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Classical Conditioning

Augusta / Aiken Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Augusta / Aiken, GA.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA

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 Augusta dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Augusta / Aiken, GA to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite Augusta trainer , your dog will become conditioned and develop those “automatic reflexes” to commands such as sit, down, heel, break, and more.

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Dog Training Elite Augusta

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite Augusta NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Augusta / Aiken, GA 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.
A dog owner playing with his german shepard, learn more about our Augusta / Aiken classical conditioning dog trainers.

Augusta / Aiken Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment

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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 Augusta 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 in Augusta / Aiken, GA trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite Augusta - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Augusta / Aiken, GA

Positive Reinforcement Training

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Off Leash Training

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A women playing with her service dog in Augusta / Aiken, GA.

The Dog Training Elite Augusta Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Augusta / Aiken, GA uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite Augusta 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 Augusta’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 in Augusta / Aiken, GA, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite Augusta 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 consultation!

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You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

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Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Bailey Parr
    Nov. 11, 2025
    Dontevia is the best! She helped take our puppy from a nightmare to the best dog we could have asked for in just a few weeks. She sets the standard wonderfully for your pets and communicates how to continue setting the standard both at home and in a public setting. She always listens to our concerns and questions and explains everything so well. Dontevia is able to break things down in a way that makes sense, while also clearly and effectively communicating with your pup. She builds such a wonderful relationship with the pet, as well as the client. With Dontevia's guidance, our Rango has become a confident and well behaved pup at only 8 months old. He is able to enjoy much more freedom and join us on more adventures that would not have been possible without this training. We are constantly receiving compliments on how well behaved Rango is and he loves having a job that is mentally stimulating and fun!
  • Mikaela Fitts
    Nov. 8, 2025
    We have had three training sessions so far with Dontevia and we are beyond impressed. Our dog, Rocky, has already shown such a huge improvement in his behavior and responsiveness. Dontevia is patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what she does. She explains each step in a way that makes it easy to understand and continue practicing at home. This has been the most effective, positive experience by far. We’re so grateful for the progress Rocky has made and we highly recommend her to anyone looking for an amazing dog trainer!
  • Tara Gaspar
    Oct. 25, 2025
    Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Augusta. Dontevia is absolutely fantastic! She worked with our puppy and has built so much confidence in him. He loves training with her and is so excited to see her. You and your puppy are in good hands with Dontevia and Dog Training Elite!!
  • Myrna I. Carballo Malave
    Oct. 25, 2025
    Dontevia, she's the best! My dog ​​Milo loves her very much.❤️ We're so grateful for her.
  • Kayleigh Bradley
    Oct. 23, 2025
    Dontevia is the ABSOLUTE BEST! She’s wonderful to work with and gives clear, direct instruction on how to train your dog. Her energy is always positive and my girl responds SO well to her. Our training with Donte has given my girl so many essential skills and improved confidence to enable her to be a service dog for my needs. If you’re looking into any type of dog training - Elite is the place and Dontevia is your girl! I specifically chose to have ALL of my training sessions with her and our progress is amazing. Nami has the opportunity to be an amazing service dog because of this experience, and we are so happy with our choice to choose Elite and Dontevia!! (Photo added shows Nami giving a paw for some love!)
  • Pam
    Sep. 20, 2025
    Dontavia is so knowledgeable and patient with Honey and me. Its been a pleasure working with her. She is encouraging when I get discouraged. She is very intuned to Honey and her special needs. Honey has come a long way in obedience since we started in just 3 months! I saw a huge difference in just a few sessions. Thank you Dontavia for being such a sweet special person and an awesome trainer.
  • Morgan Frober
    Sep. 12, 2025
    This training is amazing, love working with Dontevia. She gave me and my dog the personal care and attention I was looking for. I have notice significant change in my dogs behavior all thanks to training.
  • Bev Desalles
    Sep. 11, 2025
    Donteoia is a PAWSOME trainer!!! Patient, pleasant, yet persistent.
  • Daphne Colson
    Aug. 8, 2025
    Dontavia has been a very encouraging trainer. She works excellently with my Yorkie named Kiwi and myself. She makes sure that Kiwi is obedient, respectful, and uses her manners well. She makes me feel comfortable to ask questions and share concerns that I have with training when we are not at a training session. She is great at offering new ideas for training from all of her experience. I feel fully supported on my service dog training journey. Thank you so very much! She is just fantastic to work with!
  • Nicole N
    Aug. 7, 2025
    Dontavia has been working with Onyx to help train him to be a service dog. She’s been great not only in teaching him, but also me! We’re making great progress and we love her visits.
  • Jae Wilkerson
    Jul. 31, 2025
    Dontevia is awesome wit my pup! She’s the best trainer I’ve worked with and definitely recommend giving her a chance to train your pups!
  • Jaysen Jones
    Jul. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is an amazing dog trainer. She helps the client build confidence when unsure if a command is done improperly. Dontevia is also on time every session and is very kind. She’s helpful when correcting the clients mistakes and it helps a lot! I recommend her for anyone looking for a service dog training. She helps the dog believe in themselves and the client as well. She even is responsive to any questions you may have after the training session is over on days you’re not training.
  • marlene chancey
    Jul. 19, 2025
    The best trainer , she has done wonders with our Bella !
  • Brittany Downing
    Jun. 19, 2025
    We have two Great Danes that have so much energy and strong personalities. We were to the point we couldn’t even have friends over or go out of town. Dog training elite has completely changed our dogs behaviors, for the better! Steve is amazing and patient. Dontevia (super sweet trainer) is so kind and outgoing, she created a bond with our youngest Dane that trusts no one! Would recommend to everyone! It saved our home atmosphere, won’t own another dog without this training.
  • Kedz Law
    Jun. 19, 2025
    We have a German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix that Dontevia has been training to become a service dog, and we couldn’t be more impressed. Her expertise, patience, and calm confidence make all the difference. No matter the challenge, she always has a thoughtful solution, and it’s clear our dog absolutely adores her. Highly recommend Dontevia for anyone looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate trainer!
  • Noh
    Jun. 19, 2025
    These guys are legit!!! They’re knowledgeable, friendly and very accommodating. Dontevia has been great as well. She very attentive and addresses our concerns with solutions.
  • Melissa Manigault
    Mar. 28, 2025
    Dontevia is the best! She is so easy to work with and learn from. Over the past month, she has been incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and supportive as we’ve worked with our pup. Her training techniques are both effective and gentle, and she always takes the time to explain the “why” behind each method, ensuring we feel confident reinforcing the training at home. Not only does she have an amazing connection with dogs, but she also knows how to coach owners to bring out the best in their pets. In just three weeks, our pup has gone from having minimal obedience training to no longer pulling on the leash, mastering sit and stay, and even going to her place on command. The transformation has been remarkable, and it’s all thanks to Dontavia’s expertise and dedication. If you’re looking for a professional, caring, and highly skilled trainer, we wholeheartedly recommend Dontavia and Dog Training Elite!
  • Tonya Horton
    May. 2, 2025
    I love Dontevia, she is awesome with Amina.
  • Ms. Jones
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is beyond sweet! Not only is she knowledge, but she’s personable and she instructs in a manner that is easily understandable to both me and my pup!
  • Robin Miller
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Dontevia is amazing. Her knowledge and ability to teach are outstanding. She has made my relationship with my new puppy less stressful. She is truly a the Dog Whisperer.