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Classical Conditioning

Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL

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 Treasure Coast / North PB County dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County 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 Treasure Coast / North PB County

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL 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 Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie classical conditioning dog trainers.

Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie 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 Treasure Coast / North PB County 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 Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL

Positive Reinforcement Training

Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County - Puppy Obedience Training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL. DTE

Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County - Off Leash Dog Training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL. DTE

Off Leash Training

Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County - Dog Agility Training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL. DTE

Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

A women playing with her service dog in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL.

The Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County 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 Treasure Coast / North PB County’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 Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie, FL, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast / North PB County 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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Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Grant Harris
    Oct. 5, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been monumental in training our young rat terrier Wally and our chocolate lab puppy Ralphy. Graham and Shelly have put together and incredible staff to train up any breed of dog. The dogs love the facility and the group training held at 1 of 2 parks in the PSL area. We will keep bringing Wally to group classes and look forward to Ralphys further training as he learns not only basic obedience but eventually training to be my father’s service dog. We recommend DTE for anyone, any dog, any time.
  • Nate Gornitzky
    Oct. 4, 2025
    Fantastic Jupiter group class today!!
  • Qwaig
    Oct. 3, 2025
    Dog training elite goes above and beyond the competition. They don’t just make sure your dog is trained, they make sure YOU are trained on what you need to do to keep your dog learning and growing. The staff is all extremely friendly and personable, I highly recommend them for any type of training you are looking for for your dog.
  • Liz Phillips
    Sep. 26, 2025
    They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but Dog Training Elite has crushed that myth. When my pup’s noise aversion got to the point where we were unable to go on our morning walks, I was at a loss for what to do. DTE listened to my concerns and helped both me and my pup reframe our relationship so that she knows she can rely on me when she hears a startling sound. We’re back to walking every morning, and I have the tools I need to help redirect her focus when scary things happen.
  • Katelyn Macias
    Sep. 25, 2025
    Before I brought Milo into DTE, he was stubborn, defiant at times, and had episodes of aggression. I could not bring him places or to family events because his anxiety was so high; he would bark and howl, chase kids that were running and playing, pull on the leash when I tried to restrain him and overall, was extremely difficult to manage. He was the boss and his attitude reflected that. He would jump on the couch when he wasn't allowed and would climb on the kitchen table to get food. He would jump up on people to get their attention. He would listen only when it benefitted him (aka I had a treat). My final straw was when he attacked me twice in one night because I was sitting in "his spot". I found DTE and called them. They told me to go in for an assessment so I did. I loved how thorough the assessment was and how the trainers were using psychology to discuss Milo's behavioral plan. This was the first time I heard about boundaries and communication in regards to dogs and training; up until now it was always treat training or positive reinforcement. Milo then started his training and made significant improvements his first week. I took him to my parents house on Saturday where they were having a children's birthday party. There were about 75 people there, a bounce house, a pool, it was a lot of chaos. Milo genuinely shocked me. He didn't bark or whine, didn't pull on the leash, didn't try to get human food, didn't chase anyone. He went and placed when I told him to and sat quietly, he sat and stayed as I walked away to do something, he didn't jump up on anyone who came up to pet him, even my parents told me they saw a different dog. Then he went for his second week of training and started his group classes and the things he did I didn't even think was possible for him to do. He would walk by dogs without even looking at them, sat and stayed, placed, heeled, all things I had tried to teach him previously and practiced but it never stuck consistently because he would decide when he wanted to obey. I fully believe this is because DTE doesn't rely on treats and rewards, but principles rooted in psychology and connection. Milo learned boundaries and respect and developed obedience out of his love for me, not because I was holding a treat in my hand. He is still demonstrating consistent change. I highly recommend DTE because the impact is long-lasting and fundamentally changes your relationship with your dog. The staff is incredible in supporting you and helping you and they are all so knowledgeable. You can tell they care and are invested in you and your pup. Overall, I'm very grateful for DTE and how they went above and beyond for me and Milo. They’re the best!
