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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite in Atlanta

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Atlanta, GA.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Atlanta, GA

Classical conditioning is a learning process also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. Discovered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov, classical conditioning involves developing automatic reflexes to specific conditions. This leads to creating behaviors.

Pavlov is considered to be the father of “classical conditioning.” As a matter of fact, he originally tested his theory using dogs. In an experiment, Pavlov observed dogs began to salivate not just when they received food, but when the people associated with feeding them arrived. Pavlov began to ring a bell when the dogs were presented with food. Over time, the dogs learned to associate the sound of the bell ringing with food. Their mouths would salivate whenever the bell rang.

Dog Training Elite in Atlanta dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Atlanta, GA to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite in Atlanta trainer , your dog will become conditioned and develop those “automatic reflexes” to commands such as sit, down, heel, break, and more.

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Dog Training Elite in Atlanta

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite in Atlanta NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Atlanta, GA does make use of an electronic collar. The use of an electronic collar is vastly different in two main ways.

The electric collar does not shock your dog. Instead, it generates a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash.
The electronic collar is never used to punish a dog. It is used to simply gain the attention of a dog and help them focus on the task at hand.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective.
A dog owner playing with his german shepard, learn more about our Atlanta classical conditioning dog trainers.

Atlanta Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment

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Traditional dog training methods rely on punishment for errors and “low value” rewards, such as praise or petting, when a dog performs a desired behavior. Dog Training Elite in Atlanta never resorts to punishing a dog to make them unlearn bad behavior.

Using punishment as a tool can actually backfire. For example: punishing a dog for going to the bathroom inside a house won’t teach them to go outside instead. Often, the dog only understands that the mess makes their owner mad. Instead of going outside, the dog is likely to continue to make messes indoors - but where the owner can’t find them.

Research shows that focusing on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and not worrying about correcting bad behavior in dogs is more effective and has longer-lasting results. The difference between a dog who has been exposed to dog training techniques used to obey out of fear vs. a dog who learns to obey through a positive, loving bond with their owner is huge.

Positive reinforcement works with dogs because they are inherently eager to please. Rewarding your dog for good behavior as you work with a Dog Training Elite in Atlanta, GA trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

Additional Obedience Training Info

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Off Leash Training
Dog Training Elite in Atlanta - Dog Agility Training in Atlanta, GA. DTE
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training
A women playing with her service dog in Atlanta, GA.

The Dog Training Elite in Atlanta Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Atlanta, GA uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite in Atlanta trainers never resort to punishment to help dogs unlearn behaviors.

Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Dog Training Elite in Atlanta’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.

After proper conditioning and working with Dog Training Elite in Atlanta, GA, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite in Atlanta ensure training is a success no matter what your dog’s behavior.

Get started training your dog today. Find a trainer near you and schedule a free in-home consultation!

