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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 Upstate SC 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 Greenville 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 Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC’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 Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Upstate SC training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC’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 Upstate SC 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!
We had an amazing experience with Dog Training Elite Upstate. These people LOVE dogs. The communication was always very clear, personable, and friendly. They do a very thorough job of level setting expectations of the process and being very specific on the role you play in your dog’s success. We feel even closer to our dog after this experience. Thank you to the whole team at DTEU for your patience and kindness throughout this process.— Calhoun Taylor
Posted June 27th 2024
I am so impressed with the patience, kindness, and dedication of Elite’s training team. My Keeno’s manners are improved and it’s pleasant to take him out to parks, etc.— Prudence Taylor
Posted June 14th 2024
Dog Training Elite has been very professional, polite, & beneficial to teaching our sweet Corgi furbaby the ropes! Thank you.— Diandra Cash
Posted June 5th 2024
Incredible experience! It has improved the quality of life for our family and for our dog. The in-home training was perfect for us, as it trained us to train or dog. It was almost a night and day difference after day one in our dogs behavior. Everything our trainers told us our dog would do post session was spot on. The process is amazing and it works. We have recommended them to everyone we know who has a dog.— Chuck Harrington
Posted June 5th 2024
Very happy with our entire experience at DTE. They’ve been a vital component of my German Shepherds training.— Shaun Becker
Posted June 3rd 2024
We hired Dog Training Elite to train our overly excited Labrador puppy that just had too much energy. We were getting ready for a cross country road trip and were nervous with how he would do. After completing 8 sessions, our dog was a completely different animal! He is still the same excited boy he was but he actually listens now. We can take him to parks, beaches, camping and he is a joy to have around. He is well behaved in public and private settings and listens to commands easily. Hiring Dog Training Elite was the best decision we made. Would recommend them over and over again to everyone!— Irina Spasyuk
Posted June 1st 2024
These trainers are amazing. We struggled with having our dog home when we had people over as he would bark and jump constantly on everyone. We had taken to boarding him whenever we had a party. We worked with Dog Training Elite and saw amazing results. For the first time in 4 years we were able to keep him home with us when we had people over. The trainers are wonderful, patient and caring. I wish I had found them sooner. I can't recommend them enough.— Elizabeth D
Posted May 30th 2024
Dog Training Elite has wonderful and personable trainers. Thanks to them, I can bring Ritzli on outings to dog friendly places around Greenville. Also, thanks to DTE, after our fence broke in our yard, I didn’t have to worry about Ritzli darting out before we got it fixed. I would definitely recommend DTE to other dog parents!— Lillian Fant
Posted May 18th 2024
I can't thank my friend enough for referring me to Dog Training Elite. Choosing this place has been an absolute game-changer for my 2-year-old lab, who was struggling with behavioral issues. Opting for the 1-week camp option turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made for my dog. Strangers now comment on how well behaved he is in public. All of the trainers are incredible and you can tell how much they love working with animals. I couldn't recommend this place more!— morgan steffner
Posted May 17th 2024
All of the trainers at Elite Dog Training are amazing! They gave us so many helpful tips and tricks for our puppy, Bella. Bella is so far ahead of other dogs her same age in regards to following instructions, thanks to these wonderful trainers. They truly love what they do and are dedicated to helping clients and their dogs develop self-confidence in their training abilities. I can’t say enough about how pleased I am with the program and the people who run it. They really care and want you and your dog to be successful.— Trisha Slaughter
Posted May 16th 2024
Amazing staff! My dog went through the week training camp and came out the other side a different dog! This training not only helped my dog with obedience but with confidence as well. If your dog has anxiety with meeting strangers and being out in public I definitely recommend!!— Gabriella Arthur
Posted May 4th 2024
Omg this place is amazing! My dog used to be very skiddish & reactive around other dogs & couldn’t go out in public without barking & lunging. After completing the training course, he’s learned to listen better & is so well-behaved, especially when we’re out in public! I think the training boosted my dog’s confidence too because he’s not as jumpy or stressed as he used to be around other dogs or crowded environments. Best place to get your pup trained for sure!!— Sophia Steele
Posted May 2nd 2024
I have used dog training elite for BOTH of my dogs’ training. I have a Bernese mountain dog and a German shepherd. The trainers are so so patient not only with the dogs but with their humans too. My second dog just “graduated” his obedience training today! I love having the confidence to be able to take both my dogs on a walk and know that they know what to do. Training has also helped get my GSD’s endless energy out, which has been so great! I would recommend DTE to anyone who has a dog!— Lindsey Deligny
