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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Cleveland, OH.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Cleveland, OH

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 Cleveland Metro dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Cleveland, OH to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro 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 Cleveland Metro

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland classical conditioning dog trainers.

Cleveland 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 Cleveland Metro 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 Cleveland, OH 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 in Cleveland Metro - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Cleveland, OH
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Puppy Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Off Leash Dog Training in Cleveland, OH. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Dog Agility Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training
A women playing with her service dog in Cleveland, OH.

The Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro Difference


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

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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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See An Elite Dog in Action

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • George Janca
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Having had two previous pups I thought this girl would be easily trained by me. That was not so. Thanks loads to Kevin for helping me understand the training methods used and to all the great people at Elite. I was very sensitive to make certain that the training would be pain and punishment free. The patience and care shown to train my Beagle mix 2 year old and to train me was and is outstanding. From a wild pulling strong willed pup to my compliant walking companion is miraculous. And accomplished simply with the gentle ‘tapping’ reminders, lots of love and encouragement and treat rewards. Thanks again all!
  • Robin Strong
    Apr. 24, 2025
    My three year old Aussie went through their in person Platinum Elite Training Camp, she is dealing with a lot of reactivity and aggression and the whole team has made such an impact on her. Kevin, Andrea and Dennis were all so helpful with my dog Nova’s training, and mine! Nova is very selective with the people she likes and she gets excited whenever she sees any of the team from Dog Training Elite. I know we will have support when needed in the future and really look forward to ongoing group classes to help keep Nova properly socialized, obedient and happy.
  • jen
    Apr. 20, 2025
    We can’t say enough about this training facility. Catie and Louie loved attending class daily- and we were so impressed by both the facility itself and the training staff. We would highly recommend. Money well spent! - Barbara and Ron Sherman
  • Barbara
    Apr. 19, 2025
    A huge Thank You to Kevin, Andrea and Dennis of Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio for what they were able to accomplish in training my 5 month old pup Trace. In a very short amount of time all of my serious concerns were addressed. Their expertise was evident but more importantly to me was the kindness and care showed to both Trace and myself. I am so happy to have found them!
  • Kelly Smith
    Apr. 19, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland demonstrated exceptional patience, encouragement, consistency, kindness, and humor throughout all of our in home training sessions. Our five year old doodle went from being reactive to most everything on walks and the TV to being an eager to learn and non-reactive pup. We enjoy our walks now and look forward to continuing our training with group classes.
  • Andrea Shkilevich
    Apr. 18, 2025
    I cannot say enough great things about Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland (North Olmsted location)! The techniques work beautifully and we noticed a huge (positive) difference in our pups behavior after the first day of in-facility training. She has kept her spunky and unique personality but knows boundaries now. They gave us a way to communicate with her, which has brought us all closer... it's priceless! The whole operation is well organized and professional, and the team is kind, patient, accommodating and dedicated. They truly love what they do... and the proof is in the results. Our pup is happy, well behaved and thriving. My husband and I could not be happier with our experience!
  • Janice Smith
    Apr. 2, 2025
    Josh has done an outstanding job with my Samson I have learned to be firm but loving toward Samson I would definitely remocomed Dog Training Elite to all my friends.
  • Guido Carbone
    Mar. 25, 2025
    Guido and I are So happy we chose Dog Training Elite. It's Amazing how 2 weeks of Dog Training with our 4 or 5 month old boxer mix. Andrea, Kevin, Dennis, Agent K....everyone there love their profession and are Great at it! 🩷🩵🩷🩵 And their support doesn't end there. Do you And your Pup and learn these methods! Jody
  • Kent Heckel
    Mar. 29, 2025
    Just finished the extra outdoor session that is free once your dog finish the course. It was absolutely excellent. Not only to keep up with the training we learned, but to have my dog around other dogs who have been through the program to reinforce that learning was awesome. I am so impressed with this business & I really recommend this place for you and your family 🐶
  • Sarah Courtad