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Ryann Imhulse
    May. 2, 2025
    100% would recommend Dog Training Elite Northwest Atlanta! We reached out to Michael and Gosia in desperation after our overprotective black lab tried to chew through the basement door when we had a babysitter. We had resigned ourselves to the fact that we just couldn't have anyone in our home when we weren't there. They came over to assess Charlie and explained his behavior in a way that gave us hope. Their expertise and patience with Charlie (and us) has decreased Charlie's anxiety and has brought out the best sides of him. We are so grateful for their expertise! Their one on one training sessions have been game changers, and we are excited to have the continued support through group sessions going forward.
  • Rocky Brown
    Apr. 23, 2025
    Great people who do an amazing job helping my puppy turn into a well trained dog!
  • Floyd Dickens III
    Apr. 22, 2025
    Highly recommended - sought out a trainer for our 6 month old pup, and after extensive research, we decided to go with Dog Training Elite. They did not disappoint! Michael (our lead trainer) was knowledgeable, detailed, informative, flexible and most of all PATIENT! If you are looking for in-home training, this is it!
  • Lenice Dower
    Apr. 11, 2025
    Dog Training Elite was amazing!!! They helped us so much with our French Bulldog Poppy. I would 10/10 recommend them for dog training and would use them in the future again.
  • Joy Derrer
    Apr. 8, 2025
    Gosia has been a delightful person to help us adjust to and know how to train our sweet golden retriever pup Sandy. We have a large family with many kids of various ages and wanted to insure that we were all on the same page and consistent in setting up puppy training right. Gosia’s patience and kindness and expertise have given us tools to help us be in control and love our sweet girl even more as she learns to obey and please. We look forward to continuing obedience training as she grows.
  • Nancy Warden
    Apr. 6, 2025
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite Northeast Atlanta! We loved having the one on one experience combined with group dog training. Our dog, Louie, is much better behaved and happier and so are we😀
  • Bryan Cantrell
    Mar. 24, 2025
    The training is perfect for a puppy. They taught my puppy to sit, place, come and walk on a leash. They actually taught me how to train so I can keep it going. Perfect dog training and great people!
  • Jonathan Cross
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Michael is amazing. He’s encouraging and patient. He was great with my dog Hondo.
  • Ann Gorman
    Mar. 12, 2025
    Mike and Goisa were enthusiastic, well prepared, caring trainers. They knew exactly how to get my wild bernedoodle to do as they asked. Always had good tips and eager to answer any questions I had about puppy behaviors. Very nice people, as well!
  • Nick Argoe
    Mar. 1, 2025
    My wife and I sought out training services with DTE NE Atl for our 6 year old labradoodle, Della, after recently adopting her. We were seeking support for Della as she was a VERY anxious dog, especially with people (new people.) She is a very sweet dog, never aggressive, just nervous and anxious and overall lacking confidence. My wife and I were skeptical if anyone could help Della, as we had her for 6 months at this point, she’s an older dog, and it seemed to be more of a personality trait and maybe the effects of what she had been through in the past before we adopted her. Then came Michael with Dog training Elite. Della has completed their platinum training program and is truly a different dog. She still has a shy disposition, but has gained so much confidence from training with Michael in our home and out in public. Her anxiety has decreased and as we continue to work on it, she now knows so many commands and looks to us as her owners to see if a situation is safe before running away. She has confidence in us AND herself. We now attend group classes regularly with Michael and Gosia which have propelled Della even further. They run an amazing program!! We are truly grateful for their help, flexibility, and support in equipping us and Della for success.
  • Adriana Vasquez
    Mar. 1, 2025
    “I can’t recommend Dog Training Elite owned by Michael and Gosia enough! Their expertise, patience, and dedication turned my Doberman Pinscher Arya, into a fully Certified Service Dog. From day one, they provided clear guidance and personalized training that truly made a difference. Arya is now confident, well-mannered, and ready to assist me in everyday life. If you’re looking for a trainer who genuinely cares and delivers results, look no further!”
  • Erika Kaivani
    Jan. 12, 2025
