The Best Dog Training in Middletown, DE

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Dog Training Experts In Middletown, DE

We offer professional puppy obedience and dog training in Middleton, Newark, New Castle, Christiana, Glasgow, Wilmington, Bear, and the surrounding northern Delaware areas.

At Sit Means Sit, we recognize that one training process might not work for every dog. No two pups are exactly the same in terms of their strengths, weaknesses, personalities, or specific training needs. For this reason, we are committed to offering customizable training options so that you can find the best fit for you and your furry friend.

We do not turn dogs away. No matter their issue, whether it’s behavioral concerns, aggression, or fear/reactivity, we can help. Regardless of their age, breed, size, or history, we will welcome them with open arms. We believe that every dog deserves to live their best life, and that is accomplished through training and positive reinforcement.

Let our professional team help you find a new beginning filled with hope and adventure. Contact us today for a free training demonstration and consultation!

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About Sit Means Sit Dog Training

Dog Training Classes

Any Dog Any Age Any Problem

Day Training Program

Day Training is the perfect course for those who want to be involved but struggle to fit training into their schedule. Here’s how it works: Drop your dog off in the morning, and pick them up in the evening! It’s absolutely that easy. You will be amazed at the changes that one day can make.

Don’t worry about being left behind. When you pick up your dog at the end of each day, we’ll go over what was taught, discuss your dog’s progress, and equip you with the training tools necessary to carry the training over to the next week (and forever!).

We can also create a custom approach to focus on specific issues that you would like addressed (anxiety, confidence, leash-pulling, etc.).

Group classes are also included with our Day Training programs in order to provide further support and practice for the dog and owner.

Ready to enroll your pup? Fill out our free consultation form today!

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Private Lessons

Private lessons are an amazing opportunity for owners who want to be directly involved in the outcome of the training. You will be paired with one of our expert dog trainers who will give you their direct attention for an hour a week. This allows you to work when and where problems occur so that you get the most out of your training.

Additionally, family and friends are welcome to attend your sessions. This is helpful if you have a situation where your dog spends a lot of time at another house, for example. Anyone interested in learning how to communicate with dogs is welcome to attend private lessons at your invitation.

Group classes are also included with our private lessons in order to provide further support and practice for the dog and the owner.

Private lessons are typically held at our facility, but we also offer in-home dog training lessons! Contact us today to learn more!

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Puppy Program

The first 20 weeks of a dog’s life are crucial for its development. It’s during this time that you have the opportunity to build a foundation of obedience and trust, or face a lifetime of battling unpleasant behaviors.

Our puppy program is designed for puppies aged 8-15 weeks. It’s very fun for both puppies and their pet parents!

The Puppy Training program will focus on:

  • House-Breaking
  • Kennel Training
  • Socializing Your Puppy
  • Basic Commands
  • Leash Walking
  • And so much more!

Start your new pup off on the right paw! Contact us for a free consultation.

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Group Class

Once your dog has completed one of our individual training programs (day train program or private lessons), they can join us in group class! 

You can treat group classes as a way to continue your dog’s training and work on some new skills, as a social outing to meet others who share your respect for dog training, or even both!

We offer several dates and times to accommodate even the busiest schedules! Our current classes are held on the following days:

  • Wednesday @ 7:30 pm
  • Thursday @ 10 am
  • Saturday @ 9 am
  • Saturday @ 10:30 am
  • Saturday @ 12 pm
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Structured Daycare Service

Our Structured Daycare Services prove that we are a company that cares. We don’t just offer a place where your dog won’t be able to get into anything it shouldn’t; we offer a balanced day of training, playtime, and relaxation.

Our trainers approach each situation with patience, experience, and the research to back up their decisions. We are dedicated to providing a safe, happy, and healthy environment where your dog will thrive while you’re at work, school, or anywhere else.

Drop-off is as early as 6:30 AM, and pickup is by 6:30 PM (M-F).

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Reactive Dog Training Package

Reactivity is a challenging issue that many dogs and their owners face. This is why we’ve created a special approach called our “Reactive Dog Training Package.”

It’s a structured 5-week program that will equip your dog with a new foundation of confidence, control, and obedience in real-world situations. With our personalized support, you won’t have to worry about other dogs on the street or company at the house.

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Transportation to Training

When you can’t make it out to the facility, don’t stress! We offer transportation to and from the training day, allowing you and your dog to enjoy a stress-free experience. Whether you’re choosing our services for convenience or necessity, we have the answer you’ve been looking for.

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Wedding Pet Attendant Service

Don’t let your special day be filled with concern over your furry friend! With our Wedding Pet Attendant Service, your dog can still be a part of the event without you having to worry about their behavior during photos, walking down the aisle, bathroom needs, or anything else. We’ll make sure your dog is a positive contributor to your lifelong wedding day memories.

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Dog Trainers & Staff

Professional trainers. Attentive friendly staff.

