The Best Dog Training in Townsend, DE

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Dog Training Experts In Townsend, DE

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

At Sit Means Sit, we recognize that no two dogs are the same in personality or training needs. For this reason, we utilize training methods and tools that are customizable to suit your situation. We have programs that cover general needs, but we never lose sight of you or your dog.

No breeds, ages, or behaviors are beyond the reach of a happy, fulfilling life, and there is no space (neighborhoods, farms, stores, etc) that won’t benefit from a well-behaved dog. If you’re ready to enroll in a life-changing experience, get in touch with us today. We’ll get your free training demonstration and consultation on the calendar!

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About Sit Means Sit Dog Training

Dog Training Classes

Any Dog Any Age Any Problem

Day Training Program

Some pet parents are just too busy or have reached their limit, making a training solution that fits in their schedule essential. The Day Training program is not only fun, but it also slides into even the busiest schedules with minimal difficulty.

Drop your dog off in the morning, go about your day, and pick them up in the evening. Trust us when we say that you will be blown away by what 8-10 hours with a professional trainer can do for your dog.

Don’t worry about being left behind. We always give you instructions and a rundown of the day at pickup. These meetings allow you to feel equipped to foster the good behaviors your dog worked so hard to achieve until the next training session.

Group classes are also included in the dog training cost in order to provide further support and practice for the dog and owner.

Ready to move towards a life of freedom and adventure? Fill out our free consultation form today!

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Private Lessons

Private lessons are incredibly efficient and enjoyable. With this training approach, you will be able to experience the unwavering attention of one of our expert dog trainers. We always approach your needs with patience and understanding. Private lessons allow us to see you and your dog in your natural environment, working together, and building that bond that we all crave.

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 build a training plan that perfectly aligns with your goals, whether that’s learning new skills or going on off-leash hikes.

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Puppy Program

Puppies are amazing. They’re also a lot of work. Even if you have a big yard and lots of stimulating toys, puppies still tend towards destructive behaviors unless they’re taught otherwise. The first 20 weeks of their lives are the most crucial in terms of development. That’s why we offer our puppy program to all dogs who are 8-15 weeks old. We want to help you ensure your puppy starts life on the right paw.

The Puppy Training program will focus on the following items:

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

Don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Group Class

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

Group Classes are excellent for exposing your furry friend to unfamiliar humans and other dogs while still prioritizing safety. Feel our continued support while learning new tricks and practicing in a real-world environment.

We offer several dates and times to accommodate busy 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 daycare isn’t like every other pet daycare. We offer structured days with training, playtime, relaxing, and lots of love. We’re more than just a safe place to leave your dog during work or school hours. We’re a company that cares enough to make sure your pup is returned to you happier and healthier than ever.

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

We believe that no dog is out of reach. Even severe problems, such as reactivity and aggression, can be addressed with patience and training that is backed by years of research.

Our Reactive Dog Training Package is a structured 5-week program that causes a powerful transformation. By the end of the program, you will hardly recognize the happy, confident dog that goes home with you.

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Transportation to Training

Because we want you to have access to quality training regardless of your situation, we offer the option of transportation to and from training for your dog. Whether you choose to opt in because of convenience or necessity, rest assured that we will keep your dog safe.

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Wedding Pet Attendant Service

Your wedding day should be as stress-free as possible, and we know you want your furry best friend to be a part of it. Allow us to handle all your dog’s needs, from behavioral regulation and walks to bathroom needs, and even family photos. Let’s work together to make your wedding day perfect.

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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…