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While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.
Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite Upstate SC’s programs, including in-home training!
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Upstate SC location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
In-Home Training
Dog Training Elite Upstate SC has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.
Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, stay, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.
Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.
Trainers from Dog Training Elite Upstate SC seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.
The Dog Training Elite Upstate SC Difference
There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.
- Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
- Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
- Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.
Dog Training Elite Upstate SC uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC 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 Upstate SC’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
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.
Start Your Obedience Training Journey
Dog Training Elite Upstate SC knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.
Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite Upstate SC today to start your dog obedience training!
Obedience Training FAQs
What age can a dog start obedience training?
The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
What issues will obedience training address?
Besides basic commands like sit, stay, heel, etc., dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
Are shock collars used?
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
Why in-home training?
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.
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 had the best experience with Dog Training Elite! All the trainers are fantastic and feel a bit like part of our family now! From our initial home visit where we talked about our personal goals for our dog and the things we needed help with, to the implementation and teaching of the skills in group class, we were just amazed at the quality and effectiveness of the program! I was a bit apprehensive about learning how to work with an e-collar, but it is a great management tool, and our dog seems happier than ever - as if he has purpose! I only wish I had done it sooner!— Terri Gowdy
Posted October 20th 2024
I could not say enough about how great everyone has been at Dog Training Elite! From the initial set up of Milo’s consultation to scheduling his lessons, the staff have always been super accommodating and responsive! Every trainer we have worked with has been amazing! Casey, Sydney, Danny, and Mackenzie loved Milo like their own pup and set us up for success! I was initially a little hesitant about working with e collars (I grew up with dogs with an electric fence and initially thought they were similar…completely different!) I tried it out on myself first and it’s amazing how such a small amount of stimulus can help you communicate with your pup better! The trainers are also super informative in the use of it and Milo adjusted pretty quickly to wearing it! I have seen such an improvement in Milo through working with DTE. Before, I stopped bringing him out with me because of his reactivity but now with the training he has done so great being in public! The e collar has provided a way for me to communicate with him on such a deeper level. He has attended puppy classes before but DTE is next level and worth the investment! I cannot thank the staff enough at DTE for working with Milo to be the bestest boy!— Joanne Edwards
Posted October 19th 2024
I could not say enough about how great everyone has been at Dog Training Elite! From the initial set up of Milo’s consultation to scheduling his lessons, the staff have always been super accommodating and responsive! Every trainer we have worked with has been amazing! Casey, Sydney, Danny, and Mackenzie loved Milo like their own pup and set us up for success! I was initially a little hesitant about working with e collars (I grew up with dogs with an electric fence and initially thought they were similar…completely different!) I tried it out on myself first and it’s amazing how such a small amount of stimulus can help you communicate with your pup better! The trainers are also super informative in the use of it and Milo adjusted pretty quickly to wearing it! I have seen such an improvement in Milo through working with DTE. Before, I stopped bringing him out with me because of his reactivity but now with the training he has done so great being in public! The e collar has provided a way for me to communicate with him on such a deeper level. He has attended puppy classes before but DTE is next level and worth the investment! I cannot thank the staff enough at DTE for working with milo to be the bestest boy!— Joanne Edwards
Posted October 19th 2024
We used Elite to train our 8 month old dog. Everyone we worked was very knowledgeable and professional. We will definitely use Elite again!— Robin Flynn
Posted October 16th 2024
