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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 Twin Cities 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 Minneapolis / St. Paul 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 Twin Cities 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 Twin Cities 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 Twin Cities’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 Twin Cities 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 Twin Cities Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Twin Cities training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Twin Cities 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 Twin Cities 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 Twin Cities’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 Twin Cities 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!
Dog Training Elite Twin Cities has provided an outstanding experience for both Luna and me. Luna has developed essential skills like patience, self-control, and responsiveness, while also mastering her service task, thanks to the guidance of George and Courtney. The trainers’ flexibility, clear directions, and compassionate handling made the program invaluable, and I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking quality service dog training.— Jessica Ann
Posted September 16th 2024
Dog Training Elite Twin Cities has provided an outstanding experience for both Luna and me. Luna has developed essential skills like patience, self-control, and responsiveness, while also mastering her service task, thanks to the guidance of George and Courtney. The trainers’ flexibility, clear directions, and compassionate handling made the program invaluable, and I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking quality service dog training.— Jessica Epple
Posted September 16th 2024
George is truly a dog whisperer. We were overwhelmed with a golden retriever puppy and failed out of a puppy obedience class before contacting George and Dog Training Elite. George gave me the confidence and knowledge to train our Daisy to became the dog we enjoy today. Life happens at home and George helped Daisy to stop counter surfing and invading our kitchen cooking area. Each meeting built upon prior skills and addresses issues you and your dog are experiencing. George was incredibly supportive as my dog had several health issues that we were dealing with and seeking medical attention. I just don’t think that I would be as close to my dog without my trainer George. Even when we fall behind on training the ground work is within my dog to get back at it.— Robin Guerrero
Posted August 20th 2024
We had a great experience with George in training our new German Shepherd puppy. He did a great job teaching her basic commands but more importantly educating my wife and I on how to continue the training and handle her reactivity.— Matt Corcorcan
Posted August 19th 2024
We enlisted the help of Dog Training Elite Twin Cities for training our Rottweiler pup, Wally. I couldn't be more pleased with our experience. During the in-home sessions, George involved my whole family (myself, my husband, and my 2 young sons) in the training activities, resulting in Wally following commands from all of us. George also took the time to work with Wally on our specific concerns beyond obedience (e.g. crate soiling, aggression). We take Wally everywhere (kids soccer games, baseball games, parks, etc.) and regularly receive compliments re: his behavior. George is 100% to credit for this. I very highly recommend Dog Training Elite.— Melanie Hefner
Posted August 16th 2024
So incredibly thankful we found Dog Training Elite. It had been years since we had to go through the new dog phase and when we got our 3 year old rescue home this spring we were unprepared for the training she needed. George has transformed our dog. She is still a wonderful and energetic dog but with boundaries. She knows what is expected of her and the house doesn’t feel like chaos anymore. So grateful and I would not hesitate to use them again for any future dogs or recommend DTE to everyone with a dog.— kristina d'elia
Posted June 25th 2024
We had a fantastic experience with George from Dog Training Elite! Our Scottish Terrier, Paul, showed remarkable improvement in his behavior across the board. George's training not only helped Paul build confidence in new environments but also significantly reduced his anxiety around new people. We couldn't be happier with the results and highly recommend George to anyone looking for a skilled and compassionate dog trainer. Thank you, George, for transforming Paul's behavior and making our lives so much better!— Taylor Doeden
Posted May 26th 2024
When we first brought our dog home, he was 1 1/2 year old, 60 lb dog with no training. He wanted to be loved and play all the time but his form of play was a little much to handle, jumping and mouthing us and our guests. After we trained with George, he was a completely different dog. He knows when to play and listens to commands even though he is busting with love and still wants everyone's attention. We would highly recommend working with George at Dog Training Elite, Twin Cities. He is patient and loving and quickly became our dog's best friend!— Mary Munson
Posted March 10th 2024
