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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 Southeast Michigan 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 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 9 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 Job 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 Metro Detroit 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!
Dog Training Elite of Southeast Michigan is the best of the best when it comes to training. They go above and beyond to make sure you are happy with the services they provide. They truly love the animals like their own and work with the families every step of the way. If I could give 6/5 stars I would. I would highly recommend.— Michelle Foley
Posted October 21st 2024
I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough. Hailey and Steve have been training my one-year-old Golden Retriever to be a therapy dog. Daisy has progressed so much in just a few sessions in the comfort of our home. She is so proud of herself and my whole family has benefitted from everything she’s learned.— Stephanie McGuire
Posted October 18th 2024
We have sent 2 service dogs through training with them and their service is fantastic! We've specifically requested Hailey (sp) both times and she is amazing! Kind, upbeat, energetic and empathetic. The company is flexible, understanding and extremely helpful and available! They train you just as well as your pets!— Kei Wolfe
Posted October 4th 2024
Couldn’t have asked for a more professional, yet fun and exciting experience for Murphy, my wife and I. This is our first golden retriever, and our experience with Dog Training Elite and Hailey (our trainer❤️) has been nothing short of perfect. Our Murphy has passed his public service access test (service animal) with the amazing training provided by Hailey and my wife. He is an absolutely perfect addition to our family, and we owe so much of that to Hailey and the team at Dog Training Elite.— Jameson Kyle Hagerty
Posted September 26th 2024
Hailey was very knowledgeable and professional and I would recommend her with confidence.— Mark Jaffray
Posted September 26th 2024
We contacted dog training elite prior to picking up our Murphy. They helped guide us with the initial pup search (we were seeking to get a PSD service dog). Once we got our Murph Hailey started with our training. She has been absolutely amazing to work with. She has done a fantastic job helping me to train him. He’s become the best well behaved (service dog) puppy we could’ve asked for, all thanks to the knowledge that Hailey has given me. I’m excited to see what she has in store for us next.— Ashley Hagerty
Posted September 24th 2024
Our trainer Hailey , is a pro. She wants success for our dog and us. She is clear and patient. At a group session, another trainer Ryann came over to assist us. Great people and company leadership. Our dog is really being trained to be a better companion. Thanks all at Elite Dog Training. Forrest & Ann— forrest hayford
Posted August 31st 2024
Dog Training Elite is great! Ryann helped us train our 2 year old, very hyper dog, and he’s completely different now!! Plus he has a new friend. I highly recommend having your dog trained with DTE!— Sarah Thomas
Posted August 30th 2024
My dog Winnie has been completing therapy dog training with Hailey at Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan for a few months now, and we absolutely love Hailey and the program! It has been so fun to see Winnie's confidence and skills evolve, and I can't wait to continue the rest of our training with this team! If you're looking for high quality dog training in the metro-Detroit area I can't recommend them enough!— Christina E Agostino
Posted August 28th 2024
Hailey at Southeast Michigan Dog Training Elite was awesome. Arlo, our 9 month old Australian Shepherd has been one of the best dogs we have ever had and with the training that Hailey did with us and Arlo, has just made having a dog amazing again. Our goal was to be able to take Arlo where ever we go and behave and just be one of the family. With the training program from Southeast Michigan Dog Training Elite and Hailey’s passion and patients, we have that dog. Would highly recommend Hailey and Southeast Michigan Dog Training Elite.— Kirk Hedding
Posted August 28th 2024
Hailey with Dog Training Elite was absolutely exceptional. She made herself available for our schedule, and was willing to help us train our dog in any scenario, with family members, and other dogs. It was great! Highly recommend!— Ryan Rosenberg
Posted August 20th 2024
We are so impressed with Austin, Hailey, and this company! The one on one personal training really helped to train our Tessa (and more importantly us humans). She continues to learn more tasks to be the best service dog! Thank you for being professional and still enjoying butt wiggles!— Jean Perczak
Posted August 12th 2024
