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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training

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 dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite 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

Training With An E-Collar

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

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 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 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 - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. DTE

Positive Reinforcement Training

Dog Training Elite - Puppy Obedience Training. DTE

Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite - Off Leash Dog Training. Dog Training Elite

Off Leash Training

Dog Training Elite - Dog Agility Training Through Basic Obedience. Dog Training Elite

Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

A women playing with her service dog.

The Dog Training Elite Difference


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

  • Emily Kerstein
    Jun. 12, 2026
    We were having quite a tough time managing our girl Wednesday before we found dog training elite. She was very reactive on leash, had a habit of jumping fences and we had to make major adjustments to the way we lived our lives just to keep her and others safe. We’re only halfway through the program and the difference is already night and day. Walks are actually enjoyable now, her escape artist tendencies have stopped, and we have real peace of mind when we take her anywhere with us. It sounds dramatic but it genuinely has been life-changing. Yes, the price can be daunting at first, but it has been well worth it. Jeff and Meggie are wonderful people who are damn good at their jobs! Cannot recommend them enough!
  • Aubrey Freiberg
    Feb. 18, 2026
    10/10. So appreciate Meggie & Dog Training Elite. So enjoyable to work with!!
  • Lynda Bartlow
    May. 24, 2026
    When we picked up our Aussie, he was doing a obstacle course like it was nothing. He is learning so much and so am I. Can't wait to see what happens next week.
  • Emilie Laudie
    Jun. 11, 2026
    Hunter came out to help us assess how to help our new puppy learn not to chase our smallest cat. He was patient and gave very helpful advice. He felt like we had everything else well in hand as far as his puppy training goes so he just told us to be in touch if we wanted to sign up for any of their services down the road. He was such a knowledgeable kind person 10/10 🙂
  • Bianka Rangel
    Jun. 11, 2026
    I always appreciate when people share the same enthusiasm for the things I love. From the moment I called to inquire I was met was so much excitement and care. When my trainer arrived she was also happy and excited to work with me and my pup. I felt like I was drowning in the first time puppy owner unknowns.. and you know the biting 😩. She kindly gave me some easy steps to follow. I feel empowered to train. Thank you Deidre, you saved me from future emotional meltdowns haha! I look forward to seeing my Nala girl progress ! ❤️
  • Kelly Hough
    May. 24, 2026
    I was at my wit’s end with my rescue pup, Finnegan , a 75 pound bully mix who was terrified of everything. I could barely get him to leave the bedroom and he was a nightmare on leash. I was in over my head and in tears every time I tried to walk him. From the moment Finnegan met Aaron, everything began to change for him. Finn sensed he could trust well before I did. Kim, Ryan, Aaron and the entire team at Dog Training Elite Suncoast are simply amazing. They’re patient, professional, and truly know how to bring out the best in a dog. They’ve changed Finnegan’s life — and mine. He’s gone from being afraid of his own shadow to becoming an increasingly confident, happy pup. I continue to see improvements every single day. The group lessons pull everything together and give me the tools and confidence I need to be what Finn needs. Finn is finally coming into his own. He even watched thunder and lightning calmly from the couch the tonight. I couldn’t be more grateful to the crew at Suncoast. 100000% recommend
  • chrissie taddeo
    Jun. 3, 2026
    I can't recommend my dog trainer, Josephine Grace at Dog Training Elite, highly enough! She is incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and truly cares about both the dogs and their owners. She took the time to explain each training technique and always made sure I felt comfortable and confident throughout the process. One of my favorite parts of the training was that she brought two of her own dogs to several sessions. Having well-trained dogs there to help demonstrate behaviors and provide real-life training opportunities was invaluable. It made the lessons more effective and gave my dog a chance to practice in realistic situations. Her calm, encouraging approach made training enjoyable, and I've seen such a positive difference in my dog's behavior. If you're looking for a trainer who is patient, professional, and dedicated to helping you succeed, I highly recommend her!
  • Meghan Lane
    Jun. 11, 2026
    We went through three different trainers and thousands of dollars down the sink before we finally found Taylor. Our 1.5 year old mix-breed rescue, Bella, was proving to be a challenge for me & my husband. Unable to help with her reactivity, counter surfing, constant barking, and guarding behavior, we were feeling frustrated & defeated. Taylor taught us to identify her subtle cues to interrupt problem behavior before it escalates and, as a result, Bella is becoming a joy to have in the home. She barks appropriately, waits in her place for meals, stays off the counter, and has learned that guarding people & furniture is no longer rewarding. He was patient, fair, and kind with our doggy … and us humans, too! 10 out of 10 recommend.
