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Dog Training Techniques


Classical Conditioning

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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 Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Dog Training Elite uses classical conditioning as one of their dog training techniques in Salt Lake City.
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 Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City 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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If you are searching for positive dog training near you, Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City is the place for you.

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.


Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City is the top company near you that uses professional positive dog training methods.
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.

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Elite Dog Training in Salt Lake City All Breeds. All Sizes. All Ages.

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The Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City
Difference

Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City’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 Salt Lake City, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City 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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Dog Training Elite Salt Lake City uses top dog training techniques in Salt Lake City

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!

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
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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
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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
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Dallin is amazing! Giveg my family and I many different ways of handling our dog. It is amazing 👏
— Ronald Taylor
Posted October 1st 2024
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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
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We love our home sessions with Dallin.
— Rosanne Gerrard
Posted September 25th 2024
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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
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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
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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
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Trainers are great! I'm really impressed with the training and respect they show to both me and Harley. Very happy and Planning to start my other dog on training with them.
— Ann Garcia
Posted October 4th 2024
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Dallin, was awesome!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful!!!💜
— Karee Marinos
Posted October 2nd 2024
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Our boys love Jeff and the entire team at dog training elite! We started the boys with their puppy program and obedience classes. Our 2 year old malinois is currently in the personal protection program and our 2 year old English bulldog is working on completing the therapy dog certification. We highly recommend them.
— Morgan rowley
Posted October 2nd 2024
google
These guys are wonderful and I am so grateful to have them training my sweet girl right now. I've had a lot of extra requests and they've taken care of my needs above and beyond thus far. I expect to continue to work with them on an ongoing basis and other our other dog soon!! Thumbs up for Jake, McCall, and Oakley as well as Jeff, who did some home training with us earlier this year!! Laura Uhle
— Laura Uhle
Posted October 1st 2024
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If you’re willing to do your part, this team is amazing! We’re working with Dallin, and our dog adores him! Every lesson is life-changing for our dog and the whole family!
— Laura Lyle
Posted September 30th 2024
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McCall is so amazing! She really listens to what I’m saying and works so well with making sure not only my Service Animal Henry is understanding but that I as the handler is understanding as well. Love you McCall!
— Aubrey Slack
Posted September 28th 2024
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Dallin was professional in explaining the available programs -- without any pressure to "buy-up." I recently brought a 4y and 4m old Berner into my home. They exhibited their full range to him -- vocalization, jumpy, calm, puppy biting, and their need for attention. My animals quickly showed they were comfortable with him -- and he with them. We are looking forward to engaging in the 2w camp program!! Our vet is also delighted we have decided on this company/this program as a great fit!
— Rachel Parent
Posted September 27th 2024
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Very very impressed with Jeff he's an excellent trainer
— Cherry Lee
Posted September 26th 2024
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Great direction for me and a fun and structured atmosphere during training for my dog Phoenix!
— tracy brickner
Posted September 24th 2024
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The trainer was great. He was able to train me... and Juno (my Bernese) as well. We have gone from a dog with little obedience to a dog that walks without a leash. Something I didn't expect, the bonds between Juno and me are stronger.
— Tim Rose
Posted September 14th 2024
google
I have loved DTE and will happily recommend them to my friends and neighbors. They are professional, but also friendly and down to earth. We have loved the trainers we’ve worked with equally. Jeff is awesome! Our pup has loved him, and so do we. He is very knowledgeable and has helped us tremendously. Dallin is the best too! He is so gentle and friendly with our sweet dog, and we love his style. Our lives are so much better thanks to DTE and we are so happy with their service.
— Caroline Morris
Posted August 29th 2024
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