Posted April 29th 2024
10/10 would recommend. I was a skeptic with what I was convinced was a hopeless "tough case" German Shepard /Bernese Mtn Dog. Hyperactive, barked at guests, barked at us, wouldn't recall, chased the cat, picked on our other dog, actually ate more than one steak off the counter.. etc. Treats or food were the only thing this dog would cooperate for. And don't get me started on leash pulling. DTE helped my dog trust me and build up his own confidence; while teaching me how to guide him and love him the whole way. I cannot tell you how satisfied we are with his progress. Our dog is WAY calmer, holding commands and learned a few new ones. It's improved all of our lives. We are so grateful for Dog Training Elite Update SC. If you don't think you have time.. I promise you do, and your dog will love you for it.— Gabby Kreiger
Posted April 26th 2024
Great trainers who know what they are doing, They know how to get the best dog out for the best life of the dog ! Had only 3 lessons so far with astonishing results for my German Shepherd ! Looking forward to the seemly unlimited capabilities.— T TM
Posted April 23rd 2024
We adopted a 4 yr old 86lb labradoodle this past summer. Trevor had been abandoned by his first family. He was full of love but had no boundaries! I was walking through downtown Greenville about 3 months ago and passed by 2 gorgeous golden retrievers taking place on a statue. I turned around and saw Danny, the trainer, from a distance. I asked, “are you a dog trainer?” I called Dog Elite the next day. Hands down, THE BEST investment we have made. Trevor has soared in his training! The dog we swore would ruin our home and maybe our marriage has become an absolute delight! Danny, Casey, McKenzie and Sydney are knowledgeable, easy to work with and crave to see success with your pet. We did the in home program which helped us in our own environment. Thank you Dog Elite! Trevor has manners and boundaries now! We are a MUCH happier family.— CHRIS THOMAS
Posted April 5th 2024
Unbelievable how much our dog has improved! You get what you pay for. They are the best!— Zach Molter
Posted March 9th 2024
This dog training program was life-changing for us and our dog Maple. Maple's main issue was recall. We would spend an hour just trying to catch her at a dog park to leave. We were skeptical at first because we felt we had tried everything and we didn't think anything would improve her recall but we were pleasantly surprised. After 6 home visits with Dog Training Elite, Maple is like a whole new dog. She gets more confident everyday, she will come, place, sit, stay, and heel. This experience has given us more peace of mind and her more freedom. Huge thank you to Mackenzie and Sydney for all they did for us and Maple. They were so professional and kind and we could tell they enjoy what they do. We can't wait to bring Maple to group classes. Thank you Dog Training Elite!— Camille Ouzts
Posted March 2nd 2024
Dog training elite is absolutely amazing. Each of the trainers were always so excited to work with Nala. They were very supportive and wanted Nala and myself to be successful. Always had quick and helpful responses to texts. 100% would recommend to anyone who wants to train their dog. Worth every penny. Nala was so happy when she graduated obedience training.— Michael Adams
Posted February 29th 2024
I have experienced multiple ways to train my dogs. With my two now, a Border Collie and GSD, I wanted to try something different in order to work on unique training needs. My Border Collie was having behavioral issues and my GSD was just a puppy still, he's trained but needs help with distractions. I reached out to DTE to have a different experience, instead of a formal training or boarding. I was intrigued by DTE because they explained to me of having multiple options. We did day boarding camp, where you got to drop off and pick up your dog, so you still got to bond nightly, then we did in home training and we are soon starting group training. Day boarding allows the trainers to focus on your dog then teach you what they learned, and you know they are working your dog as they only have a handful of dogs at the facility that time. In home is nice because you are able to have your normal day to day distractions and environments, allowing the dog to feel comfortable but also know they need to execute the task at hand. My GSD loves to bark at the neighbors dog and we were training while the dog was out, giving him that big distraction and getting corrected in real time. The other benefit of in home is the DTE trainers bring their own dogs, allowing a new unique dog to be added to the mix. My Border Collie is not good with other dogs coming up on him in public, so we were able to experience that in a walking scenario to work through real life actions. After a few weeks of working my border collie with other dogs and his brother the GSD i have seen his anger issues calm, he is realizing whos the boss and he doesn't have to have a chip on his shoulder. We are soon starting group classes to continue training. Still more to work on with both but because you get so many sessions in your package we will be continuung our training in the weeks to come. DTE is not just the cookie cutter classes or experience, if you want to work with a team that cares and is willing to work with you and your dog this is the team to use.— Christine Rowland
Posted February 24th 2024