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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 Omaha 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 Omaha 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 Omaha 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 Omaha 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 Omaha’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 Omaha 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 Omaha Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Omaha training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Omaha 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 Omaha 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 Omaha’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 Omaha 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!
I recently completed training with my dog, Islaroo, through Dog Training Elite Omaha, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results! We went through their training program and group classes, and I’m thrilled to share that Islaroo just passed her test to become a certified therapy dog. The trainers were incredibly patient and always willing to listen and work through any issues we encountered. They work with dogs and owners at all levels of ability, which made the experience even more comfortable for us. Group classes can sometimes be unnerving because you never know how dogs will react or how much control the owners will have. However, I’ve never felt nervous or had any concerns during these classes. Their support and expertise gave me and my family the confidence to take Islaroo anywhere, and she now even goes off-leash in many places! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Omaha for their dedication and personalized approach— Susan Bartman
Posted October 21st 2024
Where do I even begin… Bob, Mari, and Dave came into Maverick and my life at one of the lowest points in my life. From a really traumatic experience, I learned that I wanted my high energy, slightly out of control golden retriever to be my service dog. However, I didn’t know where to go to train him to sit let alone service dog tasks to help my mental health. But I found DTE and signed up for a consultation. From the moment I met Bob and his team, I immediately knew and trusted them to help me on this journey. A few weeks after our consultation I bit the bullet and decided to sign up with them officially and we got to work. Bob and his team are SO knowledgeable, kind, and patient. Not only have they helped me train my sweet Mavvy boy but they have supported me endlessly and as a result my confidence as a dog mama and a person has grown astronomically. I simply don’t have enough words for how grateful I am for DTE Omaha. If you are needing a dog trainer for ANYTHING. DTE is SO worth the investment, time, and energy.— Desteny Lashay
Posted October 19th 2024
Where do I even begin… Bob, Mari, and Dave came into Maverick and my life at one of the lowest points in my life. From a really traumatic experience, I learned that I wanted my high energy, slightly out of control golden retriever to be my service dog. However, I didn’t know where to go to train him to sit let alone service dog tasks to help my mental health. But I found DTE and signed up for a consultation. From the moment I met Bob and his team, I immediately knew and trusted them to help me on this journey. A few weeks after our consultation I bit the bullet and decided to sign up with them officially and we got to work. Bob and his team are SO knowledgeable, kind, and patient. Not only have they helped me train my sweet Mavvy boy but they have supported me endlessly and as a result my confidence as a dog mama and a person has grown astronomically. I simply don’t have enough words for how grateful I am for DTE Omaha. If you are needing a dog trainer for ANYTHING. DTE is SO worth the investment, time, and energy.— Desteny Miller
Posted October 19th 2024
Great trainers! My dog loves them and loves going to the group classes. Bob is really knowledgeable with service dog training. Overall we’ve had a great experience.— Sandra Lopez
Posted October 13th 2024
With the training our dogs have received we can take them anywhere with confidence. It has been so helpful— Brandy Clarke
Posted October 5th 2024
Work with Bob and Mari has been game changing for our dog and family. Within one session we saw a huge difference, and now, several sessions in, we have a different dog entirely. We can take her in public, she’s less reactive to other dogs, she follows commands and is obedient. The investment into training her was so worth it and has brought a sense of calm to our home we didn’t know we could have with a large puppy around. Give Dog Training Elite Omaha a call. You won’t regret it!— Stephanie Lewis
Posted August 16th 2024
