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Training is key to creating a safe, loving environment for your canine companion. Dogs are great learners and always eager to please their owners. With the right techniques, a little patience, and consistency from the whole family, Fido can learn just about anything.
Besides teaching your dog respectful behaviors (like no excessive barking and no begging from the table), training keeps your dog:
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Safe
If your dog knows to come on command, or “stay” in place, both of you will be safer when outdoors. Untrained dogs may dart off into the road, or become distracted by their surroundings and get lost. -
Smart
Consistent instruction is mentally stimulating and improves your dog’s cognitive health. Learning also prevents boredom and the destructive habits that result from it.
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Happy
Dogs thrive on positive, loving relationships with their human family members. A dog that doesn’t know proper behavior is unlikely to have a positive relationship with the people around him. By teaching your dog what behaviors are acceptable, you establish a comfortable and loving environment.
Effective training is key to a positive dog-owner relationship. Learning how to communicate with your canine companion is difficult without assistance, however. If you’ve been struggling with your dog’s behavior, it may be time to find a professional dog trainer near you.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Columbus location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Silver
$1,345
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
$1,895
Training Equipment Included: E-Collar
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 5 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
$2,495
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)
Finding Professionals In An Unregulated Industry
There is no regulating body or licensing process for professional dog trainers. Anyone can advertise themselves as a trainer, whether they have the necessary skills and knowledge or not.
Navigating through this unregulated industry can be tricky. As a dog owner, you want a qualified trainer that will:
- Respect you, your dog, and your family.
- Stick to your schedule.
- Use positive training methods.
- Never harm your dog.
- Address your dog's unique needs and behaviors.
- Teach you how to better communicate with your dog.
- Provide ongoing support and check-in after training sessions.
- Train in various settings, environments and stages.
- Empower you to build a healthy, loving bond with your dog.
It takes years of experience and education for trainers to be able to offer all of the above. So how do you find a professional that fits your and your dog’s needs?
Se habla español!
"Pawsitive" Indicators of a Good Dog Trainer
Some things to look for when searching for a Columbus dog trainer include:
Training Technique
There are various training methods out there, but the most effective is positive reinforcement. According to the American Kennel Service, positive reinforcement techniques “are based on the science of animal learning and have the bonus of strengthening the dog-owner bond.”
- “Alpha Dog” or dominance-based training techniques. Dominance theory is based on incorrect assumptions of dog and wolf behavior. Dog behaviorists have proven that positive techniques are the only healthy way to communicate with dogs. Dominant, punishment-based training causes anxiety, fear and aggression.
- Trainers that use choke-chains, shock collars, sprays, and other punishment tactics.
Stay Away From:
Personality
You want to enjoy the time spent with your trainer, so find someone with a happy, exciting personality. You’re looking for a professional, of course, but we are all dog lovers here, so light-hearted attitudes are important. Your dog must connect well with a trainer for efficient learning, so pay attention to how your dog reacts to your chosen trainer.
- Trainers that make you feel bad about your relationship with your dog or your dog’s behavior.
- Rude, dismissive attitudes, and trainers that are too uptight.
- Trainers that use harsh words and aggressive tactics.
Stay Away From:
Empowerment
A dog trainer is truly a teacher at heart, and their goal is to teach you how to better communicate with your dog. You need a coach who helps you connect better with your pet, empowering you to build a strong bond. When the trainer is gone, you’ll be the one giving the commands, so make sure you find someone that is understanding, patient, and committed.
- A trainer that does not want to involve you and your family members in the process.
- Programs that only offer board and train -- effective training involves various settings, including classes and inside the home.
- Trainers that cannot explain how dogs learn and cannot teach you how to communicate with your dog.
Stay Away From:
Credentials
Dog trainers do not need a license, but there are various education programs available. Look for a trainer that can prove their credentials with experience, education, and certifications. If you have a specific need, such as personal protection or service training, be sure to find a trainer that is experienced in that area.
At Dog Training Elite, our dog trainers are educated and experienced with training dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages. All locations are registered with the Professional Retriever Trainers Association, the International Association of Canine Professionals, and the American Kennel Club.
Trainers that cannot prove their education, experience, or background.
Stay Away From:
Customization
All dogs have unique personalities and life experiences that shape their behaviors. A well-qualified trainer offers customizable programs tailored to the unique needs of each client and dog. In-home training approaches are preferred, so the trainer can observe your dog in his home environment (where he feels most comfortable acting naughty!).
You should also look for a trainer that covers both basic obedience and advanced programs.
- Trainers that can’t teach more than basic obedience commands.
- A trainer that diagnoses medical issues as reasoning for problem behaviors. Trainers are not licensed veterinarians and should never diagnose a dog. If a medical issue is suspected, a qualified trainer will recommend you speak to a vet.
Stay Away From:
Good References
References and consumer reviews are key to finding a reliable trainer. Ask around at the dog park for good references, and research each trainer or company. Read through customer reviews and take a look at how professional their website appears.
- Trainers that have no website or online references, or trainers that have poor reviews.
- Trainers with reviews that mention aggressive tactics, fear-based techniques, and punishment-based theory.
Stay Away From:
Se habla español!
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.
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!
