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While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.
Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite in Boston’s programs, including in-home training!
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite in Boston location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
In-Home Training
Dog Training Elite in Boston has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.
Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, stay, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.
Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.
Trainers from Dog Training Elite in Boston seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.
The Dog Training Elite in Boston Difference
There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.
- Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
- Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
- Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.
Dog Training Elite in Boston uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite in Boston never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.
The Dog Training Elite in Boston training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.
Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite in Boston’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
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.
Start Your Obedience Training Journey
Dog Training Elite in Boston knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.
Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite in Boston today to start your dog obedience training!
Obedience Training FAQs
What age can a dog start obedience training?
The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
What issues will obedience training address?
Besides basic commands like sit, stay, heel, etc., dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
Are shock collars used?
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
Why in-home training?
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.
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!
Matt k did a great job. Couldn’t be happier with the whole staff.— Russ Morris
Posted September 13th 2024
I am very happy with my experience! My dog Petey is a different dog compared to who he was in the beginning. We are much happier together !— Michelle Grajeda
Posted September 12th 2024
Marcus and Patrick were fantastic. They helped us train our yellow lab puppy who had a lot of energy and sass shall we say. The trainers are very knowledgeable and helpful. Whenever we had a question about a behavior that was a challenge in between sessions with our puppy, we could just reach out and they were willing to help and guide us on what to do. Everyone was super friendly. They even accommodated my work schedule which was very helpful. Also, the group classes that we have had after the one on one sessions were a bit far for us and we were able to attend another group's classes that were closer which was really nice. It works because they use the same methods. Overall, great experience, worth the money. We highly recommend them!— Courtney Tompkins
Posted September 4th 2024
It’s been nothing but great working with the trainers here. My biggest struggle was the confidence to be able to train my dog and just a couple months later I feel much more confident already and I’m amazed how far we’ve gotten in training. All the trainers we’ve had have given us great advice that’s helped us go even farther with training. I would recommend this place in a heartbeat to anyone looking for training!— Shanna Moores
Posted July 17th 2024
The professional and courteous trainer Matt showed me exactly how to train my dog to get the results I expected. I will continue to train my dog using the skills I learned.— John Serafino
Posted July 11th 2024
Thanks so much for your help! Frankie is still a spicy girl, but I understand how to manage it, and it's restored my confidence. And she's happier as a result. Couldn't have gotten here without the insight and encouragement of Matt Fennell -- thank you, and thanks to Echo and Nova, too!— Emily green
Posted July 3rd 2024
Great people to do business with.They arrive when they say they will and the trainers are very knowledgeable and professional. They explain what the dog needs and how to train them .— Michael Bouvier
Posted May 30th 2024
When it came to sessions for training. They always made themselves available for what time worked for me!! Which was very important with my schedule. They offer group sessions in multiple locations, which made it easy to find one on a weekend to attend. All the trainers are very knowledgeable and I felt like they all love what they do. The amount of attention given in each and every session (private or group) was amazing. Definitely would recommend them to anyone who may be struggling with obedience with their friend.— Cedric Crawford
Posted May 25th 2024
Dog Training Elite of Central Massachusetts is amazing. The office staff is highly professional, organized, and kind. Whenever I call in, they are always so personable and helpful. Our trainer Matt was a godsend. We have a highly reactive german shepherd. We have tried other training facilities and private trainers that allegedly specialize in german shepherds with no results other than wasting our time and money. Within 30 minutes of meeting our dog, Matt had her full attention and obedience. We were awestruck. No one had ever been able to take control of her like that or coherently explain to us what my dog needed. In all reality, he trained us to be better pet parents and provided us with the tools and knowledge necessary to better serve our dog. We are a lot more confident in interacting with our pup and bringing her out into public. We could not be more grateful to the whole Dog Training Elite team!— Deanna Greco
Posted May 9th 2024
We and Happy have really appreciated and enjoyed the dog training at our home. The teachers have each been so helpful with plenty of techniques, strategies and answers for our questions. We are excited to pass the test and move toward having Happy become our therapy dog. All our thanks! DK & MS— Diana Kierein, LICSW
Posted May 4th 2024
From the scheduling to the personal service, the attention to detail with our dog. The way that Marcus is not only educating the dog, but educating us as a family. We can’t say enough!!!!— Cassandra Cuddy
Posted May 1st 2024
Amazing. I have a 2 year old pitbull mix that is wild. I was thinking about giving her up. Matt came in and taught me how to trainer her. He showed up every week and held us accountable, gave us homework and praised us on what we did right. Even after she bit him…… I thought there was no hope. I glad we got this training done. I am beyond grateful for him. Worth every single penny!— Sila Rosario
Posted April 30th 2024
Awesome team! Very kind and assertive. Always on time and very effective training. Very knowledgeable.— shannon guimaraes
Posted March 23rd 2024
The team at Dog Training Elite has been nothing short of amazing with my 6 month old lab puppy. We are training him to be a service dog and the week to week improvements based on Dog Training Elite’s curriculum have been immense. The team of Marcus, Jamie, and Barbara have given me and my puppy the time, guidance, and confidence to progress each step on the way to our goal. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite for any level of training for your dog.— Matt Parr
Posted January 15th 2024
I have been very pleased with the training from Elite. The trainer has been effective and it’s making a difference for our very spirited Boston Terrier.— Thomas McIsaac
Posted January 23rd 2024
We had a wonderful experience with Dog Training Elite! Marcus is so knowledgeable and caring about the dogs he works with. He helped us train our German Shepherd rescue and the results were almost immediate. Using his techniques, our pup has become less reactive and a better listener. He also teaches some pretty cool tricks! Overall, this company is outstanding and we have enjoyed every moment!— Maya Dube
Posted January 20th 2024
Professional dog trainers who know what they are doing. So glad we chose Elite. Our rescue dog was extremely fearful and difficult to train. Marcus and Matt are dog whisperers!— Andrea Adams
Posted January 11th 2024
The training provided was exactly what we needed. Everyone we dealt with was amazing! Highly recommend Dog training Elite Boston!— Rita-Marie Auble
Posted January 4th 2024
Great results with our dog as a result of the professional training we received.— John Casey
Posted January 10th 2024