In-House Payment Plans & Financing Available to Help Finance your Dog's Education
Back to Obedience Dog Training

Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Augusta

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Augusta / Aiken, GA.

Dog Training Techniques

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

See Training Packages

Dog Training Elite Augusta

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite Augusta NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Augusta / Aiken, 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 Augusta / Aiken classical conditioning dog trainers.

Augusta / Aiken Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment

Read More
Read Less

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 Augusta 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 Augusta / Aiken, 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

Dog Training Elite Augusta - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA
Positive Reinforcement Training
Dog Training Elite Augusta - Puppy Obedience Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite Augusta - Off Leash Dog Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training
Dog Training Elite Augusta - Dog Agility Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA. DTE
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training
A women playing with her service dog in Augusta / Aiken, GA.

The Dog Training Elite Augusta Difference


Read More
Read Less

Dog Training Elite in Augusta / Aiken, GA uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Augusta 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 Augusta’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 Augusta / Aiken, GA, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Augusta 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!

Photo Gallery

See An Elite Dog in Action

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Tonya Horton
    May. 2, 2025
    I love Dontevia, she is awesome with Amina.
  • Ms. Jones
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is beyond sweet! Not only is she knowledge, but she’s personable and she instructs in a manner that is easily understandable to both me and my pup!
  • Robin Miller
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is amazing. Her knowledge and ability to teach are outstanding. She has made my relationship with my new puppy less stressful. She is truly a the Dog Whisperer.
  • Cooper Sone
    Apr. 9, 2025
    Nothing but good things to say about Elite and the way they’ve worked with Maple, the newest addition to my family. Dontevia does an amazing job each and every week. All the lessons are clear, easy to implement, and effective. If you are serious about training your dog, strongly consider Dog Training Elite.
  • Leshell Greene
    Mar. 29, 2025
    Dontevia has been amazing working with diesel he has bad anxiety with people but Dontevia takes her time working with him step by step and in calming tone which soothes him and makes him so comfortable with her she is the best person for him and great at what she does I would highly recommend her to anyone when it comes to dog training
  • Melissa Manigault
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Dontavia is the best! She is so easy to work with and learn from. Over the past month, she has been incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and supportive as we’ve worked with our pup. Her training techniques are both effective and gentle, and she always takes the time to explain the “why” behind each method, ensuring we feel confident reinforcing the training at home. Not only does she have an amazing connection with dogs, but she also knows how to coach owners to bring out the best in their pets. In just three weeks, our pup has gone from having minimal obedience training to no longer pulling on the leash, mastering sit and stay, and even going to her place on command. The transformation has been remarkable, and it’s all thanks to Dontavia’s expertise and dedication. If you’re looking for a professional, caring, and highly skilled trainer, we wholeheartedly recommend Dontavia and Dog Training Elite!
  • Lori Robinson
    Mar. 27, 2025
    I am completely satisfied, great people great with my animals. I recommend them highly my dog cutie pie has only had three sessions and she is outstanding. Thank you Dontevia Moore thank you so much for your patience with me.
  • Rebecca Jordan
    Jan. 30, 2025
    Night and day difference in only 3 sessions for Mochi’s confidence!!! Dontevia has been the best and the perfect trainer for him! We love her❤️
  • Devin Strickler
    Dec. 4, 2024
