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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Reno

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Reno, NV.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Reno, NV

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 Reno dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Reno, NV and rely on positive reinforcement to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite Reno 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 Reno

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite Reno NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Reno, NV 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 Reno classical conditioning dog trainers.

Reno 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 Reno 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 Reno, NV trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

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A women playing with her service dog in Reno, NV.

The Dog Training Elite Reno Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Reno, NV uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Reno 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 Reno’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 Reno, NV, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Reno 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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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Kurt Latipow
    Dec. 9, 2024
    I highly recommend Chris and Dog Training Elite! His expertise, coaching, and training style are truly exceptional. Chris made the process of preparing my dog, Dita, to qualify as a Therapy Dog both educational and efficient. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. A heartfelt thank you to Chris and Leroy for their incredible support!
  • Raylene Lara
    Nov. 22, 2024
    Highly recommend DTE! Working with Chris has been a breeze. His knowledge is extensive and has surpassed every expectation we had. He has taught our pup so much with his puppy program, it’s incredibly impressive. In just 4 sessions our Annie has become more confident with strangers, is clicker trained, has stopped biting, is communicating that she needs to go outside and is on her way to being leash /lead trained. We couldn’t be happier with our experience with DTE and we look forward to the next program!
  • Joel Hammeke
    Sep. 14, 2024
    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.
  • Kayla Jackson
    Sep. 14, 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!
  • Lori Thomas
    Jul. 31, 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 Boyles
    Jul. 28, 2024
    Chris Bergman is a patient and very knowledgeable trainer. I would highly recommend his service for obedience training.
  • Jason Gonzalez
    Jul. 25, 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.
  • Dr Cori Lentz
    Jul. 23, 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. :-)
  • Cori Ann Lentz
    Jul. 23, 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. :-)
  • caitlin howard
    Jul. 22, 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.
  • Jayne Homann
    Jul. 20, 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!
  • Mira Seekins
    Jul. 20, 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!
  • Linda Little
    Jun. 15, 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.
  • Andrea Coldwell
    Jun. 7, 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.
  • Erica Cardona
    Apr. 20, 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.
  • Teri Littler-Frazier
    Apr. 10, 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.