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Classical conditioning is a learning process also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. Discovered by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov, classical conditioning involves developing automatic reflexes to specific conditions. This leads to creating behaviors.
Pavlov is considered to be the father of “classical conditioning.” As a matter of fact, he originally tested his theory using dogs. In an experiment, Pavlov observed dogs began to salivate not just when they received food, but when the people associated with feeding them arrived. Pavlov began to ring a bell when the dogs were presented with food. Over time, the dogs learned to associate the sound of the bell ringing with food. Their mouths would salivate whenever the bell rang.
Dog Training Elite Reno dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning and rely on positive reinforcement to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite Reno trainer , your dog will become conditioned and develop those “automatic reflexes” to commands such as sit, stay, and so on.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Reno location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment
Traditional dog training methods rely on punishment for errors and “low value” rewards, such as praise or petting, when a dog performs a desired behavior. Dog Training Elite Reno never resorts to punishing a dog to make them unlearn bad behavior.
Using punishment as a tool can actually backfire. For example: punishing a dog for going to the bathroom inside a house won’t teach them to go outside instead. Often, the dog only understands that the mess makes their owner mad. Instead of going outside, the dog is likely to continue to make messes indoors - but where the owner can’t find them.
Research shows that focusing on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and not worrying about correcting bad behavior in dogs is more effective and has longer-lasting results. The difference between a dog who has been exposed to dog training techniques used to obey out of fear vs. a dog who learns to obey through a positive, loving bond with their owner is huge.
Positive reinforcement works with dogs because they are inherently eager to please. Rewarding your dog for good behavior as you work with a Dog Training Elite Reno trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.
Training With An E-Collar
As mentioned above, Dog Training Elite Reno NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite Reno does make use of an electronic collar . The use of an electronic collar is vastly different in two main ways:
The electric collar does not shock your dog. Instead, it generates a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash.
The electronic collar is never used to punish a dog. It is used to simply gain the attention of a dog and help them focus on the task at hand.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective.
Behavior Training Vs. Obedience Training
If you are in the market for dog training, you may run across a few terms like "behavior training" or "obedience training." But what's the difference between the two? And which one is best for your dog? We break down the difference, and how to know which one is right for you and your dog. Whatever kind of training your dog needs, Dog Training Elite is here to help.
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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 Reno
Difference
Dog Training Elite Reno uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Reno trainers never resort to punishment to help dogs unlearn behaviors.
Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Dog Training Elite Reno’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
After proper conditioning and working with Dog Training Elite Reno, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Reno ensure training is a success no matter what your dog’s behavior.
Get started training your dog today. Find a trainer near you and schedule a free in-home assessment!
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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!
I did months of research looking for the right person to legitimately certify my dog as my service animal. We started training my pup at a couple months old and he was instantly receptive to the training Chris uses. He’s about 8 months now and on track to be completely certified by his first birthday. Chris’s knowledge and training methods are unmatched and there isn’t anyone else I would recommend.— Joel Hammeke
Posted September 13th 2024
Chris was great with our dogs and we learned so much. Walks are so much more pleasant and the doorbell does not lead to complete chaos anymore!— Kayla Jackson
Posted September 13th 2024
I wanted to share my experience working with Chris, Dog Training Elite Reno, who has been a huge help to me and my 5 yo rescue pitbull mix. My dog had some serious leash reactivity towards other dogs, and from the time I adopted him 6 months ago, I had been struggling to handle it. I've owned dogs all my life but clearly I didn't have the knowledge and skills this dog needed. Chris's input has been amazing right from the start. He not only works with my dog but is also training me to be a better owner and handler. He’s super patient and explains things in a way that’s easy to understand. His tips and techniques have really helped me feel more confident and in control during our walks. Since we started working with Chris, I’ve seen a big improvement in my dog's behavior. He uses positive reinforcement, which my dog responds to really well. It’s clear Chris knows what he’s doing and genuinely cares about helping us. I’m so grateful for Chris's help. If you’re looking for a dog trainer who can make a real difference, I highly recommend Chris. He’s making a huge impact on our lives. He's definitely teaching these old-ish dogs some new tricks! Thanks, Chris!— Lori Thomas
