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German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America - and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!
Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience and personal protection training programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.
Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly. The professional training of Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.
If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.
In-Home German Shepherd Training
Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.
Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.
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.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Be Consistent
Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Get Plenty of Exercise
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Positive Reinforcement
Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey 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 Northern Central New Jersey 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 Northern Central New Jersey’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today!
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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!
The transformation in our dog's behavior after completing Dog Training Elite's program has been incredible. In just two short months, we've noticed a remarkable improvement without compromising his playful spirit. Kim and Marcus were exceptional trainers—always responsive, punctual, and warm with both us and our dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, don't wait—sign up for this course today! A huge thank you to everyone at Dog Training Elite for truly making a difference in our lives!— Matthew Williams
Posted September 10th 2024
The transformation in our dog's behavior after completing Dog Training Elite's program has been incredible. In just two short months, we've noticed a remarkable improvement without compromising his playful spirit. Kim and Marcus were exceptional trainers—always responsive, punctual, and warm with both us and our dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, don't wait—sign up for this course today! A huge thank you to everyone at Dog Training Elite for truly making a difference in our lives!— Matt
Posted September 10th 2024
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with the Dog Training Elite Northern Central NJ team! Trainers Kim and Marcus have made training such a fun and engaging experience for service dog, Layla, a 1.5 yo Cattle Dog mix — their passion and dedication in setting Layla up for success shines in every session we have. My bond with Layla has strengthened significantly and I’m so thrilled with how far we’ve come! Their expert knowledge, and enthusiasm for helping dogs while having a great time in the process is truly commendable. Thank you for your hard work and commitment in guiding Layla towards her fullest potential!— Carly Raphan
Posted August 7th 2024
Marcus with Dog Training Elite absolutely exceeded our expectations! He went above and beyond for us during our training and was always just a text message away if we had questions. He was professional, knowledgeable and so caring when it came to our pup! My dog is now so well mannered and understands all commands. I would recommend DTE to anyone!— Elizabeth Dzuro
Posted August 7th 2024
From the first training session I knew it was the right fit. Kim, our trainer, has been just what our black Lab Zoey needed. She has had great insight and really vested in our Zoey. When I say Zoey has come along way she has achieved the ability to know the commands, has had leash training and after just two sessions been able to heel and walk along grass and not be distracted like most 7 month old Labs are. She has introduced her to another dog which was her first socializing with others since she left her Mom and siblings. If you’re in need of a puppy to be trained look no further you have come to the right training program. Definitely 5 stars!!— Renee Auerbacher
Posted June 5th 2024