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We have had an amazing experience working with Michael and Gosia during our Platinum program for our puppy, Lyra. Their training methods are highly effective—we’ve seen noticeable improvement in Lyra’s reactivity, and she’s become much more obedient. Michael and Gosia are incredibly personable, always on time, and very communicative throughout the process. They genuinely care about the success of both the dog and the owners. While training can be an ongoing process & we know we still have work to do in the group classes ahead (which are included with platinum pkg), we are so grateful for the strong foundation they’ve helped us build and cannot wait to continue improvement. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for knowledgeable and reliable trainers!
  • Rick Busch
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Many, many thanks to Dog Training Elite and especially to our Trainer/Owner, Michael Billedo. My wife and I checked out several dog training programs in the area for our Cavapoo, Cali, prior to contacting DTE. We were both very pleased and impressed with Michael and with the information he provided on that first phone call and felt very comfortable setting up an in-home introductory appointment. That first appointment went very well and Michael was very friendly and informative and there was absolutely no sales pressure. He made an immediate connection with Cali and with us and we comfortably selected the program we all felt would best meet our needs. Michael far exceeded our expectations as both a friendly and personable instructor and an expert dog trainer (and passionate dog lover!). We enjoyed working with Michael immensely both personally and professionally and highly recommend DTE and Michael for a great dog training experience. Our training goals were met and we now possess the tools and techniques we learned for a lifetime!
  • Valerie Wheeler
    Dec. 19, 2024
    Whit is clear in his instruction and eager to help dog and owner work together for the best outcome. He has always been willing to schedule appointments that work with our home calendar.
  • Kristy Hicks.
    Dec. 19, 2024
    Mr. Gray came to my house and help me train my dog Slim. He taught me what I needed to know to help me become a better pet parent. He works with your schedule and they have group training. He is a trainer that I would recommend.
  • Tai Harris
    Dec. 18, 2024
    The exceptional team at Dog Training Elite of West Atlanta showcased remarkable knowledge, patiently guiding us through private dog training sessions with kindness, clarity, and honesty, effectively fostering a deeper understanding of obedience training and puppy training classes. Their service dog training expertise was truly impressive, providing a wealth of insight into the world of dogs and leaving us feeling confident in our newfound abilities.
  • Tailor Harris
    Dec. 17, 2024
    The exceptional team at Dog Training Elite of West Atlanta showcased remarkable knowledge, patiently guiding us through private dog training sessions with kindness, clarity, and honesty, effectively fostering a deeper understanding of obedience training and puppy training classes. Their service dog training expertise was truly impressive, providing a wealth of insight into the world of dogs and leaving us feeling confident in our newfound abilities.
  • Derrick Gonzalez
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Whit and his family have done an incredible job with my Bella, as well as with us as dog parents. We enrolled Bella for service dog training since she was a little crazy puppy, and she has grown into a wonderful well behaved adult dog that we are very proud of. Consistency is key, and we appreciate Dog Training Elite West Atlanta for always being consistent with us.
  • Alaina Hornsby
    Nov. 7, 2024
    Mikie & Dixie have made SO much progress from training! Gosia & Mike were so patient with our newly rescued, very skiddish, dogs. The pups went from scattering like cockroaches with any amount of freedom or any noise to following us off leash in a Home Depot in the loud lumber department & following us down the path to our dock or wherever we lead them.p Thank you!!!
  • Kaitlyn Taylor
    Nov. 23, 2024
    The terms "professional," "personable," and "efficient" scarcely encapsulate the outstanding training and demeanor that Whit Gray provides! My dog had been labeled as "fear aggressive," as Whit accurately described. He would nip at strangers and exhibited discomfort with being touched, although he was comfortable around my family members. Additionally, he appeared intimidated by toddlers and unfamiliar faces in our home. After just four one-on-one training sessions, I observed a remarkable transformation in my dog! What I appreciated most about Whit was his patience and professionalism in his training techniques, complemented by his thorough explanations of his methods and their underlying rationale. He offered me reassurance and guidance on how to teach my dog right from wrong. Whit not only excels as a trainer but also maintains an approachable and responsive demeanor when I had inquiries about my dog's behavior or needed to reschedule sessions. His communication was consistently professional and efficient. I wholeheartedly recommend Whit as a trainer for anyone seeking a patient and skilled professional. Thank you, Whit!
