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German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America - and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience and personal protection training programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.
Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly. The professional training of Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.
If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.
In-Home German Shepherd Training
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.
Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.
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.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Be Consistent
Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Get Plenty of Exercise
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Positive Reinforcement
Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. 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.
The Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.
Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today!
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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!
Marcus was great! Training was something I had debated doing for a long time, especially since my dog was 4 but I’m so glad I did and so glad I chose Dog Training Elite. From the beginning, there was no judgement and they were flexible and accommodating. My dog has come a long way and I have so much more trust in him than I did before. I also appreciate being able to email questions and notes and get feedback that way (outside of our sessions). Overall, I’m very happy with the service provided and would highly recommend!— Brianna LaGuardia
Posted September 17th 2024
Dog Training Elite Marcus came today and explained everything to us! We have a Parson Jack Russell who is out of control they will help us get Maggie trained and be a better dog.. we can’t wait for training to begin.. They showed us another dog who was trained it was a real treat to watch Duncan. We are hoping Maggie will do as well as Duncan ( there’s hope)— Kathy Friberg
Posted September 9th 2024
Our experience with this company has been truly exceptional, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. Matt Fennell, in particular, was an outstanding trainer and exceeded all of our expectations. It's important to note that the trainers focus on equipping you with the skills to effectively train your dog, and Matt excelled in this regard. As someone who has always had a deep connection with dogs and grown up with them, this was my first time seeking professional training. The results have been so amazing, and the bond I now share with my dog is stronger and more rewarding than ever before. If you are committed to following the guidance provided by Matt or any of the trainers, and are willing to put in the effort both during and outside of the training sessions, you will notice the same results I did. Such a great experience!— Michael Shannon
Posted September 6th 2024
Marcus and Patrick were amazing. They helped us train our lab puppy. She had a lot of energy and was a bit of a challenge compared to our last pups. The trainers are very knowledgeable and helpful. If we had questions in between sessions we could just reach out and they would guide us on whatever challenges we were having. They accommodated my work schedule which was a huge help. We feel it was definitely worth the money and highly recommend them!— Courtney Tompkins
Posted September 4th 2024
I have been very happy with the services both Marcus and Matt have provided me and my family while working with my 6-year-old German Shepherd, Whiskey. She is so smart but very high strung and constantly in overdrive and they are committed to leading my partner and me in navigating her training while helping her to meet her full potential! I’m excited to continue with them!— Nichole McIvor
Posted September 4th 2024
DTE and especially Marcus are THE BEST. No one I’ve ever met knows and works with dogs like Marcus at dog training elite. We call him the “dog whisperer” but in truth mostly he has to train me, the handler, as much as my dog Wally. He has a really clear and consistent way of communicating which has transformed Wally from a nippy jumping puppy into a dog who is about to pass his public access test for service dog work. The company in general is excellent and all the staff and trainers are really responsive and work with me and Wally to make the best training sessions around my schedule, meeting at our house or public places to practice his service work. I would absolutely recommend Dog training elite and Marcus to anyone who wants to properly and seriously train and develop their relationship with their dog and is willing to put in the time and energy! Wally is learning so much so fast and is doing great. Thank you!! Update: Wally just passed his public access test!! Thanks so much Marcus for everything you’ve taught us both!!!— Sarah Geller
Posted July 31st 2024
Patrick was friendly and knowledgeable, great experience so far!— Christine Fuller
Posted September 4th 2024
You guys are amazing! We are learning so much, we’re making a lot of progress I’m so thankful.!!— This is Life
Posted July 29th 2024
Matt is very knowledgeable and completely honest about training our dog. I am grateful and hope to be able to Train myself and my husband to train our dog and help him to live a healthy happy life.— Lisa Dipadua
Posted August 30th 2024
My reactive dog, Shelby (6) and I were paired with Matt as our trainer and he changed our lives! I will admit I was intimidated at first hearing all the expectations but I wouldn’t trust anyone else but Matt with Shelby. I can’t even find the words to express how thankful I am for his help and guidance. He was encouraging and always thorough in his explanation. Most importantly he made me more confident with Shelby. Shelby is now able to be around other dogs and strangers. A month ago she would bark, growl, lunge at them. Now she is able to do group training since we are done with private training and I was so proud of how well she did around others. The only regret I have is not doing this sooner! Shelby has been in two other training programs and never did this well. If you’re reading this and on the fence, do it! It is the best money I ever spent. Thank you so much Matt for changing our lives! Also thank you Michaela for helping me in the decision process and not making me feel pressured to buy the most expensive plan and to do what works for me. I have already recommended DTE to 3 people!— Amy B
Posted August 29th 2024
Patrick was very polite and knowledgeable. Great with meeting our dogs!— erin morvan
Posted August 28th 2024
Always gives such good advice to help me and my service dog grow!— Megan Burgess
Posted August 21st 2024
I want to give a huge thank you to all of the trainers that helped Marlo and I. Before the training sessions we were experiencing trouble on basic commands, dog on dog aggression, and pulling on walks. It was so bad that my partner and I were almost at our breaking point due to the safety of others. Most people looked at him as just a typical Pitbull who was “aggressive” and could not be saved. But The trainers always came with a positive mindset, gave him a lot of love and praise, and showed me how this statement was untrue. As a whole everyone was very hands on with Marlo. They even set a great example for Marlo by introducing their dogs to him and helped teach him how to behave properly. Overall, I learned how to be more confident with Marlo which helped reflect on his behavior. We now have a happy behaved pup ready to take on this world stress free!— tamea smith
Posted August 9th 2024
Love it! Matt handled my aggressive dog so well. I’m glad that I reached out to them.— soo wang
Posted August 2nd 2024
Barbara is an excellent trainer. She explains things clearly, demonstrates and then has me do it. I am so excited seeing the progress my dog is showing.— Susan Purcell
Posted July 29th 2024
Barbara was the trainer that came to my home. She was a wealth of experience and knowledge. She had the patience of a saint. She really got my 10-month-old Rottie to blossom. He had a lot of fear issues which she helped him to over come and got him to listen to commands. She was very prompt in arriving to my home and gave me the full hour I paid for.— Sharon Lindsay
Posted August 8th 2024
Really enjoyed working with Barbara. She catered our training sessions to the needs of our dog. Dog training elite was very responsive when I reached out asking for additional training advice. Would highly recommend.— Esther Hering
Posted August 1st 2024