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We were referred to Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland because of their expertise with rescue dogs and their support after formal training. We rescued our 3 year-old Golden Retriever from a puppy mill breeder and struggled with basic obedience training. Her lack of socialization was causing behavioral issues, and we needed help ASAP. We decided to enroll her in their 2-week camp, and we are thrilled with her progress! Before training, we were anxious about taking her outside, but just three weeks after camp, we're visiting parks and even letting her off-leash. Her leash reactivity has significantly improved, and we continue attending weekly group classes to further progress. We're incredibly grateful for the team's support and ongoing help!
  • Cyndi Tomassetti
    Mar. 26, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. Everyone is so friendly and really listens to meet our dogs’ needs. Josh and Kevin are top notch. We had concerns with aggression and they really made us feel at ease and were so patient with all of our questions and concerns. They continue to check in after completing training.
  • Jennie Eckenrode
    Mar. 15, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite program! The trainers were patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. They didn’t just train my dog—they taught me how to communicate better with him, which made all the difference. Before training, Rolo really struggled with reactivity around other dogs. Taking him in public was unpredictable, stressful, and honestly kind of embarrassing. I couldn’t take him anywhere that had dogs that he didn’t know. He would bark, growl, lunge, and completely lose focus any time we saw another dog. I felt overwhelmed and didn’t know how to help him. That all changed when we started this training program. The trainers immediately understood Rolo’s behavior and worked with so much patience and care. They gave us practical tools and techniques that made sense, and more importantly, they worked. Throughout the training, Rolo became more calm, focused, and confident—and so did I. Now we can pass other dogs on walks without chaos, and I finally feel like I can enjoy time outside with him. It’s been an incredible transformation. I’m so proud of Rolo, and so thankful for the team that helped us get here. If your dog struggles with reactivity, don’t give up—this training truly makes a difference!
  • Daniel Rocco
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's service was heightened by the exceptional empathy, patience, and kindness exhibited by the trainer, whose firm guidance and encouraging words propelled our dog's progress in their Basic obedience lessons. With the guidance of a seasoned Dog behavior expert, our pup made remarkable strides, and we couldn't be more grateful for the support and understanding we received throughout the In home dog training process. Our dog Stella is very anxious around strangers and we were worried how she would get along. After a few days Stella was excited to attend the training. The staff was amazing and have a great balance of compassion and firmness. We are looking forward to group classes to better relieve Stalla's anxiety, and the in home visits really help in coaching my wife and I to keep the training going. Couldn't be happier with the results. Danny
  • Jennifer Morelli
    Mar. 2, 2025
    The staff and trainers were great to work with. Very knowledgeable! Highly recommend!
  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • David Rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    Josh and his team were the greatest of help training my pup. The care and expertise they showed was amazing. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an incredibly competent training company.
  • david rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    The patience and encouragement provided by Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's Dog Trainer was impressive during the Basic obedience lessons, expertly guiding our pup towards significant improvements.
  • George Janca
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Having had two previous pups I thought this girl would be easily trained by me. That was not so. Thanks loads to Kevin for helping me understand the training methods used and to all the great people at Elite. I was very sensitive to make certain that the training would be pain and punishment free. The patience and care shown to train my Beagle mix 2 year old and to train me was and is outstanding. From a wild pulling strong willed pup to my compliant walking companion is miraculous. And accomplished simply with the gentle ‘tapping’ reminders, lots of love and encouragement and treat rewards. Thanks again all!
  • Robin Strong
    Apr. 24, 2025
    My three year old Aussie went through their in person Platinum Elite Training Camp, she is dealing with a lot of reactivity and aggression and the whole team has made such an impact on her. Kevin, Andrea and Dennis were all so helpful with my dog Nova’s training, and mine! Nova is very selective with the people she likes and she gets excited whenever she sees any of the team from Dog Training Elite. I know we will have support when needed in the future and really look forward to ongoing group classes to help keep Nova properly socialized, obedient and happy.
  • jen
    Apr. 20, 2025
    We can’t say enough about this training facility. Catie and Louie loved attending class daily- and we were so impressed by both the facility itself and the training staff. We would highly recommend. Money well spent! - Barbara and Ron Sherman
  • Barbara
    Apr. 19, 2025
    A huge Thank You to Kevin, Andrea and Dennis of Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio for what they were able to accomplish in training my 5 month old pup Trace. In a very short amount of time all of my serious concerns were addressed. Their expertise was evident but more importantly to me was the kindness and care showed to both Trace and myself. I am so happy to have found them!
  • Kelly Smith
    Apr. 19, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland demonstrated exceptional patience, encouragement, consistency, kindness, and humor throughout all of our in home training sessions. Our five year old doodle went from being reactive to most everything on walks and the TV to being an eager to learn and non-reactive pup. We enjoy our walks now and look forward to continuing our training with group classes.