We are so pleased with the work Bob and his team have done! Our dog is so much better behaved and we better owners because of the skills we have learned at each of our training sessions. My only regret is not having done this sooner. I would recommend this training regiment to any looking hands on approach to pet ownership.— Marc Lewis
Posted August 16th 2024
Amazing! Dog Training Elite Omaha exceeds our expectations for both of our pups! Before we confined our fur babies when visitors came. Now they are well-mannered and delightful hostesses. 😊— Lara Huskey
Posted June 2nd 2024
I would recommend Bob at Dog Training Elite daily! I had a reactive, misbehaved, and undisciplined Great Dane. I became overwhelmed and had no idea what to do with her behavior. I called Bob and he was confident that he could help me. After session one, I immediately saw a difference in behavior. I can now take Ellie with me almost anywhere! We had our first group class and not only was Bob extremely encouraging, everyone was so patient and very welcoming! Hiring Dog Training Elite was the best decision I have ever made for Ellie.— Harleigh
Posted June 1st 2024
Bob and his team did a great job of training Lucky (& us!). The one-on-one training sessions and group classes have helped Lucky master skills and be more comfortable in different environments around other dogs. Lucky has made great progress and we are so glad that we found Dog Training Elite. 💙— Katrina Wulf
Posted June 1st 2024
Bob has done such an amazing job with Max as well as teaching us how to train Max. Max has learned so many commands and executes them very well. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Omaha and Bob.— Annis Clark
Posted May 31st 2024
We highly recommend Bob. Bode has come so far in his training and has become so well mannered. Bode has learned his commands so well in such a short time. Thanks, Bob!— Trish Kirby
Posted May 31st 2024
My daughter, Leslie, chose DTE Omaha for their special little man, in October, 2023. We noticed a night & day difference after Charlie's very FIRST in-home session! The patience shown to not just the dogs, but to the humans too, are unparalleled. In January, 2024, we had a sweet little girl choose us to be her Mommy & Daddy. I just put in the assessment request for Sadie to begin classes. I didn't need to 'shop around' after witnessing first-hand Charlie's transformation! For us DTE is a no-brainer! We're a military family, and very happy with the work & services DTE provides for the military community!— Meloney Smith
Posted April 13th 2024
Bob & Lyris at DTE-O are amazing!! They are so patient and understanding of my dog's trauma/reactivity. Zoe has made great strides in the 6 week (individual) classes and 2 (group) training sessions she has attended. Not only has the training helped her, it's been imperative for myself as well, to be "trained" and comfortable handling/correcting her behavior. Zoe has also gotten very good at "puppy push-ups," and seems to enjoy coming to work (class) as she is eager to listen and please. I'm so grateful to be working with DTE-O and I know for sure Zoe's outcome could've been much different if we had not found Bob & Lyris.— Audrey Carter
Posted April 6th 2024
Absolutely the best decision I ever made for my puppy!— Kayla Bullock
Posted February 23rd 2024
Bob has done a great job training our dog Remy to be a service dog. Bob does one on one instruction as well as group classes. He also provides a veteran/military discount.— Amanda Butler
Posted January 7th 2024
I was a bit apprehensive at first, but Bob quickly put my mind and heart at ease. The in home trainings have been foundational…with good results. Bob is a natural. He understands my dog’s temperament and works to create a connection. Briggs and I experienced our first group class last week. It was a well run class and well worth our time. There is real value in the group classes he offers! There is no hesitation in my recommendation of DTE Omaha!— Judi Huff
Posted January 2nd 2024
Bob is absolutely incredible! He is very kind and patient, not just with the dog but with us humans who get the training too! I have noticed a HUGE difference in my HUGE Bernese Mountain Dog and it’s all thanks to this training course and the classes we’ve taken. Bernie and family are all happy!— Brittany Marie
Posted January 1st 2024
Bob is absolutely incredible! He is very kind and patient, not just with the dog but with us humans who get the training too! I have noticed a HUGE difference in my HUGE Bernese Mountain Dog and it’s all thanks to this training course and the classes we’ve taken. Bernie and family are all happy!— Brittany Timperley
Posted January 1st 2024
I contacted Bob and Lyris after Ziggy and I got into a car accident. Ziggy became very fearful about getting into a car. With the help of Bob and Lyris, Ziggy loves to get back into the car once again for rides. I cannot say enough great things about Bob and Lyris. They have helped me train Ziggy into a great dog that listens to commands and they care about every dog they train. Thank you Bob and Lyris— Max Martin
Posted December 30th 2023