A therapy dog walking in a park with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite to talk to a professional therapy dog trainer in Tulsa, OK!

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite Oklahoma

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Our Therapy Dog Training Could Help:

Those managing chronic pain
People looking to increase social interaction
Anyone seeking enhanced motivation and purpose
Individuals in need of emotional comfort
Those experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression
People wanting to boost overall optimism
Anyone feeling lonely or isolated

Therapy Dog Trainer in Tulsa, OK

What is a Therapy Dog?

A therapy dog is trained to provide emotional support and comfort to people in need, often visiting hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. These dogs must be friendly with strangers, able to handle high levels of distraction, and understand personal boundaries like not jumping, licking, or mouthing. With proper training, therapy dogs can bring joy and emotional relief to those they interact with, offering companionship in stressful environments.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer programs to help your dog become a certified therapy dog. As a leading therapy dog trainer in Tulsa, OK, we focus on developing the right temperament and skills so your dog can confidently provide comfort and support in various settings. With our professional guidance, your dog can become a valuable source of emotional care and connection for individuals in need.

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A therapy dog in training with Dog Training Elite Oklahoma's expert handlers.

How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?


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While the companionship your dog brings you may inspire you to share that with others, not every dog is suited to be a therapy animal. Beyond a friendly, loving personality, several important qualifications must be met for a dog to be considered for therapy work:

  • Age: Puppies are typically too energetic and lack the focus to be therapy dogs.
  • Obedience: A therapy dog must follow commands reliably. Dogs that have completed obedience training with Dog Training Elite have the solid foundation needed to begin therapy dog training.
  • Social Skills: Therapy dogs need to naturally enjoy meeting new people and must handle being petted and approached by strangers without anxiety. Their ability to remain calm and friendly, even in unfamiliar situations, ensures they can provide emotional support to those they interact with.

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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 Tulsa.
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

