Dog Training & Boarding
in Billings, MT

At Elite K9 Life, we believe your dog can be calm, reliable, and still get to be a dog

Find Your Training Program

I contacted Michael for help with fitting a training collar correctly on my Cane Corso.
He was very responsive to my messages.
He met with me and went over my concerns, and helped with properly fitting the training collar. Looking forward to working with him more to get my dog to be the best boy he can be.

Amber Cromwell

Highly recommend! It’s so nice having someone come right to the house to trim my pup’s nails — super convenient and stress-free. Michael is so patient and really helps my puppy relax. Plus, he always shares great tips for obedience and handling between visits. Such a great experience every time! ????

Kristi Warren

Michael helped us out when we were in a bind with our Aussie.
Our Aussie unfortunately is very shy and very skittish, he went to Michael’s to board because he bite his dog watchers husband. Michael was very fast responding with our texts of panic and had us bring him over to his on very short notice. We asked him to work with him while we were gone and to do his basic commands.
When we got our dog bad he was a completely new dog. He knew all his basic commands, and even went up to greet new people. He did not do that when we left him. Our Aussie has come above and beyond with the training and even can now handle busy environments without being scared of everything.
I cannot say enough thanks you’s to Michael for helping us out when we needed it most. I’d recommend him to anyone and everyone.

Alex Blodgett

Michael was the best dog trainer I’ve ever experienced. He was very thorough and professional and made the work with my dogs a great experience!

Bill Grunstead

I’ve kenneled and trained my dog with Elite K9 Life. My dog was well taken care of by Mike. I would gladly use him again!

Aaron Bennick

I wish I could give this 10 stars. I adopted a dog from a shelter that was nervous and showed aggression to my nephew. After working with Michael at Elite K9, she’s calm, well-trained and now her and my nephew are two peas in a pod. He takes the time to explain everything to you first and also as you go along, so you are just as much part of the process. He comes highly recommended.

Gennivie Egan

Certified Journeyman K9 Training & Kennel Management

Certified Veterinary
Tech Assistant

Emergency Pet
Health and CPR

E-Collar Technologies
Distributor

Billings, MT

Why Elite K9 Life?

Here’s what makes us different:

  • We're Local

    We’re based in Billings, MT, so you’re working with someone local — not an out-of-town gimmick.

  • Board & Train

    We offer board-and-train programs and follow-up sessions so you’re not left guessing when you bring your dog home.

  • E-Collar

    We include an e-collar and transmitter in the cost — your dog gets the freedom to go off-leash and you get the peace of mind.

  • Lifetime Support

    When you leave our program, we’re still here for questions, tips, and refreshers.

Image of two dogs calmly sitting in the grass without leashes showcasing the K9 training offered by Elite K9 Life in Billings ,MT

off-leash dog training Billings, MT

Our Training & Boarding Programs

Elite K9 Life offers expert dog training and board-and-train programs for confident, obedient dogs

  • Image of three dogs sitting with out leashes showcasing the K9 training offered by Elite K9 Life in Billings ,MT

    2-Week Board & Train — Full Immersion

    Drop your dog off for two weeks. We’ll train them, socialize them, and build their skills. When you pick them up, you’ll see a noticeable difference. You’ll also receive three follow-up sessions to ensure the change lasts. Includes E-Collar + transmitter you keep.

    $2,000 for 2 week board & train 

  • Image of a dog walking toward the camera without a leash, showcasing the K9 training offered at Elite K9 Life in Billings, MT

    1 - 1.5-Hour Education + Owner Sessions

    We’ll train you and your dog together. Pick the pack that fits your time and goals:

    4 sessions — $500 (includes E-Collar + transmitter)

    8 sessions — $800 (includes E-Collar + transmitter)

    By the end, you’ll know how to communicate and co-exist with a well-behaved dog.

    $500 for 4 sessions

    $800 for 8 sessions

Inquire Today!

Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting, Baths & More

Reliable Dog Services

In-Home Boarding

In-home dog boarding offers a personalized, stress-free alternative to traditional kennels. Dogs enjoy a comfortable, home-like environment with individualized attention, consistent routines, and plenty of affection—reducing anxiety while their owners are away. This service provides peace of mind, knowing each dog is cared for as part of the family in a safe, supervised setting.