  • Ryann Imhulse
    May. 2, 2025
    100% would recommend Dog Training Elite Northwest Atlanta! We reached out to Michael and Gosia in desperation after our overprotective black lab tried to chew through the basement door when we had a babysitter. We had resigned ourselves to the fact that we just couldn't have anyone in our home when we weren't there. They came over to assess Charlie and explained his behavior in a way that gave us hope. Their expertise and patience with Charlie (and us) has decreased Charlie's anxiety and has brought out the best sides of him. We are so grateful for their expertise! Their one on one training sessions have been game changers, and we are excited to have the continued support through group sessions going forward.
  • Rocky Brown
    Apr. 23, 2025
    Great people who do an amazing job helping my puppy turn into a well trained dog!
  • Floyd Dickens III
    Apr. 22, 2025
    Highly recommended - sought out a trainer for our 6 month old pup, and after extensive research, we decided to go with Dog Training Elite. They did not disappoint! Michael (our lead trainer) was knowledgeable, detailed, informative, flexible and most of all PATIENT! If you are looking for in-home training, this is it!
  • Lenice Dower
    Apr. 11, 2025
    Dog Training Elite was amazing!!! They helped us so much with our French Bulldog Poppy. I would 10/10 recommend them for dog training and would use them in the future again.
  • Joy Derrer
    Apr. 8, 2025
    Gosia has been a delightful person to help us adjust to and know how to train our sweet golden retriever pup Sandy. We have a large family with many kids of various ages and wanted to insure that we were all on the same page and consistent in setting up puppy training right. Gosia’s patience and kindness and expertise have given us tools to help us be in control and love our sweet girl even more as she learns to obey and please. We look forward to continuing obedience training as she grows.
  • Nancy Warden
    Apr. 6, 2025
    We highly recommend Dog Training Elite Northeast Atlanta! We loved having the one on one experience combined with group dog training. Our dog, Louie, is much better behaved and happier and so are we😀
  • Bryan Cantrell
    Mar. 24, 2025
    The training is perfect for a puppy. They taught my puppy to sit, place, come and walk on a leash. They actually taught me how to train so I can keep it going. Perfect dog training and great people!
  • Jonathan Cross
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Michael is amazing. He’s encouraging and patient. He was great with my dog Hondo.
  • Ann Gorman
    Mar. 12, 2025
    Mike and Goisa were enthusiastic, well prepared, caring trainers. They knew exactly how to get my wild bernedoodle to do as they asked. Always had good tips and eager to answer any questions I had about puppy behaviors. Very nice people, as well!
  • Nick Argoe
    Mar. 1, 2025
    My wife and I sought out training services with DTE NE Atl for our 6 year old labradoodle, Della, after recently adopting her. We were seeking support for Della as she was a VERY anxious dog, especially with people (new people.) She is a very sweet dog, never aggressive, just nervous and anxious and overall lacking confidence. My wife and I were skeptical if anyone could help Della, as we had her for 6 months at this point, she’s an older dog, and it seemed to be more of a personality trait and maybe the effects of what she had been through in the past before we adopted her. Then came Michael with Dog training Elite. Della has completed their platinum training program and is truly a different dog. She still has a shy disposition, but has gained so much confidence from training with Michael in our home and out in public. Her anxiety has decreased and as we continue to work on it, she now knows so many commands and looks to us as her owners to see if a situation is safe before running away. She has confidence in us AND herself. We now attend group classes regularly with Michael and Gosia which have propelled Della even further. They run an amazing program!! We are truly grateful for their help, flexibility, and support in equipping us and Della for success.
  • Adriana Vasquez
    Mar. 1, 2025
    “I can’t recommend Dog Training Elite owned by Michael and Gosia enough! Their expertise, patience, and dedication turned my Doberman Pinscher Arya, into a fully Certified Service Dog. From day one, they provided clear guidance and personalized training that truly made a difference. Arya is now confident, well-mannered, and ready to assist me in everyday life. If you’re looking for a trainer who genuinely cares and delivers results, look no further!”
  • Erika Kaivani
    Jan. 12, 2025