  • Sherri Garner
    Jun. 11, 2026
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite North Orlando as the company to use for service training or in general. Craig, is a knowledgeable, caring, and patient person who helped my life change, during and ongoing, since he helped me guide my dog to become my service animal. He made me feel like I could accomplish my goals with the first phone call, listened to my issues and made changes when I needed them so we as a team could get the results I needed. He made me feel like a person not my disablities. I am glad I made the call and I highly recommend anyone looking for a service dog trainer you make the call too. Thank you Craig and his team!
  • Julie Moore
    Apr. 9, 2026
    We are very impressed with Rich and his dedication , Sarah was our trainer and we are absolutely the best
  • LYNETTE MCLEMORE
    Jun. 11, 2026
    Justin did a great job. We had a lot of questions his knowledge sincerity and honestly answering, made us ready to join the program. We want what’s best for our babies so I believe That Dog Training Elite Midlands will be our answer
  • Tess Nogueira
    Jun. 10, 2026
    DTE has helped us so much since starting with them. We have two dogs that were working through a lot of reactivity and separation anxiety and the change we have seen in them this early on is so amazing. Jason has give us the training expertise and tools to continue to build on the foundation we have created, and that’s just in a handful of one on one training sessions. They come to you and work in your environment which is extremely helpful. Additionally, having group classes where our pups can continue their learning and be exposed to other dogs as well is a huge plus. I’m so happy we came across DTE. Their philosophy and the way they treat our pups is very thoughtful and done with lots of care. Couldn’t recommend more!
  • Gabi Coccio
    Jun. 10, 2026
    Dog Training Elite - Greater Nashville was incredibly patient, experienced, and affectionate with my rescue dogs. Rob was reliable and knowledgeable, guiding us through basic obedience training for the dogs with clear communication. I appreciated the gentle approach and professional attitude. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for dog training in middle Tennessee area!
  • Nicole Schmidt
    Jun. 10, 2026
    We had such a great experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville. Our trainer Rob really tailored our training to our Ruby girls needs. He was always on time, and super flexible with my schedule. We see such a great improvement with her and can’t wait to finish out the group training now and potentially continue on training afterwords.
  • David Trent
    Jun. 5, 2026
    Her and her dog were great! Lilly leared along today!!
  • Debbie B
    Jun. 10, 2026
    Just finished week three with Kelsie and she is absolutely fantastic to work with. My Goldendoodle Yankee responds to everything she’s teaching (and so does his mom most of the time.) Kelsie is very knowledgeable in dog training, it’s undeniable. Thank you DTE for helping me tame my baby. You have shown me just how smart he really is. I highly recommend DTE to anyone considering training for and with your pup!
  • Debbie B
    Jun. 10, 2026
    Just finished week three with Kelsie and she is absolutely fantastic to work with. My Goldendoodle Yankee responds to everything she’s teaching (and so does his mom most of the time.) Kelsie is very knowledgeable in dog training, it’s undeniable. Thank you DTE for helping me tame my baby. You have shown me just how smart he really is. I highly recommend DTE to anyone considering training for and with your pup!
  • Rhonda Armstrong
    Jun. 10, 2026
    Joe was amazing with my dog! I have always heard "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" but Joe showed me and my 7 year old dog everything we needed to be successful in dog training and obedience! He took so much time to talk through training as well as any other questions we had! I appreciate him and DTE so much!
  • Jenna Armstrong
    Jun. 10, 2026
    Joe did an amazing job with my dog! His patience, expertise, and genuine passion for working with dogs are evident in every interaction and session. He not only helped my dog build confidence but also gave me the knowledge and reassurance I needed to support my dog's success in training!! Joe takes the time to explain the training process and share valuable tips, making it easy to continue the progress at home. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a skilled, caring, and dedicated dog trainer! I am forever thankful for this program!
  • Audrey Fujioka
    Jun. 9, 2026
    Dog Training Elite has done so much for my dog. Our trainer Sydney was absolutely amazing, our initial appointment I had absolutely no hope that my dog could even be half as behaved as her dogs were and I was proved totally wrong. My freshly 1 yo puppy (who i’ve only had for 4 months) has perfect recall, manners in public, walks in a perfect heal, and most importantly doesn’t react to other dogs. my goal is for my pup is to be a service dog one day, and Dog Training Elite has helped me see that is totally doable. I am so happy this is the training company I went with, couldn’t be happier and neither could my puppy.