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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 Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC
Difference
Dog Training Elite Midlands SC uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Midlands SC 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 Midlands SC’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 Midlands SC, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Midlands SC 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!
We have had the best experience with Dog Training Elite Midlands! Everyone is so professional and friendly. Justin has been our main trainer and he is patient, knowledgeable and very caring! If you are looking for a dog trainer, I cannot recommend them highly enough!— Erica Reyna
Posted October 21st 2024
Justin and Crystal did a wonderful job training my dad’s dog! I am leaving this review for him because he couldn’t figure out how to but, said he had a great time! We can definitely tell there is a lot more peace in the home already and a lot less barking in the background on our phone calls!— BrennanOMalley
Posted October 16th 2024
Justin was an absolutely amazing dog trainer. He trained my dog Kaden. I had so many issues with Kaden. He peed in the house, lunged at other dogs, didn’t come when called, pulled on the leash, jumped all over guest in my house, and many more issues. Justin solved every single issue I had with Kaden. His training method was fair to my dog. You can tell when someone truly cares about your dog and Justin 100% did. I highly recommend him.— Nick Smith
Posted October 16th 2024
We can’t say enough good things about Justin! From the moment we met, we knew our dogs were in great hands. Not only does he have a wealth of knowledge about dog behavior, but he also has a unique ability to connect with dogs on a personal level. My dogs, who used to be anxious and reactive around other dogs, and people, has completely transformed under Justin’s guidance. Each session was tailored to our specific needs, and I really appreciated the positive reinforcement techniques used, which made the training both effective and enjoyable for my dog. What impressed me most was the patience and encouragement Justin showed both to our dogs and us as pet owners. Thanks to Justin, our dogs are more confident, better behaved, and we all enjoy our time together so much more. We even are able to have one of our dogs working through the process of becoming a therapy dog. If you’re looking for a professional, compassionate, and skilled dog trainer, I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Midlands SC—you won’t be disappointed!— Timothy Kinney
Posted September 18th 2024
We were referred to Justin and his team by a close friend for our Poppy, who 100% lives up to her name. She is smart but we needed training on how to outsmart her and get her to listen. Justin and Crystal have been so patient and supportive, their explanations thorough, instructions clear, and they make training FUN. Poppy adores both of them, and has learned so much. I would recommend this company to anyone looking to train and be trained. They know their stuff, and are just a delight to work with. 10/10 recommend.— Dana Lindsey
Posted September 18th 2024
Justin and his team did an excellent job helping us train our dog, Coco. She is a 5lb feisty Morkie and we couldn’t get control of her “manners”. Justin patiently worked with her (and us) and she is literally a different dog now. We can take her in public without holding our breath and she is really doing well with the commands and understanding her place in our family. We recommend Justin for your dog training needs!!— Anne Brooks
Posted September 18th 2024
Our pup and us absolutely love Justin and his team at Dog Training Elite! They have made training easy and fun! I definitely recommend them to anyone thinking about getting training for their dogs.— Kat Pare
Posted September 9th 2024
Extremely professional and effective service. I could not be happier with the process and results of the Gold training program— Paul Mishoe
Posted September 6th 2024
Justin and the Dog Training Elite crew have been too-notch and have really helped me get my big guy trained and socialized! I would recommend him to anyone who needs training help with their dog.— Pete
Posted September 5th 2024
I just love this company - Justin, Crystal, Darlene and office staff! They are wonderful at what they do, are responsive and so thoughtful! I have used other dog trainers that come to my home and have not gotten the results I have gotten from Justin and Dog Training Elite. Justin is wonderful at what he does. My dog Dixie is a different dog after the training with Justin. He offers group classes on the weekends that solidify training, that I highly recommend. We also went to Lowes to work on training in new environments! I truly know that I can bring Dixie anywhere now! Besides being a great trainer, Justin is just a wonderful person who loves what he does and loves animals. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite for dog training!— Vera Timmons
Posted September 5th 2024
Wishing Justin the greatest of Birthdays (30)!! Justin and his team have trained 2 Golden Retrievers ( Gunner and Murray ) for me and I good not be more pleased !! Highly professional and accommodating in many ways. Thank you for all you have done and doing and best to you and your family! Joe— Joe Edens III
Posted September 5th 2024
