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When you first brought home your dog, you most likely envisioned long walks, a game of fetch at the dog park, extended cuddle time, and an overall enjoyable life with your new best friend. This vision probably didn't include excessive barking, cat terrorizing, leash pulling, and other disobedient behaviors. Building a relationship with your pet is difficult when you have a pup who just won't listen. But don't stress - the obedient, loyal friend you dreamed of is just a few professional dog training sessions away!
No matter your dog's behavioral problems, appropriate training can eliminate disobedience and encourage a healthy dog-owner relationship.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Silver
$1,545
Training Equipment Included: E-Collar
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 8 Sessions
- Come
- Heel (walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Place(go to bed)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Off(furniture when desired)
Gold
$2,145
Training Equipment Included: E-Collar
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 6 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 12 Sessions
- Come
- Heel (walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Place(go to bed)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Off(furniture when desired)
- Down(lay next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Load Up (go into kennel, car, or dog house)
- Manners, Safety & Boundaries
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Mouthing & Nipping
- STOP Chewing & Digging
- STOP Begging & Stealing Food
- STOP Bolting Through Doors & Running Away
- STOP Chasing Animals, Cars & Bikes
- STOP Reactivity (dog & human)
Platinum
$2,745
Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.
Training Equipment Included: E-Collar
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 8 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 16 Sessions
- Come
- Heel (walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Place(go to bed)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Off(furniture when desired)
- Down(lay next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Load Up (go into kennel, car, or dog house)
- Manners, Safety & Boundaries
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Mouthing & Nipping
- STOP Chewing & Digging
- STOP Begging & Stealing Food
- STOP Bolting Through Doors & Running Away
- STOP Chasing Animals, Cars & Bikes
- STOP Reactivity (dog & human)
- *Stay With You on a Jog or Bike Ride (off-leash)
- *Emotional Support Dog Training(ESA)
- *Control Aggression(dog & human)
- *Calm Extreme Anxiety(behavioral modification)
Why DIY Training So Often Fails
No dogs are truly bad. They are just dogs, trying to navigate a human world. What we consider bad behavior is a result of anxiety, fear, or misunderstanding. Dogs are eager learners and can easily be taught the appropriate behaviors to follow. For that reason, disobedience usually stems from improper training techniques.
It can be difficult for new dog owners to train their pets without the proper knowledge or time. Training takes more than a few sessions and treats, and it certainly does not involve punishment, yelling, or aggression. If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior, you’re not alone. The most common mistake pet owners make is underestimating the knowledge, commitment, and effort needed to train a dog.
Proper training requires:
- Experience and education
- A deep understanding of dog behaviors
- Patience and commitment
- Knowledge of various training techniques
- Experience with dogs of various breeds and ages
- Ability to teach people as well as dogs
- Detecting emotional changes in dogs (anxiety, aggression, fear)
- Skills for training in distracting environments
- Ability to recognize problem behaviors
The average pet owner does not have the above skills. It takes more than a deep love for doggies to know how to train them! Fortunately, professional dog trainers do have these skills. Education, certification, and experience are all marks of a well-qualified dog trainer.
When it comes to dog training, you want to find someone that you can trust. Many dog owners are reluctant to entrust their pets to a stranger. That is why it is important to find a trainer that fits you and your dog’s needs.
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Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
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Empowering Owners
We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. -
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. -
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
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Supportive
We support Owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session"). -
Involved
We work with all members of the household. -
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
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Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training. -
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term. -
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing
PSYCHOLOGY
noun
A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
What a Professional Dog Trainer Can Do For You
Most people see dog trainers as canine teachers when they are more people teachers. Professional dog trainers teach you how to communicate with your dog. During dog training sessions, you must actively participate to learn how to establish boundaries with your dog. The dog trainer teaches you how your dog learns so that you can give him or her the right cues.
Common areas covered in dog training sessions include:
Obedience
Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” form the foundations of training, and most dogs learn them quickly. These cues keep your dog safe and help him or her confidently navigate the world. Once your dog has mastered obedience, more advanced training can take place.Behavior
While obedience commands are easy for every dog to learn, behavior issues are unique to each dog. Examples of behavior issues include chasing the mailman, jumping up during greetings, excessive barking, and destroying the house when left alone. These behaviors have an underlying cause that must first be addressed before the appropriate behavior can be learned.Pet-Owner Relationship
The most important part of any dog training program is the bond formed between dog and owner. Without a strong relationship, your dog simply won’t listen. A true professional will work side by side with you to ensure that your dog understands you and responds appropriately.
