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Classical Conditioning

Austin Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Austin, TX.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Austin, TX

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 in Austin Metro dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Austin, TX to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro 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 in Austin Metro

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Austin, TX 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 Austin classical conditioning dog trainers.

Austin 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 in Austin Metro 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 Austin, TX 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 in Austin Metro - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Austin, TX

Positive Reinforcement Training

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Off Leash Training

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Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

A women playing with her service dog in Austin, TX.

The Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Austin, TX uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro 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 in Austin Metro’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 Austin, TX, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro 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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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Jennifer Kisel
    Nov. 16, 2025
    Jenny and Donny are amazing. My dog had obedience training, we’re still going to group lessons and now, I upgraded to service dog training. They truly understand dog behavior and how to work with your dog. If you read a horrible review, please double check that it’s valid and not a scam. I’ve been a client for almost 6 months and nothing has happened to ever justify a poor score.
  • Jessica Stephen
    Jan. 29, 2023
    I have so much gratitude for the Dog Training Elite family! My dog, Ozlo, and I had quite a journey of challenges and I went through a myriad of trainers with little to no progress. I was feeling frustrated and helpless when I found DTE. My first phone call with them was an hour long. They truly listened to me and my concerns and needs. They are extremely knowledgeable and it's honestly the only time Ozlo made progress in overcoming severe stranger danger and dog reactivity. Seeing him be able to remain calm in a class with 15 dogs and people was a miracle! They continued to support me well after the training program had ended too. They are not just good trainers but good people that I trust.
  • Charlotte Warren
    Nov. 16, 2025
    Finally, we found the best of the best in dog trainers. Donny, Jenny and Michael brought professionalism and exceptional knowledge over the past months to train our high energy Border Collie. Their patience and encouragement have made a huge difference for our puppy. Thank you, Team DTE!
  • Kayla Reed
    Nov. 15, 2025
    Jenny has made this experience so easy. The application and interview process went smoothly. Her attentiveness to myself and my dog makes everything comfortable and safe. 5 stars aren't enough to show how amazing this organization is.
  • Jennifer Castro-Conde
    Nov. 14, 2025
    Gray and Denise were absolutely amazing to work with. I cannot recommend them enough! They're always available to respond to my questions in between sessions. Daisy has made so much progress after just a few sessions and has become so much more confident and obedient.We can't wait to start group classes!
  • Karen Cruickshanks
    Nov. 14, 2025
    I highly recommend DTE Austin! I can’t say enough good things about DTE and Jenny! We saw immediate improvement with our dog. It gave me the confidence and direction I needed! They are so kind, passionate about the work they do and easy to work with.
  • Flying H Ranch
    Nov. 14, 2025
    Jenny is a wonderful, hard working trainer who really knows her stuff. She is very informative and fun to work with!!
  • Austin and Carlea Hendrix
    Nov. 13, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite team is absolutely life changing. We have been training with Jenny for many months and just upgraded our package to lifetime because we believe in this program so wholeheartedly. Our dog has gone through puppy, obedience, and therapy training with DTE and we could not be happier with the results! Jenny is always available via call or text with any issues or questions we have and has coached us to be confident dog owners.
  • Victoria Roberts
    Nov. 13, 2025
    Amazing experience! Gray was so helpful after adopting our new dog. We were able to learn so much from him and build our pups confidence!
  • Walter Wingo
    Nov. 5, 2025
    Gray was very much informative by instructing me on how I was to do my part and how to do it successfully. He knows what needs to be done and how to do it effectively.
  • Kendra Roloson
    Nov. 4, 2025
    Michael has been a fabulous trainer - cannot recommend him enough! We saw a huge difference in our dog after our first session and, now, four sessions later, we have the perfect dog for our family. We’re so grateful for Dog Training Elite.
  • Brooke Miller
    Oct. 22, 2025
