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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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth training method.
Elite Dog Training in Dallas All Breeds. All Sizes. All Ages.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth 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 Dallas—Fort Worth’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!
Felicity has been training Benson for just a couple months and the difference she has helped make in him are nothing short of amazing!!! The company is easy to work with, compassionate and you can tell their goal is not only 100% customer satisfaction but also care for the dogs. Felicity answers all my questions, gives amazing advice and ensures I understand how to practice with Benson. I am very pleased with every aspect of Dog Training Elite and recommend them wholeheartedly. Update: Benson passed his 2nd public access test today with Felicity! She has been with him every step of the way. I wish I had the words to explain how amazing she is. Benson has come a long way and will definitely be an amazing mobility service dog.— Elizabeth McKenzie
Posted April 19th 2023
Before we brought our Golden Retriever puppy home, we knew that we wanted to enlist the aid of a trainer to teach her but also teach us how to efficiently train our new puppy. Felicity was our trainer— she was great! She was super knowledgeable and patient with the millions of questions that we had. Hazel really enjoyed her training sessions and she is learning so fast. I cannot recommend Felicity and Dog Training Elite Dallas enough! I know the work we put in with training Hazel now will benefit her in the future.— Bri Arroyo
Posted January 27th 2024
Felicity has been a fantastic dog trainer. Our dog has made such swift progress after working with her. We couldn’t be more happy that we get to work with her. She is truly gifted.— Ross Murrell
Posted January 27th 2024
We were at our wits end with our rescue pup. Had tried everything and I mean everything with no luck. We were determined to not give up on her. But we were all fretting over whether she was a good fit in our lives. Found this company and called for an evaluation. We knew whatever we invested in this dog would bring us years of joy. It has transformed our fearful, anxious dog into a wonderful happy pup. (She’s got more training to do but she’s doing awesome! ) We had Felicity, Luke, and Euni work with us over 6 weeks in our home. Felicity saw her on the first and last visit and immediately noticed an huge change in her! Our sweet pup is making such good progress! Best trainers ever as they worked with us to help us work with her. Awesome experience and I highly recommend them!— Karen Winget
Posted December 29th 2023
Every trainer that I have worked with is exceptionally knowledgeable, kind, professional, and overall very easy to talk to and to learn from. My dog is becoming more confident with every session, and I am very grateful to Dog Training Elite for making that happen ❤️— Jericca Cassani
Posted December 23rd 2023
I am so pleased with this company I begin to tell you how they have changed my life with my new adopted baby girl . She was so scared and wanted to bite everyone and in one week that behavior had changed. Felicity, Tyler and all the trainers at Dog Training Institute are professionals and know exactly what they are doing. I would recommend these guys to anyone !!— Kimberly Margowski
Posted December 22nd 2023
Dog Training Elite was the best thing we did for our 7-month-old Vizsla! We had a good foundation with basic commands prior to enrolling him, but we certainly did not feel confident enough to allow him off-leash when we go on the trails and needed help with impulse control as far as staying in place for longer periods of time and less excitable greetings. After just a few days at the facility, we saw such a difference, and by the end of the two weeks, we had a pup with so much impulse control and incredible manners. Not to mention--the e-collar wasn't something I felt confident training myself, since my biggest concern was creating a negative relationship with it, but they did a fantastic job. We've now also done in-home training sessions, which we focused on remaining neutral and not greeting ever dog when we're out, and his progress in just one session was tremendous. We can't stop saying enough great things about Tra, Felicity, Yuni, Kelly, and the rest of the DTE team. The facility was clean, and most importantly, the trainers exhibit such an understanding of canine behavior and psychology. Although it's a little bit pricier than other facilities we looked into, my husband and I have said repeatedly it was worth every penny. We met another pup that was the same age as ours that was so rowdy and excitable, and the owners told us they had just finished training with another well-known facility that we happened to look into as well. Needless to say, we were so glad we didn't end up choosing that facility. Their personalized approach is what makes the biggest difference. DTE exceeded our expectations, and we're incredibly grateful for the time, patience, and compassion they showed our Maverick. If you want top-notch training that delivers great results, DTE won't disappoint.— Allie Xirinachs
Posted December 20th 2023
