NORTH RIDGEVILLE, Ohio – At Elite K-911, a full-service dog training and grooming facility in North Ridgeville, the motto is clear: there are no bad dogs—only dogs that need better guidance.
Founded by Chuck Stella in 2008, Elite K-911 is a one-stop destination for dog lovers seeking expert training, grooming, and boarding. The business was born out of Stella’s passion for dogs, which he developed during years of volunteering in dog rescue. A former contractor, he made the leap to professional training after building an addition for a local dog trainer and convincing him to take him on as an apprentice.
“I traded in my hammer for a leash,” Stella said. “And I’ve never looked back.”
Training That Builds Bonds
Elite K-911 offers programs ranging from basic puppy foundations to advanced off-leash obedience, including agility, nose work, mantrailing, and dock diving. The goal, Stella explained, is to strengthen the connection between dogs and their owners through engaging and effective training.
Classes focus on core skills like recall, sitting, staying, and walking calmly. More advanced sessions challenge dogs to respond amid distractions, with precision and control. Stella emphasized the importance of teaching dogs to behave in real-world settings—at the park, on walks, or around other animals.
“Dogs need boundaries, just like kids,” he said. “We expect more from our dogs now, so we need to show them how to behave.”
Private and group classes are available, and Stella encourages owners of all experience levels to get involved early. The facility also runs weekly Pack Walks and Dog Socials to help dogs build confidence and social skills. These structured events are open to the public on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. The first walk is free, with a \$10 donation requested for future walks, which supports local rescue organizations.
More Than Training
Elite K-911’s services go well beyond obedience classes. Their professional grooming team offers everything from nail trims to full grooming packages, including de-shedding and hypoallergenic treatments.
For boarding, dogs stay in spacious kennels with attentive care from staff trained to meet individual needs. With nearly 20 employees—trainers, groomers, and support staff—Elite K-911 prides itself on personalized service.
From Stray Dogs to Therapy Stars
Stella’s journey with dogs began on construction sites, where he often picked up strays but didn’t know how to help them. Once he learned to manage behavioral issues—especially aggression—he realized he could make a difference.
One such dog, a stray he caught in downtown Cleveland, became a beloved therapy dog named Venus. She worked in schools, hospitals, and nursing homes, helping people across the community.
Stella’s wife, Heather, whom he met during a rescue operation, now works with him at the facility. Their shared mission remains the same: to “fix” dogs—mentally and physically—and guide owners to be better partners for their pets.
“Most of the time, when someone says their dog is out of control, it’s the human who needs coaching,” Stella said. “Once people understand how their dog thinks, everything changes.”
Choosing the Right Dog—and the Right Plan
While Stella still participates in rescues and occasionally fosters dogs, he also advises prospective owners to do their research. Breed plays a significant role in a dog’s energy levels and behavior. A high-energy breed like a German shepherd, for instance, requires more exercise and stimulation than some families expect.
Before committing to a 10-year relationship with a dog, Stella recommends attending social walks or training sessions to better understand canine needs and communication.
“There’s so much joy in helping a dog feel understood,” he said. “Watching that ‘light bulb moment’—when a dog realizes someone finally gets them—is the most rewarding part of my job.”