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Develop a Stronger Bond Through Training
Bringing home a new puppy can be a fun and special time. Puppies are cute and playful and bring a lot of joy into a home! They can also bring a lot of chaos and messes. Early days spent with your puppy are important for both bonding and training. In fact, if you’re wondering how to bond with your puppy, training can be a great way, as they look to you for guidance and direction. Dog Training Elite Reno is here to help.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Reno location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Dog Training Elite Reno In-Home Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite Reno’s offers comprehensive in-home puppy training. For the first 4-6 weeks, trainers use “treat training” before moving onto more advanced puppy training. Puppies will learn the following behaviors:
- Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
- Puppy corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
- Crate training/ housebreaking
Trainers will also help owners learn about the following:
- Socialization tips
- Environmental hazards
- Puppy enrichment
- Caring for your puppy
- And more!
Training a puppy can feel overwhelming. By pairing you with a professional trainer, not only will your puppy learn quickly, but you will feel confident and empowered to continue training your puppy after the sessions are completed. Training in your own home will help you bond with your pup so even after the professional trainer leaves, you and Fido can continue to progress together.
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.
In-Home Puppy Trainers
Working with a trainer and your puppy in your own home will help your puppy stay focused. Dog Training Elite Reno dog trainers create personalized training plans for individual puppies that will also address any unique needs or issues.
Once a puppy has completed in-home training, Dog Training Elite Reno offers puppy group classes for further training. These group classes are a great option for exposing a young puppy to other dogs, people, new sounds and sights so they become well socialized.
Positive Reinforcement Training Methods
The Dog Training Elite Reno training method focuses on encouraging proper behaviors with positive reinforcement. Punishment is never used as a form of training as it can lead to aggression and fear in dogs. Dog Training Elite Reno does use an electronic vibration collar (not a shock collar) to help puppies stay alert, and treats for extra encouragement.
Positive reinforcement teaches a puppy that performing obedient behaviors wins love and affection from their owner. Dog Training Elite Reno’s professional puppy trainers include owners in the training process so that puppies learn who is in charge. Working with professional trainers of Dog Training Elite Reno, your puppy will not only develop deep-rooted obedience, but working alongside these trainers will help you and your puppy build a strong, healthy relationship founded on loyalty and trust.
Tips on How to Bond
With Your Puppy
Training is a great way to establish a deep, loyal bond with your puppy. Outside of your training sessions, there is more you can do to strengthen your bond. Here are some more tips for how to bond with your puppy:
Learn how to "talk to them"
Your puppy may not understand the words you’re saying, but he or she will understand your tone of voice. Speaking in an excited tone of voice will get your pup excited and motivate them to do what you want them to. Speaking in a low, calm voice can help soothe and relax your puppy.
Establish a routine
Puppies thrive on routine. A consistent schedule will help your puppy adjust to their new home, and to you and your family. A puppy’s schedule needs to include eating, playtime, puppy training, potty breaks, and nap times.
Playtime and exercise
As mentioned above, playtime is an important part of your puppy’s schedule. Playing with your puppy will help strengthen your bond and stimulate their brains. Walks are an easy and great way to give your puppy much-needed exercise. Start small, walking around in your yard or driveway and gradually extending the distance around your neighborhood.
Create boundaries for you and your puppy
Creating boundaries in your home for your puppy helps strengthen your bond because your puppy will look to you for direction and guidance. It will also help your puppy avoid bad habits. Baby gates and playpens are a useful way to create physical boundaries.
Give your puppy their own space
Puppies can become overwhelmed about all the new things they’re exploring. Crate training is a perfect way to allow your puppy to have their own space where they feel safe and comfortable and help them develop some independence so they grow into a well-adjusted dog.
Cuddle your puppy
The most adorable way to bond with your puppy is by cuddling them! Snuggling with your pup can help him or her feel comforted and safe. The best time to get a cuddle session with your puppy is when they are sleepy. Cuddling also helps puppies get used to having their paws, belly, face, etc. handled, and can be a good time to introduce light grooming practices like brushing their fur.
It’s OK to be nervous about bringing your puppy home. But with the professional dog trainers and programs at Dog Training Elite Reno, plus these tips on bonding with your puppy, you will develop a rewarding relationship with your new best friend.
Schedule a free training demo 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!
