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Golden Retrievers have been the classic family dog for years and rank as one of the top five breeds in America. These smart, loyal, friendly dogs make great companions. Not only do they have a gentle and fun-loving nature that makes them ideal for families with kids, they are also capable and intelligent working dogs.
Golden Retrievers are not at all aggressive. They can be great with other pets if given a proper introduction, but their lack of aggression doesn’t make them great as guard dogs.
Dog Training Elite Chattanooga has years of experience with both Golden Retriever training and Golden Retriever puppy training. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga puppy training, obedience and therapy animal training programs are well-suited for Golden Retrievers.
Because of their eager-to-please nature and intelligence, Golden Retriever puppies are relatively easy to train. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga will help owners develop a strong bond with their new Golden Retriever puppy and harness all the wonderful qualities of the breed.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Chattanooga location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Training a Golden Retriever Puppy
Dog Training Elite Chattanooga recommends starting dog training as early as possible. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands. Smart Golden Retriever puppies do great with early training.
Complete Golden Retriever puppy training typically takes a few months. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga offers specialized in-home training. Working with a Golden Retriever puppy and the owner directly in the home prevents puppies from being distracted and allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual puppies, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a puppy has completed in-home training, Dog Training Elite Chattanooga offers puppy group classes for further training.
Beginning Golden Retriever training in the home also helps owners bond with their pup so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. It’s important for owners to stay consistent with puppy training and continue it long term.
Training can be great mental stimulation, so a great exercise for Golden Retrievers as they get older is progressing their training. Once your puppy has mastered sitting, for example, train them to maintain the position until released. Once your puppy is a bit older, explore other sports and activities.
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.
Golden Retriever Specific Tips Exercise
Golden Retrievers are considered “sporting dogs” and require at least an hour of daily exercise. True to their name, Golden Retrievers love retrieving things! Golden Retrievers can even participate in obedience and agility events, and they’ll enjoy every minute of it.
A Golden Retriever puppy that doesn’t get enough exercise is likely to develop bad behaviors like digging or chewing. During the first two years of a Golden Retriever’s life, however, make sure to take it easy with exercise as their growth plates are still forming - don’t go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown and try to always opt for grass instead of concrete.
Golden Retriever Specific Tips Weight Management
Golden Retrievers can easily become overweight so owners will need to help manage their food intake. Measure out food twice a day instead of “free-feeding” and give treats in moderation.
Golden Retriever Specific Tips Make it a Family Affair
If you have adopted a Golden Retriever puppy to become part of a family, make sure all kids and adults are on the same page with training and all practice basic tricks with the family dog.
Dog Training Elite Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga training method.
Golden Retriever Specific Tips Be Consistent
Establish house rules for your dog, and then stick to them. If you choose not to let your dog on the couch, don’t ever let them on the couch for any reason. Golden Retriever training can help you establish routines and learn how to be consistent about enforcing them.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Chattanooga uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
Ready to turn your Golden Retriever puppy into a loyal and loving companion? Find a 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!
We've had an incredible experience training with Rod! Our 10-month-old pup was full of energy and quite a handful, but almost immediately after starting training, he seemed to understand exactly what was expected of him. The transformation was truly remarkable. I couldn’t believe how much progress he made in just a few sessions! If you're looking for a trainer who gets results, I wholeheartedly recommend Rod with Dog Training Elite!— Autumn Bhushan TN-Chattanooga
Posted October 2nd 2024
We are so glad we used Dog Training Elite for our rottie! He was a loving 1-year old, with more spirit than we could handle, and his size and lack of recall was getting to be dangerous, for him and us. Thankfully they curbed his stubbornness and now we can all exist safely and happily in the same house!— Jackie Flores
Posted July 23rd 2024
I can’t say enough about Dog Training Elite! Just a few sessions in, and my 5 month old puppy is already fairly consistently obeying several commands. Rod’s expertise on training is impeccable. With each session, I am so amazed on how he can read, handle and train my pup. I must say, it takes much work on my part, but it’s extremely exciting to walk this journey with my puppy. I am so excited that we chose the life time package. I can truly see the value already. I love Rod’s heart for dogs and love that he is always eager to help tweak some of the commands in between sessions. Thank you Dog Training Elite for this already rewarding adventure!— Paula Crowe
Posted July 19th 2024
They are wonderful got my dog where I wan5ed her to be still more work to be done but looking forward to continuing— Ashley McDowell
Posted July 6th 2024
The absolute BEST of the best! We have been so blessed with such an amazing trainer. He and his wife have been by our sides the whole way even through some tough stuff and have been completely supportive through this process. Truly cannot say enough amazing things about them! ❤️— Emily Hamby
Posted June 5th 2024
Rod takes special care and consideration in guidance and training of my service dog for PTSD. As a veteran I feel comfortable knowing that he understands my dog and our needs. Dog Training Elite was even able to help watch my dog for a special occasion while I was out of town and not yet able to travel with her. Dog training elite found and Matched my dog with me based on my desires and needs. My service dog was a special find as she is almost human like and truly a diamond in the "ruff". I would encourage anyone looking for a furry canine companion to work with Rod as my service animal doesn't pull or run while I'm trying to walk her ... this was worked out, easily in the first 3 lessons which really makes or break you in neighborhood reputation for having a friendly, welcoming, safe, dog. My companion is much more than that but without her refined behaviors she would just be a "dog". But she is much more than that because Rod and Dog Training Elite has brought out the best in her. Many people wonder where I found her and how she is so well behaved and I must in fact credit that to Dog Training Elite. I have very basic specifications I desired. Dog Training Elite Found even more than I asked for in specific characteristics. I am so happy with my *new family member* as she will be with me for years to come. I am proud to have her by my side a without her I would still be struggling with my PTSD alone. Please inquisitively ask yourself if you want a companion, or a dog. I have a new family member as a result of Dog Training Elite. ... I cannot thank Rod enough for the care he has put into, selecting my new family member.— Paula S.
