Frequently Asked Questions
What is involved with a free evaluation?
Our free evaluation is designed to give you clarity and confidence. One of our professional trainers will visit your home, listen to your goals and concerns, and discuss what life with your dog could look like with the right training. Many families tell us they feel overwhelmed before the visit, but leave the evaluation feeling hopeful and empowered. We’ll outline our proven approach and walk you through your options so you can make the choice that best fits your family and your dog.
How do your services differ from competitors?
Families often come to us after trying trainers who rely on endless treats, harsh corrections, or inconsistent methods and still seeing little progress. What sets Dog Training Elite apart is our focus on clear communication, trust, and respect. We customize our approach to your dog’s unique needs, teaching them how to make better choices while building their confidence. The result isn’t just quick obedience, but lasting transformation that strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Will my family be involved in training?
Absolutely. We believe successful training involves the whole household. Many families notice their dog listens to one person but ignores everyone else—our training changes that. We’ll show you how to work together so your dog responds consistently to everyone. With just 15–20 minutes of practice a day, your family will reinforce progress and deepen your bond. Involving everyone ensures results that last, because your dog isn’t just part of your home—they’re part of your family.
How often are the training sessions?
Most programs involve weekly sessions, adjusted to your schedule and your dog’s progress. As your dog advances, you’ll also gain access to group classes where obedience is tested and reinforced around distractions. This balanced structure—private instruction plus group practice—keeps your dog on track and ensures real-world results.
Can you address just a few specific issues?
While many families come to us with concerns like jumping or barking, these behaviors are often symptoms of a deeper challenge: unclear communication. Our training builds a solid foundation of obedience first, which makes it easier to correct problem behaviors and prevent new ones from developing. Once your dog understands how to follow your lead, those specific issues fade—and you’ll have the tools to handle anything that comes up in the future.
Do you train husbands, wives, or kids?
We’ll stick to training the dogs—they learn faster and argue less! But many families tell us that once their dog learns structure and discipline, it inspires the rest of the household to follow suit. A well-trained dog has a way of bringing out the best in everyone.
Do you train all breeds, shapes, and sizes?
Yes. Whether it’s a Chihuahua with a big personality or a Great Dane with a stubborn streak, we train them all. Every dog is unique, and our customized approach ensures they succeed regardless of breed or size.
Do you work with aggressive dogs?
Yes—aggression is one of our specialties. Many families come to us feeling stressed, worried, or even embarrassed about their dog’s behavior. Whether it’s growling, snapping, lunging, or biting, we address the root causes with proven methods that build trust, obedience, and calm responses under pressure. No dog is “too challenging.” We’ll help you restore confidence, safety, and peace in your home.
What kinds of service dogs do you train?
We provide specialized training for service dogs that assist with PTSD, psychiatric support, autism, allergen detection, medical alerts, and mobility challenges. We also train therapy dogs that bring comfort and companionship in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and treatment centers. Because service needs are never one-size-fits-all, we tailor our programs to your unique situation and guide you every step of the way.
What temperament is required for a service dog?
Service dogs must have calm, stable temperaments and the ability to stay focused in any environment. While breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and Poodles often excel, temperament is more important than breed. Some service roles require certifications such as AKC Canine Good Citizen, which we can help you achieve. If you’re unsure about your dog’s potential, we offer free evaluations to help you understand your options.
Training Programs
A Well-Trained Dog Brings Out the Best in Life
At Dog Training Elite Central Maryland, we go beyond obedience. Our proven programs build confidence, strengthen bonds, and prepare dogs for real-world situations. We turn good dogs into great family companions and train critical service animals to support those with disabilities. Effective training for every dog, every stage. Proudly serving Central Maryland and surrounding areas.
Obedience Training
Dog Training That Solves Everyday Problems
A dog should bring joy, not stress. Without structure, even the most loving pet can pull on the leash, jump on guests, or ignore commands. Our obedience training fixes these issues so your dog becomes the calm, reliable companion you always wanted.
Designed Around Your Lifestyle
We know every family is different. That’s why our programs include in-home sessions for
personal coaching and group classes for real-world practice. From basic commands to
advanced on- and off-leash training, we prepare your dog to listen at home, in the
neighborhood, and out in public — no matter the distractions.
More Than Training — A Lasting Investment
The real cost of skipping training is safety. Investing in obedience now gives you a dog you can trust anywhere, anytime. Starting young sets puppies up for a lifetime of good behavior, while older dogs benefit too — breaking bad habits, building confidence, and staying active and healthier for years to come.
Obedience Training Programs Focus:
- Mastering Core Commands
- Improved Behavior at Home & in Public
- Proper Canine Socialization
- Leash Etiquette
- Human/Canine Trust & Teamwork
- Mental Stimulation
- Confidence Building
- Impulse Control
- Polished Public Manners
Life-Changing Support Through Service Dog Training
Service dogs are specially trained to perform tasks like interrupting, alerting, retrieving and assisting that support individuals with physical, medical, or emotional disabilities. At Dog Training Elite Maryland, our programs are built around your unique medical needs and lifestyle, ensuring both dog and handler are set up for long-term success:
● Personalized Dog Selection – Don’t have a dog yet? We’ll help you choose one with the right temperament and traits to fit your unique needs.