Honestly, I don't know where to begin. Day 1 was something like a consultation. My Jetti and I met Justin and Louie for the first time. I knew that day that Justin was the one to train my Jetti and me. We started back in February or March. Justin had a demeanor about himself that made it easy to talk to and listen to him. I am still in amazement of what Jetti and I have accomplished and learned in such a short period of time. Just recently my Jetti, my 2 other furbabies, and I went to petsmart. It was Jetti's first visit there. I was nervous about how it would go with Jetti, but she was the perfect furbaby. A number of people came up to me and shared how she was so well behaved. I felt like the perfect mom. All of this is a result of Justin's ability to train. Jetti now has a play date with a German Shepard during the week days. This is because of the Saturday training with other furbabies. Oh, did I forgot to mention, Jetti is now a 9 months Giant Schnauzer! I promise you, you cannot and will not go wrong with training your furbaby with Justin of Dog Elite Training. Justin is the GOAT!!!— Sonya Kennedy
Posted September 4th 2024
What a Wonderful team! Justin and Krystal are great trainers! Our Lucy is so polite now! We not only trained at our house, the last session we went to Lowes and walked off leash! We will go to the next session and meet other dogs that have been trained by Elite. Just can't say enough positive words about Justin and Krystal...Thank you both so much!😃😃— Dale Donahue
Posted August 28th 2024
They have been so great with my boy Rex. Always very helpful and there to explain and answer questions. Oh and they also put my shelf together for me because I'm having some physical issues at the moment! They definitely go above and beyond for their customers!!— Rachael Mitchell
Posted August 14th 2024
Dog Training Elite has quite literally changed my life! Before working with Justin, my dog was a reactive basket case. Kids, dogs, squirrels, cats - you name it, she was chasing it. Justin gave me all the tools needed to be confident and fully in control, even when Raya is off leash. I get so many comments from family about the before and after difference. We can now have family gatherings without jumping, barking, begging, or reactivity to kids. In turn, Raya gets to live a full and happy life, and she is loving every bit of it! If you've been looking for a team who truly cares about you and your dog- look no further!— Crystal Byler
Posted July 1st 2024
Justin is so knowledgeable about his craft. I was amazed at how quickly Honey responded to his training. He is a great communicator with the dogs and their owners. It’s very easy to continue the training we both learned. I recommend Dog training Elite whole heartedly.— Marshall Carpenter
Posted May 29th 2024
“Get a puppy” they said. “It’ll be fun” they said. While it is fun, it’s not all fun. The barking, the jumping, the chasing (him after everything…me after him), the nipping… was too much for me manage. Insert Justin and Dog Training Elite Midlands. Not only has Milo (the lab) learned boundaries, respect and how to follow commands consistently but he has also learned some really cool tricks and made friends along the way. Justin is timely, communicative and personable in a way that makes both you and your pup comfortable. Worth every single penny. Don’t know what we did before but sure don’t want to go back. 5 stars!!!— Heather Bowers
Posted May 16th 2024
Dog Training Elite is by far the nicest and most amazing dog training company out there! From the moment I reached out to them, Dog Training Elite exhibited professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. They provided extensive guidance through every step of the training process with patience and compassion, ensuring that both my dog and I felt supported and knowledgeable. I rescued a 9-month old Australian Shepard named Beau and Dog Training Elite provided the most wholesome and thorough therapy dog training. My now therapy dog, Beau and I worked with Justin who was incredibly knowledgeable and thorough during the initial assessment and during each training session. His dedication to training therapy dogs is truly remarkable, and I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough. If you're looking for a dog training company that truly cares about the well-being of your furry friend and delivers exceptional results, I wholeheartedly recommend their professional dog training services. Thank you, Dog Training Elite, for helping us unleash Beau's full therapy dog potential!— Ansley Hardeman
Posted May 13th 2024
I have to admit I was very hesitant about committing to dog training due to time. However, Dog Training Elite made this the best experience! Justin has a true heart for animals and it shows! My 7 month old puppy is such a joy to be around and friends and family can’t believe how well behaved she is! I have never had a dog that would walk by me off leash and not run off. Dog Training Elite has given me such a precious gift and I have her entire life to enjoy this partnership between my dog and I. I was so appreciative for Justin’s patience. I never felt pressured or a sales pitch when we first met which told me he was the right trainer for my dog! This was one of the best investments I have ever made! Thank you Justin for such an amazing gift!— Heather Shuler
Posted April 16th 2024
Best dog training around! I have worked with several dog trainers with a previous dog and our youngest pup, Bailey. Justin is by far the best! He truly cares about each dog's well being and will end training sessions early if the dog is becoming too tired or stressed. After your 6 in home sessions, you then have the option of attending group classes where you'll receive further instruction, a chance to socialize your pup and guidance to help your dog be the best he can be. My Bailey went from ignoring me in the yard and afraid of anyone at the door to coming when called and remaining in his place while people enter the house. Everyone is amazed at our well behaved pup. Highly recommend Justin and his team!— Brandi Blake
Posted February 3rd 2024