Pet Sitting

Pet sitting in your home provides comfort, consistency, and peace of mind for both you and your pets. Your pets stay in their familiar environment, maintaining their normal routines while receiving personalized care, companionship, and supervision. This minimizes stress, supports good behavior, and ensures their safety—all while keeping your home secure and cared for during your absence.

Baths & Nails

Our bath and nail services keep your dog clean, comfortable, and healthy between training sessions or boarding stays. This section will include more details once provided by Michael.

E-Collar Training

See Our Training In Action

Elite K9 Life creates calm, confident, and obedient dogs through clear communication and consistent training. Using modern E-Collar techniques, we teach dogs to respond off-leash — giving them freedom while maintaining control. Watch our videos to see us in action, guiding dogs and owners toward better behavior, stronger trust, and true off-leash freedom.

Dog Reactivity

Hands-On Training

Learning to heel

Dog reactivity with client

Recall to heel

Practicing in public

Image of Michael Rodriquez, owner and K9 trainer at Elite K9 Life in Billings, MT with two dogs outside overlooking a mountain view.

About Elite K9 Life

Meet Michael Rodriguez

  • I’m Michael Rodriguez, a professional dog trainer and founder of Elite K9 Life. For over five years, I’ve trained dogs throughout the area, helping owners build calm, confident, and well-balanced relationships with their companions.

    I’m a Certified Journeyman through the State of Montana in Kennel Management and K9 Training, and also a Certified Veterinary Tech Assistant. In addition, I hold certification in Emergency Pet Health and CPR, ensuring the safety and well-being of every dog I work with.

    As an authorized E-Collar Technologies distributor, I specialize in using all methods of training — from traditional obedience to modern e-collar communication — to create clarity, confidence, and trust between dogs and their owners. Every program I design is customized to meet the individual needs of both the dog and the handler.

    I take pride in successfully working with behavior modification cases, especially dogs that others consider too difficult, fearful, or reactive. My goal is to show owners that with the right guidance, structure, and consistency, every dog has the potential to thrive.

    When you work with Elite K9 Life, you’re not just training your dog — you’re building a stronger bond and a better way of life.

Products We Endorse

Training Tools We Trust

Look — good training isn’t just about commands. It’s about clear communication between you and your dog. That’s why we use proven, professional-grade tools that help you teach, guide, and build trust — not fear.

Here’s what you’ll find in our programs:

View Training Programs
  1. E-Collars (Remote Training Collars)

    We rely on trusted brands like E-Collars Technology for safe, reliable off-leash communication. These collars deliver gentle, low-level stimulation that helps your dog respond consistently even when distractions are high. You’ll get to keep your e-collar and transmitter after training.

  2. Flat Collars

    For leash work and everyday walks, we use fitted flat collars. When used correctly, they apply even pressure and make leash communication simple and fair — no harsh tugs, no confusion.

  3. Long Lines & Leashes

    We train with 15- to 30-foot long lines for recall and off-leash prep. They give your dog space to explore while keeping you in control. Standard 4- to 6-foot leashes are used for structured walking and city manners.

  4. Place Cots & Crates

    A solid place cot teaches calm and focus — it’s your dog’s “chill zone.” A crate provides structure and security. Brands like Kuranda and Impact Crates withstand real-world use and daily training.

  5. Treat Pouches

    Timing matters. For puppies, treats help reward good choices fast, building clear, positive communication from the start.

  6. Tug Toys & More

    Every dog’s needs are different. We use tug toys and balls for drive building, and even puzzle feeders to keep intelligent dogs engaged between sessions.

Products We Trust

Why It Matters

The right gear makes training clear, safe, and stress-free. During your program, we’ll show you exactly how to use every tool with confidence so you and your dog succeed long after you leave our facility in Billings, MT.

top-rated dog training

What The Process Looks Like

      Let's Talk

      We’ll connect to learn about your dog and your goals. The $50 consultation goes toward your training program once you’re ready to begin.