    We’ve LOVED our experience with Dog Training Elite. Currently they are working with us to turn our now 1yr old Labrador into a service dog for our profoundly Autistic son. DTE has been a valuable resource every step of the way. The entire team functions cohesively, the support is top notch, and the experience/insight is true. Recently we’ve had the opportunity to work with Dontevia and we have so enjoyed her energy, enthusiasm, and insight. She is fun to work with and reads the dog and environment very well. We have no doubt with this company and with our trainer - that we will see results and success that will truly last a lifetime.
  • Autumn Jones
    Nov. 22, 2024
    We absolutely have loved our experience with Dontevia! She has exceeded expectations and works with us meticulously to make sure our Labrador retriever puppy can enjoy outings and walks with us! She even helped us with some of his food resource guarding! He even does amazing in stores!
  • Leela Gadson
    Nov. 21, 2024
    Dontevia M. is absolutely AMAZING. She has such amazing energy and she’s so patient. Solace responds very well to her direction and she jumps in to take over as soon as she sees my anxiety levels rising. Working with her restored my hope and provided the reassurance I needed.
  • alexzia rodriguez
    Nov. 19, 2024
    Dontevia is my dogs trainer she has been so patient and very helpful when if comes to my dog and taking at ease to make him more comfortable very satisfied with what i paid for the services i am receiving & more... i Recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who needs help with dog obedience training!
  • Meredith Serbanica
    Nov. 5, 2024
    Dontevia has been so wonderful. She is so calm with my shy skittish dog. As an instructor she is very clear and observant of my dog’s subtle cues. She has a gentle personality and nice sense of humor.
  • Keri Schneider
    Jun. 26, 2024
    Great personality and so helpful! Seneca helped with some bad behavior and now my dog is listening to me and being the best dog she can be.
  • Arnet Rogers
    Jun. 13, 2024
    Seneca was a great trainer and gave me alot of support
  • S Fens
    Jun. 13, 2024
    Seneca is very professional and friendly. He has done wonders with our rescue dog who was afraid of everything. He is now ready for public access and his service certification thanks to Seneca. I highly recommend Seneca for your training needs.
  • Arin Fenstermacher
    Jun. 13, 2024
    Seneca is an amazing trainer! He has done wonders with our dog and has helped us a lot in understanding our dog too.
  • Matt DeHaven
    Jun. 12, 2024
    Seneca was fantastic! Showed us how to be accountable during training so that we got the most out of each session, and then training in between. He is the man! He always explained things to be relatable to help even further. I give him 10 stars if we could!
  • Tyler Clark
    Jun. 12, 2024
    Seneca is an outstanding dog trainer! His expertise, patience, and genuine love for dogs was evident in every session. He tailored every training to suit my dog's needs and made the process enjoyable for both of us. Seneca's methods are effective and compassionate, resulting in remarkable improvements in my dog's behavior. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a skilled and dedicated trainer. Thank you, Seneca, for transforming our training experience!
  • Erica Crossland
    Jun. 4, 2024
    Our Trainer, Seneca is really pushing our dog to be obedient. He is doing a great job with our stubborn dog. Would highly recommend Seneca and Dog Training Elite Augusta!
  • Tonya Horton
    May. 2, 2025
    I love Dontevia, she is awesome with Amina.
  • Ms. Jones
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is beyond sweet! Not only is she knowledge, but she’s personable and she instructs in a manner that is easily understandable to both me and my pup!
  • Robin Miller
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is amazing. Her knowledge and ability to teach are outstanding. She has made my relationship with my new puppy less stressful. She is truly a the Dog Whisperer.
  • Cooper Sone
    Apr. 9, 2025
    Nothing but good things to say about Elite and the way they’ve worked with Maple, the newest addition to my family. Dontevia does an amazing job each and every week. All the lessons are clear, easy to implement, and effective. If you are serious about training your dog, strongly consider Dog Training Elite.
  • Leshell Greene
    Mar. 29, 2025
    Dontevia has been amazing working with diesel he has bad anxiety with people but Dontevia takes her time working with him step by step and in calming tone which soothes him and makes him so comfortable with her she is the best person for him and great at what she does I would highly recommend her to anyone when it comes to dog training
  • Melissa Manigault