Posted July 31st 2024
Chris Bergman is a patient and very knowledgeable trainer. I would highly recommend his service for obedience training.— Lori Boyles
Posted July 28th 2024
Chris with Dog Training Elite has really helped me get control of both of my bully mixes. He is very professional and his techniques have made me and my wife more confident to take my dogs out into the world.— Jason Gonzalez
Posted July 25th 2024
Chris from DTE is a fantastic dog trainer, truly elite. We have rescued several dogs over the years and they each come with lovable personalities that flourish with proper training. Once you meet Chris, you quickly see he has all the qualities of an outstanding trainer, leader, and friend. Communication: He communicates between lessons and recaps the main points of lessons to ensure success. Understanding of dog behavior: He adeptly interprets body language of dogs and their humans, providing insight into why dogs behave the way they do. Love of dogs: He is obviously passionate about what he does, really understands the nuances of different breeds, and loves seeing dogs excel. Patience: Dogs (and more often probably, their humans) can be challenging, but Chris is patient, reliable, and consistent. Compassion: Chris considers the dog's needs first and avoids pushing them too hard. Confidence: Chris is a strong leader and it shows because the dogs often want to follow him even after lessons! We highly recommend Chris and DTE for dog (and human) training. :-)— Cori Ann Lentz
Posted July 23rd 2024
Chris from DTE is a fantastic dog trainer, truly elite. We have rescued several dogs over the years and they each come with lovable personalities that flourish with proper training. Once you meet Chris, you quickly see he has all the qualities of an outstanding trainer, leader, and friend. Communication: He communicates between lessons and recaps the main points of lessons to ensure success. Understanding of dog behavior: He adeptly interprets body language of dogs and their humans, providing insight into why dogs behave the way they do. Love of dogs: He is obviously passionate about what he does, really understands the nuances of different breeds, and loves seeing dogs excel. Patience: Dogs (and more often probably, their humans) can be challenging, but Chris is patient, reliable, and consistent. Unique: Chris is able to go beyond typical training, he even helped us teach our new rescue puppy to place on a wobble board so she would be ready to learn SUP! Super fun! Compassion: Chris considers the dog's needs first and avoids pushing them too hard. Confidence: Chris is a strong leader and it shows because the dogs often want to follow him even after lessons! We highly recommend Chris and DTE for dog (and human) training. :-)— Dr Cori Lentz
Posted July 23rd 2024
Dog Training Elite Reno is the best. I love working with Chris. He has helped me and my pup so much and I learn something new or certain things to do to make training even better with my dog. I would highly recommend DTE and will continue to.— caitlin howard
Posted July 21st 2024
Chris has done a fantastic job working with us and our rescue dog on basic obedience and problems we are having with a dog who was not socialized as a puppy. Excellent experience. Very hands on, patient and knowledgeable. Not rushed. Takes his time to explain everything and answer any questions we may have or address any problems that have occurred since his last visit. Would highly recommend him!— Robert Homann
Posted July 20th 2024
Chris is an excellent trainer! I started training my 2-year-old German Shepherd a few months ago with the ultimate goals of getting off-leash/strengthening our bond, and she is making tremendous progress thanks to Chris and DTE. She started out very reactive and obeying commands only when she wanted to. Now, she's been able to stay calm and attentive towards me with other dogs around and obeys commands MUCH more consistently (plus has learned lots of fun, useful new commands!-see attached photo for 'place'). I also love how accessible DTE makes training, providing me with all the equipment I need as well as Chris being available anytime between sessions to discuss questions/concerns. I am excited to continue our journey and cannot recommend them enough!— Mira Seekins
Posted July 19th 2024
Doing a great job training me & my dog. I now have a well mannered enjoyable pet. Chris is a patient & confident trainer. I enjoy working with him.— Linda Little
Posted June 15th 2024
We have had three sessions with Chris and the improvement in our dog’s behavior is outstanding. Both her fear of people and her aggression towards anyone outside of our household has diminished significantly. We still have work to do with her but the change in her after just three sessions is remarkable and we are looking forward to continued improvement as we move forward.— Andrea Coldwell
Posted June 7th 2024
Thank you Chris (Dog Training Elite Reno) for the above and beyond work with Leo (the Hippo Face). Although I had some experience with pitts in the past, this guy was especially reactive due to his traumatic past. (rescue). Chris worked so well with him, he really connected with Leo and helped me be a responsible pet owner.— Erica Cardona
Posted April 20th 2024
Chris is a miracle worker at the very least. He is also an amazing dog trainer. I will be the first to admit that I was very skeptical about anyone's ability to teach my Aunt's Cairn Terrier anything. His nickname was Devil Dog, and well deserved. She was unable to walk him without dislocating her shoulder, he frightened anyone who dared come near + drove the neighbors crazy with his barking. If I hadn't been present to observe the transformation first hand, I would honestly think she had gotten a new dog. I would highly recommend Chris to everyone.— Teri Littler-Frazier
Posted April 10th 2024