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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Scottsdale

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Scottsdale, AZ.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Scottsdale, AZ

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

Training With An E-Collar

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

Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale, AZ 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 Scottsdale, AZ.

The Dog Training Elite Scottsdale Difference


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

  • mari griffin
    Jun. 15, 2024
    I can not recommend Dog Training Elite DTE) strong enough!!!! From day 1 the changes in my dog’s behavior blew me away. My Akita knew the basics and was a very good dog but I wanted an exceptional dog. A dog that would protect me or my family when needed but also he needed to be on his best behavior at ALL times. My training began with Karen (an excellent trainer with a natural gift to communicate with your furry best friend) Now we are working directly with Neil and everyday I feel like we are moving leaps and bounds. My Akita looks forward to his training days and he truly is a very happy participant in his training process. He wants to do all the things we ask of him and you can tell he cannot wait to learn something new and receive my praise. Again I highly recommend Neil and his team. If you want your dog to be the dog you see in the movies then DTE is the only call you have to make!!!!
  • Shannon Floersheim
    Oct. 26, 2023
    Fantastic trainors. They are very patient and encouraging. I love that they come to your home for the initial training sessions, then progress to public spaces and group classes. I would highly recommend this group to anyone! There are no bad dogs, just bad handlers.
  • Debora Gama Lima
    Apr. 9, 2023
    We started the training less than two months ago, and the results have been dramatic! We were dealing with a highly energetic English setter who was constantly barking in our fence to any walkers passing by, plus reactive behavior toward other dogs when walking on a leash. I had tried the usual trainers with a reward-based program with no success. This is not my first dog ownership. My previous experiences were with dogs that were much easier to train. The barking was, for me, a significant problem due to its impact on the neighbors. However, after the first visit with Neal, the barking was gone!! The training immediately corrected the jumping on the couch or at the counter. We have completed the home visits and are participating in the group classes with fantastic success. He is still a happy and playful puppy. The difference now is that he obeys our commands and understands the limits. Neal and his team have been professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. Thank Neal, Ashley, Azure, and the rest of the team for all their help.
  • Taylor Nuessle
    Jan. 29, 2019
    We have been working with Neil at Dog training Ellite for a few weeks now and have seen so much improvement with our puppy mowgli 😃 would highly recommend using their services!
  • Jeff D
    Sep. 27, 2018
    Dog Training Elite has done a great job of training my service dog. The combination of one-on-one training, group classes and their training techniques have been invaluable! Highly, highly recommend them!