  • sharon ward
    Nov. 6, 2024
    Before beginning training my German Shepherd, Trixie, was out of control. Not aggressive, but misbehaving and not minding me at all. She was jumping on guests and I couldn't walk her down the street. I was amazed how much progress was made in just the first visit. After the second visit I was walking her around the block and by the 4th we could start having company again. We're looking forward to our first group class and meeting other dogs as well as going shopping together. Best decision I ever made and I highly recommend. A well behaved dog is the best kind of friend. Hope to see you and your best friend in a group class soon.
  • Kim Walker
    Oct. 21, 2024
    My year and a half-old goldendoodle, Sophie, loved her training sessions and trainers, Kristin and David. I hold Dog Training Elite of Tulsa in high regard. Their training method is very positive and easy to learn. Everyone concerned (dog, owner, and trainer) is actively involved in the training process. The trainers make it a fun and insightful experience, even offering building block tips for what the dog is learning. They are very approachable, attentive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. As a result of their training, the dogs they train are confident, happy dogs that stand out in a crowd!
  • Heather Pfeifer
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Fantastic experience training our service dog! He is learning so quickly and we love their gentle methods of teaching!!
  • Cheryl Rettig
    Aug. 22, 2024
    This is a such a wonderful company!!! My 5.5 month old cane corso mix is training to be my service dog and because they are so skilled she will well on her way to being certified. The trainers are super caring and knowledgeable. Tootsie is even happy to see them every time! Highly recommend!
  • Hannah Bunn
    Aug. 19, 2024
    We love all the trainers at Dog Training Elite! They are patient, kind and explain everything thoroughly. We have felt very supported on our journey to getting our Luna girl ready for her important job as a school therapy dog.
  • Lindsey Simmons
    Aug. 18, 2024
    We are currently doing service dog training and the growth I have seen in 6 -7 weeks has been unreal. I feel confident that my dog will be passing the public access test and confident in my ability as a handler. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
  • megan salyer
    Jul. 24, 2024
    Amazing training facility! They know what they are doing!
  • Ashley Kirven
    May. 16, 2024
    Excellent experience training our autism service dog! Very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
  • Michele Watson
    May. 16, 2024
    My puppy is a rescue. She had been through another company's training and came back after 10 days and learned only how to sit, which I'd already taught her. I called Elite. They are the best ever! They came to my house for 5 sessions and trained me how to train my puppy. What a difference it is when the dog mom/ dad is involved! I can't say enough wonderful things about this place. Any questions I ever had, I was able to text them and get my answers promptly. My dog is almost perfect at this point. Thank you Elite. We will next be doing service dog training to make my Anna more perfect. The first photo is her cap and gown graduation photo.
  • Jennifer Champlain
    May. 15, 2024
    We have done puppy, obedience and service with this company and I would highly recommend them they are very knowledgeable, engaging and make you feel like family!!
  • Jane Van Pelt
    May. 7, 2024
    Dog Training Elite Ok has been a treat to work with. Our Hazel has become the most obedient and happy girl. We are thrilled with her training program and will now attend Group! This training has totally changed her and she's not the wild animal she was in the beginning. Thanks!
  • Susan Cochrane
    May. 1, 2024
    I was needing help in training my Great Pyrenees puppy and a friend referred me to DTE. Jamie, Kristen, and Paul were a fantastic team. They would always explain in great detail why you should, or not, do certain things. Their love for dogs was evident in their training. Their training was easy commands and have been very beneficial. Instead of having a large dog who’s out of control, I now have a large dog who minds and is a joy to have around. Thank you guy’s for all the time you took to train “me” so I could train, Minnie.
  • Alyse Grzymala
    Apr. 17, 2024
    They were honestly the best in helping me train my service dog. Along side that because you are involved in the training I got to learn how to train my other dogs as well. They are patient and kind and truly love dogs. You can tell that they truly have a passion for dogs and helping them and the owners succeed. The group classes are fun and great practice as well. 10/10 recommend.
  • Jennifer Marie
    Mar. 27, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is amazing! My one yr old male labradoodle is 95 lbs of non-stop energy. He loves his training sessions and comes away from every session better behaved than the last time. DTE really takes the time to not only train the dog, but the owner as well which has made all the difference. Beyond their obedience training package, I use their day-long training sessions at their new facility when I have to be at a job site all day. It’s been great! My dog gets in a day of work on training and I don’t have to worry about trying to exercise him enough or work on his training after a long day. I can’t recommend the DTE team enough - they are awesome!
  • Marilyn Fooshee
    Aug. 3, 2023
    David, Kristin, Paul & Jamie are exceptional trainers. Ginger and I went to a group class for some refresher training and it was like spending time with family. The approach to dog training is consistent, well managed, and easy to follow. I am forever grateful for the obedience and service dog training Ginger received. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Kitzie
    Feb. 22, 2024
    💙 Blue and I have loved working with Dog Training Elite Oklahoma. Blue is becoming a Therapy and Service dog so he can help on multiple platforms. You can really see the passion D.T.E.Ok has for what they do, and the dogs feel it too! They do an excellent job of training us so we know how to speak K-9 🐶 What I love the most is how well behaved my boy Blue is 🥰 I take him everywhere with me and people are always incredibly impressed. Then they want to love on him, and because he's a therapy dog as well, he adores allowing them to do so 💙 It's been a true blessing to both 💙 Blue and myself to work with Dog Training Elite Oklahoma!
  • Megan Parris
    Feb. 19, 2024
    They did amazing at helping me train my 10 month old GSP puppy! He is a different dog now. 10/10 would recommend!
  • Sarah Hintz
    Feb. 9, 2024
    We've had a great experience with Dog Training Elite. Jamie has been wonderful with obedience training our Great Dane/Great Pyrenees, Chance. He was a very nervous and reactive dog that made walking and being around strangers a struggle. Over the past few weeks we've seen noticeable changes and can see his confidence growing. We're able to walk comfortably now and the trust between us and Chance is getting better everyday.
  • Matthew Parker
    Feb. 6, 2024
    Grateful to DTE for truly taking the time and caring about our dog’s success. It is helpful to not have a one size fits all approach….they have taken the time to get to know us, our dog, and have helped all of us make progress. They have listened and been patient as we learn we are seeing improvements with each session. Thank you!!!!! Would highly recommend to any family who wants a happy, thriving dog.
  • Michelle Talbot
    Jan. 23, 2024
    My dog and I have had the best experience with Dog Training Elite. They have shown me how to building a trusting relationship with my dog that has in turn allowed him to trust me and it took our training to a whole new level. I am so excited to be working on a Therapy certification with my petite Golden Doodle and they have made it possible. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all of your training needs.
An obedient dog in a fran_territory_name} emotional support dog training program.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