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We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
Dan was great to work with and a huge help in teaching us how to communicate better with our dog Lola. We saw a major difference even after the first training session. We highly recommend Dan and Dog Training Elite!— Crystal Bailey
Posted June 8th 2024
My rescue rottie, Brix, and I had our first session with Dan & Tyler today and it went remarkably well! Brix is a good boy but also displays some resource aggression so the financial investment is absolutely worth it to me to start him under training right away. Watching Brix and the guys in session this afternoon was confirmation and reassurance that he truly wants to please and do good work for those asking it of him, we both just need some extra guidance so I’m very excited to see what comes of my sessions with DTE! I will leave an updated review upon our training completion but at this time I’m very excited and hopeful!— Caitlyn Walston
Posted June 4th 2024
This is by far the best dog training company in the northern Michigan area! Dan is a wonderful trainer! He is kind, patient and knowledgable working with all types of dogs. I appreciated his flexibility in scheduling and ability to offer in-home training in my dogs’ usual environment. I have worked with many trainers in the past and have never met someone as nice to work with as Dan is. Totally recommend this company for all your dog training needs - you and your pups will no doubt love him and the results you’ll see after even just one session with Dan at Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan!— Jordan N. Lindsey, Esq., MA
Posted May 30th 2024
Dan IS the man!!!😉 Seriously, he gently and kindly whipped both my dog and me into shape. He is not only wonderful with dogs, he’s great with people, too! He’s not just training your dog, he patiently instructs you as well. He has picked up every phone call to ease me out of whatever situation is going on. That in itself is rare! I was hesitant at first because of the cost, however, it’s been worth every penny. Soon we will participate in the group classes which I’m really looking forward to. Do it! You won’t regret it!— Kristi Jo Brubaker
Posted May 24th 2024
Dan was great will our two lab puppies. He was super patient and we are very happy with their progress!— Julia Nicholas
Posted May 19th 2024
I recently had the pleasure of working with Dan at Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan to train my dog. I couldn't be more satisfied with the results. From the very first session, it was clear that Dan had a deep understanding of dog behavior and a genuine passion for helping dogs and their owners. They are incredibly patient and used positive reinforcement techniques that made the training sessions enjoyable for both my dog and me. They tailored the training program to address specific issues we were facing. One of the things I appreciated most was Dan’s ability to explain the reasons behind each technique and provide practical advice that I could easily implement at home. This not only helped improve my dog’s behavior but also strengthened our bond. In a few short weeks, I saw remarkable improvements. My dog is now more obedient, confident, and well-behaved, both at home and in public. I am truly amazed at the progress we've made and grateful for the support and guidance provided by Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate dog trainer. They truly did wonders for my dog, and I’m confident they can do the same for yours. Thank you, Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan for your outstanding work!— kristi jorns
Posted May 16th 2024
Our sweet little shihpoo Sophie has had a serious issue with stranger aggression due to lack of socialization during Covid. We grew tired of her barking, growling and nipping at people all the time, so we decided to call Dog Training Elite. I'm so glad we did! After just a few sessions with Dan, Sophie's whole demeanor has changed. She is learning and responding to commands, and we can easily quiet her when people come to the door. We can't wait to see how she progresses!— Brianne Geetings
Posted May 16th 2024
Our sweet little shihpoo Sophie has had a serious issue with stranger aggression due to lack of socialization during Covid. We grew tired of her barking, growling and nipping at people all the time, so we decided to call Dog Training Elite. I'm so glad we did! After just a few sessions with Dan, Sophie's whole demeanor has changed. She is learning and responding to commands, and we can easily quiet her when people come to the door. We can't wait to see how she progresses!— Brianne Geetings
Posted May 16th 2024
I can't recommend Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan enough! We've been working with Dan for the past four months to train our dog Milo, and the experience has been nothing short of fantastic. Dan is not only supportive and flexible but also extremely knowledgeable. No matter what the training challenge, he's always available and ready to help with practical solutions and encouragement. It's clear he cares deeply about the progress and happiness of the pets and the peace of mind of their owners. If you're looking for a dog trainer, look no further than Dan at Dog Training Elite!— Michael Broodo
Posted May 14th 2024
Best dog training business hands down! Our trainer Dan is absolutely amazing and so good with our puppy! Would highly recommend!!— David Chauvette
Posted May 3rd 2024
