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Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?
Your puppy or older dog has completed basic obedience training. Congratulations! You and your pet have not only developed trust and strengthened your bond, but your puppy or dog is well on their way to becoming a loyal, loving companion.
Dog Training Elite Charlotte knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.
It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?
Dog Training Elite offers dog training classes in Charlotte for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Charlotte location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Benefits of Group Classes
Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have. Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:
Socialization
Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.
Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite Charlotte likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.
Focus
Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.
Hands on Learning
In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite Charlotte’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.
Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite Charlotte will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.
*Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.
Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
Empowering Owners
We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
Supportive
We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
Involved
We work with all members of the household.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
The Dog Training Elite Charlotte Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Charlotte training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Charlotte focuses on positive reinforcement, also called “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown positive reinforcement to be more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.
Dog Training Elite Charlotte does not use punishments or shock collars and instead pairs positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs. a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. Dog Training Elite Charlotte’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.
Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training
Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:
Your Dog is Destructive
Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
Your Dog is Aggressive
Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash
Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful
If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
Your Dog Ignores You at the Park
Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.
Join a Group Class Today!
Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite Charlotte location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today. Start building a community for you and your dog, and continue to strengthen your bond with your furry best friend.
Find a trainer near you today!
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
Dog Training Elite Charlotte is undoubtedly a God-sent help with our puppy. We started noticing that our rather calm puppy was growing too fast and in part, developing bad habits he picked up at other day boarding places. We noticed rough playing behavior, jumping, barking to demand attention, counter surfing among other things. I started looking around for at-home training and DTE was the first contact I made. I submitted an online inquiry and Sharon called back within the hour. After feeling good about our conversation I called others to see what else was out there. Some didn't return my calls and/or voicemails, others had very much a one-size-fits-all approach so overall my wife and I decided to call back DTE and ask Sharon and her team to help us. Shawn was at our home the following week. We can talk all day long about our amazing experience with Dog Training Elite but here are the basic points that I hope drives home our overall experience: -Instantly calmer dog after 1st lesson -No more rough housing -Morning/afternoon walks are much better now -No more counter surfing -Peace around the house while doing daily chores -Calm puppy It's important to note that Shawn loves to educate on the behavioral aspect and psychology of why dogs are the way they are and act. This alone is very helpful because it helps dog owners understand and come up with solutions on how we can best help our dogs. We are still continuing to work with our puppy in all the areas that Shawn, Sharon and Angela have helped us during the 1-1 at home sessions and we understand this isn't a one time thing but rather a lifelong continuation of enforcing the basic rules that these pack animals abide by. This only *truly* works if you (dog owner) work at it continually for the sake of your dog if all else fails.— Byron Penados
Posted September 17th 2024
AMAZINGGG. Would recommend to any and everyone. My dog Mia has transformed right before my eyes!! She’s confident, listening and easier to maintain on a day to day. Sean, Sharon and his daughter are super attentive and passionate about their training. I trusted Mia 100% with them both every step of the way.— Mekkah M
Posted September 4th 2024
Our puppy Veuve spent 10 days training with Elite dog Training of Charlotte. Even though she was only 6months old it was a great foundation for her and us too. She is now 1 year and is still learning and growing but we feel like we have a better dog because of our lessons. Highly recommended— Kate Sudikoff
Posted August 23rd 2024
Shawn is amazing and has helped our dogs and family so much! Our two dogs are now confident and great listeners. Even if you think your dog is perfect they is still so much they can learn. Cannot recommend Shawn and his training method enough!!!— Kat Billesdon
Posted July 19th 2024
My experience with DTE Charlotte was absolutely exceptional! Shawn and Sharon went above and beyond in many ways. My dog was dealing with a lot of issues and Shawn came in and was so informative and helpful with all the questions we could ever think of, and we never felt he was rushing us through any of our (sometimes very difficult) training sessions. He is calm and steady- exactly what you need for dog training! Sharon was always quick to respond to any questions we had and was always so kind and understanding. My dog is so much better after having this training. Shawn understands dogs so deeply, and really helps you understand how a dog’s mind works and why they do what they do. My dog and I have learned so much through this experience, and have became so connected since. We use our training everywhere we go! The group classes are extremely helpful to keep up with the training, while having fun with other dog owners and spending quality time with your dog. People compliment me on my dogs behavior quite a lot and that’s all thanks to ‘Dog Training Elite Charlotte’!— Breezyday57
Posted July 17th 2024
Highly gifted and perspicacious group. I completely entrust them with my beloved pet. They are leading us forward to a life of service to others. Thank you Elite!— Rita Vogel
Posted July 2nd 2024
