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Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?
Your puppy or older dog has completed basic obedience training. Congratulations! You and your pet have not only developed trust and strengthened your bond, but your puppy or dog is well on their way to becoming a loyal, loving companion.
Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.
It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?
Dog Training Elite offers dog training classes in Fort Collins / Loveland for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Benefits of Group Classes
Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have. Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:
Socialization
Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.
Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.
Focus
Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.
Hands on Learning
In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.
Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.
*Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.
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 Northern Colorado Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado focuses on positive reinforcement, also called “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown positive reinforcement to be more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.
Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado does not use punishments or shock collars and instead pairs positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. 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. Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.
Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training
Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:
Your Dog is Destructive
Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
Your Dog is Aggressive
Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash
Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful
If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
Your Dog Ignores You at the Park
Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.
Join a Group Class Today!
Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite Northern Colorado location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today. Start building a community for you and your dog, and continue to strengthen your bond with your furry best friend.
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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!
Follow up 6 months later-Reggie had some continued training to learn to fetch things for his girl, and is absolutely incredible at it thanks to Evan and his team!..We also took a trip to Florida with Reggie. First flight with him, Disney World, and Universal Studios for ten days straight. He did absolutely remarkable, and most people didn’t even realize we had a dog with us until they noticed his Minnie ears. He was able to ride several rides with his girl, and did incredible! Elite dog training is the absolute best of the best!!! We have a service dog for my 9 year old, and between Evan, and Kaycee I couldn’t ask for better people to work with! They have gone absolutely above and beyond to help our pup do any, and everything possible to help our daughter live the most independent life despite her chronic health problems. The amount of time, and work they have put into Reggie these last two years is astounding. Because of them Reggie is able to spend countless weeks in the hospital with my 9 year old, he goes to school with her everyday, and goes everywhere she goes. He is by far the best dog ever because of the incredible people at Elite. You can absolutely tell the people at Elite love what they do! 5 stars is not enough to describe what an incredible company this is!! We LOVE Utah County Elite dog trainers!!— Karissa Illu
Posted April 1st 2024
Very professional and listens to your concerns. Their work is amazing!— Diane Foster
Posted October 20th 2024
Worth every penny, and I should have signed up for dog training sooner. The whole crew at DTE are knowledgable, kind, and took the time to customize a training program for my unique situation and even individualized between my two dogs. I am so pleased! Thanks Jeff, Dallin, McCall & Oakley! You have been a game changer in my releationship with my dogs.— Heather Martinez
Posted October 20th 2024
Always great to work with Dallin! He gives great advice and is good at demonstrating how to train your pup. Dallin’s the best!— Rebecca Williams
Posted October 18th 2024
We did the platinum package that included 2 weeks of day camp, along with private lessons and group classes. We’ve been impressed with all of the individualized advice and direction we’ve gotten from DTE. And all the trainers are extremely enthusiastic and knowledgeable. I was pretty blown away by the change we saw after just the first week. Our girl Stevie still has some growing to do, but I feel that we have the tools to meet our goals. Stevie was a reactive shelter dog that is quickly growing into a confident, playful, well-adjusted girl.— Ally Cirenza
Posted October 15th 2024
Dallin is amazing! Giveg my family and I many different ways of handling our dog. It is amazing 👏— Ronald Taylor
Posted October 1st 2024
All of the staff are amazing! I have been working mostly with Jeff and Oakley, but everyone there knows about my dog and his progress, and are always ready and willing to answer my questions and help us on our training journey. They offer a wide variety of in home and studio classes, and personalize your training to fit your dog’s needs. I highly recommend them.— Marial Clark
Posted October 14th 2024
My experience so far has been amazing. I’m beyond happy with Deidre Wilson! She has been amazing with my Doberman and has such a natural connection with my entire pack. Deidre is not only talented but also takes the time to explain everything, educating me and giving me the confidence to succeed with my Doberman. I couldn’t ask for a better dog trainer! Kaycee is also fantastic, always patient and flexible with our schedule, making the entire experience seamless. I highly recommend them both and their staff.— Karen Delgado
Posted October 11th 2024
Dallin was great! He was on time and has awesome energy. My puppy loves him! He gave me some very useful tips on correcting jumping and button training my puppy. He is also very knowledgeable and explains behaviors in a very easy to understand way.— Sondra Fern
Posted October 6th 2024
Deidre showed up for our initial consultation and immediately made me feel confident in her, and DTE’s, training and knowledge! She is kind, calm, educated, and very patient! We cannot wait to have her start training our puppy!— Gabe N
Posted October 9th 2024
Jeff & Dallin are absolutely awesome!!! McCall is great too. We really loved all of the training for both of our girls and they are sk well behaved now. Always we recommend dog training elite. 💪❤️🐶🐕— Benjamin Dara
Posted October 9th 2024
I have had a great time working with DTE-NU and looking forward to continue working with them. Not only have they done amazing with training and service, they also are very understanding and flexible. I went through a rough financial situation and they were kind enough to work with me with no penalties. It literally made a WORLD of difference in a very stressful part of my life. I have a very well trained service pup all thanks to them.— McKell Rushton
Posted October 8th 2024
Gosia and Michael Billedo of Dog Training Elite-Northeast clearly love dogs and love what they do. They are patient and disciplined trainers who know how to read both the dog and the dog owner to suggest what will help the dog to master all the commands. I recommend them without qualification to anyone who wants to enjoy the peace of mind of having your dog comply with commands.— Jane Fahey
Posted October 8th 2024
Absolutely amazing dog trainers who gave our havanese puppy, Tucker, and our family a wonderful training experience! I can truly say it has been life changing for us!— Allison Miller
Posted October 7th 2024
This has been the absolute best experience. Deidre was incredible. She made me and my dog feel do comfortable.— Samantha Rasmussen
Posted September 18th 2024
Excellent personalized training. We loved working with this team, and our dog made great progress.— Kristen Jensen
Posted October 5th 2024
Deidre is knowledgeable, patient and kind. She is a professional and one who certainly knows her craft. Our dog took to her guidance and direction, with little complaint. Deidre is confident; it is obvious that she likes what she does. It shows in her enthusiasm and her ability to teach.— Lucy Herrera
Posted October 4th 2024
Dallin was amazing AGAIN. He explains things, encourages good work, and always works at my pace. So helpful for me as a mobility challenged human and my service dog in training. I absolutely LOVE Elite Dog Training and the fine outstanding trainers. 10 stars every time.— Meggie Thiessens
Posted October 4th 2024