Dog Training Elite was the best thing we did for our 7-month-old Vizsla! We had a good foundation with basic commands prior to enrolling him, but we certainly did not feel confident enough to allow him off-leash when we go on the trails and needed help with impulse control as far as staying in place for longer periods of time and less excitable greetings. After just a few days at the facility, we saw such a difference, and by the end of the two weeks, we had a pup with so much impulse control and incredible manners. Not to mention--the e-collar wasn't something I felt confident training myself, since my biggest concern was causing a negative relationship with it, but they did a fantastic job. We've now also done in-home training sessions, which we focused on remaining neutral and not greeting ever dog when we're out, and his progress in just one session was tremendous. We can't stop saying enough great things about Tra, Felicity, Yuni, Kelly, and the rest of the DTE team. The facility was clean, and most importantly, the trainers exhibit such an understanding of canine behavior and psychology. Although it's a little bit pricier than other facilities we looked into, my husband and I have said repeatedly it was worth every penny. We met another pup that was the same age as ours that was so rowdy and excitable, and the owners told us they had just finished training with another well-known facility that we happened to look into as well. Needless to say, we were so glad we didn't end up choosing that facility. For us, their personalized approach is what makes the biggest difference. DTE exceeded our expectations, and we're incredibly grateful for the time, patience, and compassion they showed our Maverick. If you want top-notch training that delivers great results, DTE won't disappoint.— Allison Xirinachs
Posted December 20th 2023
I am having a great experience with Dog Training Elite Dallas. Felicity is our trainer, and she is fantastic. My doggie is a dachshund and they are known to be stubborn by nature. However, Felicity teaches her new skills quickly and efficiently, and teaches me how to practice and reinforce those skills. She is firm while also being warm and kind. Both my doggie and I love working with her!— Terre From Texas
Posted September 11th 2023
This has been a great experience for our dog. Felicity, his trainer, has been great with Lido and he has learned to not puppy bite as much and has learned to take different commands very well. He has become a much more obedient dog. Lido actually gets very excited every time he gets time with Felicity. Thanks for all your help!— Tracy Michel
Posted August 26th 2023
We absolutely loved working with dog training elite!! They were amazing at helping us with our malinois mix! Felicity, Luke, Tra, Cheyanne, and Kyler were all great. We enjoyed our experience so much we’re going to add protection training!— Brianna Donley
Posted August 25th 2023
So far the training has been great. My dog has been responding very well to the training.— Janet Millinder
Posted August 23rd 2023
In a month, they have been able to help me train my puppy on the way to become my service dog! They are so understanding and supportive! The training focuses on positive as opposed to negative reinforcement on the collar which makes Draco more excited to put it on in the morning. Places I used in the past used it as a negative which made my dog (originally attempted to be a therapy dog) fearful and avoided having it on. Note: The first image was his first day training in public and in the second image he did not have his vest on, but still instinctively went into "tuck".— Ashley Dodge
Posted August 8th 2023
Luke has been so amazing with my puppy, Punxsy (she will be 8 months on July 25, 2023). Luke is so compassionate, knowledgeable, and patient. He was integral getting her trained as a service dog. His training enabled me to fly home with her to see my family in Delaware. As a service dog, she was able to stay with me in the cabin of the airplane, laying at my feet. I have PTSD from my time in the military, and he taught Punxsy skills to comfort me. Luke is amazing, and Punxsy and I thank you so much! Sheena and Punxsy— Sheena McIntire
Posted July 18th 2023
DTE is amazing.. I have a rescue that has forgotten how to be a dog.. Felicity has worked with me and my Happy girl and not only helped my fur baby start to open up but she is helping me to become that dog mom I need to be for her.. Thank you Felicity 🥰— joann askew
Posted July 17th 2023
Excellent training: we did the puppy camp - 4 sessions. 2 were with Luke and 2 with Felicity. The training provided exceptional value to us: we saw how to approach puppy training, both answered all our questions and then some. We are progressing nicely with our puppy’s training and the training we received at Dog Training Elite Frisco provided us the right direction and a boost! Very thankful for their support and patience - I feel we went through the training ourselves. Thank you Luke and Felicity!— Alex Weiss
Posted July 11th 2023
Felicity helped my pup, Noodle learn basic skills that have helped in the puppy phase. It was amazing seeing with a little guidance, how much easier the puppy stage has been. Definitely recommend!— Cassandra Keller
Posted July 5th 2023
Fantastic! Huge difference in our dogs and Felicity is awesome!!!!— Jennifer Robb
Posted June 21st 2023
Cheyenne came out for first training visit for our border collie, Hubert. She is very knowledgeable and made sure we understand how to work with him on new skills. We had been taking him elsewhere for basic training before beginning his service dog training with Elite. The one exception was as she was leaving: she made a comment that we baby him too much; however she didn't give any examples so we would know how to correct it.— Donna Friesen
Posted June 4th 2023
Calling DTE was one of the best things we’ve done for our dogs. Every single trainer was knowledgeable and true professionals. Money well spent.!!!— Stephanie McBride
Posted June 2nd 2023