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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 Asheville dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning and rely on positive reinforcement to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite Asheville trainer , your dog will become conditioned and develop those “automatic reflexes” to commands such as sit, stay, and so on.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Asheville location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment
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 Asheville 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 Asheville trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.
Training With An E-Collar
As mentioned above, Dog Training Elite Asheville NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite Asheville 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.
Behavior Training Vs. Obedience Training
If you are in the market for dog training, you may run across a few terms like "behavior training" or "obedience training." But what's the difference between the two? And which one is best for your dog? We break down the difference, and how to know which one is right for you and your dog. Whatever kind of training your dog needs, Dog Training Elite is here to help.
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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.
The Dog Training Elite Asheville
Difference
Dog Training Elite Asheville uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Asheville 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 Asheville’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 Asheville, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Asheville 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 assessment!
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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!
Had a great experience with DTE they went above and beyond to get my Rosie trained for service work. She has been everywhere with me since.— William Frady
Posted September 24th 2024
We had a great experience! David and Nicole are very personable and you can tell how passionate they are about this work. They were great with our dog and we can already see a difference in his confidence. The best part is that they took the time to teach us how to train our dog so it felt very hands on and we learned a ton. We are looking forward to taking him to the group classes next to practice what we learned.— Pauline Minnaar
Posted September 20th 2024
What a great experience they went through all the steps of being a service dog and in a few months my Rosie is now a service dog thanks 😊— David Frady
Posted September 14th 2024
High Praise and Big High Fives to David and Nicki WEBB at Dog Training Elite! On Day one with them, they came inside our house and explained lots of how and what they do to train the wild new puppy (Laddie) who is in our life now. And then, we went outside to the back yard. And this is where it really began. They "broke" Laddie that day and I say this in the nicest and best way/meaning possible. They showed Laddie that he is not his own boss and that he must learn to listen and obey ME. This changed us and since that day Laddie is listening and learning every day. We just finished Day 6 of in home training, at Lowes, with all new stimulations and people and dogs. Laddie was confidant and comfortable in that brand new space. On we go with David and Nicki, next step is Group Sessions and we look forward to that. If you are looking for help with your current dog or are wanting a puppy, do not waste a minute and check out Dog Training Elite, I am so happy that I found them!— Jill Goldie
Posted August 25th 2024
This technique allowed me to have an awesome relationship with my baby girl, Trixie. Elite dog training is fantastic, friendly and fun! We both learned the skills we needed to enjoy new trix and communicate skillfully. Nicole made it easy.— Chrissy Wilkof
Posted August 13th 2024
If your dog needs a lot or a little, it is worth every penny to work with this wonder group. They are patient, kind and easy to work with. Thank you so much— Lisa Sherlin
Posted August 13th 2024
My wife and I loved working with David and Nicole in training our Springer Spaniel. They were both wonderful to work with, they met all our expectations and goals, were extremely knowledgeable, and you could tell they loved what they do. We highly recommend them.— mark fairman
Posted July 12th 2024
Great trainer. They have had a harder time training the humans than the pup. We have a rottie and he is much improved. He still has a way to go but is well on the way thanks to David and Nikki!— Tabatha Clark
Posted July 30th 2024
David is amazing! My Basenji, Avele, is pretty stubborn but when she sees David, she takes all of what she learned from him and is the perfect puppy. David helped us determine the best training for her when she was only a few months old. His method works. I love that he came to our house... and our cats learned some of the training too as they decided to attend Avele's classes. I don't recommend often, but I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite Asheville enough.— Cindy T
Posted July 29th 2024
I can't say enough about David and Nicole and Elite Dog Training!!! We were literally about to give our 3 year old up out of frustration. The training is amazing and works. David knows what he's doing and cares sooo much!!!! Don't look any further! Call them!!!— Minda Dwyer