    We honestly cannot say enough positive things about working with Donny at DTE. He's worked with our two dogs who are both incredibly different and his connection, understanding, and ability to meet the needs of each has been next-level. Donny's calm, grounded energy and deep ability to read the dynamics of the home - both canine and human - are remarkable. He's been working closely with our son (who has a very vulnerable nervous system) and his service dog. Trust does not come easily for our child, yet Donny has earned it through his patience, empathy, and intuitive energetic understanding. Watching the bond he has helped build between our son and his service dog has been incredible. Donny's level of insight, expertise, and heart is unmatched. He clearly does not just train dogs - he supports families in finding more connection, confidence, and groundedness. We are endlessly grateful for his work and highly recommend DTE!
  • Arjun Mitra Reddy Donthala
    Oct. 9, 2025
    I had a good experience working with Mike. First off, he is very patient and understands both the dog and the parent, he gives me detailed explanations of dog’s behavior with human behavior examples, it clicks in my head right away. I am still continuing the training, will come back and add more, but so far having a good experience.
  • Lawton Cummings
    Oct. 3, 2025
    Mike has been incredible to work with. He immediately had our dog’s trust and was able to train our dog with each command. He was then patient with us as he taught us the skills to replicate. We also loved that he came to us. It’s hard to believe what we’ve accomplished with him in just a few sessions. Our dog went from not listening and barking like crazy to being the best boy ever!
  • Megan Mariani
    Oct. 2, 2025
    We’ve seen such a huge improvement in our 3-year-old pup since working with Mike! He’s not only helping our dog learn, but he’s also helping us gain confidence as owners. What stands out is how Mike explains the reasoning behind each piece of guidance—it gives us the tools to stay consistent at home. Our pup’s leash pulling and reactivity have already improved so much, and she’s doing great with place training and building confidence when we’re out of sight. Mike’s knowledge, calm approach, and clear communication have made all the difference — we couldn’t recommend him and Dog Training Elite more!
  • Jordanlehn S
    Sep. 22, 2025
    Working with DTE has been phenomenal. Everyone has been kind, professional, and understanding every step of the way, from our initial evaluation, through our individual training classes, to group classes. We have nothing but gratefulness for the DTE Austin Team. Our doggo has always been a good boy, but we needed some professional guidance on leash manners, general recall, and some anxiety related behaviors. Working with the DTE team, we not only learned how to work with our dog in various situations, but also the 'why' behind the training, and of how a doggy mind works. All of our questions were always met with patience and in depth explanations which made me feel how passionate the team is about what they do! My dog went from pulling, barking at other dogs on walks, me not having the confidence to let him off leash, or take him to busy areas – to by my side & chill, (and me knowing how to better handle situations if they come up). I have bonded so much more with my dog, and have so much more confidence in our mutual understanding, and am excited to continue enjoying life with my best pal! :) Highly recommend for any of their services. Thanks DTE!
  • jessica morales
    Sep. 16, 2025
    I definitely recommend getting your puppy or dog with Dog Training Elite! This is my first time ever getting a trainer and Bruce is learning so quickly with his trainer, Mike!! Bruce is a 4 month old Doberman and you can see Mike’s work progress with Bruce. They have such a great bond, I can’t wait to see more as Bruce is growing up.
  • Lila Peeler
    Aug. 7, 2025
    DTE helped me so much with training my service dog. They helped me pick a breed and breeder, and met with me and my dog the day after we brought him home. They gave me specific tasks to train by myself between sessions, and were always willing to answer questions over a text or call. Group classes were amazing, and when it came time for my dog's final test, I had no doubt that we would do well because of how much they helped with the training process. If I could give bonus stars, I would!!
  • Mike Mike
    Aug. 6, 2025
    Gray has taken my new puppy from a menace that terrorized my other dogs and chased and nipped at my children to a solid citizen that my entire family can enjoy. We haven’t even got past the puppy training yet and my only regret is we didn’t start sooner! If this much can be accomplished with my wild child I can’t wait to see where we go with our platinum program! I always thought my dogs were pretty well behaved, but now I see just how much is possible with a professional like Gray in your corner!
  • Dana Curtis
    Jun. 7, 2025
    I can’t say enough wonderful things about Dog Training Elite—and especially about Mia. From the very first session, Mia has brought so much heart, skill, and intentionality into training my dog, Ruthie, as a psychiatric service dog for my private practice. As a therapist and small business owner, this journey has been deeply meaningful to me, and Mia has been an incredible partner in the process. She approaches every session with patience, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the unique bond between handler and dog. Mia has helped me grow in confidence as a handler, and she’s supported Ruthie with such care and attunement—always meeting her where she’s at, while gently challenging her to grow. Thanks to Mia and the Dog Training Elite team, Ruthie and I are well on our way to becoming a working service dog team. I feel so supported, not just in the technical training, but in the emotional and relational side of this journey too. If you’re considering psychiatric service dog training—or any advanced training—Mia is someone you want by your side.