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A therapy dog is a dog who visits places like schools, hospitals and nursing homes. Therapy dog training in Green Bay / Appleton teaches dogs to provide comfort, support, and affection to the people they meet, particularly vulnerable people like children, seniors, patients in hospitals, and so on.
Therapy dogs are not service dogs. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to help a person who has a disability. This distinction is important because therapy dogs do not have the same access to public places like service dogs do. For example, service dogs can go into restaurants, but therapy dogs cannot. Therapy dogs still provide a valuable service and should receive therapy dog certification.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Who Do Therapy Dogs Help?
Therapy dogs may be regular visitors to a variety of people and places, with hospitals and rehabilitation centers being among the most common. Children, in particular, respond positively to therapy dogs.
Seniors in assisted living or people with mental disabilities who live in facilities and experience feelings of isolation also see a lot of benefits from visiting with a therapy dog.
Besides providing valuable social opportunities and relieving anxiety, therapy dogs may even help lower blood pressure and heart rate in patients and the other people they visit.
Why Are Therapy Dogs Important?
Therapy dogs offer unconditional love, non-judgmental interaction, reduce stress, anxiety and loneliness, and provide an overall positive distraction to ailments. Research shows therapy dogs can have a positive effect on a patient’s mood, stress and pain levels during facility stays.
Young patients — children — seem to benefit most from working with therapy dogs. They are more motivated to participate in treatments, feel optimistic about the future, and experience an overall sense of calm when a certified therapy dog is present.
For people who may have a hard time socializing due to mental disabilities or their living situation, therapy dogs can promote social interaction within their community and help them to connect.
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!
Allison was an awesome trainer. Allison worked with my dog but most importantly me to help me understand you need to work every day to have a good healthy and lovable pet. I am a happier person because of the help. I no longer need to constantly yell at my dog. Thanks Allison— Marty Klika
Posted October 21st 2024
This has been a blast! Training our rescue dog with Ramiro has been so successful, so much fun and something we strongly recommend! Our dog, Jobin, has been a reactive dog with other dogs, getting in fights and biting multiple times. His veterinarian felt Jobin was reactionary from insecurity and anxiousness. I tried so many things to help him but just when I thought I had it figured out, Jobin would flare up again and prove me wrong. Hiring Ramiro was truly the answer and his training helped Jobin and us so much! Now we have an extremely well trained dog who loves to go on long walks, visit dog parks with confidence and is no longer showing insecure behavior.— Katherine Janssen
Posted October 14th 2024
Bronson was enrolled with Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin in the obedience platinum package. His trainer, Alli was amazing to work with. She was very flexible with not only Bronson’s medical issues. He got kennel cough three times from doggy daycare, had a soft tissue injury that took a couple weeks to heal and more recently had food allergies and environmental allergies. Not to mention my very demanding work schedule was hard to accommodate but Alli made it happen! All of the one-on-one sessions were in the comfort of Bronson’s home/yard so it was less stressful for puppy and owner. Alli was very patient and explained all of the training components to help not only me to understand why things are trained in the manner they are and to also explain the tell tale signs of dogs in general that get it but refuse to cooperate at times and then reinforcing the positive feedback as each training session was accomplished on daily routine life. Bronson just graduated his obedience training course and he passed his Canine Good Citizen certification today. A lot of work was done with Bronson but I would highly recommend to anyone that’s looking for a personalized obedience training program for their canine to use Dog Training Elite. The trainers definitely put the extra personal effort to treat your dog as if it was their own. Look forward to continuing onto the group training and hopefully service dog training!— Heather Ann-Marie
Posted October 14th 2024
I got a working line doberman puppy, Draco, and was feeling lost with training on my own. I had no idea where to start but I ended up deciding to work with Dog Training Elite after reading their great reviews. Let me tell you if they can successfully help me train my crazy, super high energy, stubborn doberman, they can train your dog. We worked with Allison and I couldn’t be happier. We genuinely looked forward to in home lessons with her every week and so did Draco. I couldn’t have done it without her… not only did she teach my dog manners and commands but also taught ME and gave helpful tips and information. I picked the platinum package after looking at all the benefits of it and I have absolutely no complaints. As a bonus - you get to work with actual people who care about you, your family and your pet. There were multiple times that Allison went above and beyond for us. Set up the consultation, I promise you won’t regret it ;)— Maya Bishop
Posted October 10th 2024
We have a 2 year old corgi who was food aggressive and dog reactive and didn’t always listen, he also was in trusting to be left off leash. After training with Romero we can trust him off leash and he listens to all commands. His dog reactivity and resource guarding is getting better and we have the tools and knowledge to work with him. We feel more comfortable bringing him places and he can be trusted off leash now. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who is looking for a dog trainer!— Lindzi Kryger