  • Andrea Shkilevich
    Apr. 18, 2025
    I cannot say enough great things about Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland (North Olmsted location)! The techniques work beautifully and we noticed a huge (positive) difference in our pups behavior after the first day of in-facility training. She has kept her spunky and unique personality but knows boundaries now. They gave us a way to communicate with her, which has brought us all closer... it's priceless! The whole operation is well organized and professional, and the team is kind, patient, accommodating and dedicated. They truly love what they do... and the proof is in the results. Our pup is happy, well behaved and thriving. My husband and I could not be happier with our experience!
  • Janice Smith
    Apr. 2, 2025
    Josh has done an outstanding job with my Samson I have learned to be firm but loving toward Samson I would definitely remocomed Dog Training Elite to all my friends.
  • Guido Carbone
    Mar. 25, 2025
    Guido and I are So happy we chose Dog Training Elite. It's Amazing how 2 weeks of Dog Training with our 4 or 5 month old boxer mix. Andrea, Kevin, Dennis, Agent K....everyone there love their profession and are Great at it! 🩷🩵🩷🩵 And their support doesn't end there. Do you And your Pup and learn these methods! Jody
  • Kent Heckel
    Mar. 29, 2025
    Just finished the extra outdoor session that is free once your dog finish the course. It was absolutely excellent. Not only to keep up with the training we learned, but to have my dog around other dogs who have been through the program to reinforce that learning was awesome. I am so impressed with this business & I really recommend this place for you and your family 🐶
  • Sarah Courtad
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We were referred to Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland because of their expertise with rescue dogs and their support after formal training. We rescued our 3 year-old Golden Retriever from a puppy mill breeder and struggled with basic obedience training. Her lack of socialization was causing behavioral issues, and we needed help ASAP. We decided to enroll her in their 2-week camp, and we are thrilled with her progress! Before training, we were anxious about taking her outside, but just three weeks after camp, we're visiting parks and even letting her off-leash. Her leash reactivity has significantly improved, and we continue attending weekly group classes to further progress. We're incredibly grateful for the team's support and ongoing help!
  • Cyndi Tomassetti
    Mar. 26, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. Everyone is so friendly and really listens to meet our dogs’ needs. Josh and Kevin are top notch. We had concerns with aggression and they really made us feel at ease and were so patient with all of our questions and concerns. They continue to check in after completing training.
  • Jennie Eckenrode
    Mar. 15, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite program! The trainers were patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. They didn’t just train my dog—they taught me how to communicate better with him, which made all the difference. Before training, Rolo really struggled with reactivity around other dogs. Taking him in public was unpredictable, stressful, and honestly kind of embarrassing. I couldn’t take him anywhere that had dogs that he didn’t know. He would bark, growl, lunge, and completely lose focus any time we saw another dog. I felt overwhelmed and didn’t know how to help him. That all changed when we started this training program. The trainers immediately understood Rolo’s behavior and worked with so much patience and care. They gave us practical tools and techniques that made sense, and more importantly, they worked. Throughout the training, Rolo became more calm, focused, and confident—and so did I. Now we can pass other dogs on walks without chaos, and I finally feel like I can enjoy time outside with him. It’s been an incredible transformation. I’m so proud of Rolo, and so thankful for the team that helped us get here. If your dog struggles with reactivity, don’t give up—this training truly makes a difference!
  • Daniel Rocco
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's service was heightened by the exceptional empathy, patience, and kindness exhibited by the trainer, whose firm guidance and encouraging words propelled our dog's progress in their Basic obedience lessons. With the guidance of a seasoned Dog behavior expert, our pup made remarkable strides, and we couldn't be more grateful for the support and understanding we received throughout the In home dog training process. Our dog Stella is very anxious around strangers and we were worried how she would get along. After a few days Stella was excited to attend the training. The staff was amazing and have a great balance of compassion and firmness. We are looking forward to group classes to better relieve Stalla's anxiety, and the in home visits really help in coaching my wife and I to keep the training going. Couldn't be happier with the results. Danny
  • Jennifer Morelli
    Mar. 2, 2025
    The staff and trainers were great to work with. Very knowledgeable! Highly recommend!
  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • David Rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    Josh and his team were the greatest of help training my pup. The care and expertise they showed was amazing. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an incredibly competent training company.
  • david rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    The patience and encouragement provided by Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's Dog Trainer was impressive during the Basic obedience lessons, expertly guiding our pup towards significant improvements.