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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 Central Kentucky 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 Louisville 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 Central Kentucky 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 Central Kentucky 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 Central Kentucky’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 Central Kentucky 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 Central Kentucky Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Central Kentucky training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Central Kentucky 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 Central Kentucky 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 Central Kentucky’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 Central Kentucky 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.
Find a trainer near you today!
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!
When Joe and I started on this adventure of getting a puppy to train to be a mobility support dog for Joe due to his MS, I was a bit unsure of if we could make it happen. As Cole, an English Labrador, began growing into a LARGE puppy who didn’t know his strength I was concerned he would end up knocking Joe or others off their feet! With the wonderful guidance from Tom at Dog Training Elite, Cole (Joe and I) have learned to obey commands, listen to each other, act more appropriate around other people and dogs, and greet others without jumping on them. Joe, Cole, and I look forward to continuing our journey with Tom and appreciate all that he has done!— Lee Anne DePaola Ater
Posted August 17th 2024
I was recommended Dog Training Elite by my sister, and from the very beginning Tom has done a wonderful job helping my dog through reactivity and anxiety. We started with some pretty explosive reactivity, lunging, barking, etc. and in less than two months she is able to calmly participate in group class alongside other dogs. I cant recommend Dog Training Elite and Tom enough!— Lauren Brown
Posted July 13th 2024
We got our family's first dog, a Cavapoo puppy named Poppy. We decided we would benefit from some puppy training as much as the puppy, so we searched the internet and found Dog Training Elite in Louisville. Tom is amazing. He taught Poppy to come in her very first session. In the second session, she learned sit, down, and up. Also, we were struggling to find treats she would like so he showed up with a pocket full of them to help us determine the best treat to get the job done. Tom has an amazing temperament, with both animals and people. He is very helpful and answers any questions we have. I recommend not only training your puppy, but using Dog Training Elite to do it. If we decide to go beyond puppy training into further obedience, we will definitely go with Tom.— Khara Aud
Posted March 30th 2024
Tom has been great with my anxious rescue dog. He’s patient and kind; she responds well to his quiet nature. Definitely a good investment!— Danielle wilson
Posted March 28th 2024
We just finished our last training with Tom from Dog Training Elite. It was an excellent experience. Tom did an amazing job interacting with our dog Toby (11 months) and with my 11 year old son. He was calm, listened really well to our needs and concerns, and spent a full hour training with us each session. Our dog went from being hard to manage on walks, stubborn, and unmanageable in public to knowing how to heel, listening to us, staying in his place, and being able to play off leash with our son. We are still practicing but he’s come so far! I’d definitely recommend DTE…it’s worth the investment!— Amy Sees
Posted March 25th 2024
We have enjoyed the progress our dog has made in a short time. The training is in depth and doable. If you want results this is a great training service.— Nate Davison
Posted March 16th 2024
I have had dogs for 40 years and have never been able to train them as fast or as easily as my trainer. I spent a week trying to train lay down with no success and he did it in 30 seconds. I am only 5 sessions in but the progress is remarkable— Frederick Wright
Posted February 26th 2024
I’m a little late to this review but Tom did an amazing job with our puppy. We started training the week after we got our puppy and he immediately knew commands. Our dog turns two this month and goes a lot of places with us, especially soccer games and we get so many compliments on how well behaved he is. Even off leash with many people around and distractions, our dog listens and has a great recall. I was a little nervous about using an e collar but Tom made me feel comfortable with its proper use and we still use it to this day. I have recommended him to many people and will continue to do so. It’s also so convenient as a mother to three boys (one of which has autism) that he comes to our house for training. We are hoping to eventually have our dog trained as a service animal for our youngest. This training is absolutely worth the money. We also don’t have a fence and I feel 100% confident letting our dog outside by himself to go to the bathroom since we set up safe boundaries for him during our training.— Taylor DiPalma
Posted January 11th 2024
Most excellent assistance in training my new pup. Tom the Trainer is gentle, a wonderful coach and guide. My pup showed signs of being anxious around anything new. With this training she is easy to walk, shows more confidence and is better behaved. Tom's course is well worth the investment.— beemer rose
Posted November 12th 2023
Wemby really enjoyed his experience and the class was helpful. WEMBYS teacher was so patient with the teacher and got along well with him. Wemby is like a new dog. He learned so much and had fun. This is a great and trustworthy company. Always on time and goes above and beyond. I would recommend them over anyone else.— Derek Smith
Posted October 26th 2023
It was so difficult to walk our dog before meeting Tom at Dog Training Elite. Our dog would chase everything and had severe anxiety. It’s been a complete 180 and now I look forward to walks with my dog. I couldn’t recommend him enough. Thank you Tom.— Eric Joergens
Posted September 25th 2023
Tom is a great trainer, I have been working with him for couple months now.— Brandon Sebastian
Posted September 23rd 2023
Tom is amazing! We are working towards training our pup to be a medical service dog for our son. He has learned so much in just a few short weeks. Tom is very patient and calm. He’s extremely knowledgeable and has various ways to help our dog accomplish our goals! I would recommend Tom to anyone wanting to train their dog!— Katie Jones
Posted July 18th 2023
We have loved this training! From the very beginning we were encouraged by Tom and given excellent advice in training our dog. Our goal has been to train our dog to be a therapy dog and while we are not finished, we have seen amazing progress in her abilities and behavior. I highly recommend Tom for training!— Jenny Davison
Posted July 8th 2023
He s extremely patient and knowledgeable. Yes they use E collars but he takes the time to teach you how to use it properly without hurting your dog. I have never felt so welcomed by a dog trainer.— Rachel Stanger
Posted April 8th 2023
Tom has been a wealth of knowledge and incredibly patient with our Cane Corso puppy. We were about at our wits end until we found him, and so thankful we did!— Kristen Lonberger
Posted March 31st 2023
Tom was an amazing trainer to me and my wild Australian Shepard puppy 8 months old. Tom taught me how to be more patient and confident, which in turn helped my dog Baxter become confident as well. I’m looking forward to the group sessions. I can’t express my gratitude enough. Thank you again Tom!— Leslee Parrish
Posted February 11th 2023
Tom did a really good job with my dog in the individual sessions. Friendly and professional service. My dog learned more than I expected. Would recommend to any one looking to train their dog.— Andrew Case
Posted October 25th 2022
Can.t say enough good things about my trainer Tom. He is very professional and great with my dog. Very knowledgable about my breed and what we needed to do to get Willow so we know how to handle her in every situation. Having a pitbull mix rescue is not easy , but we feel very comfortable around other people and other dogs. If you need your dog trained you won't regret using Dog Elite of Central Ky. Thanks Tom— Gary White
Posted October 23rd 2022
We have had a wonderful experience with training our dog, Moose - he has done so incredibly well, and is ready for training as a service dog! We will be continuing our training with Dog Training Elite and can’t wait until Moose is a fully trained service dog!— Stephanie Taylor
Posted October 12th 2022