Posted October 5th 2024
When my wife and I had gotten our second dog, Lucy, we knew almost right away that we were going to need some help getting her trained to the level she deserved to be at. She came from a rough upbringing, and we were very unsure as to how to tackle it. One day however, we decided to get in contact with Dog Training Elite and I can say without reservation that it was the best decision that my wife and I have made for Lucy. The first session, while a little rocky at first, as Lucy began to learn the basics of what will make her a well trained dog, completely changed her whole personality. She began to listen to us, look at us when giving commands, and would nearly be able to read our minds depending on the situation, because she was properly trained to know how to respond. Both my wife and I cannot recommend Ramiro and his team enough. From start to finish, they have been so professional, willing to work around very busy schedules, and make the most out of every class we had. I’ve very proud to see how Lucy turned around from a stray off the streets, to a dog that we are so proud to show off to friends and family. Thanks so much for everything you all have done for us! We look forward to letting everyone we can know about this program, and the benefits it can offer!— Leigh Richardson
Posted October 4th 2024
Can't say enough good things about Romero and the Dog Training Elite team! My dog was reactive, hated going on walks, and had awful recall. I made my consultation after a disasterous visit to the vet and I regret nothing! Within a few lessons he was completely changed and I had such a better understanding on how to encourage or correct behavior. If you want your dog to be a model canine citizen, give them a call!— Lindsay Horst
Posted October 3rd 2024
When we first contacted Elite dog training we had little hope in correcting our dogs behavior problems. We had tried online training and hired a personal trainer all to no avail. While we considered the investment in our dog or just giving up on our dog, I am glad we went with the investment. She has made great strides in not only her behavior but also in her demeanor . While she still needs work, she is well on her way to providing us with the well behaved, enjoyable companion she was meant to be. I recommend to anyone going through similar problems with their dog to not give up. Your dog & you can make the transition needed through training & education to become a cohesive & happy family. Our thanks to Elite training for making this possible & look forward to group sessions to continue our journey. MIKE & Pam Meyer— Pamela Meyer
Posted October 2nd 2024
My wife and I realized our dog, Max, needed some obedience training, as we were constantly trying to stop him from bolting out the door or getting overly distracted on walks by sniffing everything and approaching other dogs in a way that seemed too aggressive. After searching online for local dog trainers who specialize in these behaviors, we found Dog Training Elite, which had excellent reviews. We're happy to report that after 8 sessions with Ramiro, we've seen significant improvements in Max's behavior and obedience. He even passed the Canine Good Citizen test, thanks to Ramiro's guidance and our practice with Max between sessions. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite if you're looking for a great dog trainer.— Josh
Posted September 30th 2024
We are so grateful to Elite and especially Allison for her diligence and hard work. Our Elsa was a real challenge but we now have a very happy, playful and obedient pup!— Kerstin Scott
Posted September 27th 2024
Ramiro and Stephanie have been a joy to work with to train our dog, Bacon. They are professional, knowledgeable, patient and fun! We are 100% satisfied with the effectiveness of the training that was above and beyond our expectations.— Daniel Solberg
Posted September 19th 2024
We couldn't be happier with our trainer Allison and Dog Elite. They completely understood that it wasn't only our dog that needed training, it was us too! Our dog's progress has been a miracle for us. We would 100% recommend this service and company.— Kristen Gombar
Posted September 12th 2024
Had a great experience with Dog Training Elite. I worked with Allison and she was great. Worked well with my and my dog throughout our 8 week training program. Looking forward to thw group classes.— Nicole Socha
Posted September 10th 2024
I had an outstanding experience working with Ally. Ally is incredibly patient. She gives detailed explanations, works well one on one and gave positive feedback to both our dog and the me. Each lesson contained just the right amount of new skills and every lesson built on the lesson before. I highly recommend them. Individual lessons are so great and you make such rapid progress. I received an excellent return on my investment.— Marcia Broeren
Posted September 4th 2024
Outstanding. Superb customer service, flexible with individual needs and Results. I have a less than favorable breed for service training but it was no problem. Ramiro’s experience, knowledge (and patience) has taken us to new levels of training together. I am thoroughly pleased and grateful with our results. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite of NEW to anyone with any breed. Thank you Ramiro, Stephany & Allison.— Maria Koch
Posted September 3rd 2024
Ramiro did a great job with my dog Percy. Percy is a rescue who came from a hoarding situation. He was very nervous and sometimes over reactive in situations where he felt uncomfortable. After working with Ramiro, Percy has become so much more secure, and I feel more confident in my ability to help him manage his anxiety. Other people in my family have even commented on how much better his behavior has been since we started training at the beginning of the summer. I couldn't recommend this trainer (and company) enough!— Samantha Roberts
Posted August 30th 2024
