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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 St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg
Difference
Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg’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 St. Petersburg, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg 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!
Kim and her team are fantastic. They truly care about you and your dog(s) and helping your situation. Kim is very willing to adapt to your needs and has a great, no nonsense approach to dog training. She’s patient with the humans learning how to speak dog and she just makes it a fun and educational experience. So glad we picked Elite for our dog training.— Jessica Cahill
Posted September 11th 2024
Super knowledgeable about what they do and fantastic communication with customers— Quincy Chambers
Posted August 21st 2024
Cannot recommend highly enough!!!! Worked a miracle with our Doberman. Outstanding!!!!— Jill M. Ott
Posted August 20th 2024
We've had a great experience with Dog Trading Elite, specifically with our in home trainers Ryan and Janna. We called them because we rescued a Bernese Mountain Dog, Winnie, who was very fearful of almost everything and had no manners. We also wanted to try for the third time with our energetic 7 1/2 year old golden retriever, Murphy, who had some bad habits. The patience these two had with Winnie, who seemingly couldn't do anything easily, was remarkable. Murphy took to most of the training well, but needed an extra nudge when he was excited (which was often). They changed tactics often and the group classes have been so helpful to year them both in distracting environments. This training requires the owner to work with their dog, but provides long lasting results. They'll meet you anywhere, your home, Home Depot, wherever! Well worth the cost, our home is so much more balanced!— Leigh Smyser
Posted July 20th 2024
Awesome staff, always flexible to your needs, and care so much about the dogs they work with! I feel safe and confident in my service pup’s training because of this awesome team. Highly recommend!!— Izelle Fehrman
Posted July 19th 2024
I put my dog Faye into Dog Training Elite at about 8 months old. I had done training classes with Petsmart before but nothing truly worked. She is super food motivated but I just needed to find the right class for her. Dog Training Elite was beyond perfect us. Faye now has a perfect recall and I am able to walk her off leash. She is so beyond obedient. Everyone we met and worked with went above and beyond to make sure Faye got the training she truly needed. Me and Faye are so happy with the outcome of the training.— Madison Johnson
Posted June 26th 2024
I can't thank you guys enough! you've managed to help me take my Pharaoh from out of control to my best behaved dog. it's ultimately made Pharaoh a happier dog and me a happier dog mom. forever grateful— Jenni Fajvan
Posted June 8th 2024
I highly recommend these trainers to everyone!! I couldn’t be happier. They are amazing!!! They started with me right away with my puppy and now today he is passed his public access test. They are personal and really get to know you and your dog. Buddha also loves them! He’s a cane corso. They can train any dog. Thanks again for everything!!!— Jared Rhodes
Posted June 7th 2024
We highly recommend Dog Training Elite! Our 5 month old puppy learned so much over the 5 weeks of in home training and continues to learn at the Group Distractions Training on Saturdays at Seminole park in St. Petersburg. Aaron and the entire DTE training family are professional, compassionate, hands on and love what they do for you and your lovely pet. My puppy was able to learn all the commands during the one on one trainings and did a great job at home after the trainers were gone. The more we worked with her and had fun training, the more disciplined and consistent she became with commands. DTE is worth every penny on the investment and peace of mind. Please give them a call to schedule your free introduction.— Kyle Myers
Posted May 18th 2024
We began a search for a service dog about 2 years ago. About a year ago, by a stroke of luck, we were directed to Dog Training Elite Suncoast where we met Ryan. Ryan started a search and quickly found the perfect dog for my wife. They developed an instant bond. Then Ryan, Kim and Aaron went to work with Shadow’s training. Since then, Shadow has attained the service dog certification and has been busy at work working with my wife and giving her advance notification of an oncoming episode. We feel blessed with the results of the entire process and there is no way that we could have accomplished this on our own. We are continuing to attend group sessions and strengthening his skills. I would 100% recommend Dog Training Elite Suncoast to anyone.— Anthony Cistone
Posted March 1st 2024
I am so pleased with the training. Both the in home and group sessions have taught me and my dog so much. The trainers are patient and also make it fun for my dog. Aaron was so kind in including our older dog who wanted to learn as well. I wish I started the training years ago when my dog was a puppy.— carolyn james
Posted January 5th 2024
I can't imagine a better experience! Dog Training Elite St. Petersburg will improve the relationship between you and your dog by training you (the owner) how to communicate effectively with your fur baby. Not only will they teach you how to train commands, but they will challenge you how to take those commands to the next level. So, your dog can sit or down for 30 seconds? Great! Can they sit for 5 full minutes with a bicycle, runner, ball, and squirrel going by? With Dog Training Elite, you can train them to do this and more. Truly exceptional! They will take your dog's obedience and manners beyond where you ever thought possible.— Tonya Stafford
Posted September 24th 2023
The BEST dog training program in all of St. Pete! Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly trainers that customize to you and your dog’s needs! Can’t believe the remarkable transformation! If you’re looking to take your dog out for leisurely walks without pulling and lunging, call DTE! If you want to welcome guests to your home without barking and rushing the door, call DTE! If you want a well-mannered and behaved dog no matter the situation, call DTE! JUST CALL DTE! You won’t regret it!— Alisa Kellington-Welsh
Posted September 24th 2023