I can't recommend Dog Training Elite enough! Brennen, our trainer, is exceptional. His kind yet firm approach creates a positive atmosphere for both dogs and handlers. He takes the time to assess each handler's abilities, ensuring everyone is equipped to train effectively. With a focus on positive reinforcement, Brennen's methods truly work. He has been working with my Doberman, Minnie, who is in training to be a therapy dog in a behavioral health setting. If you're looking for top-notch dog training, look no further!— Natasha Schafer
Posted October 20th 2024
Brennan is the best dog trainer in town. He is the third trainer I used for my dog Kaden. The other two trainers did not get my dog where I wanted him to be. Brennan went beyond my expectations. My dog used to react to other dogs, now he can be around any dog. My dog can now be off leash and still have the obedience as he is on leash. I used to be nervous to have Kaden near my daughter, but now I feel 100% confident with him around her. Highly recommend Brennan and his dog training methods.— Nick Smith
Posted October 16th 2024
Best trainer ever. Trained my Golden Retriever beyond all expectations! And Mabel loves him.— James Owen
Posted August 18th 2024
Brennan and Dog Training Elite Columbus have been fantastic in helping with the training of Ozzy. Brennan has been involved since Ozzy was a young puppy and continues to provide great training. Brennan is enthusiastic, caring and is timely. I highly recommend him to help with training. -Dave H— Dave Hamlin
Posted June 3rd 2024
We’ve loved this experience! Brennen (our trainer) has been amazing to work with. He adapted to the needs of our dog and continued review basic training commands in the mix. Our dog was timid with loud sounds and he brought all the ideas and tools for each training session. We get 1:1 at our house and group sessions at the park. No matter what your end goal may be, Brennen is supportive and hard working to get to that goal.— Janelle Miller
Posted May 5th 2024
We’ve loved this experience! Brennen (our trainer) has been amazing to work with. He adapted to the needs of our dog and continued review basic training commands in the mix. Our dog was timid with loud sounds and he brought all the ideas and tools for each training session. We get 1:1 at our house and group sessions at the park. No matter what your end goal may be, Brennen is supportive and hard working to get to that goal.— Janelle Miller
Posted May 5th 2024
I would absolutely recommend Brennan with Dog Training Elite. He is calm, gently firm with his training and builds a relationship of trust and love in his training. Our GSD Luna is stubborn, but she loves Brennnan and loves to work. He has taught us, how to teach Luna and although she still has a bit to go, the things Brennan has taught are working! We now train at various locations outdoors and indoors and her dog distraction has greatly improved. At one point I worried if she would be a good Service Dog, but now I KNOW she will be and already demonstrates, thanks to Brennan' s guidance and our persistence with his training. If you need a trainer and program, THIS IS THE ONE.— Taylor Ez
Posted April 16th 2024
This place is where my dog is currently training and I love it! The trainer, Brennan, is really knowledgeable and easy to schedule with (even if you need to move the time around, but I try my best not to do that to him lol). I’m in need of a psychological support dog and I’m so glad I chose Dog Training Elite to make my shelter pup a service animal ❤️— Simon Freitas
Posted March 4th 2024
Brennan is amazing! He fits your needs along with your dogs. He doesn't do one size fits all. I love that he comes to you, spends time getting to know you and your dog before even trying to make any plan. He is definitely the go to guy!— Rebekah Johnston
Posted February 27th 2024
Brennan was exceptional in the training of my Nemo. His patience and explanations were well above adequate and he made both of us confident and comfortable. I recommend him highly to anyone looking for an excellent trainer.— Nancy Conkel
Posted December 18th 2023
Had an amazing experience with Brennan. Put in the extra effort to make sure we had the best resources. He not only showed us the correct techniques but he explained why we were doing that. From the beginning to the end their was a huge difference in Lokis behavior. 100% recommend this training.— Ariella Pitty
Posted December 15th 2023
Did a great job training our dog not to jump on guest, walking calming on leash and listen to multiple different commands. Very friendly and knowledgeable!— Luke Daugherty
Posted November 21st 2023
Very detailed, personable & knowledgeable, not only with owners but with my german shepherd. Took all the time needed & was able to change shepherd's behavior .— A Lester
Posted October 20th 2023
I really liked the amount of classes and additional dog socialization interaction classes. Brennan does a great job with the whole program and customizing to your specific needs.— Laura Lawrence
Posted September 26th 2023
We’ve had a really good experience with Brennan. He really listens to us and has helped with a lot of issues Howie has such as barking, pulling on walks, and distractions. He’s also very communicative, always on time, and always has treats! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!— Kerry Lackner
Posted September 26th 2023
Brennan has helped us connect better with our pup, taught him some skills to make him more confident and happier, and it has been a fun process. Very much recommend.— Kelly Cox
Posted May 19th 2023
Brennan helped my grandma out with her dog and was prompt, professional, and consistent. He worked with her dog on a regular basis until her dog was fully trained. He really went above and beyond.— Exterior Revival
Posted March 31st 2023
The best dog trainers around! Brennan was so patient, understanding, and helpful! Would highly recommend!— Cassidy Clay
Posted March 22nd 2023
Thanks so much Brennan! Great improvement with the puppy after taking the course couldn’t have done it without you— garrett woerndle
Posted March 18th 2023
Brennan has done such a wonderful job training my dog Noomi. She is a very energetic bernedoodle that loves to play! I have always wanted to let her off leash but have been nervous that she would run away from me. Brennan has worked with her and has made me feel confident that I can take her off leash and she will listen to me. It makes her so happy and it gives me a peace of mind that she will be obedient to me. Thank you Brennan for the awesome work! My pup and I are so thankful for your help 😁— Logan Hunkus
Posted February 8th 2023
Trust Your Gut
Choosing a trainer is an important part of being a dog owner, and in the end, you want to choose the professional you feel comfortable with. This is someone that you’ll be inviting into your home and spending plenty of time with! A dog trainer with credentials, experience, and a friendly personality that makes your dog’s tail wag is most likely a great choice.
You also want to make sure you get your money’s worth, so choose a trainer that is invested in you and your dog. At Dog Training Elite, we follow up with our clients even after training sessions have ended. Our goal is to help clients build strong relationships with their pets, and that takes consistent effort. Our professional dog trainers are some of the best in the Columbus area. We cover training programs such as obedience, personal protection, anxiety, aggression, and service dog.