  • Elizabeth Thompson
    Sep. 4, 2025
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite has been just what we and our dog needed. Everyone is so encouraging, knowledgeable, helpful with any concerns and questions. They focus on building a relationship between you and your dog. We attend 1-2 group training sessions a week to help keep us and Rio on task. Training definitely requires time and consistency but it really is worth it!
  • May LaRose
    Jul. 11, 2024
    I am writing to express my heartfelt appreciation and to highly recommend the outstanding services provided by Dog Training Elite. Our beautiful 10-month-old Giant Schnauzer, Mimi, began her training journey with them a few months ago, and the results have been nothing short of remarkable. Initially, I had my doubts about whether Dog Training Elite could train Mimi to the level they described. Their promises seemed almost too good to be true, and I was skeptical about their ability to deliver. However, I am thrilled to say that they have far exceeded our expectations in every way. The dedication, hard work, and commitment of the Dog Training Elite team have been truly impressive. Mimi has been excelling in her training and is well on her way to becoming a Therapy Dog. The transformation we have seen in her behavior and skills is a testament to the exceptional training methods and the care provided by the team. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Shelly, Sam, Jessica, and the rest of the team at Dog Training Elite. Their professionalism, patience, and genuine love for the animals they work with are evident in everything they do. We cannot thank them enough for the positive impact they have had on our beloved Mimi. If you are considering training for your dog, I wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite. Their services are truly outstanding, and they have made a significant difference in our lives and in Mimi's development. Thank you once again for your exceptional work. Vincent and May
  • vance rudnet
    Jul. 14, 2025
    We would highly recommend dog training Elite, the staff is caring and supportive for all of our needs .
  • Christina
    Jun. 5, 2025
    I can’t say enough positive things about Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast! I have had many dogs in my life and I have worked with someone in NY, that is very well known, on tv and internet, but I have never had an experience like I have had with DTE treasure coast. The program they have just works. This is not a class that you show up once a week and go home to try to teach your dog, with very little support. With DTE Treasure Coast you are part of a community. Shelley and Graham have put together such an incredible, caring, dedicated group of trainers. They spend the time needed, using the amazing skills they have, to train your dog during boot camp and then they train you how to follow through on what they have taught your dog during there group classes. I have witnessed first hand dogs that once struggled around other dogs completely transformed and they now walk around in our group classes with the other dogs, I’ve seen them train dogs to pull wheelchairs, assist disabled vets, bring medications to their owners, and relax someone with anxiety or PTSD. They can truly help you to build whatever relationship you need with your dog. I can say that thanks to Graham, Shelley, Kristin, Clara, Jessica, Sam, Nate and Jorge, I have a relationship, a trust with my Toby that I have always wanted but never quite had with my other dogs, thanks to how well trained he is! We wouldn’t have that if it wasn’t for the love and support that we have received every step of the way from our DTE family. So, if you are looking for a service dog, a therapy dog or just a family pet that you can trust, reach out to them, you wont regret it. Toby gives his word🐾
  • Beth R
    Jun. 3, 2025
    I reached out to Dog Training Elite at a breaking point with my highly reactive golden retriever, Lucy. After speaking with multiple trainers in the area, it was clear that no one came close to the caliber of care, professionalism, and results offered by Graham, Shelley, and the organization they’ve built. From the start, they met both me and my dogs exactly where we were by offering a thoughtful, structured, and incredibly supportive approach. I chose to train two of my dogs simultaneously, and throughout the process, I’ve grown tremendously - not just as a pet owner, but as a person. Their training has given me deep insight into dog psychology, body language, patterns, and motivators, and more importantly, how to set my dogs up for long-term success. Graham and Shelley are everything you could hope for in trainers: patient, intelligent, highly perceptive, and deeply committed to both the dogs and their humans. They’ve spent countless hours refining my handling skills with clarity, kindness, and thorough explanation. A big part of why this program is so successful is they focus on teaching, rather than simply correcting, both pet & owner behavior. Beyond being a trainer, you can automatically sense they are genuinely amazing people who truly care about others. Lucy was aggressive and defensive the first time she met Graham, unwilling to let him near me or the house. Today, after months of working through her anxiety, she immediately greeted him with affection and excitement. It brought tears to my eyes as I feel like I have a totally different dog now. This huge shift was only made possible because of their work! If you’re searching for exceptional trainers who truly understand dogs and empower their owners, look no further. Dog Training Elite is the only choice.