Dog Training Elite Charlotte is the most FANTASTIC organization of its kind...!!! The whole family truly cared about our pup and gave their all to make sure they answered all our questions, were exceptionally kind and caring to our family and our loving dog, Charlie!!! Angela, our main trainer , has to be the best of all there is!!!! Sharon, who answered the phone was so kind ALWAYS and had our best interests at heart...Shawn came first and had to make sure our puppy had the best match and fit.....and he was RIGHT!!!! Both my husband, Pat and I feel Dog Training Elite is the best there is..I have had 26 dogs in my life and I have found that Elite is the BEST ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I thank them sooooo much!!!! They deserve more than 5 stars.....Perhaps all the stars there are!! Fondly, Sharon Yaskin— Sharon Yaskin
Posted July 1st 2024
These guys are great! Very professional and they understand dogs really well. They helped us with our service dog training. Amazing results in just a few months.— Coty Metz
Posted June 29th 2024
We adopted our dog, Finney, from the shelter in February. As a shelter dog, he came with challenges such as nipping, pulling when walking, and severe dog reactivity. We tried what seemed like everything to resolve the issue on our own, but after many failed attempts we called Dog Training Elite and signed up for their behavior modification training which included 7 one on one sessions coming to our home and then 20 group sessions. We saw HUGE improvements with our pup after just one session. By the end of our one on one sessions we no longer have a dog who nips, pulls or barks at other dogs. We have a calm dog who looks to us for direction on what to do when he feels anxious. We went from being scared taking Finney on walks for fear of how he would react to other dogs to being able to confidently take Finney on walks with our new skills learned. We cannot thank the dog training elite team enough for everything they have taught us and continue to help us with!— Cristin Sulfridge
Posted June 21st 2024
The trainers are extremely knowledgeable and have helped me turn my hyper puppy into my service dog in less than a year. I will be taking my service dog with me to college and can’t wait for all of the fun adventures we will be able to go on thanks to her wonderful training!— Grayson Askew
Posted June 21st 2024
Dog Training Elite is truly exceptional! Shawn and Angela are not only incredibly skilled trainers but also incredibly compassionate individuals. Their dedication to helping dogs reach their full potential is unmatched. With their guidance, my dog has transformed into a well-behaved therapy companion, ready to bring joy and comfort to those in need. Sharon's organizational skills ensure that every session runs smoothly, making the entire process a breeze. I can't thank Dog Training Elite enough for their amazing work and highly recommend them to anyone looking for top-notch training services.— Ashley Liberto
Posted June 12th 2024
Dog Training Elite has been an absolute game-changer in my journey to prepare my dog for therapy work at my school. Shawn and Angela are phenomenal trainers who have guided us every step of the way with expertise and patience. Their dedication and knowledge are evident in every session, making the training process smooth and enjoyable for me and my dog. Sharon's behind-the-scenes work is remarkable, ensuring everything runs seamlessly. They've transformed my dog into a confident and well-behaved therapy companion. I couldn't recommend Dog Training Elite highly enough for anyone looking to embark on a similar journey or to have a well-trained dog!— Ashley Liberto
Posted June 12th 2024
I'm so glad I chose Dog Training Elite Charlotte as my dog trainers! They helped me train my girl all the way from puppy camp to now a graduate of their service dog program! They are fanastic with communication, teaching, and helping you understand your dog better. The group classes are a huge bonus and are so fun! Watching other clients of DTE grow in confidence with their dogs at classes was an awesome experience. Because of DTE helping me train my girl to become my service dog, I've been given more freedom and comfort by having her than I have had in years. I highly recommend DTE for any of your dog training needs, no matter the circumstance! Therapy dog, service dog, or even just a family dog, they are the ones to call! It could be truly life changing! Thank you DTE Charlotte for ALL you do!— Chandler Hudson
Posted May 25th 2024
Loved everything about this experience with my golden retriever! The staff was incredible - always available to answer any questions, provided me with clear instructions after every training session and they were patient, kind and a pleasure to learn from! My dog is so well behaved ..and I am a more confident dog mom now too! Thank you.— Monica Hoekstra
Posted May 16th 2024
Our puppy Navy is around a year and 2 months and desperately needed some help, she would constantly pull on walks and bark at every person and dog that walked by. She would always jump on people when they came inside and that’s where I started looking for training and I found dog training elite! They have completely transformed my dog into a respectful sweet pup that listens to all the commands I give her! I’m so grateful to have worked with them and it’s been life changing to have a dog who now respects boundaries and who can walk beside me on walks! Definitely recommend them if you need some training!!!— courtney zenger
Posted May 10th 2024
The at home sessions were great! Looking forward to the group sessions!— Michelle Woolard
Posted May 10th 2024
Before the training, my dog was barking at any sound, any movement in the house, never listened to commands. He was already pretty good with walking on the leash but would pull on occasion. Now that he’s completed his training, I almost don’t recognize him, in a good way of course. He is a completely different dog now, he obeys commands in the house and stops barking after the initial alert to someone at the door. I am beyond grateful for Shawn and Sharon for the training provided for me and my dog. I will always recommend them to anyone that has behavior issues. The price for the training is definitely worth what you get in return, the initial in home training as well as the lifetime help with any future issues or questions as well as the group training on the weekends. 100% recommend!!— Michelle Lacey
Posted May 6th 2024
Wonderful service and people! My (formely) crazy dog is a new, obedient girl. Couldn’t be happier, highly recommended!— A.M.C.
Posted May 3rd 2024
Great experience! Big take aways.... 1. Aided with detachment from mom doggie 2. Aided in a nice transition with crate training 3. Aided with excellent transition to have the doggie understand how to be trained 4. supportive, informative and available Note initially I was skeptical and thought the price was high, that said im VERY happy with the outcome and would not blink at the cost a second time around with another doggie. I hope you enjoy the experience as much as I did!!— Michael Rousseau
Posted April 9th 2024
Best decision I could’ve made for my dog! He still has the same lovable personality, but he now understands what I’m communicating.— Jasmine Copeland
Posted April 7th 2024
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