Daniel and Jessica Strong With their children
Daniel & Jessica StrongThe Heart & Drive Behind Sit Means Sit Elkton and Wilmington
At Sit Means Sit, we’re not just dog trainers-we’re problem solvers. Our mission? Helping dogs and their owners create a life with more freedom, less frustration, and lasting results.
Who We Are
We’re Daniel and Jessica Strong married for over 14 years, parents to six incredible kids, and owners of four amazing dogs. We’ve worked together in the SMS world for the past five years, and in August 2024, we took full ownership of Sit Means Sit Elkton and Wilmington.
Daniel grew up with dogs-training, playing, and understanding them from an early age. Jessica? Not so much. That contrast gives us a unique perspective: we understand both the struggles and successes of dog ownership, whether you’re an experienced handler or bringing home your first pup.
Our Family & Pack
Life in our home is full of energy, adventure, and, of course, training. Our four dogs aren’t just part of the family-they’re part of our mission. They help demonstrate training techniques, show what’s possible with the right guidance, and remind us daily why we do what we do.
Why We Do This
We get it-owning a dog should be enjoyable, not stressful. Struggling with leash pulling? Jumping? Reactivity? We’ve seen it all, and we know how to fix it. Our goal is to simplify training, build confidence, and give you the tools you need to succeed-whether that means walking your dog without frustration or bringing them into any environment with total control.
At Sit Means Sit, you’re not just signing up for dog training-you’re joining a community. Let’s get to work!
Kasey Jean
Kasey JeanLocation Manager

Kasey joined Sit Means Sit as a client first when she brought her 2 year old boxer Adonis in to help with his insecurity. Having trained racehorses for over a decade, working with the trainers of Sit Means Sit renewed her love of training animals. And having found success with her own dogs Adonis and Marvel, she wants to help others build the same confident relationship with their dogs. She can now do things with Adonis she didn’t think we’re possible and wants other to experience the same

a woman sitting next to a brown dog wearing a black shirt that says snl
Quinn HoltCertified Dog Trainer

Quinn started with Sit Means Sit as a client to help with her dog, Bagel! They came to us for help with basic obedience, a stronger recall, and social manners around other dogs. With this foundation, Bagel is now a Canine Good Citizen and, on her way, to becoming a great service dog. Quinn is passionate about helping people with dogs of all training needs become even better companions.

a woman is kneeling next to a dog on a leash
Heather MendalaCertified Dog Trainer

With over 15 years of experience in dog care, Heather brings a wealth of expertise to Sit Means Sit. She has a background in boarding and rescue facilities and has also worked as a veterinary technician assistant. A certified AKC proctor, Heather leads many of our Star Puppy and CGC classes. Known for her calm, patient, and confident training style, Heather excels in working with elderly clients and helping anxious dogs build confidence. She finds great joy in strengthening the bond between owners and their furry companions. Outside of work, Heather enjoys spending time with her American Staffie, Evelyn, who is also an anxious dog. She loves family time, visiting breweries and wineries, and watching football on Sundays. Fun Fact: At a young age, Heather’s passion for animal care grew from her grandmother’s shared interests, ultimately leading her to choose this career path.

a woman wearing a shirt that says sit means sit
HaileyCertified Dog Trainer

Hailey has always had a passion for working with animals. For the past 10 years, she has worked in shelters and veterinary offices while studying animal behavior at the University of Delaware. She finds joy in helping pet owners strengthen their bond with their pets through training, watching those relationships thrive.
Hailey and her Alaskan Klee Kai, Dakota, love hiking on weekends and running errands together. She also shares her home with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, a Shiba Inu, and two Great Danes.
Fun Fact: Hailey minored in Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware and can identify most native birds by sight and sound! She is also interested in training dogs to assist with wildlife research, specifically to help locate animals affected by habitat loss.

Service Areas

We proudly serve the following areas in Elkton, Newark & New Castle.

Counties

  • New Castle County

Cities

Zip Codes

  • 19348
  • 19350
  • 19363
  • 19701
  • 19702
  • 19703
  • 19707
  • 19711
  • 19713
  • 19720
  • 19736
  • 19801
  • 19802
  • 19803
  • 19804
  • 19805
  • 19806
  • 19807
  • 19808
  • 19809
  • 19810
  • 21901
  • 21902
  • 21903
  • 21911
  • 21914
  • 21915
  • 21919
  • 21921

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Sit Means Sit has 157 locations across the US and Canada.

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Dog Training Videos

Check out a few videos to see our dog trainers at work!

Sit Means Sit – Going On Vacation?

Going On Vacation?

Sit Means Sit – Commercial

Sit Means Sit Commercial

Sit Means Sit – Gambit – One Year Old Havanese

Gambit – One Year Old Havanese

Sit Means Sit – Heel Up and Down The Stairs

Heel Up and Down The Stairs

Dog Owners Reviews

We love customers and their dogs. They love us.

Victoria K.

My husband and I adopted a young shelter dog, picked up as a stray. She is about a year and a half and had never lived in a home. Lily needed to learn manners, obedience and structure in order to live in peace and harmony. Sit Means Sit staff, Grace and Courtney, took charge and…

Christine S.

I was amazed with the results even after the very first class! Our pup is so much better than we expected after only 3 lessons. We look forward to continuing on with the group classes that are included to get the most out of the program, and see even more improvement with our pup! Shout…

Jennifer K.

Great experience at Sit Means Sit with our two bull terriers. They were patient with our stubborn bull-headed dogs. They lay a good framework and give you the tools but the owner must do most of the training at home. They do give good support and the graduate lessons are great to continue the work…

Elisa C.

I have a Belgian Malinois which is an active, strong-willed breed. I am so thankful for the training at Sit Means Sit. My dog is doing amazing. She is like one of those TV dogs now. And it’s fantastic to have the opportunity to continue practicing with the group classes after the private sessions. She…