I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. Previously I had enrolled in a different training program where my dog had to drop out due to her anxiety and reactivity. I also put her through a dog training month long boot camp. Neither of these had the success which I am experiencing now with Dog Training Elite. For the first time I am able to walk her without being afraid that her reactivity and pulling will be unmanageable. George is great and also answered promptly with suggestions when I texted with training questions. I am so glad I finally found something that is working.— Jennifer Loupe
Posted February 15th 2024
My dog is a different dog since George came to my house. Louie loves to be trained and he is now a wonderful puppy. I would highly recommend George!— Kate Lundsten
Posted January 17th 2024
George is an amazing trainer! He is always on time, very kind & understanding, dogs worship him, & will have you seeing results with your dog almost instantly. I got my dog for my PTSD & George helped turn my 3-month-old puppy into one of the most amazing companions in the matter of 6 months. His training programs are very much worth your time, effort, & money.— Katrina Cannady
Posted December 13th 2023
We worked with George and were very satisfied with this training experience. We have a 3 year old Rough Collie and were experiencing issues with leash reactivity and "Stranger Danger" in our home. Our Finley thought it was his job to control people he didn't know in our house. (These herding breeds can have a tendency to nip and herd). We can now manage this situation and have a more safe atmosphere for others. The e-collar training is fabulous if you have a dog that has impulses or a situation where "positive only training" isn't getting the results you want. Great for off-leash commands. You will not regret the decision to go forward with this training.— Sue Schinke
Posted October 27th 2023
Take advantage of the free in-home assessment to see for yourself, but I highly recommend George for anyone looking for a dog trainer. I have an anxious American Bully that other trainers were not willing or able to work with, but George was able to build a great relationship with her and train both of us. He's very responsive, engaged, and specific with training feedback and epxectations, which I found was very helpful - also supportive for any/all questions that I've had. Going through training with George has significantly improved our quality of life - went from having a reactive dog that would bark anytime others entered the home to now having the skills in place to allow others to visit without it being a big event. Thanks George!— Lisa Nelson
Posted July 30th 2023
My dog Nigel was very anxious, guarded, and reactive before we did training with George. Each session, George coached Nigel, but he also coached me on how to be a more assertive owner! I feel like I was given the tools I need to make sure Nigel is safe out in public. I was shocked at how quickly the reactive behavior subsided once Nigel felt more confident, and now he is a much happier dog. I’m more confident with him too. George is very knowledgeable and was able to answer any question I had, and he really listened to and abided by my training goals. I’m excited to continue with the Saturday park sessions!— Leah Tillman
Posted May 23rd 2023
I thought I was hiring someone to come to my house and train my dog but really I was trained how to effectively train my dog. George was an excellent teacher and was super great with Oreo. Very flexible when I needed a reschedule and also with the lesson plan by helping with things outside of the list of commands in the contract. Would recommend to family and friends for sure. Looking forward to the group classes this summer.— Jay Zachau
Posted April 26th 2023
Rosie was a reactive dog, we lived our life afraid of her becoming aggressive to those entering our home. George taught us week by week on basic commands that built upon each other. He was reliable and professional. Rosie is a different dog. The cost of individual in home training was worth every cent. Our Rosie is more confident of herself and comes by command, something we never thought could happen. We are so thankful!— Tamara Uhde
Posted February 14th 2023
George has done a fantastic job with our pit bull Cleo, not only is he skilled but he is also personable. Highly recommend him to anyone seeking elite dog training.— Zac M
Posted February 3rd 2023
George deserves this 5 star review! Such an all-around dog trainer and person! Helped not only train our four legged best friend but also us as owners. cleo is a pitbull who was extremely stubborn and jumped on anyone who came through the door. Cleo used to take ten minutes before calming down. Now Cleo sits and waits until she is given the okay to welcome guests. She is also reactive towards other dogs but if the help of conditioning Cleo with the collar and commands, she is a lot less reactive. He even volunteered his own dog to help equipped us with the tools to introduce our dog to others. He answered any and all questions that he had plus more. Would highly recommend!— Madlyn McMullen
Posted February 3rd 2023
George was a wonderful trainer! We were out of options for our anxious, aggressive golden doodle. After working with George, we were able to take our dog to family holiday gatherings with no incident. George patiently answered all of our questions and equipped us to be better dog owners. We would highly recommend!— Sara Veit Kaufman
Posted December 21st 2022
George was great and easy to work with. We have a rather aggressive shepherd mix with other dogs and we worked through some techniques that help us approaching dogs on our nightly walks. He was patient & offered a lot of tools to help us better handle those situations with confidence.— Lucas Duppler
Posted December 5th 2022