he would be trined so well, that he would not act like the happy-go-lucky dog he is, and instead always be "on" and working and stoic. Not the case at all! He is just super obedient and respectful of boundaries, and when it is time to heel, and sit and place, he knows exactly what to do. He has more respect for me as his owner, and this training has actually STRENGTHENED our relationship, and so I could not be more grateful. After just 3 weeks of training, we walked around Home Depot together for about 25 minutes with him being off-leash. I would never have thought he would be doing that this soon after training! Facility: I was 90% sure after DTE came to my house for a consultation for the first time that I would want to sign up with them. I asked for a tour of their facility, and literally, I took a few steps inside, and knew that 90% would now be 100%. The first thing I noticed was the silence (no craziness of tons of dogs barking, which was common at other facilities). Next, there were about 6 dogs in the front room, all separated and back-tied on a leash to the wall and on their beds. They all looked at me like perfect little obedient students, and were not distracted by me or my dog at all. Everything is very clean and organized, and it is just a very bright and open facility. I felt very good about having my pup there for training. Cost: Worth every penny. I highly recommend the Dog Training Elite Suncoast team if you are thinking about getting your pup trained!
  • Christopher Glanzer
    Aug. 12, 2025
    We started working with Tonya at Dog Training Elite (Platinum Package) right from day one when we brought home our Doodle puppy named Theodore. Training a puppy (especially with 2 kids in the house) is not an easy task. Tonya was there every step of the way, reassuring and guiding us. She was always available if we had questions or concerns. At the beginning there were times when we felt overwhelmed and frustrated by the puppy energy and behaviors but with Tonya's guidance we stayed consistent and trusted in her process. After the first few puppy sessions we started to see a transformation unfold. Fast forward to today, at 6 months old Theo is a great canine companion. He is happy, obedient, engaged, well mannered. When we go for walks people often comment on how well behaved he is, and are even more surprised when I say he is only 6 months old! There are still some areas that need work, but overall we have seen a big change and are astonished at how far he has come under her close guidance. We continue to work with Tonya to build on the strong foundation. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite as soon as possible to start the journey with your dog!
  • Jean Sheridan
    Aug. 8, 2025
    Our dog Toby has come so far in his training with Tonya in just 5 short weeks. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite!!
  • Kara Hosking
    Aug. 2, 2025
    Tonya and team are simply the best!! She gave me confidence to train our Dalmatian puppy into becoming a young controlled highly active dog. I have no fear with Elite team as my trainer. We love so much and are becoming platinum members. Home training for the family and group classes are the perfect combination!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ her training also helped Hampton be amazing with our cats!!!
  • Steve Harris
    Jul. 30, 2025
    Very impressed with Dog Training Elite… they sent Aaron to work with me and my 7 month old Doberman puppy. The strides Prince has made in his obedience is incredible… he quickly was able to pick up skills like recall, down, heel, place to name a few. We start group classes this weekend to continue his growth but I would highly recommend their services if you’re serious about advanced dog training.
  • Mohammad Harake
    Jun. 12, 2025
    Tonya and her Team at Dog Training Elite has been fantastic in her service task tracing with my dog. At first I was a little hesitant just because it’s a big investment into the unknown, but quickly realized how I could not have asked for a better trainer, I think very reasonably priced and helped me bond with my dog even stronger and be a better handler/servucs dog duo/team. Thank you!
  • Alisha Rand
    Jun. 11, 2025
    Aaron and Kim worked closely with my boxer puppy, Rocky. They helped me teach him important skills so that Rocky is obedient. I have seen amazing results through following their program, in home sessions, and group sessions. They are very firm and consistent and train you so that you can support your dog daily. Rocky learned the sit, down, and place commands within his first few months of training. I am most grateful for their support with teaching Rocky to heel, especially off leash. Rocky walks next to me consistently, even when off leash, when given the command. They are very skilled and knowledgeable about dog training and behavior. I am grateful to have chosen them to support me with his training!
  • Lana Heinen
    Jun. 11, 2025
    Changed our life!!!! Daisy is finally becoming the dog she was meant to be because of the amazing training and support we received from Tonya!
  • Brandi
    May. 13, 2025
    The owner Tonya and her crew are awesome! They are knowledgeable, patient, and fun to work with. Our Doberman (Ronin) loves working with them. Further, we are constantly improving along with Ronin. We strongly endorse Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa.
  • Olivia Meitzner
    May. 10, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa has completely exceeded my expectations! The one-on-one training sessions are outstanding-personalized, effective, and tailored to both you and your dog’s needs. I saw progress quickly, and the trainers are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in your success. The group training classes are equally amazing. They provide a great opportunity for socialization and reinforcing skills in a more distracting environment, which really helps solidify the training. What truly sets them apart, though, is their ongoing support. Even outside of scheduled sessions, the team is always willing to answer questions and offer guidance. It’s clear that they care about you and your dog’s journey every step of the way. I have a very loving but very stubborn Corgi who I am now so so proud of thanks to this team! Highly recommend to anyone looking for lasting results and a team that truly stands behind their work!
  • Bhavna Kumar
    May. 4, 2025
    Highly recommend Elite Dog Training! They worked wonders with my dog. Teaching obedience skills, they were patient knowledgeable and compassionate - their approach is truly effective. My dog is now well-behaved and happy service dog. Thanks to their expertise. Five stars isn't enough - I'd give them ten stars if I could!
  • David David
    Mar. 29, 2025
    When i brought home my first Doberman I was working all the time and didn’t really do the training required to unlock all the potential of this breed. Jetta was a great family dog but this time I wanted to do things different. I contacted Dog Training Elite, talked to Tonya and purchased the Puppy Platinum Package. I knew if i was going to start using an E Collar I wanted it done professionally. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive about using the E Collar and it really takes some getting used to. I started training Kara as early as possible and Tonya ensured me that it would make our bond stronger and it did. Kara is a calm, confident girl and she goes everywhere with me and I mean everywhere. She knows when the collar comes out she is in for some off leash fun by the lake, beach, or going for a hike in the woods. We do a 5k and she is by my side (on leash). When we go to restaurants she is by my side. She is currently enrolled in Agility classes and the obedience classes made starting agility so much easier. With the Platinum Package i have unlimited training in the park every other Saturday and i always try to make it. We always learn something new, reinforce the basics, and I get to spend Saturday mornings with some really nice people.
  • Arthur Bochner
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Great team of dog trainers. Incorporate video illustrations to enhance training regiments. Very conscientious and good teachers. They have helped our precious little Dali become a better and more confident dog.
  • lucienne richard
    Mar. 17, 2025
    I needed help with my toy poodle he was always barking and trying to bite people. Now he loves people. Couldn't take him anywhere .now he loves to go to the park and every time we go to a class. We're always learning more if I have any questions.They always answer my question .I'm so glad I found them.I can't say enough about them. They are great.
A Dog Training Elite in Tampa owner smiling with his dog in Tampa, FL.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

