The Best Dog Training in New Castle DE

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Dog Training Experts In Elkton, Newark & New Castle

We offer professional puppy obedience and dog training in Newark, New Castle, Christiana, Glasgow, Wilmington, and Bear, Delaware, as well as Elkton and surrounding Maryland areas.

Sit Means Sit Dog Training in New Castle, Delaware, is part of the largest dog training franchise in the United States, with over 140 locations spanning the country. Our dog trainers have an in-depth understanding of canine behavior and understand that each dog is unique in their personality, temperament, and behavior. With that in mind, we will work collaboratively with owners and their dogs as a team to develop a training program that works progressively towards the goals they have. Our training methods are based upon positive reinforcement, and work to educate both the owner and their dog to set them up for a lifetime of success.

We offer a variety of programs ranging from basic puppy training and obedience training to extended-stay boarding and training. We offer both private lessons and group classes to cater to individual needs as well. Our trainers also have expertise in working with dogs who demonstrate behavioral issues such as separation anxiety, aggression, fear, and reactivity. Continue reading to learn more about some of the training programs we offer.

Let our professional Maryland and Delaware dog trainers help your four-legged friend become their best self! 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

Think of this like a day camp; you will drop your dog off in the morning and pick them up at the end of the day. During their daily visit, your dog will work with our professional dog trainers on their specific goals and training programs. We can also focus on any specific behavioral issues that may be of concern, such as separation anxiety, fear, or aggressive behaviors.

This program keeps pet parents integrally involved in their pup’s training. At the end of each day, you will meet with a trainer to go over what your dog worked on during their training sessions. We are confident you’ll be impressed by what your furry day camper can accomplish!

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 get started? Fill out our free consultation form today!

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Private Lessons

Private lessons offer a dog and their owner the opportunity to work one-on-one with their assigned trainer. Our trainers teach owners and dogs together. These lessons are not in a group environment, and let a dog work on their training program without the distraction of having other dogs in the class. In these sessions, the owner will work alongside the trainer to learn how to work with their dog effectively so that they can reinforce the training at home.

 

Private lessons are also a great option for those looking to work on specific behavioral issues such as aggression, fearfulness, jumping, barking, reactivity, or separation anxiety.

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

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Puppy Program

Get your youngster started off on the right paw by enrolling them in our Puppy Program! This program allows puppies to build a solid foundation with basic obedience and socialization skills. Your pup will learn the basics and fundamentals that they can build upon throughout their life, and also put to use in more advanced courses at our training center! Our Puppy program is specifically designed for puppies between the ages of 8 weeks and 15 weeks. Using positive reinforcement, our fantastic puppy trainers make this a FUN and educational experience for puppies and their pawrents!

 

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! 

Group classes are a great way to keep your dog socialized and allow your dog to continue their training around other dogs, owners, and a variety of distractions.

We offer a variety of dates and times to accommodate the busiest schedules! Our current classes are held on the following dates and times:

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

Our Structured Daycare Service provides dogs with a balanced day of rest and relaxation, meals, and training sessions. During the week, we offer drop off as early as 6:30 AM and pickup as late as 6:30 PM.

During their stay, your dog will be able to focus on their training without the distraction of being around other dogs. Training focuses on developing basic obedience and manners, learning cues, leashing, walking, and more. Your dog will have scheduled crate time for rest, plenty of bathroom breaks, regularly scheduled meals, and of course, training time to help reinforce good behavior and respect at home. At the end of each day, a detailed report card will be sent home so you can stay updated on the events of your pup’s day with us.

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Reactive Dog Training Package

Our Reactive Dog Training Package is designed to help dog owners and their dogs who struggle with reactivity toward other dogs, people, or new/stressful situations. This program is 5 weeks in duration and focuses on building a strong foundation with obedience and control skills that then progress to targeted reactivity training to help change how they respond in these situations over time. Our trainers provide guidance and personalized support as you and your dog work through real-world scenarios. The goal is to reduce reactive behaviors by building confidence and equipping your dog with the tools they need to stay calm in environments they may find stressful or challenging.

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Transportation to Training

Need help getting your dog to our training facility? No problem. Our transportation service is a reliable option that can safely transport your pup to training sessions at our training center. If you are unable to take them yourself or if you are more comfortable having one of our professionals transport them, we are here to lend a paw.

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Wedding Pet Attendant Service

Do you want assistance in having your furry family member take part in your special day? We can absolutely help with that! Your dog can join you on your wedding day alongside one of our professional trainers, who will attend with them. This service provides transportation to and from the event, care, and a second set of hands when it comes to incorporating your dog in your wedding day. Whether they’re walking down the aisle, accompanying you at the altar, or joining you for photos, we are happy to help.

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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…