Posted February 12th 2024
I have loved my experience with dog training elite! Rod my trainer is very detailed and knowledgeable about all things dog training. He is patient and also willing to answer my questions when they come up. Scheduling is fast and easy and the improvement I have seen in my dog is amazing! I have told my friends about this company and have seen incredible results with my pup.— Michele Chandra
Posted February 10th 2024
My beautiful baby girl, Byrdie Mae, has been training with Rod for the past 8 months. Rod has taught Byrdie as well as me so much throughout this program. She definitely loves her Uncle Rod for sure! Byrdie put up challenges but we all took them on together. This training truly makes everyone a family and we all want nothing more than for her to succeed. I am forever grateful and recommend this program to everyone!— Madison Flowers
Posted December 14th 2023
My job has been very difficult to live with he misbehaves he pulls on his leash he tears up things in the house and going on a walk with him it’s like a race we started working with Rod and it’s as if I have a new dog he is so well behaved he knows the rules and the boundaries and the best part is he’s happier so we are so grateful for all the lessons that haveAllowed both of us such freedom to enjoy one another I encourage you to take advantage of these services— Jan Hardy Fanslow
Posted October 22nd 2023
Dog Training Elite has been training my son's dog to be a service dog since we got her when she was 2 months old. Rod is so patient with our dog, very kind and communicates with you all of the time. He is very interested in how well your dog is doing with the training on days we do not meet. He is a very professional dog trainer, the best of the best. He is ALWAYS HIGHLY RECOMMENDEDABLE as he cares so much about your pet/loved one. You won't regret using him. We are VERY thankful for the work and time he gives to us for our dog.— Hannah hogan
Posted December 21st 2022
Rod is a fantastic dog trainer and very passionate about the work he does!— Kelley Rosequist
Posted May 17th 2022
This is a veteran owned business and Rod who is the owner takes an extremely hard working, professional (yet personable) approach to the business. He's passionate about community work and he truly cares about getting results when it comes to building your confidence and your relationship with your dog. Highly recommend!— Kyle Christie
Posted May 20th 2022
Rod is a natural trainer. The passion he has for helping dogs and their owners is obvious. He worked with us for a couple of weeks and the improvement in our dog’s manners and behavior was amazing. I’d highly recommend Rod to anyone as he is clearly the best dog trainer in Chatanooga!— Audra Larkins
Posted March 28th 2022
Dog training elite has helped me learn to better understand and control my dog Sam. She is strong, strong willed and wasn’t socialized properly. With the help of DTE Sam (and I) have learned to heel well, sit, go to “place” when others come to visit instead of jumping on them in the doorway. I no longer worry that I won’t be able to control my strong dog on our daily walk. Rodney Westmoreland in Chattanooga spent time getting to know Sam and her personal needs, as well as mine. He is encouraging and patient and reminded me that I am the Alpha dog, not Sam. Learning the “off” command has saved many of my friends and family from Sam’s excited (annoying) “hug” upon entering my home. I highly recommend DTE for your dog training needs. – Pat Lewis 3/26/2022— Pat Lewis
Posted March 26th 2022
Dog Training Elite Chattanooga is Proud to partner with quality breeders:
At Dog Training Elite Chattanooga we trust experienced breeders who focus on breeding healthy, well tempered pups in a safe, ethical environments. Check out the breeders below for more information.
Goldenway Retrievers AnnaDoodles
The state of Tennessee has grant funding available for qualified individuals. Contact us or click here to learn more about the Tennessee Family Support Program.
