YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS
YOUR DOG’S BEST RESULTS
Proven training programs designed around your dog, your home, and your lifestyle.
Training Programs
A Well-Trained Dog Brings Out the Best in Life
At Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa, 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 Greater Tampa and surrounding areas.
Hear From Our Customers
Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa
Brandi
Lana Heinen
Kara Hosking
Jean Sheridan
ashley simpson
Lanette Strong
Red Hatter
Laura Keller
Denise Bocker
Katelynn Chase
Greater Tampa’s Top-Rated Dog Trainers
Book an evaluation and see why local families choose Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa to unlock their dog’s potential.
Tonya Stafford
Luis Rodriguez
Ginger
Bruno
Zach G
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Greater Tampa Graduates
Tonya Stafford
Owner & Trainer
Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa
After years of helping dog owners, I’ve come to understand the questions and concerns that so many share.
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“We’ve tried everything, but our dog still won’t listen.”
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“I’m afraid to have people over, because my dog is out of control.”
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“We feel stuck – our dog’s behavior is making life so stressful!”
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone, and I am here to help.
I’m Tonya Stafford, co-owner and lead trainer of Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa. My goal is to help families like yours build stronger, more rewarding relationships with their dogs through proven training methods with a focus on connection, effective communication, structure, and consistency. Growing up in Pennsylvania, I spent hours hiking with my dogs, volunteering with dog rescues, and learning what I could about how dogs communicate and learn. My passion for dogs seemed to always exist, growing even stronger in adulthood. I am here to teach you what I know about how dogs view the world and how we can help them learn.
From Career Shifts to Following a Dream.
I always wanted to help others and always had a love for all animals (I can’t even kill a spider). I pursued my degree in psychology and worked in social work for several years before moving into the pharmaceutical industry. I spent 15 years in the pharmaceutical industry, during which period I got my M.S. in Training and Development. I worked as a corporate trainer for large corporations where structure, consistency, and clear communication were perceived as valued elements for effective training. I learned how to connect with others, and figure out how they learn best. This is something I carried over into dog training. With our program, our goal is to connect with you and your dog to tailor an approach that will allow your dog to have the greatest success. I am living my dream of helping dogs and people every day. Whether it is helping clients see progress with their own dogs or mentoring my team, I am passionate about teaching, helping others, and creating lasting results.
When I am Not Working:
I have always enjoyed the outdoors. I love hiking, camping, kayaking, shelling, boating, or just lounging on the beach. If my dogs are with me, even better!
Why Work with Me?
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I combine a passion for dogs with professional expertise to create tailored solutions for every client.
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My team is dedicated to building strong, positive, and lasting relationships between you and your dog.
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My team and I are here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s Get Started Together!
Whether you are a new dog owner, need help overcoming challenges with your dog, or wish for your dog to become a therapy dog or a service dog, I am here to help. I am proud to be a part of a process that transforms frustration into joy and builds meaningful connections between dogs and their people.
Luis Rodriguez
Owner & Trainer
Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa
Bringing Structure and Connection to Dogs and Their Families.
After years of helping dog owners, I’ve come to understand the questions and concerns that so many share.
- “My dog is afraid of everything and reacts to other dogs and people.”
- “I can’t understand why my dog keeps chewing things he shouldn’t.”
- “My dog pulls like crazy on walks!”
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone, and I am here to help.
I’m Luis Rodriguez, co-owner, business manager, and part-time trainer at Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa. My goal is to help owners/handlers learn to communicate better with their dogs, understanding their body language, and helping them reach their potential. I developed my love of dogs through my first dog, Ranger, a Rottweiler trained for protection, but loving and loyal to my entire family and playfully gentle with my daughters, who were toddlers at the time. I have had other dogs throughout the years, but never forgot Ranger who set into motion my love of dogs and the desire to discover the potential that each dog has.
Thinking outside the box.
A Puerto Rico native, I received my B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez and worked in mechanical and validation engineering in Puerto Rico and the United States for over 30 years. In this industry, I was taught to problem solve and think outside of the box. I carry this ability into dog training because one size does not fit all when training a dog. Even dogs of the same breed, age, and gender have individual characteristics, drives, and responses. My goal is to customize a plan for you based on your dog and your goals and to help you achieve and even exceed expectations.
When I am Not Working:
I enjoy building things and working on projects. I also enjoy boating, painting, and watching sports.
Why Work with Me?
- I bring a lifetime of problem-solving experience. I have the patience, dedication, and determination to meet all challenges head on and find a path forward.
- I am passionate about facilitating communication and fostering improved relationships between people and their dogs.
- I am fully bilingual (Spanish and English).
Let’s Get Started Together!
Whether you are a first-time puppy parent, need assistance with behavioral issues, or just want a better-behaved dog, I am here to help. My joy is seeing the joy in others when they see what their dogs are capable of!
Ginger
Training Dog
Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa
Born 12/21/2021, Ginger, an American Staffordshire Terrier is a lover who only fights stereotypes. Her favorite things include long walks, cuddles, meeting new people, and wrestling with her younger brother, Bruno. She loves being in the sun and will do just about anything for food.
Bruno
Training Dog
Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa
Born 5/24/2022, Bruno, a goldador (labrador/golden retriever mix) is a sweetheart and an overall chill dude. He enjoys playing fetch, running agility courses, and anything water related. He is always eager to please and would love to meet you!
Zach G
Trainer
Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa
My name is Zach Gibson. I’m a special operations combat veteran and security specialist. I first realized my passion for specialized dog training during my time in the 75th Ranger Regiment while deployed to Afghanistan. The military dogs and their handlers who aided and supported our missions were fascinating to me. The experience led to buying and training my first dog once I discharged from the Army, a doberman named Ares.
I have over 10 years of experience training special operations soldiers, National Guard Infantryman, security officers, and international business travelers for multi billion dollar companies. My experience translates seamlessly into the dog training industry, and my goal as a trainer is to help owners establish a loving, disciplined, and stress-free relationship with their pets and service dogs. I have a special place in my heart for veterans who need a companion to help them with the difficult process of transitioning to civilian life, as I have faced many of the same struggles over the years.
Oogie Boogie
We call him “Oogie” for short. Oogie is a cane corso named after the main villain from the movie “A Nightmare Before Christmas”. Oogie loves to play and enjoys roughhousing with our other dog. He is also a lovebug whose second passion is snuggling.
Kristin
Admin
Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County
Corinna
Admin
Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County
Jorge
Volunteer
Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County
Jim
Volunteer
Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County
Dave
Volunteer
Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County
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 Greater Tampa, 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 Greater Tampa, 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 Greater Tampa, 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 Greater Tampa, 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 Greater Tampa, 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