      Find Your Program

      We match you with the right training program (board & train, owner sessions, etc).

      Training begins

      Your dog starts learning with fitted gear and scheduled follow-ups for lasting results. Training happens in your home, my home, and out in public for real-world success.

      Ongoing Support

      You bring your dog home (or finish your sessions) — we keep supporting you so the change lasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about our training programs or what to expect? We’ve answered the most common ones here to help you get started with confidence.

Contact Us

Yes — whether puppy, adult, big, small, mellow, or high-energy. We tailor each plan to fit your dog. Dogs must be at least 6 months old to begin training.

Blunt Stimulation utilizes a wide pulse for a gentle muscle reflex, rather than the harsh, jerking response of narrow pulse systems. It’s the humane, reliable choice for off-leash training from E-Collar Technologies Inc.

You’ll have three follow-up sessions (in the board & train) and lifetime support for all clients. You also keep the E-Collar + transmitter.

We’re confident in our method, but real success depends on your engagement training is a partnership between us, your dog, and you.

Based in Billings, Montana, we serve dogs in Billings, Yellowstone County, and nearby areas.

We’ve got flexible programs and can work with you to make it manageable.

Image of a dog walking toward the camera without a leash showcasing the ecollar K9 training provided by Elite K9 life in Billings, MT

Breeding AKC and ICCF Cane Corso

At Elite K9 Life, we’re proud to breed AKC and ICCF-registered Cane Corso from the renowned Outlaw Cane Corso bloodline — dogs known for their balanced temperaments, strong structure, and loyal, protective nature.

Every Cane Corso puppy includes:

  • Full health testing on parents
  • A detailed puppy contract outlining care and expectations
  • A health guarantee up to 2 years with the use of NuVet supplements

We raise each puppy with the same structure and attention found in our training programs — giving them a confident start in life and setting the foundation for lifelong success.

Inquire About Our Program
Image of a man walking with his dog by his side without a leash showcasing the ecollar approach to dog training at Elite K9 Life in Billings, MT

K9 Training in Billings, MT

Ready for a Better Dog Life?

If you’re done with the leash drama, the backyard mischief, the “what did they just do?” moments — let’s fix that. You and your dog deserve more than frustration.

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Client Success Stories

trusted dog training in Billings, MT

Elite K9 Life is proud to help owners across Billings and beyond achieve calm, confident, and obedient dogs through personalized training programs.

I’ve kenneled and trained my dog with Elite K9 Life. My dog was well taken care of by Mike. I would gladly use him again!

Aaron Bennick

I contacted Michael for help with fitting a training collar correctly on my Cane Corso.
He was very responsive to my messages.
He met with me and went over my concerns, and helped with properly fitting the training collar. Looking forward to working with him more to get my dog to be the best boy he can be.

Amber Cromwell

I wish I could give this 10 stars. I adopted a dog from a shelter that was nervous and showed aggression to my nephew. After working with Michael at Elite K9, she’s calm, well-trained and now her and my nephew are two peas in a pod. He takes the time to explain everything to you first and also as you go along, so you are just as much part of the process. He comes highly recommended.

Gennivie Egan

Highly recommend! It’s so nice having someone come right to the house to trim my pup’s nails — super convenient and stress-free. Michael is so patient and really helps my puppy relax. Plus, he always shares great tips for obedience and handling between visits. Such a great experience every time! ????

Kristi Warren

Michael helped us out when we were in a bind with our Aussie.
Our Aussie unfortunately is very shy and very skittish, he went to Michael’s to board because he bite his dog watchers husband. Michael was very fast responding with our texts of panic and had us bring him over to his on very short notice. We asked him to work with him while we were gone and to do his basic commands.
When we got our dog bad he was a completely new dog. He knew all his basic commands, and even went up to greet new people. He did not do that when we left him. Our Aussie has come above and beyond with the training and even can now handle busy environments without being scared of everything.
I cannot say enough thanks you’s to Michael for helping us out when we needed it most. I’d recommend him to anyone and everyone.

Alex Blodgett

Michael was the best dog trainer I’ve ever experienced. He was very thorough and professional and made the work with my dogs a great experience!

Bill Grunstead