Dan is a wonderful human trainer and he’s great with dogs too! My Bernadoodle service dog is getting weekly trainings from him, and he’s doing a wonderful job. I highly recommend Dan!— Elizabeth Teklinski
Posted May 3rd 2024
Dan Luchko trained my adopted Staffordshire terrier, which I could not take walking because she dragged me so hard. Dan trained her not only to heel and walk with slack in the leash, but how to come, stay, stay in "place". He came right to my house and was a super nice man, and spent real valuable time training my dog. I can not say enough good things about his service.— Rachel Bezile
Posted May 3rd 2024
I had a fantastic experience working with Dan. His devotion to his work is readily apparent. I knew from the moment he arrived that my dog was in good hands. I highly recommend working with Dan.— Daniel Nelson
Posted April 15th 2024
I had a fantastic experience working with Dan. His devotion to his work is readily apparent. I knew from the moment he arrived that my dog was in good hands. I highly recommend working with Dan. The training sessions are quick and easy, and I saw results after the first session. I would give 6 stars if I could! Amazing experience and immediate results, from a trainer who cares about his clients!— Daniel Nelson
Posted April 15th 2024
I wish I had video footage to share comparing Dan’s first visit with Miss Large-and-in-charge and the second visit! Matilda is a rescue and is very protective of her new family and home. She growled at, barked fiercely, and tried to push Dan out of her space the first time he met her. I was mortified and very concerned about whether she could be trained by someone with whom she had such difficulty. (Definitely her problem, not his!) Dan brought the E-collar the second time he came over (first training session) and taught us how it works. He proceeded to work with Matilda for the hour and by the time he left she was a new dog! She followed him, looked to him for praise, and rolled on her back for belly scratches! Our walks are no longer stress-filled and I am AMAZED! I am so thankful that Dan was not put-off by her terrifying behavior at her assessment, and that he had the ability to teach this big girl how to behave! Many thanks from Matilda and her mom in Manistee!!!— Ruth Zehnder
Posted April 10th 2024
Absolutely unbelievable! I highly recommend having Dan train anyone's dog! I have had great results after the first session!— William Meade
Posted April 7th 2024
If I could leave 100 stars - I would! I took custody of a fragile foster. The dog would not leave my vehicle when I arrived home. I called Dan after hours - on a Sunday ---- he rushed over to help me. Dan coaxed the dog out of my truck, helped me set up a proper decompression area, and will be returning to help me with the dog. My foster is in an extremely sensitive state after surrender. Dan has already worked a few miracles today. I recommend calling Dan!!!!!! I look forward to our work together by my foster Belgian Malinois.— Donna Allers
Posted March 24th 2024
Dan is a fantastic trainer, I can’t believe how quickly he’s training our families dogs!— Dane Vermeulen
Posted July 2nd 2023
Positive Reinforcement -
The Recommended Technique
While there are various dog training techniques, positive reinforcement is the only recommended method. Trainers that offer programs based on punishment, “alpha dog” methods, and fear should be avoided.
Dogs must be taught which behaviors to perform, not punished for doing something wrong. Our canine companions don’t understand why we are yelling at them, they just fear us. When we catch our dog doing the right behavior and award him for it, he learns which behaviors are acceptable.
At Dog Training Elite, we combine positive reinforcement techniques with a private training setting. Our in-home approach has a high success rate.
Years of training experience have taught us in-home dog training is the most effective as it offers a personalized training experience for both dog and owner.
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No Distractions
Your home is where your dog feels most comfortable, and where he is most likely to exhibit problem behaviors. Jumping on guests or destroying the home when you leave are behaviors that only occur inside the home. A private dog trainer that assesses your dog in his or her home environment catch and correct these behaviors on the spot.The home is a calm, relaxed place for your pal. There are no other dogs or large crowds to distract him from the lesson at hand. Once your dog has learned the basics at home with a private dog trainer, his or her new skills can be practiced out in public.
Family Involvement
Ingrained behavioral changes only take place when the entire family is committed to training your dog. When a trainer comes to your house, you can take advantage of the times when everyone is home and willing to participate. Once you all agree on appropriate behaviors and the associated cues, your dog can happily learn from everyone.
The Private Dog Trainers in Traverse City That You Can Trust
At Dog Training Elite, we understand your dog is like a family member and that you want the best for your pet. That’s why we use positive reinforcement in all of our training procedures. We never use punishment or pain techniques - training should be an enjoyable experience for your pet. Our combination of positive reinforcement, an electronic collar (not a shock collar), and including family members is a well-rounded training experience. Dog Training Elite stands behind our training programs, and we are focused on empowering owners with our established techniques.