Dog training elite is amazing. We got are boy Shiloh from the shelter an he was a lot to handle from pulling as hard as he could on walks to chewing things up a barking. Romero made this process a whole lot easier with the 1 on 1 sessions with Shiloh. They treat everyone one like family and only want the best for our pups. Shiloh is a year and a half now an is as confident as ever is almost everything his does now. I highly recommend dog training elite to anyone who is looking for a great outcome for there pups!— Christian Pilar
Posted August 14th 2024
We used DTE to train our rottweiler puppy, Moose. We were in contact with Stephany and Ramiro from DTE before knowing what breed of puppy we would be getting. I am wheelchair bound and we wanted to get a puppy to train to be my service dog. Through video meetings, we discussed my needs and found a breed we agreed on. Through their contacts, they found a rottweiler breeder that has a great reputation. (Moose has been a great puppy since the beginning. Very relaxed and easygoing. It has never felt like a task to train him.) We had Moose attend, or more stay home (they come to you!) for the Puppy Platinum and Obedience Platinum courses, which started shortly after Moose was 8 weeks old. Moose just graduated from his obedience trading and received his Canine Good Citizen certificate. Moose is currently attending DTE's group training sessions with the other dogs that have also been through their obedience training. Ramiro was Moose's trainer for every class. Each lesson was very efficient and Ramiro was great with explaining what, how, and why we were doing each step. Moose loves Ramiro; he treated Moose as he would with his own dog from the beginning. Moose is now 7 months old and is such a good boy! He listens so well and can already heal and go for a walk off leash. He's learning more every day and is set to go to Milwaukee to get service dog training. He definitely has a good base to go from. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND contacting DTE for dog training if you're needing help getting started with getting a puppy, just got a puppy, or are having issues with your own. If results are proof with Moose, be confident that you will have a puppy that is super well trained, confident, and that you're proud of.— Caleb Peterson
Posted August 9th 2024
My dog Finn and I started training in hopes to work on his reactivity to people and dogs. Working with DTE was an amazing experience. By the first week I noticed such a huge improvement in Finn’s overall behavior. His confidence when meeting new people and dogs has grown so much and it’s been so amazing to see. We are so thankful for trainer Alli and everyone at DTE!— Libby V
Posted August 5th 2024
Not just one size fits all training. My dog, and myself, received the training we needed. Highly recommend.— Andrew Horan
Posted August 5th 2024
How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?
If you have felt the benefits of owning a dog, you may feel inspired to help more people feel the unconditional love, joy and support your dog provides. However, having a friendly, loving personality isn’t enough for a dog to qualify as a therapy dog. Some other qualifications to consider are:
- The age of your dog. Puppies do not make good therapy animals.
- How obedient your dog is. It’s important your dog listens to you and obeys basic commands. Dogs that go through obedience training with Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin have the perfect foundation to go onto therapy dog training, as long as they are old enough.
- How social your dog is. Your dog may be affectionate with you — but are they affectionate with strangers? Do they like to receive attention from strangers, particularly petting?
Therapy Dog Handlers
As a dog owner, it’s important to reflect on whether you would like to become a therapy dog handler as well. If you enjoy connecting with people, becoming a therapy dog handler may be a great fit. You can also choose where to volunteer to better suit your interests — if you like kids, volunteer to visit schools or children’s hospitals. If you prefer to work with older people, then sign up to visit senior living centers.
Once you’ve determined that becoming a therapy dog handler and helping your dog become a therapy dog is the right move for the two of you, you’re ready to start therapy dog training. The trainers of Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin are experts in the behaviors needed in a therapy dog and will help you and your dog either brush up on or master behaviors such as “leave it,” “watch me,” loose-leash walking and not jumping on other people.
To help your dog become well socialized, you may consider also signing up for one of Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin’s group obedience classes. A group class environment is also beneficial because it helps your dog learn to be obedient when there are a lot of distractions around, a crucial skill for a therapy dog.
Once you’ve completed initial training, you’re ready to apply for therapy dog certification in Green Bay / Appleton. However, it is important to note that this certification is not the end. It’s important to stay on top of your dog’s training and continue to help them be the best therapy dog they can be.
Why do Therapy Dog Training with Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin?
The Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin training method stands out because of its emphasis on positive reinforcement. Dogs are never punished for bad behavior, instead they are rewarded for good behavior. This kind of training makes a huge difference in your relationship with your dog, and will make a difference in how your dog interacts with other people.
The balanced training method of Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin fosters a dog’s naturally loving and obedient nature. Focusing on positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior helps build a strong bond between dog and owner built on love and trust. This foundation in turn becomes a great foundation for dog and owner to become a fabulous therapy team providing an invaluable service to the community.
If you feel therapy dog certification is right for you and your dog, get started by contacting Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin. Request your free training demo and in-home assessment today.