I am so thankful I decided to choose Dog Training Elite after shopping for a training facility. The moment I met Danny, I felt like he was family and treated Bentley as one of his own dogs. His ability to connect with Bentley was instant and genuine. Mackenzie was always interactive and personal as we interacted to schedule appointments. Cassie was a natural with her soft yet commanding voice. She really pushed Bentleys to bring his best game. Sydney was so friendly and nurturing as she held Bentley accountable to accurately perform the commands. Originally, I was looking for a training facility that boards but I really wanted to be an apart of Bentley’s process although my schedule is very demanding and I didn’t know the first thing about training a dog. Danny assured me that Dog Training Elite would train me to successfully train my dog. I just have to put in post in-house training work with Bentley. I had my doubts, but I committed to the challenge and I could not be more proud of the final outcome. Thank you Dog training Elite for everything and I am so sad that we have come to the end of our training relationship but so proud of the skills and confidence both Bentley and I have gained that will last a lifetime. 🤍🤍 ~ Noell & Bentley— Miss Noell
Posted October 6th 2024
Where do I even start... Dog Training Elite is more than just Elite, they are working magic. We just moved to the area and were in need of a trainer for our Pitbull (Miss Lou). Miss Lou was reactive to people and we tried 2 trainers prior and they did nothing to help Miss Lou and her anxiety. Day one of meeting the team at DTE they already had Miss Lou feeling more comfortable than I have ever seen her. Our first in home visit Jared opened our eyes to how much DTE cares about dogs but more than that how knowledgeable they are. Jared was able to pet and walk Miss Lou. We knew at that moment DTE was going to change Miss Lou's life for the better and make her the loving pup we know she can be. We put Miss Lou in the week long camp and she responded so well to the training and in just 5 days Miss Lou was making some huge strides. One thing about DTE is they are going to show you how well they can train your dog, but more importantly they are going to show you how to do what they do. By no means am I an expert, but I have all the tools in my pocket to make Miss Lou the best version of herself. Miss Lou is making big steps each and everyday and we could not be where we are at with her without the team over at Dog Training Elite. Thank you DTE team, you are all amazing and look forward to seeing you at group classes!— Devin Baldridge
Posted October 3rd 2024
I would pay double for this team to train my dog (and me)!! Danny and Sidney went above and beyond to make this experience awesome for our whole family. After just 6 sessions we have a new dog who we actually can enjoy!!— Lauren Kelly
Posted September 30th 2024
We have a 3 year old miniature poodle that was discarded by a breeder. She was a bundle of nerves until we got the training from Elite. The transformation has been amazing.— Victoria Delaney
Posted September 26th 2024
I can’t say enough about the amazing job DTE did with my Springer Spaniel.All of the trainers were extremely professional and explained everything in detail from beginning to end.I highly recommend.— Tim Duggan
Posted September 25th 2024
The transformation of our dog was absolutely amazing. Our dog came into our lives a couple of weeks before we started training. He was an emaciated stray who was running wild in the mountains. As a hound, we knew he’d be a little stubborn, so we needed help. The first session was shocking for us as we hadn’t seen an “e” collar used correctly before nor had our dog experienced one. Honestly, it was a little tough to watch and we saw our dog was a class A actor in his response to commands using the new collar and also when it wasn’t being used. We talked about it and decided we’d give it a try. I was a little skeptical on how he could learn so much in one week, but it was incredible. We are so glad he was able to go to the day camp (boot camp?) and from day 1, his behavior and attitude was changed. He started following commands well, after we were trained on the technique. By the end of the five days, his transformation was phenomenal. Working with him daily he continues to surprise us. Just this morning, he was on a walk and he spotted a rabbit. We put him in a sit position and he stayed while staring down the rabbit, sitting until the rabbit hopped away. There was no lunging or barking, he was the most well behaved pup. We enjoy taking him out and about to include friends’ houses, Lowe’s and a brewery, and Buddy is always such a well behaved boy. We would highly recommend DTE. It is an investment in your dog which is well worth it. I must also mention that the trainers are all top notch and have a real love for what they do. PS. We encouraged our daughter to use DTE in Virginia and her puppy is now in training and doing well.— Elisabeth Allen
Posted September 23rd 2024
We cannot say enough positive things about our experience with DTE. Our puppy, Lady, recently went through puppy training as well as e-collar training camp. There are countless benefits that we've experienced since having her professionally trained and it's so much easier working with her at home with the strong foundation that's been built. Jared, Danny, Sydney and McKenzie made the experience so fun and were always informative and great to be around. The staff is punctual, professional and you can tell they genuinely love what they do. Your dog needs this! Thanks for all you've done for our Lady!— Erin Bakeman Parker
Posted September 17th 2024
DTE did a terrific job with my German Shepherd. They were patient and extremely helpful with training me how to help my best friend. I highly recommend them to help you with training— Charles Carriger
