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Behavior Training vs. Obedience Training for Dogs
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?
Here at Dog Training Elite Indianapolis, we have been in the dog training business for over 40 years, so we can explain the difference between behavior and obedience training for dogs. We'll also help you determine which is right for you and your four-legged best friend. If you are interested in hearing more about Dog Training Elite training programs, call us today for a free in-home consultation!
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Indianapolis location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Silver
$1,295
Intended for a dog who just needs a brush up on obedience.
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
- Group Training ClassesIntended for a dog who just needs a brush up on obedience 6 Classes
- Come
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Place(go to bed)
Gold
$1,895
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 5 Sessions
- Group Training Classes 12 Sessions
- Come
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Place(go to bed)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Listening & Manners
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Off Leash Obedience
- Load into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Chewing & Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Digging
Platinum
$2,495
Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 8 Sessions
- Group Training Classes Unlimited – for the life of your dog
- Come
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Place(go to bed)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Listening & Manners
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Off Leash Obedience
- Load into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Chewing & Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Digging
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Choose One Tailored Skill Below: *Specialized training options based upon your dog's abilities.
- Control Anxiety & Aggression (dog & human)
- Therapy dog training (+$200 and includes certification and an additional one-on-one session.)
- Ride on a Golf Cart, Skateboard, or Wagon
- Stay with You on Jog, Hike, or Bike Ride
- Other Custom Command Approved by Trainer
Behavior Training
This type of training aims to correct or rewrite an undesirable behavior. For example, if a dog or puppy whines and cries when the owner leaves the house, the dog may be experiencing separation anxiety and acting out. To fix this behavior, you would need to train this dog to respond differently to being left alone in the house.
With behavior training, the trainer and owner look at the situation that needs addressing, figure out the trigger for the bad behavior, and train the dog to respond differently to that trigger. After consistent training and positive reinforcement, the dog will perform the learned response to the trigger or stimulus even without commands or rewards, essentially rewriting their response to that situation.
Obedience Training
Trainers use obedience training to teach a command and then have a dog obey and perform that command. This training involves teaching a puppy or dog basic commands like “sit,” “come,” “heel,” or “down.” The Dog Training Elite trainers can also use obedience training to teach other commands more unique to your life and situation.
The goal of obedience training is in the name - training a dog to obey commands reliably. Obedience training for dogs can sometimes be lengthy and requires repetition, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcement to achieve lasting results.
When obedience training is employed correctly, it fosters a deep connection between dog and owner that encourages consistent compliance from the dog and positive reinforcement from the owner.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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 Training Method
Correct responses to a command or rewriting a reaction to a trigger can be accomplished through many methods. Dog Training Elite uses positive reinforcement, or “classical conditioning,” to achieve the desired results. Years of experience have taught us that classical conditioning is the most effective way to train a dog.
What is classical conditioning?
Also known as the Pavlovian model, classical conditioning refers to a learning process that occurs when you pair two stimuli with a command. Studies have proven that classical conditioning is the preferred training method as it offers long-lasting results and teaches deep-rooted obedience. At Dog Training Elite, an electronic collar and positive reinforcement are the two stimuli we use to teach your dog good behavior. The electronic collar is not a shock collar. Like a clicker device, it gets your dog’s attention during training.
Offering rewards and positive reinforcement will yield positive results and a happy and confident dog. In contrast, using negative reinforcement and punishment will result in a dog performing out of fear and lacking trust and confidence. The trainers in Carmel / Fishers want your dog to be happy and confident and have a deep and lasting connection with you as their owner. That’s why we only use positive reinforcement and classical conditioning.
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Which Training is Right For You and Your Dog?
Dog Training Elite offers behavior and obedience training for dogs, but how do you know which is right for you? Suppose your dog is exhibiting behaviors like biting, excessive barking, digging, or more. In that case, they may benefit from some behavioral training to rewrite those responses. If you have a new puppy or your dog has trouble obeying commands, obedience training is the ideal solution. In some cases, your dog may need a combination of both.
If you're still unsure what training is best for you and your dog, Dog Training Elite is ready to help! Find a trainer near you today to get started on your dog's training journey.
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!