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Dontavia is the best! She is so easy to work with and learn from. Over the past month, she has been incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and supportive as we’ve worked with our pup. Her training techniques are both effective and gentle, and she always takes the time to explain the “why” behind each method, ensuring we feel confident reinforcing the training at home. Not only does she have an amazing connection with dogs, but she also knows how to coach owners to bring out the best in their pets. In just three weeks, our pup has gone from having minimal obedience training to no longer pulling on the leash, mastering sit and stay, and even going to her place on command. The transformation has been remarkable, and it’s all thanks to Dontavia’s expertise and dedication. If you’re looking for a professional, caring, and highly skilled trainer, we wholeheartedly recommend Dontavia and Dog Training Elite!
  • Lori Robinson
    Mar. 27, 2025
    I am completely satisfied, great people great with my animals. I recommend them highly my dog cutie pie has only had three sessions and she is outstanding. Thank you Dontevia Moore thank you so much for your patience with me.
  • Rebecca Jordan
    Jan. 30, 2025
    Night and day difference in only 3 sessions for Mochi’s confidence!!! Dontevia has been the best and the perfect trainer for him! We love her❤️
  • Devin Strickler
    Dec. 4, 2024
    We’ve LOVED our experience with Dog Training Elite. Currently they are working with us to turn our now 1yr old Labrador into a service dog for our profoundly Autistic son. DTE has been a valuable resource every step of the way. The entire team functions cohesively, the support is top notch, and the experience/insight is true. Recently we’ve had the opportunity to work with Dontevia and we have so enjoyed her energy, enthusiasm, and insight. She is fun to work with and reads the dog and environment very well. We have no doubt with this company and with our trainer - that we will see results and success that will truly last a lifetime.
  • Autumn Jones
    Nov. 22, 2024
    We absolutely have loved our experience with Dontevia! She has exceeded expectations and works with us meticulously to make sure our Labrador retriever puppy can enjoy outings and walks with us! She even helped us with some of his food resource guarding! He even does amazing in stores!
  • Leela Gadson
    Nov. 21, 2024
    Dontevia M. is absolutely AMAZING. She has such amazing energy and she’s so patient. Solace responds very well to her direction and she jumps in to take over as soon as she sees my anxiety levels rising. Working with her restored my hope and provided the reassurance I needed.
  • alexzia rodriguez
    Nov. 19, 2024
    Dontevia is my dogs trainer she has been so patient and very helpful when if comes to my dog and taking at ease to make him more comfortable very satisfied with what i paid for the services i am receiving & more... i Recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who needs help with dog obedience training!
  • Meredith Serbanica
    Nov. 5, 2024
    Dontevia has been so wonderful. She is so calm with my shy skittish dog. As an instructor she is very clear and observant of my dog’s subtle cues. She has a gentle personality and nice sense of humor.
  • Keri Schneider
    Jun. 26, 2024
    Great personality and so helpful! Seneca helped with some bad behavior and now my dog is listening to me and being the best dog she can be.
  • Arnet Rogers
    Jun. 13, 2024
    Seneca was a great trainer and gave me alot of support
  • S Fens
    Jun. 13, 2024
    Seneca is very professional and friendly. He has done wonders with our rescue dog who was afraid of everything. He is now ready for public access and his service certification thanks to Seneca. I highly recommend Seneca for your training needs.
  • Arin Fenstermacher
    Jun. 13, 2024
    Seneca is an amazing trainer! He has done wonders with our dog and has helped us a lot in understanding our dog too.
  • Matt DeHaven
    Jun. 12, 2024
    Seneca was fantastic! Showed us how to be accountable during training so that we got the most out of each session, and then training in between. He is the man! He always explained things to be relatable to help even further. I give him 10 stars if we could!
  • Tyler Clark
    Jun. 12, 2024
    Seneca is an outstanding dog trainer! His expertise, patience, and genuine love for dogs was evident in every session. He tailored every training to suit my dog's needs and made the process enjoyable for both of us. Seneca's methods are effective and compassionate, resulting in remarkable improvements in my dog's behavior. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a skilled and dedicated trainer. Thank you, Seneca, for transforming our training experience!
  • Erica Crossland
    Jun. 4, 2024
    Our Trainer, Seneca is really pushing our dog to be obedient. He is doing a great job with our stubborn dog. Would highly recommend Seneca and Dog Training Elite Augusta!