Posted July 28th 2024
Game changer! If you are even considering a dog trainer look no further. DTE is professional, results driven and 100% the best decision we made for our sweet girl. You will not be disappointed!— Carrie Patrick
Posted July 28th 2024
I recommend Dog Training Elite Asheville to anyone as they've helped me all around with my Chow Chow and his behaviors. They provided me the skills and knowledge of how to take control My 6 year old Chow Chow. Immediately they saw one of his problems was that my pup did not respect/listen to me and they showed me how to be Alpha. Also, my dog started becoming a leash reactive and reactive to other dogs that I started to avoid going to the park and socializing him because I was afraid of something he might do. The group training aspect of this really has helped him and I've seen a major improvement in his behavior that I feel comfortable now with my pup!— Alexandria Welch
Posted July 27th 2024
Excellent to work with, trained 2 therpay dogs for mental health provider. Highly reccommend!!!!— Denise Austin
Posted July 26th 2024
Aspen needed some fresher training; training on things she never learned; as well as stopping some new bad habits she recently developed. David was awesome, very clear instructions and fantastic follow up. Aspen is doing great and is enjoying her training. We would recomment Dog Training Elite Asheville to everyone.— Anna Paiewonsky
Posted July 20th 2024
Both Loki and I needed this training. He came from big pack and an overwhelming birth home to us and not much interaction with other people or dogs. He is my Velcro dog and scared of everything. I was also a bit scared as well to be honest. Didn't want anything to happen to him or for him to get into with other dogs. We are both doing well now! I really enjoyed the one on one training at the house so I could also focus my energy and attention to get confident which helped him be more confident as well. This training is a much for the owner as it is for the dog. Then following up with the group practices has been great as well. We get to continue to see how well Loki is doing and he really is doing well! I highly recommend this dynamic duo (David and Nicole) to help you and your dog to have a more fulfilling life together.— Yanke Grl71
Posted June 29th 2024
Both Loki and I needed this training. He came from big pack and an overwhelming birth home to us and not much interaction with other people or dogs. He is my velcro dog and scared of everything. I was also a bit scared as well to be honest. Didn't want anything to happen to him or for him to get into with other dogs. We are both doing well now! I really enjoyed the one on one training at the house so I could also focus my energy and attention to get confident which helped him be more confident as well. This training is a much for the owner as it is for the dog. Then following up with the group practices has been great as well. We get to continue to see how well Loki is doing and he really is doing well! I highly recommend this dynamic duo to help you and your dog to have a more fulfilling life together.— Cari Mueller
Posted June 29th 2024
David and Nicole are Amazing!!! What a difference in our Yorkie with just the first visit!!! He has came such a long way with the 3 visits and helped us with the understanding on how to train our baby. HIGHLY RECOMMEND !!!! You will not be disappointed!!! A Hugh Difference— Anita Hazelwood
Posted June 14th 2024
David was an amazing character in my life. He showed me how to install and manipulate essential behaviors of a legitimate working animal associated with medical help. I am a caring, gentle and responsible handler of a fine tuned and elite fur baby named Maurly. She has become such a better more satisfied dog after this training and I personally believe you will be a more humane dog owner for the rest of your life after tuning in to your animals’ life and sensitivities with the help of an elite professional.— JCM
Posted June 5th 2024
Ok…. I feel like a little backstory is required before our review. We are a full-time RV family, and we travel with three kids and three dogs. One of our dogs loves to run out of the RV and run off and she absolutely would not come back to us. It was a game. Last year, she ran off THREE TIMES while we were on our drive up to Alaska. She ran off In a field next to an interstate in Montana. She ran off when we were out in the boondocks outside of Valdez, Alaska. And she ran off when we pulled off to the side of the road to get something in the middle of nowhere on the Cassiar highway in Northern British Columbia. It was incredibly dangerous. Not only that, but she was fear aggressive towards literally every other dog she saw and she was very skittish around other people. We purchased the training at Dog Training Elite while here in Asheville. It has been a night and a difference with our dog, Roxy. By the end of the first session, she was going up to David for attention. That was unheard of before. And now, we could let her go run around all she wants, and call her back and she will come right back to us. We have been very, very pleased with the training that we did here. She is a completely different dog. We are still working through a few things with her, but we definitely feel like now we have the tools to handle it. We can’t thank them enough.— cliff millender
Posted May 22nd 2024