Absolutely thrilled with Dog Training Elite! Our young Chocolate Lab just completed the two-week camp, and we couldn't be happier with the results. From the moment we dropped her off, it was clear she was in the best care. The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and truly passionate about what they do. Georgie is much more obedient. We saw significant improvements in her socialization skills and basic commands, and the personalized attention she received made all the difference. The training techniques are easy to follow and effective, making learning a fun experience for her. We now feel confident in our ability to continue her training at home, thanks to the tools and strategies provided by the team. If you're looking for a comprehensive, caring, and effective training program, I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. Georgie is a great puppy, and we owe it all to their amazing camp! Thank you for everything!— Caroline Slabaugh
Posted October 21st 2024
Excellent experience I adopted a shelter dog With in 3 days I was walking without being dragged He listens to me The whole group of trainers were receptive to questions and individual concerns I highly recommend following up by attending weekly group classes— Harriet Bettano
Posted October 21st 2024
I am BLOWN away by DTE’s staff, compassion, and overall attitude towards dogs and their families. These people want what’s best and PRACTICAL for your dog. I chose boot camp and am thrilled I did. My pup, Gordo, has responded so well to training it’s remarkable. With boot camp he gets UNLIMITED group classes throughout his lifetime. There’s really only one choice for dog training in Indy, and Dog Training Elite is it.— ashley crocker
Posted October 10th 2024
I would recommend DTE to anyone and everyone! They have done such an amazing job with Moxie and she loves all the trainers here so much! We both look forward to group classes and continuing to learn. She is almost ready to be a service dog! I was very weary of the training collar at first, but it is nothing like a shock collar and works wonders! If you are in need of any kind of training - GO SEE DTE! They will change your life!— Anika Hobbs
Posted September 19th 2024
Dog Training Elite has helped with every part of dog life: finding the right breed for service work, helping me select a reputable breeder, and even selecting the puppy. And the dedication to training and consultation is fantastic! I can’t say enough about the care and expertise from the whole staff. They really care about the dogs and about training we humans as well. My dog is only 7 months old and our bond is wonderful because of DTE guidance. Everyone is impressed at how well she behaves at such a young age, and how happy she is too! Great team. Thank you DTE— Nicole Harter
Posted August 16th 2024
We have had the best experience with and seen the biggest improvements in our dog’s behavior and obedience than in the past with multiple trainers. From one-on-one sessions to group training, Elijah & Josh have welcomed all questions. From our first meeting with Doug, I have been impressed with this company’s professionalism. They have gone out of their way to ensure we have everything we need to be successful in training our pup, Sophie. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite!— Holly Gullett
Posted August 11th 2024
My dog went through DTE’s 2 week day camp program and came out a much more confident and well mannered dog. The main reason for sending him to camp was to help with his dog reactivity and confidence. The weekly group lessons have been a huge part of his continued success. The entire staff at DTE is extremely knowledgeable and truly cares about helping you to reach your training goals.— Audrey Marie Shively
Posted August 9th 2024
We had a great experience with DTE and the trainers! Josh and Elijah are both incredible! The level of knowledge and care they bring to each training session made it easy and less daunting of a task to train our older rescue. Couldn’t be happier with the results and love the value add of group classes that we will continue to go to every chance we get. Our pup has come so far because of DTE!— Stephanie Sampson
Posted June 24th 2024
INCREDIBLE experience! By the end of day 3 in their facility camp, Theo is following commands even when he is taking a break from his collar. They share videos of the commands they teach on a daily basis and provide daily progress notes. All of the trainers are so patient and passionate about what they do and take the time to explain and answer all questions. Theo absolutely loves going back every morning. Completely blown away and we still have 1.5 weeks of training left.— Ayca Byerley
Posted June 5th 2024
The team at Dog Training Elite is incredible. Our sweet Roxy shows aggressive behaviors when meeting someone new, and the entire team helped coach us on proper handling techniques. I would highly recommend each member of this team to work with your pet as they show patience and direction and teach you how to be a better dog owner. We specifically are grateful for Josh and his commitment to help Roxy be her best self. Thank you for all your hard work!— Emily Nowlin
Posted June 4th 2024
The whole atmosphere of this place is positive and encouraging to the dogs and their owners. Highly recommend!!— Susan Patterson
Posted May 8th 2024
We did the two week training camp for our dog and it completely changed his behaviors. We didn't have to fight him on walks anymore or worry about him dashing out of the house if a door opened to the outside. He listens to our commands and we have peace of mind knowing that he has a solid foundation for us to continue training him into the future. All of the trainers were extremely friendly, caring, and helpful. Getting footage of training every day also helped us to do training at home. Overall I can't recommend their services enough - we're extremely grateful!— Vincent Maggioli
Posted April 16th 2024
I could not recommend Dog Training Elite any more! Everywhere I go people ask me how I got my dog to behave as well as he does, literally on a daily basis! I always send them to DTE because they are outstanding. They know how to address every bump in the road that comes up, and really care about you and your dog. Doug and Elijah have been working with me and my dog Oakley for a long time, and the other trainers are all wonderful too. Great for service dog training or obedience training. So nice to have a manageable life again after the puppy craziness that was going on in our household😆 Oakley also LOVES them and genuinely enjoys working with them. If you’re on the fence about working with DTE, do it! The best investment you’ll make.— Faith Wooldridge
Posted April 3rd 2024
great people with customized assistance to better meet uoir needs— Patrice Caron
Posted March 28th 2024
Love the trainers and their dedication. They work so well with my girl. Thank you all for everything and a big shout to Elijah! He is a great teacher and passionate about what he does. Love to see it!— Kenzie Rickly
Posted December 27th 2023
We LOVED DTE Indy! All the trainers are tremendous with the dogs and really pay attention to each one they are training. They truly care about your pet and want them to succeed and get better every day like they are their own dogs! Could not recommend DTE Indy enough!!— Megan Finerty
Posted March 18th 2024
Before DTE, I was ready to rehome my rescue that had been rehomed to me. I've had dogs before, but I could not get Hartley's behavior was causing a great deal of stress. The trainers are amazing and they really worked with her (and me) on her issues and behavior. Now, I have a dog that is amazing. I recently took her to my father's nursing home. People kept remarking at how well behaved she was. I cannot thank this place enough for what they have done.— Karen McClure
Posted March 4th 2024
We had a wonderful experience at Dog Training Elite with our pup Gracie. We adopted 12 mo old Gracie as a rescue, and we knew immediate training was needed to help her transition to a family pet. Doug and his experienced team did a great job with her, and we’ve easily learned how to follow the training program at home. I would highly recommend this program.— marsha servaas
Posted February 15th 2024
You guys are amazing Olaf learned everything from you Thank you for being there during the rough times 🤗❤️— Saro Kh
Posted February 13th 2024
Highly recommend Dog Training Elite, the trainers are fantastic and they did a great job with my German Shepherd puppy.— Margaret Breneman
Posted February 12th 2024