Posted September 8th 2024
We could not be more thankful for Dog Training Elite! We started with their puppy classes, and we absolutely loved them! They helped socialize our puppy through the classes, and also started working on a few commands with us at our house. This made puppyhood such an amazing experience, and we would have been lost without the trainers’ help. We loved puppy class so much that we decided to enroll our puppy in their advanced obedience camp, and this was a game changer! Most of our one-on-ones were with Sydney and our puppy is obsessed with her! She is always so excited to see her. All of the trainers are so knowledgeable and you can tell how much they love dogs. Everyone we meet compliments how well behaved our puppy is, and she really listens so well thanks to the trainers’ hard work. I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough!— Maya Nagelberg
Posted August 31st 2024
When looking for a trainer for my pup, we were very wary of signing up with the wrong crew. After doing a little research and calling around in our area, DTE was one of the few that actually seemed to care about the training, the dogs, and the handlers - not just getting paid. My pup loved going to sessions and even after long days of training was excited to go back for more! The things my pup and I both have learned were well worth the money. The DTE crew knows what they're doing, and most importantly CARES! Thank you DTE. 11 out of 10, would recommend!— createdthis justtoleaveareview
Posted August 30th 2024
We can not recommend Dog Training Elite highly enough! This summer, we had the pleasure of working with them to help teach our dog some manners and how to behave in public, and the results have been amazing. The trainers were incredibly patient, compassionate, and dedicated. It was clear they genuinely cared about our dog’s well being. Our dog has made incredible strides, learning so much and becoming a happier and well behaved member of our family. We are thrilled with the progress she has made! The team works hard, always reply’s to questions promptly and were flexible with scheduling. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite.— Megan Witrick
Posted August 28th 2024
Callie spent a week with Dog Training Elite and we've ALL learned so much!— Craig Leduc
Posted August 26th 2024
Words cannot express the feelings of gratitude we have for DTE. We are 6 weeks into our training and today was the ultimate pay off. While conducting some off leash training, our Shiba decided to go her own way. She trotted around a bend in the trail and was gone! I called for her and searched the area for 20 minutes, all the while using the commands and estem controller provided by DTE. As I continued calling and walking back the way we came, I walked over a small hill and here comes Nemo, running towards me, tail in the air just as fast as she could! Without the training provided by DTE, she would have been list! No words can describe the feeling of hopelessness and despair, and have them replaced with joy when I saw her coming back to the commands and following her training! If you are thinking about this type of training...do it! The price is worth it!— Jonathan suthard
Posted August 26th 2024
I haven’t had a dog since I was a little kid and I decided to get the same breed that I had when I was younger. I have a miniature schnauzer and she is so sweet but I didn’t realize how vocal she was. I reached out to DTE and they were so sweet! They came in and did an inhome assessment and then she started camp with them two weeks later. From day 1 I could tell a difference. My puppy is stubborn but DTE did not give up on her! Of course it will be an ongoing training process. But DTE trainers are AMAZING! I can reach out to them if I have any questions or concerns and they are always willing to help. And they truly love and care for each dog they come in contact with. So glad that I chose them! THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!— Tori Franklin
Posted August 18th 2024
Jared, Elizabeth and their crew have given me the tools to have the dog I have always wanted! He is incredibly well behaved and desires to work. When Maverick (my golden doodle) is timid Dog Training Elite were able to show me how to work with him. I can’t recommend this group enough. They are the dog whisperers!!— Michele Holder
Posted August 17th 2024
Dog training elite is absolutely amazing. Each of the trainers were always so excited to work with Nala. They were very supportive and wanted Nala and myself to be successful. Always had quick and helpful responses to texts. 100% would recommend to anyone who wants to train their dog. Worth every penny. Nala was so happy when she graduated obedience training. I am adding to my previous review from obedience training since we have now graduated from therapy training. Five stars is not enough to express what Dog Training Elite has done for Nala and I. The only thing I have hated about having a dog is leaving her at home alone while I go to work. Dog Training Elite has helped make it so that does not have to happen anymore. Nala is going to be my schools therapy dog. I am so grateful for everything they have done from answering my texts with any questions or concerns to showing immense love for my dog. I will forever recommend Dog Training Elite with anyone who has a dream for their dog because they made mine come true.— Michael Adams
Posted February 29th 2024