Our Values at Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast


The founders of Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast have been successfully training dogs, providing support to dog owners and working closely with charity organizations for over 40 years. Our passion for dogs and service has driven us to create an innovative training method that sets us apart and elevates our trainers to a higher standard of training. We have worked to build a team of trustworthy local dog trainers that reflect our values and possess the necessary skill and qualities that strengthen our mission and advance our unique training model.

We provide comprehensive, generous support to our clients and balanced, sustainable dog training in Pensacola to every dog we work with. We genuinely love what they do and aim to build a community for our clients that love their dogs just as much as we do. Once you begin the training process with us, you become a part of the Dog Training Elite family.

Our values are reflected in the work we do to provide service animals for those in need. We strongly believe in the healing power and helping benefits a service dog has for those with mental or physical disabilities/ disorders as well as the elevated love and joy that the companionship of a dog can bring into the lives of individuals and families in general.

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Empowering Owners

We work with dogs of any breed, size or age - and we empower owners with lifelong skills to continue successes.


  • Leash & potty training
  • Staying & coming
  • Destructive chewing & digging
  • Stealing food, clothing, or other objects
  • Barking, howling & whining
  • Food guarding & begging
  • Mouthing, nipping & playing rough
  • Anxiety & submissive urination
  • Jumping up & hyperactivity
  • Aggression & anxiety

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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Award Winning Dog Training Services in the Pensacola, FL Metro Area


Welcome to Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast! We are a professional, family owned Pensacola, FL-based dog training company with over 40 years of experience that specializes in strengthening the bond between your dog and your family, with a strong emphasis on teaching your dog the highest level of obedience, despite even the toughest level of distractions. Our Pensacola, FL dog training programs are certain to meet all of your training needs. Unlike a lot of other dog training companies, we understand that each client has different needs, so we tailor our dog training programs to accommodate your unique situation. Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast also trains service animals and dogs ready to volunteer in the community as therapy dogs and companions to those with special needs. We also offer a fun and challenging personal protection program as well!

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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.


  • 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).
  • 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.
  • 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.

Meet Our Team


Tina Ruffin

Owner & Trainer

Lily Sundeen

Administrative Assistant
Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast has award winning in-home dog trainers and top rated dog training programs.

Why Dog Training Elite Emerald Coast?

Lifetime Investment

We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.

Value Priced

We pride ourselves on being able to offer our professional services at prices that are budget friendly.

Local Trainers

All of our local dog trainers are trustworthy, willing to be there for our clients and love what they do.

Simplified & Customized

We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 15 min/day follow-up practice.

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!

Tina has been training my dog to be a service animal and has done phenomenal. I took my husky in and he was walking me and just had very bad behavior. It caused me so much stress and anxiety. I now have been able to take him places with no stress or worry! It has grown not only his confidence, but mine as well! I full heartedly recommend this place if you’re looking for training. I’d say they can train anything you are looking for and will do a very excellent job. Also, Tina drives an hour away just to ensure my dog is ready to pass his test. She shows up and goes out of her way to make sure that he is well equipped for his test! Her heart is pure and she’s given me great advice and knowledge!!!
— Lexi Hart
Posted September 11th 2024
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Wow, Tina is an amazing dog trainer!!! From the very first session, my one-year-old pug, Pixie, began following commands. Tina made all of the sessions simple, comfortable, non-intimidating and relaxing to both my dog and me! Of course, as Tina calls it, there is homework, and it must be practiced before the next follow-up session (one week apart). This is all done at one's home which is very convenient. There are group sessions also but due to medical issues, Tina worked out a specific home program for me. If you need any behavior worked on for your dog, I strongly urge you to contact Dog Training Elite. You and your dog will forever be thankful! Thank you so much, Tina! Evelyn
— Evelyn Perillo
Posted November 3rd 2023
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