Our Positive Dog Training Method
in South Bend / Elkhart

At Dog Training Elite Michiana, our dog training method is different. We focus on positive reinforcement paired with a personalized, in-home approach. This will empower you as the owner to be an integral part of the process for sustained dog obedience training in South Bend / Elkhart.

Our approach is based on positive reinforcement. We help you and your dog achieve sustained, deep-rooted obedience.

We do not use punishments or shock collars. We pair positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog but is used to gain the dog's attention, just as you would with the tug of a leash. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.

Call to schedule your FREE in-home dog training demo or submit a request here!

574-500-3647

Dog Training Elite has expert dog trainers in South Bend / Elkhart that use a positive training method with optimal results.


Request A Free Assessment

Submit your information below, and we will call to schedule your free in-home assessment!

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.
Dog Training Elite Michiana has award winning in-home dog trainers and top rated dog training programs.

Why Dog Training Elite Michiana?

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.

Award Winning Dog Training Services in the South Bend / Elkhart, IN Metro Area


Welcome to Dog Training Elite Michiana! We are a professional, family owned South Bend / Elkhart, IN-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 South Bend / Elkhart, IN 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 Michiana 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!

Se habla español!

Request an Assessment Se habla español

Meet Our Team


Rich Naponelli

Owner/Trainer

Ajax

Demo Dog

Jocelyn

Trainer

Personalized Dog Training


Most dog training programs train the dog at their own facilities. They require minimal involvement from the owner and once the dog returns home the problem behaviors return as well. With our South Bend / Elkhart in-home dog trainers, we personalize the training to you and your dog for long-lasting success.

The entire family can, and should, be involved as obedience can be undone as soon as training is disrupted by any one individual. Our comprehensive approach will be customized to you and your family to prevent loss of obedience.

Dog Training Elite has top in-home dog trainers in South Bend / Elkhart that can personalize a training program to fit your needs.

Dog Training Elite provides expert in-home dog training in South Bend / Elkhart that targets environment specific training needs.

Environment Specific Training


Because your dog's behaviors are specific to his or her surroundings, our trainers work with you and your dog in the environment that behavior occurs. Our in-home dog trainers in South Bend / Elkhart provide a balanced and comprehensive approach working alongside dog owners to create strong bonds and sustained obedience.

Training takes time, commitment, and balance. Dog Training Elite will be there every step of the way, to help you and your dog achieve sustained, deep-rooted obedience.

Request your own
FREE In-Home Assessment
from Dog Training Elite!


Se habla español!


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


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!

We found Dog Training Elite Michiana through Fetch! and we knew our stubborn pup(German Shepherd) would need serious training due to her grown habits. She had some bad habits that we were struggling to handle and we needed valuable tools and training to correct them. She is an incredibly intelligent, stubborn(strong-willed) and determined dog and we wanted her to be okay around the family. She needed valuable training to and Dog Training Elite was able to provide. We met Rich on our first appointment and he has refused to give up on her ever since. You could tell he was reading the room and her behavior well as he was really good at translating her cues to us. Our dog showed lots of improvements very quickly and we are no longer late to functions. We feel a lot more comfortable with her around the family. Dog Training Elite means serious business and Rich's overall experience was clearly evident as he was able to acknowledge and correct our dog(who was stuck in a rut) and help her become a valuable member of our family. Rich was very determined, worked really well with our dog and read her like a book. We are greatly appreciative for the training to not only our dog, but to us so we can react appropriately to her reactions/actions. We look forward to continuing to work with Dog Training Elite as our beloved dog grows.
— Josh
Posted September 29th 2024
google
Rich has been working with our family and our two dogs…a puppy and a ten yr old dog. We are new to the e-collar technology and it has been an amazing transition in their obedience. Rich is extremely knowledgeable and professional! Always on time and flexible with our schedule! He has helped us become better dog owners and our dogs now actually love each other!!
— Michelle Quinn
Posted September 20th 2024
google
The best thing I ever did for myself and my dog was reach out to Dog Training Elite. There are hundreds of dog trainers around, but what this program offers is true support and understands YOUR dog—I mean it. I cried the first day of class watching my puppy become accustom to new things (habits I allowed her into), but four weeks later...I already have a new dog. It just keeps getting better. I couldn't recommend a better program and better trainers. They teach you about their methods, they train YOU as the owner, and they listen. Huge shoutout to Rich who has been absolutely nothing but kind and gracious to me and Aspen. He's a fantastic person and trainer. I've now become the dog owner who genuinely cares about who my dog interacts with and why. She's an amazing 8 month old puppy and she deserves the best life. I will give it to her.
— Karli Saner
Posted June 22nd 2024
google
If you are looking for some training for your dog then Dog Training Elite is your answer! We just completed the last session yesterday and couldn’t be more happy with the progress made. Huge thanks to Rich for being patient and really working with my dog Cass. Cass went from a hyper active bozo to a well mannered boy!
— Taylor Feeheley
Posted June 7th 2024
google
So happy to have Richard working with my dog Elvis. We are six weeks in on classes and he is addressing all behavioral problems successfully. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
— Ziebart
Posted June 6th 2024
google
Diane is the nicest and best trainer. She found AJ my sdit when I was attending Purdue. He has become such a big part of my world! She is also a big part of his life too! I send her updates all the time about his progress and she'll answer any questions or worries I have. Definitely recommend her to help with any training for a service dog or just obedience training!
— Echo Higueros
Posted May 21st 2024
google
I have nothing but gratitude for DTE. My dog Bun has gone from a good dog who I adore to an absolute support to me on top of that. I can not wait to continue this journey with Bun and DTE. They have helped me start my journey of creating a relationship with my dog where he is truly a dog who can help me on days where I can't and that is priceless. From getting his basics in to working towards service it has been extremely clear and so easy to follow. They are truly passionate about this work and it shows. Diana has worked with me and all of my issues and how to adapt while working with my dog. I really can't thank them enough.
— Gabrielle Fisher
Posted February 19th 2024
facebook
I have nothing but gratitude for DTE. My dog Bun has gone from a good dog who I adore to an absolute support to me on top of that. I can not wait to continue this journey with Bun and DTE. They have helped me start my journey of creating a relationship with my dog where he is truly a dog who can help me on days where I can't and that is priceless. From getting his basics in to working towards service it has been extremely clear and so easy to follow. They are truly passionate about this work and it shows.
— Gabrielle Fisher
Posted February 19th 2024
google
My experience with DTE and my trainer Diana has been second to none and totally invaluable. Starting service dog training with my lab Luna has been life changing thanks to Diana providing us with the knowledge and skills we need to be successful. Diana is kind, patient, compassionate, understanding, knowledgeable, experienced— literally everything you could ever want in a trainer. I highly recommend DTE Michiana to anyone looking for dog training services. Thank you Diana for all that you’ve done for us and continue to do!
— Chubby Supreme
Posted February 13th 2024
google
Great trainers who are passionate about their work.
— Diane Hyepock
Posted November 19th 2023
google
Can't wait to have Diane train my new puppy.
— Kristin Basham
Posted July 5th 2023
google
This service absolutely changed our lives. Our dog used to have sever separation anxiety to the point where we had to kennel her while we were at work. Otherwise, our house would be chewed up when we got home. That's when we met Diana. Through her daily walks and her training sessions, our dog is almost unrecognizable. Utilizing Dog Training Elite Michigan was such a blessing. Thank you for everything!
— Austin Hale
Posted June 29th 2023
google

All Reviews Set Up an Assessment Today!