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Therapy dogs have a profound impact on individuals’ emotional and physical well-being. Research demonstrates that therapy dogs can improve a patient's mood, reduce stress, and even lower pain levels during hospital stays or medical treatments. Their calming presence provides comfort and relief in challenging moments.

Children, in particular, often respond well to therapy dogs. The companionship and playful interaction of a therapy dog can motivate children to engage more fully in treatments, helping them overcome fear or reluctance. With a therapy dog by their side, children tend to feel more optimistic and less anxious.

Beyond medical settings, therapy dogs also foster social interaction, especially in autism and mental health communities. These dogs offer non-judgmental companionship and serve as a bridge for individuals who may struggle with social connections. By reducing feelings of loneliness and anxiety, therapy dogs offer their owners comfort and companionship that enhances the overall quality of life.

A therapy dog handler with their dog trained by Dog Training Elite Oklahoma.

Therapy Dog Handlers

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If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful impact in your community, becoming a therapy dog handler offers a unique opportunity to do so alongside your dog. You can choose where to volunteer based on your interests, such as schools, hospitals, or senior living centers.

Once you’ve decided, therapy dog training is the next step. Dog Training Elite Oklahoma’s expert trainers will help your dog master essential behaviors like loose-leash walking, “leave it,” and not jumping on people. After completing training, you can apply for therapy dog certification, but it’s essential to keep up with ongoing training to ensure your dog remains well-behaved and ready to assist.

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A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite Oklahoma.

Tulsa Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

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At Dog Training Elite Oklahoma, our training programs prepare your dog for real-world situations where their presence can provide emotional support and comfort. Beyond just obedience, our training teaches your dog how to handle stressful or highly stimulating environments like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes.

We also place a strong emphasis on socialization and adaptability, making sure your dog can confidently engage with people of all ages and backgrounds. Therapy dog work requires attentiveness and empathy, and our training helps your dog develop these traits. With a foundation of trust, consistency, and patience, your dog will be fully equipped to offer comfort and companionship wherever it’s needed.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite Oklahoma.
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ESA vs. Therapy vs. Service Animals

What's the Difference?

Animals that provide assistance and companionship can be classified into three main groups: service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs), and therapy animals. Each has different responsibilities, training requirements, and legal protections. Knowing the differences can help you choose the right type of support for a disability, emotional needs, or therapy purposes.

Here are the defining features of each type:

Service animals are trained to help individuals by performing tasks that meet their specific needs, such as:

  • Redirecting attention when an individual is beginning to feel overstimulated
  • Reminding owners to take medication
  • Waking someone who is having a nightmare

Service dogs are highly valued in the mental health and disability community and are protected under ADA laws, allowing them to accompany their owners anywhere. At DTE, we provide specialized training for service dogs that assist individuals with autism, diabetes, and PTSD.

The key difference between ESAs, therapy dogs, and service dogs is that service animals are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This means they are allowed to go anywhere their owner goes. ESAs and therapy dogs do not have the same protections as service dogs, and public places can set their own rules about allowing them.

ESAs are prescribed by licensed mental health professionals to help individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. These animals provide emotional support simply by being a comforting presence. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks related to their owner's condition.

ESAs can be of any breed or age, and while they do not require the same level of training as service dogs, many owners choose to seek additional training. This can help strengthen the bond between the owner and the animal and improve the ESA's ability to provide consistent emotional support in different situations.

Therapy animals provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in need. They are not trained to assist a single person but are instead taught to be well-behaved and sociable around various groups of people. These animals help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness for those they visit.

Unlike service animals, therapy animals are not required to perform specific tasks. Their calming presence is what makes them valuable in therapeutic programs.