Is a Service Dog The Same As a Therapy Dog?

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Many types of working dogs increase the quality of life for their handlers. The three main categories of working dogs are service animal, therapy animal, and emotional support animal. Each category covers different areas of support and different levels of protection under the law.

  1. Service Animal
  2. As mentioned above, service animals assist individuals with disabilities. Depending on the person’s needs, the service animal learns how to perform certain tasks. Guide dogs, for example, help blind individuals safely navigate their environment. Seizure response dogs respond to their handlers when the individual is having a seizure. Service animals are highly trained and specialized, and they are also offered the most protection under the law compared to therapy or emotional support animals.

    Dogs are not the only kinds of service animals - miniature horses are often trained to support individuals with disabilities!

  3. Therapy Animal
  4. Therapy dogs provide comfort and improve the mental well-being of individuals in hospitals, hospice care, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, and more. These dogs must have a friendly, calm demeanor and be comfortable when handled by strangers.

    Therapy dogs are not trained to perform specific tasks, but they must be obedient and well-mannered. Therapy animals are permitted in some areas where pets are not, but they have fewer protections than service animals. All therapy dogs must be certified before they can offer their services to the community.

  5. Emotional Support Animal
  6. Emotional support dogs relieve loneliness, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of mental health disorders. They provide comfort to their handlers, but they are not trained to perform specific tasks. Most emotional support animals are sensitive to the emotional changes of their handler and will remain close by at all times. Emotional support animals are not protected by the ADA, but residential buildings must permit emotional support animals.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

What Can Service Dogs Do?

Service dogs are crucial in assisting individuals with various disabilities and conditions, providing them with support, independence, and companionship. These highly trained dogs can perform specific tasks tailored to the needs of their handlers. Learn about breeds that make great service dogs, who can benefit from a service dog and the training that will help these pups meet their handler's needs.

Service dogs are a great help to disabled individuals thanks to their incredible ability to perform highly specialized tasks, like opening doors, switching lights on and off, assisting with balance and stability, guiding, pulling wheelchairs, answering phones and making calls, finding objects or places, unloading and loading items, clearing rooms, finding help, and many more. Service dogs improve the lives of disabled individuals by increasing their autonomy.
Individuals with certain diseases and disorders can benefit from a highly trained service dog. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and they can detect the chemical changes associated with oncoming seizures and increases in blood pressure. Alert service dogs alert their handler to these situations to prevent a life-threatening emergency. Alert dogs also help those with extreme allergies detect potential allergens in food.
Disabled or epileptic individuals are more prone to emergencies than the average person. Service dogs are trained to alert their handler to a potential emergency, and alert surrounding individuals to an active emergency. Service dogs can also call for help on pre-programmed phones.