  • Ken Ostebo
    May. 20, 2025
    If you are looking for a wonderful facility to have your dog properly training this is it!! Great staff very attentive we have now graduated to service dog training looking forward to the future we are very grateful 🙏
  • Jose Cubillos-Villamil
    Apr. 18, 2025
    Dog training Elite has giving me and my dog the tools and knowledge to train for a successful service dog that can help me to cope with my anxiety and depression. I really recommend this great company and its staff.
  • Lorna Bender
    Apr. 17, 2025
    I love how easy it is to sign up for group classes and if we need to cancel a class it is just as easy to cancel also the instructors are so friendly and make you feel like you are family
  • robin harvey
    Jan. 14, 2025
    This experience has been so positive for not only our dog but for us as well. The skills and confidence I’ve gained in helping my dog be the best version of himself have been life changing. We are dog lovers but have rescued some challenging dogs. This time I’ve been given the skills to help my dog overcome his history. I’m so thankful to Shelly and Graham.
  • Anthony Merva
    Dec. 18, 2024
    I was very impressed with the training that my dog and I received. The staff is professional and communicates well with appointments and any questions. The trainers are very knowledgeable, helpful, and take the training very seriously. I see an amazing difference in my dog. I will be back for some more advanced training. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for training. Don’t waste your money with anyone else! Thank you Graham and Shelley.
  • Chelsea Redner
    Dec. 17, 2024
    I can't recommend this dog training enough! It truly is an investment— but hands down, the best one I've ever made. My dog was a rescue, and he came with a lot of fear and anxiety, terrified of almost everything. He wouldn’t listen to me at all, and I felt helpless. But after working with this team, my dog's transformation has been incredible. He’s become more confident, calm, and responsive. The trainers have helped him completely change his attitude and approach to the world around him. The staff is also beyond amazing—friendly, supportive, and so knowledgeable. They take the time to explain why my dog behaves the way he does, and why the training techniques work. It’s clear they genuinely care about both the dogs and the owners, and they tailor everything to my dog’s specific needs. I’ve seen results I never thought possible, and I can’t thank them enough for the positive changes in my dog's behavior. 10/10, worth every penny!
  • Matt
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Took our brand new 3-4month puppy, Bear, here for a gold course by the time the first week was done, we knew we wanted to upgrade to platinum, The course helped with all the main foundations that Bear needed. She was always a good dog but super hyper being a puppy and let that get to her a lot of the time, the course has truly taught her self control. Paired with the platinum coming with unlimited group classes for life, we are set up for success with Bear and are still learning everyday. Would definitely recommend to anyone
  • Marcy Howard
    Nov. 18, 2024
    Fabulous experience! We signed up two rowdy, hard headed dogs and now have two well trained darlings in our family!
  • Lynn Sparks
    Oct. 24, 2024
    I love Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast! I adopted a very high energy one year old lab/rhodesian ridgeback mix rescue. I’ve always had dogs but he was a handful and I was beginning to believe he was too much for me but was in love with him. So for the first time ever I decided to try a professional trainer to help train him and myself. I didn’t want to spend the money but now I am so grateful that I did!!! Just after a couple of weeks I could see such a difference in him! I wish I would have done this will all my previous dogs!! Close to finishing his training and this dog is the dog of my dreams. He totally respects me and knows his commands! The Dog Training Elite trainers are phenomenal! They are so nice and very helpful and I highly recommend them!❤️
  • billgelder
    Oct. 15, 2024
    We LOVE all the Trainers at DTE - Treasure Coast. We love the Group Training Classes that are available throughout the week and on the weekends at the Parks around the area. The Trainers are all so professional while also being very personable at the same time. The participants of DTE are all such friendly people - and DOGS! Our Lacy has completed and has earned her Good Citizen Training Certificate. And we are now in training for Hearing Assist Service Dog. Each of the Trainers are so devoted to the program and to their dogs, it's wonderful to watch how well trained their dogs are - it's inspiring. Look for Dog Training Elite in your area for exceptional professional dog training. Lacy says: Everyone smells nice and they have good treats!!!