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We have had an amazing experience working with Michael and Gosia during our Platinum program for our puppy, Lyra. Their training methods are highly effective—we’ve seen noticeable improvement in Lyra’s reactivity, and she’s become much more obedient. Michael and Gosia are incredibly personable, always on time, and very communicative throughout the process. They genuinely care about the success of both the dog and the owners. While training can be an ongoing process & we know we still have work to do in the group classes ahead (which are included with platinum pkg), we are so grateful for the strong foundation they’ve helped us build and cannot wait to continue improvement. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for knowledgeable and reliable trainers!
  • Rick Busch
    Dec. 20, 2024
    Many, many thanks to Dog Training Elite and especially to our Trainer/Owner, Michael Billedo. My wife and I checked out several dog training programs in the area for our Cavapoo, Cali, prior to contacting DTE. We were both very pleased and impressed with Michael and with the information he provided on that first phone call and felt very comfortable setting up an in-home introductory appointment. That first appointment went very well and Michael was very friendly and informative and there was absolutely no sales pressure. He made an immediate connection with Cali and with us and we comfortably selected the program we all felt would best meet our needs. Michael far exceeded our expectations as both a friendly and personable instructor and an expert dog trainer (and passionate dog lover!). We enjoyed working with Michael immensely both personally and professionally and highly recommend DTE and Michael for a great dog training experience. Our training goals were met and we now possess the tools and techniques we learned for a lifetime!
  • Valerie Wheeler
    Dec. 19, 2024
    Whit is clear in his instruction and eager to help dog and owner work together for the best outcome. He has always been willing to schedule appointments that work with our home calendar.
  • Kristy Hicks.
    Dec. 19, 2024
    Mr. Gray came to my house and help me train my dog Slim. He taught me what I needed to know to help me become a better pet parent. He works with your schedule and they have group training. He is a trainer that I would recommend.
  • Tai Harris
    Dec. 18, 2024
    The exceptional team at Dog Training Elite of West Atlanta showcased remarkable knowledge, patiently guiding us through private dog training sessions with kindness, clarity, and honesty, effectively fostering a deeper understanding of obedience training and puppy training classes. Their service dog training expertise was truly impressive, providing a wealth of insight into the world of dogs and leaving us feeling confident in our newfound abilities.
  • Tailor Harris
    Dec. 17, 2024
    The exceptional team at Dog Training Elite of West Atlanta showcased remarkable knowledge, patiently guiding us through private dog training sessions with kindness, clarity, and honesty, effectively fostering a deeper understanding of obedience training and puppy training classes. Their service dog training expertise was truly impressive, providing a wealth of insight into the world of dogs and leaving us feeling confident in our newfound abilities.
  • Derrick Gonzalez
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Whit and his family have done an incredible job with my Bella, as well as with us as dog parents. We enrolled Bella for service dog training since she was a little crazy puppy, and she has grown into a wonderful well behaved adult dog that we are very proud of. Consistency is key, and we appreciate Dog Training Elite West Atlanta for always being consistent with us.
  • Alaina Hornsby
    Nov. 7, 2024
    Mikie & Dixie have made SO much progress from training! Gosia & Mike were so patient with our newly rescued, very skiddish, dogs. The pups went from scattering like cockroaches with any amount of freedom or any noise to following us off leash in a Home Depot in the loud lumber department & following us down the path to our dock or wherever we lead them.p Thank you!!!
  • Kaitlyn Taylor
    Nov. 23, 2024
    The terms "professional," "personable," and "efficient" scarcely encapsulate the outstanding training and demeanor that Whit Gray provides! My dog had been labeled as "fear aggressive," as Whit accurately described. He would nip at strangers and exhibited discomfort with being touched, although he was comfortable around my family members. Additionally, he appeared intimidated by toddlers and unfamiliar faces in our home. After just four one-on-one training sessions, I observed a remarkable transformation in my dog! What I appreciated most about Whit was his patience and professionalism in his training techniques, complemented by his thorough explanations of his methods and their underlying rationale. He offered me reassurance and guidance on how to teach my dog right from wrong. Whit not only excels as a trainer but also maintains an approachable and responsive demeanor when I had inquiries about my dog's behavior or needed to reschedule sessions. His communication was consistently professional and efficient. I wholeheartedly recommend Whit as a trainer for anyone seeking a patient and skilled professional. Thank you, Whit!