My family & I adopted a 7-week-old, purebred, German Shepherd in Jan. As she got a bit older, we discovered that we were WAY over our heads when it came to her training. Of course, we went online searching for trainers & we finally found DOG TRAINING ELITE which was the BEST discovery EVER!!! Of course, we read the reviews & we found HAILEY...one of the BEST trainers that we could EVER ask for!!! Her reviews are A+, and we stand behind those reviews!!! She's KIND, PATIENT, UNDERSTANDING, SO INFORMATIVE & IS GREAT w/MAZIE, and w/us too!!! The things she teaches us is so EXTREMELY helpful when we're training on our own! Once we had our free consultation, we were SO impressed to learn about their AMAZING training programs that we signed up right away!!! HAILEY comes to our house once a week, and it truly is AMAZING the things she teaches our pup!!! If you are looking for a dog trainer, look no further!!! Call DOG TRAINING ELITE, request Hailey, and I promise you, you WON'T be sorry!!!— Tiffany Raubacher
Posted June 30th 2024
Just finished a 10-week training class with Hailey from DTE, and it was a great experience. Hailey was wonderful to work with; she was flexible and accommodating and did a fabulous job with our 4 year old mix Tater. She worked with us to customize the curriculum, increasing the time we spent on our areas of concern (behavior basics and leash walking) instead of covering some advanced topics we didn't need or want (e.g., going into public spaces). Sessions were fun and engaging; Hailey worked directly with Tater on each skill to get her started, but also taught me how to continue the process between and beyond class. We also had a few sessions with both Hailey and Austin, along with Austin's dog Sunny, to work on socialization. Tater had been quite a handful since we got her... constantly barking and agitated when outside, overly excited and hard to control with visitors, unable to walk on a leash, zero recognition of any commands, etc. We honestly thought that perhaps there was something wrong with her; that she was untrainable. Nope. She responded immediately to the training, and in fact seems quite smart (though stubborn). She now understands (and follows) necessary commands, walks very well on a leash (and even without a leash), remains quiet in the yard (even when bunnies are present, or the neighbor's dog is yapping), and behaves with visitors. We're looking forward to maintaining and even advancing her behavior at the weekly group sessions. If you are looking for a high quality training program for your dog and have the time and the means, I highly recommend Dog Training Elite and both Hailey and Austin as an excellent choice.— David Kulmaczewski
Posted June 29th 2024
Hailey has been fantastic with Moose! He has learned so much in just a few short weeks. My office is dog friendly but as a large 9 month old puppy he was loud and wanted constant attention and play. In just 4 sessions I was able to bring a well mannered dog into the office with me! He gets to play with his dog friends now at work and daycare and I get to take my smart pup for walks where he’s not pulling me along. And Moose loves to see Hailey each week. He gets so excited to see her. We taught him to swim yesterday! I cannot tell you how happy I am with Hailey and Dog Training Elite!— Tammy H
Posted June 14th 2024
Highly recommend. Hailey and Ryann were great with us and our dogs! The whole team was very responsive throughout the process, patient and thorough. Overall wonderful experience.— Elizabeth Curley
Posted May 28th 2024
A huge thank you to Hailey! She did a great job both with us and our Russell! We needed training as much as he did! The entire team at DTE Southeast Michigan is fantastic. When Hailey couldn’t make it Ryann came and was wonderful! Austin took time with us also to teach us how to get Russell ready for a group environment. We highly recommend DTE Southeast Michigan! #fantasticinvestment❤️— Teresa Leonard
Posted May 27th 2024
We could not be happier with the training we received from Dog Training Elite. Hailey did a great job working with us and we’ve seen a significant improvement in Cassius. I would highly recommend working with the team!— Joe Fornasiero
Posted May 20th 2024
Thank you Dog Training Elite Southeast Michigan! Hailey and Holleigh did a great job connecting with our dogs and listening to our concerns. Austin is extremely knowledgeable and teaches how to work with your dog in different situations and environments.— Melanie McPeake
Posted May 8th 2024
So glad we chose Dog Training Elite! Hailey was awesome and shared so much knowledge on training us on how to train our pup. We loved how she came to our home to see what day to day expectations were. Athena is much more well behaved and has quickly learned her boundaries outside as well. Would highly recommend them...and actually we already have to a couple of people!— Teri Nagel
Posted May 7th 2024
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 Metro Detroit area. We cover training programs such as obedience, personal protection, anxiety, aggression, and service dog.