Additional Service Training Info

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - PTSD Service Dog Training in Tampa, FL. DTE

PTSD Service Dog

If you're looking to train a PTSD service dog in Tampa, FL, Dog Training Elite is here to help. Our service dogs are trained to assist with symptoms such as anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and panic attacks, providing grounding emotional support.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Psychiatric Service Dog Training in Tampa, FL

Psychiatric Service Dog Training

Our psychiatric service dog training in Tampa, FL helps individuals with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. We'll help train your dog to mitigate symptoms by offering emotional grounding and support during stressful situations.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Mobility Service Dog Training in Tampa, FL

Mobility Support Service Dog

Enhance your independence or help a loved one with specialized mobility service dog training in Tampa, FL from Dog Training Elite. Our expert trainers teach dogs the skills they need to support their owners with mobility challenges.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Seizure Response Dog Training in Tampa, FL

Medical Response Dog Training

If you are in need of a seizure response dog in Tampa, FL, Dog Training Elite can help. Our training program is designed to help individuals with epilepsy regain independence and confidence.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Autism Support Dog Training in Tampa, FL

Autism Support Service Dog

Bring life-changing support to your family with Dog Training Elite's autism support dog training in Tampa, FL. Our compassionate trainers work closely with your family and dog throughout the entire process, ensuring your pup is fully prepared to provide comfort, safety, and companionship.

A service dog at a ball game with their owner - get professional Tampa service dog training with Dog Training Elite.

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

Service Dogs for Anxiety, PTSD, and Autism

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Service dogs trained to assist handlers with severe anxiety or depression perform specific tasks that reduce the potential for panic attacks or self-harm attempts. Such tasks include deep-pressure therapy, tactile stimulation, alerting, clearing rooms, blocking strangers from approaching, and more. Service dogs trained to assist those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have greatly improved the lives of many veterans.

Service dogs also make a big impact on the lives of children with autism. Children with autism are often prone to meltdowns, have trouble communicating, and are quick to run off or become easily lost. Service dogs prevent and mediate all of these behaviors to provide a higher quality of life for children with autism and their families.

As autism is a spectrum disorder, each child has varying needs of assistance. Autism service dogs perform the following tasks:

  • Tracking: Children with autism often wander away, and a parent’s worst fear is turning their back for just a moment and discovering their child is gone. Autism service dogs will track the child if this ever happens.
  • Tethering: This task minimizes wandering, which is common in public settings. The child is tethered to the service dog’s leash or harness, preventing him or her from wandering away.
  • Behavior Interruption: Repetitive and ritualistic behaviors are typical of autistic children, as are meltdowns when the child becomes overstimulated. Autism service dogs recognize these negative behaviors and redirect the child’s attention when they start. A simple paw or nudge is all it takes to prevent a meltdown.
A service puppy waiting for their owner - Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

How Do I Get a Service Dog?

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If you are wondering how to get a service dog, there are a couple of different approaches. Some service dogs are purchased outright, fully trained. Or a compatible dog is selected and trained from an early age. Training a dog from the start is the best option, especially for those with specialized needs.

Training a dog to perform service responsibilities must start from day one. Only certain breeds are suited to service work, and breeders put a lot of time into raising puppies to be service animals. Once you have purchased a service puppy, additional training is necessary to prepare your puppy for life as a service dog. This is a complicated process that involves various steps. Dog Training Elite makes getting a service dog easier with our service dog training program.

Our talented trainers can help select puppies that are prepared for a life of service from well-respected breeders. When these puppies enter the service dog training program they are closely monitored for behavior and temperament and can be fully obedience trained by the age of six months. These puppies undergo extensive socialization and additional training to ensure they are well-suited for service and therapy needs including specialized service training alongside the new handler.

This program is ideal for handlers who want to take part in the developmental years and extensive training of their service puppy.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite in Tampa.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

A trainer, a man and his service dog - find the best service dog training in Tampa, FL with Dog Training Elite.

We Are Committed to Making a Difference

Choose DTE for Tampa Service Dog Training

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At Dog Training Elite, we are passionate about transforming lives through Tampa service dog training. Our proven, balanced training methods help create highly skilled, dependable service dogs that are both obedient and loyal to their handlers.

From mobility support and physical assistance to emotional well-being and more, Dog Training Elite is committed to providing personalized, high-quality training that makes a lasting impact.

Choose Dog Training Elite in Tampa and experience the difference that elite training and compassionate care can make.