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Classical Conditioning

Columbia Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Columbia, SC.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Columbia, SC

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

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite Midlands SC NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Columbia, SC 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 Columbia classical conditioning dog trainers.

Columbia 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 Midlands SC 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 Columbia, SC trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

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Dog Training Elite Midlands SC - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Columbia, SC

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A women playing with her service dog in Columbia, SC.

The Dog Training Elite Midlands SC Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Columbia, SC uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC’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 Columbia, SC, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Midlands SC 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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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Ava Roxanne Stritt
    Oct. 3, 2025
    Amazing class! I enjoyed all of the knowledge and tips. I feel so much more confident with my dog.
  • Carla Roland
    Sep. 30, 2025
    Justin is personable and knowledgable.
  • LG BENAUER
    Aug. 22, 2025
    Laird is an amazing trainer. Lotty and I are learning so much! She seems to know how my puppy is going to respond and instructs me how to handle her response. Laird is very professional and kind a rare combination.
  • Marvin Carraway
    Aug. 21, 2025
    Trainer was very energetic, competent and an excellent communicator. The training session was very lively and informative
  • burtonable
    Jul. 15, 2025
    Justin was promptly on time. He explained everything thoroughly, very professional had handouts so you could visually see what you were getting along with the pricing list. His two dogs were fantastic and hopefully we’ll have a similar result by putting in the work.
  • Justin Monroe
    Sep. 15, 2025
    Working with Dog Training Elite and Laird has truly been a delightful experience for us. We couldn't be happier with how she has been so kind, knowledgeable, and loving towards our Akita. With her extensive experience, Laird has shared invaluable advice and guidance that has truly helped us in raising our dog. If you ever get the chance to work with Dog Training Elite or Laird, we're confident you'll have a wonderful experience too!
  • Sharon Hyde
    Aug. 11, 2025
    Justin was awesome. I was doubtful that Roxie was trainable With Justins explanation and our training she did great. We are so proud of her. Thank You Justin 😊
  • Phillip Walls
    Sep. 9, 2025
    When we started we were afraid that It was going to be a “Dance Mom” case. Yet it wasn’t. The assessment was awesome, their schedule for training was spot on & most of all they care enough to give us the best dog training experience we could enjoy
  • Vikki Meadows
    Sep. 5, 2025
    Justin is very professional and patient with me with training and very knowledgeable in his field. Bear loves him too!!!
  • Kelly Gandolfo
    Sep. 4, 2025
    Very informative and great demonstration from Louie!
  • Ned Timmerman
    Aug. 29, 2025
    Everybody here is absolutely amazing! I can’t speak highly enough of their knowledge and professionalism!
  • Carol DuBose
    Aug. 26, 2025
    Good job! My dog was happy and wanted to participate!
  • Jaclyn Willis
    Jun. 4, 2025
    After being n vacation for 10 days I was pleasantly surprised by how well our boys are doing. We were in FL and the boys were very stimulated by the crowds and noises at Universal Studios. We had compliments as to how well behaved they were. Today they learned a new skill (closing draws and doors). They were very proud of themselves!
  • Tim Dorton
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Justin was professional, polite, and an effective dog trainer. He exhibited patience and consistency. Our dog is showing progress with each session.
  • Stanton Green
    Aug. 12, 2025
    Justin was enthusiastic, friendly and clear in explaining the various programs. And very patient. Louie was spectacular!
  • Laurie Miller
    Aug. 11, 2025
    Wonderful first assessment! We look forward to starting Therapy School next week!!!!!
  • Owen Hart
    Jul. 31, 2025
    Justin is great!
  • Beverley Leeper
    Jul. 20, 2025
    Great as always
  • Gene Watchey
    Jul. 11, 2025
    Justin is a very professional young man who I have 100% confidence in his ability to help us create lovable obedient canine members of our family. ✅. Our first session has been extremely successful and rewarding.
  • Sprint Data Solutions
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Elite Dog Training – A Real Game-Changer After trying two other dog training companies that delivered zero results, I finally found the solution with Elite Dog Training—and what a difference. My dog, now 14 months old, has transformed into a focused, highly trained companion well on his way to becoming a legitimate service animal. The previous services turned out to be little more than slick websites outsourcing to inconsistent trainers, and none of them made meaningful progress. Elite was different from the start. They provided direct, hands-on training with real professionals who clearly understand canine behavior and training science. I saw improvements within weeks—obedience, responsiveness, and calm behavior that I couldn’t achieve elsewhere. Unlike the “middleman” services I encountered before, Elite doesn’t just promise results—they deliver them with consistency and care. If you're frustrated with ineffective training programs, I cannot recommend Elite Dog Training enough. They’re the real deal and they changed everything for us.