I did months of research looking for the right person to legitimately certify my dog as my service animal. We started training my pup at a couple months old and he was instantly receptive to the training Chris uses. He’s about 8 months now and on track to be completely certified by his first birthday. Chris’s knowledge and training methods are unmatched and there isn’t anyone else I would recommend.— Joel Hammeke
Posted September 13th 2024
Chris was great with our dogs and we learned so much. Walks are so much more pleasant and the doorbell does not lead to complete chaos anymore!— Kayla Jackson
Posted September 13th 2024
I wanted to share my experience working with Chris, Dog Training Elite Reno, who has been a huge help to me and my 5 yo rescue pitbull mix. My dog had some serious leash reactivity towards other dogs, and from the time I adopted him 6 months ago, I had been struggling to handle it. I've owned dogs all my life but clearly I didn't have the knowledge and skills this dog needed. Chris's input has been amazing right from the start. He not only works with my dog but is also training me to be a better owner and handler. He’s super patient and explains things in a way that’s easy to understand. His tips and techniques have really helped me feel more confident and in control during our walks. Since we started working with Chris, I’ve seen a big improvement in my dog's behavior. He uses positive reinforcement, which my dog responds to really well. It’s clear Chris knows what he’s doing and genuinely cares about helping us. I’m so grateful for Chris's help. If you’re looking for a dog trainer who can make a real difference, I highly recommend Chris. He’s making a huge impact on our lives. He's definitely teaching these old-ish dogs some new tricks! Thanks, Chris!— Lori Thomas
Posted July 31st 2024
Chris Bergman is a patient and very knowledgeable trainer. I would highly recommend his service for obedience training.— Lori Boyles
Posted July 28th 2024
Chris with Dog Training Elite has really helped me get control of both of my bully mixes. He is very professional and his techniques have made me and my wife more confident to take my dogs out into the world.— Jason Gonzalez
Posted July 25th 2024
Chris from DTE is a fantastic dog trainer, truly elite. We have rescued several dogs over the years and they each come with lovable personalities that flourish with proper training. Once you meet Chris, you quickly see he has all the qualities of an outstanding trainer, leader, and friend. Communication: He communicates between lessons and recaps the main points of lessons to ensure success. Understanding of dog behavior: He adeptly interprets body language of dogs and their humans, providing insight into why dogs behave the way they do. Love of dogs: He is obviously passionate about what he does, really understands the nuances of different breeds, and loves seeing dogs excel. Patience: Dogs (and more often probably, their humans) can be challenging, but Chris is patient, reliable, and consistent. Compassion: Chris considers the dog's needs first and avoids pushing them too hard. Confidence: Chris is a strong leader and it shows because the dogs often want to follow him even after lessons! We highly recommend Chris and DTE for dog (and human) training. :-)— Cori Ann Lentz
Posted July 23rd 2024
Chris from DTE is a fantastic dog trainer, truly elite. We have rescued several dogs over the years and they each come with lovable personalities that flourish with proper training. Once you meet Chris, you quickly see he has all the qualities of an outstanding trainer, leader, and friend. Communication: He communicates between lessons and recaps the main points of lessons to ensure success. Understanding of dog behavior: He adeptly interprets body language of dogs and their humans, providing insight into why dogs behave the way they do. Love of dogs: He is obviously passionate about what he does, really understands the nuances of different breeds, and loves seeing dogs excel. Patience: Dogs (and more often probably, their humans) can be challenging, but Chris is patient, reliable, and consistent. Unique: Chris is able to go beyond typical training, he even helped us teach our new rescue puppy to place on a wobble board so she would be ready to learn SUP! Super fun! Compassion: Chris considers the dog's needs first and avoids pushing them too hard. Confidence: Chris is a strong leader and it shows because the dogs often want to follow him even after lessons! We highly recommend Chris and DTE for dog (and human) training. :-)— Dr Cori Lentz
Posted July 23rd 2024
Dog Training Elite Reno is the best. I love working with Chris. He has helped me and my pup so much and I learn something new or certain things to do to make training even better with my dog. I would highly recommend DTE and will continue to.— caitlin howard
Posted July 21st 2024
Chris has done a fantastic job working with us and our rescue dog on basic obedience and problems we are having with a dog who was not socialized as a puppy. Excellent experience. Very hands on, patient and knowledgeable. Not rushed. Takes his time to explain everything and answer any questions we may have or address any problems that have occurred since his last visit. Would highly recommend him!— Robert Homann
Posted July 20th 2024
Chris is an excellent trainer! I started training my 2-year-old German Shepherd a few months ago with the ultimate goals of getting off-leash/strengthening our bond, and she is making tremendous progress thanks to Chris and DTE. She started out very reactive and obeying commands only when she wanted to. Now, she's been able to stay calm and attentive towards me with other dogs around and obeys commands MUCH more consistently (plus has learned lots of fun, useful new commands!-see attached photo for 'place'). I also love how accessible DTE makes training, providing me with all the equipment I need as well as Chris being available anytime between sessions to discuss questions/concerns. I am excited to continue our journey and cannot recommend them enough!— Mira Seekins
Posted July 19th 2024
Doing a great job training me & my dog. I now have a well mannered enjoyable pet. Chris is a patient & confident trainer. I enjoy working with him.— Linda Little
Posted June 15th 2024
We have had three sessions with Chris and the improvement in our dog’s behavior is outstanding. Both her fear of people and her aggression towards anyone outside of our household has diminished significantly. We still have work to do with her but the change in her after just three sessions is remarkable and we are looking forward to continued improvement as we move forward.— Andrea Coldwell
Posted June 7th 2024
Thank you Chris (Dog Training Elite Reno) for the above and beyond work with Leo (the Hippo Face). Although I had some experience with pitts in the past, this guy was especially reactive due to his traumatic past. (rescue). Chris worked so well with him, he really connected with Leo and helped me be a responsible pet owner.— Erica Cardona
Posted April 20th 2024
Chris is a miracle worker at the very least. He is also an amazing dog trainer. I will be the first to admit that I was very skeptical about anyone's ability to teach my Aunt's Cairn Terrier anything. His nickname was Devil Dog, and well deserved. She was unable to walk him without dislocating her shoulder, he frightened anyone who dared come near + drove the neighbors crazy with his barking. If I hadn't been present to observe the transformation first hand, I would honestly think she had gotten a new dog. I would highly recommend Chris to everyone.— Teri Littler-Frazier
Posted April 10th 2024