● Current Dog Evaluations – Already own a dog? We’ll evaluate whether they can meet the demands of service work.
● Time Matters – Our training produces fully prepared service dogs in 6–18 months, customized to the needs of each handler’s medical condition.
● No Wait List – Unlike other providers with multi-year delays, we can start your service dog training journey right away.
● Lifetime Support – We stand behind every service dog we train, providing ongoing support for the life of your dog.
Please note that not all Dog Training Elite locations are certified for every type of medical condition training; however, our nationwide network works closely together to ensure your local representative can help meet your specific needs.
Personalized Service Dog Training
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety & Depression
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Diabetes
- Mobility Impairments
- Hearing Impairments
- Cardiac Conditions
- Migraine Response
- Allergy Detection
- Other Chronic Illnesses requiring daily support
Puppy Training
Puppy Training Foundations
Bringing home a new puppy should be joyful, not overwhelming. Yet many new owners quickly realize that without the right guidance, challenges like chewing, accidents, barking, and boundless energy can feel unmanageable. Too often, well-meaning families struggle, believing their puppy is “too difficult” or that they aren’t cut out for dog ownership.
At Dog Training Elite, we believe every puppy has the potential to thrive, and every owner deserves the confidence to enjoy the journey. Our Puppy Training Foundations program is designed to set you and your puppy up for lasting success. Through proven methods and hands-on coaching, we help you build a strong bond, foster trust, and establish the communication that will carry through your dog’s entire life.
This isn’t just training. It’s the first step toward the loyal, well-mannered companion you’ve always envisioned.
Puppy Obedience Training Focus:
- Consistent Potty Training
- Disciplined Leash Skills
- Dependable Recall & Name Response
- Secure Crate Confidence
Stop Problem Puppy Behaviors:
- Stop Nipping & Rough Play
- Stop Food Begging & Guarding
- Stop Excessive Barking & Whining
- Stop Destructive Chewing
- Stop Yard & Carpet Digging
- Stop Stealing Food & Belongings
Behavior Modification
Behavior Modification Training
Living with a dog that struggles with anxiety, aggression, or other serious behavior problems can be exhausting. Simple moments like welcoming house guests, taking a walk, or relaxing at home become stressful, unpredictable, and sometimes even unsafe. Many owners feel isolated, frustrated, or guilty, unsure if their dog can ever truly change.
At Dog Training Elite, we understand the weight of those challenges, and we know how to turn them around. Our Behavior Modification Program doesn’t just mask unwanted behaviors; it addresses the root causes. Through proven, balanced training methods, we help dogs replace fear, anxiety, and aggression with calm, confident responses.
Let us help you build the safe, trusting relationship you and your dog both deserve.
Behavior Modification Addresses:
- Calm & Quiet Communication (freedom from relentless barking)
- Safe, Predictable Interactions (no growling or snapping)
- Balanced Social Responses (dog and human reactivity addressed)
- Controlled Movement (no lunging at people or pets)
- Relaxed State of Mind (pacing and restlessness resolved)
- Emotional Stability (trembling and shaking replaced with confidence)
- Respectful Habits (destructive chewing eliminated)
- Gentle Engagement (nipping or biting corrected)
- Secure Boundaries (resource guarding removed)
Group Classes
Expert Group Training Classes
At Dog Training Elite, our group classes are included in most training programs, giving every dog the opportunity to practice and excel in a structured, real-world environment. These sessions provide the perfect balance of instruction, socialization, and exposure to everyday distractions that can’t be replicated at home.
Our trainers incorporate targeted exercises, interactive games, and agility challenges designed to sharpen obedience and build confidence. With professional guidance and the added benefit of working alongside other dogs and owners, your dog learns to stay focused and reliable in any setting.
Group training delivers lasting results by reinforcing obedience, strengthening the dog–owner bond, and preparing both of you for real-world success.
Please note: Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.
Group Class Focus:
- Elevated Socialization Skills
- Command Mastery Amid Distractions
- Confidence Building (for you and your dog!)
- Strengthened Dog–Owner Partnership
- Reinforced Obedience
- Focused Trainer Guidance
What to expect?
- Interactive Games
- Intro to Agility
- Dynamic Real-World Exposure
Therapy Dog Training
What is a Therapy Dog?
Therapy dogs bring joy, comfort, and connection wherever they go—from calming children in schools, to easing travel stress at airports, to lifting spirits in senior living communities. At Dog Training Elite, our Therapy Dog Training program equips you and your dog with the confidence and skills to serve others and make a meaningful impact.
Together, you’ll create powerful moments of comfort, healing, and happiness for those who need it most.
Becoming a therapy dog team is more than training, it’s a chance to give back. With your dog by your side, you can volunteer in hospitals, schools, senior living communities, and beyond, spreading joy and making a difference in people’s lives every day.
Therapy Dog Program Focus:
- Mastering Core Commands
- Public Access Test and Certification
- Handler Confidence and Control
- Socialization Skills
- Real-World Readiness
Sample Volunteer Opportunities:
- Schools and Libraries
- Hospitals and Clinics
- Senior Living Communities
- Airports and Travel Hubs
- Rehabilitation and Therapy Centers
- Community Events





