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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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Kansas City uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City’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!
Cat is the best. She worked with our dog in a way that helped them learn quickly. She was patient and kind. I was not expecting our dog to learn as quickly as she did.— Emily LaMar
Posted August 24th 2024
Haylee with Dog Training Elite has been doing an awesome job of teaching us to work with our dogs, Penelope and Oliver. Haylee has made sure each lesson has been tailored to the individual issues we were trying to work on with them. Additionally, she verifies that we have understood what is being taught so that we can continue to work with the dogs on our own. Chuck, Kaylee and Haylee have been completely invested in our progress. We were impressed both with our dogs and our own progress after each lesson! His prices were reasonable which was another plus! Chuck and his team have always been responsive and returned our messages and calls quickly or could easily reschedule if something arose that would conflict. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for training your dogs of any age.— Amanda Kunkel Beech
Posted August 13th 2024
Haylee with Dog Training Elite has been doing an awesome job of teaching us to work with our dogs, Penelope and Oliver. Haylee has made sure each lesson has been tailored to the individual issues we were trying to work on with them. Additionally, she verifies that we have understood what is being taught so that we can continue to work with the dogs on our own. Chuck, Kaylee and Haylee have been completely invested in our progress. We were impressed both with our dogs and our own progress after each lesson! His prices were reasonable which was another plus! Chuck and his team have always been responsive and returned our messages and calls quickly or could easily reschedule if something arose that would conflict. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for training your dogs of any age.— Amanda Beech
Posted August 13th 2024
This company is very very accommodating, flexible and understanding. They are super good at training and explaining how to do it. They are patient with the dogs and really know how to get it done. In short THEY ARE THE BEST. I highly recommend 👌— DAVID DREDGE
Posted August 10th 2024
Wonderful people who know dogs. Took our 5 month old Standard Poodle from a great puppy to my licensed diabetic service dog in 6 months. Just do the homework. They continue to provide weekly learning activities. Great group. Highly recommend.— Diane Gardner
Posted January 21st 2023
My trainer, Cat, was wonderful to work with, as was the entire team. Training was kind, efficient and effective from Cat, and I’m very glad that training was held mostly at my home. Juniper and I put in the hard work each week - which is a must. It paid off- Juniper passed her certification, and we’re looking forward to the unlimited group classes. Another great feature of Dog Training Elite’s program! I would definitely recommend this group to anyone looking for a solid training program.— Kimberly Christopher
Posted August 6th 2024
Love Chuck and all of his team they were able to help our crazy mastiff that is 250 lbs and thinks he was a lap dog and could jump on everyone ! He loves people and acts right now without dragging me down the street ! Thanks for what you do ! Can’t wait for weekend group events !— Bill Fry
Posted April 11th 2024
Our experience with Chuck and the entire team at Dog Training Elite has always been great! They offer so much more than just training for your pet. Would recommend to anyone wanting to train there beloved pets!— Benny Smith
Posted March 23rd 2024
The group class is great for the dogs. It helps with socializing and group work. The trainers are all great. I love the classes— jodi khazin
Posted March 22nd 2024
Dog Training Elite is the real deal! Professional, accomodating and really good people. They take the time to explain and teach my service dog (and me as his handler). Highly recommend!!— Paul Rieck
Posted October 12th 2023
Best trainers ever!!!! I have tried many. These are the best! I recommend them to everyone.— Heather Massey
Posted January 28th 2024
If I could give more than five stars I would. Very knowledgeable on different dog behaviors and really focusing their attention on what the dog and owners need/want from training. Chuck came out for a consult prior to committing and he really walked us through their program and listened to all of our concerns and our reasonings for getting our dog training. We worked with Nate and now my dog looks forward to weekly visits. Great company and employees!— Samantha Stallman
Posted January 5th 2024
Truly phenomenal team! They train you in order to train the dog rather than just focusing on the dog. Very much a "Teach a man to Fish" type of training. Our Service dog was the Royals Buck O'Neil Honoree because of their tremendous skill.— Aaron Mizell
Posted September 19th 2023
I absolutely loved Dog Training Elite. They came weekly to help both me and my dog to learn how to work together. DTE both demonstrated and allowed me to learn how to train my dog. DTE also answered all my questions, even making themselves available to continue and support my efforts in having a well trained family dog.— Dennis Aldy
Posted July 21st 2023
Our Buster Brown has improved so much, Never likes the dogs on the TV but now we can tell him off and he just grumble talks to them. We are still working on boats that pass by on the lake but consistency will win the game. cheers to the Elite team!— Douglas Scott
Posted April 15th 2023
Great group to work with and training approach if very effective and gets results.— Charles Huddleston
Posted March 28th 2023
Working Willow with Kaylee was the best! She is very good at what she does and you can tell she genuinely loves it, she never hurts your furbaby. Kaylee explains how to teach them each step in easy to understand language. She makes sure you understand before you start training at each step. This was not the cheapest place, but I feel it was the best choice. Both before and after she was trained. My dog was so skiddish, she has learned to be calm and not bark so much as she has more confidence. I would give my highest recommendations to Dog Training Elite! If I ever get another dog I'd do it again. Worth every penny. They go above and beyond to your dog be everything you dream of!— Darla Hawkins
Posted March 17th 2023
Haley with Dog Training Elite did an amazing job training our dog, Dingo. When we rescued him he didn't have really any house manners and would chase our cats, after the first lesson he was acting so much better! He gets along with our cats now and listens to us, we are beyond happy with the training! Their trainers definitely know what they're doing!— Shelby Flowers
Posted February 27th 2023
Our trainers were very helpful in teaching us and helping train our 2 yr old dog.— Molly Schwery
Posted February 22nd 2023