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German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America - and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!
Dog Training Elite in Boston has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience and personal protection training programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.
Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly. The professional training of Dog Training Elite in Boston will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite in Boston location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite in Boston recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.
If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite in Boston has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.
In-Home German Shepherd Training
Dog Training Elite in Boston offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite in Boston offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.
Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.
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.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Be Consistent
Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Get Plenty of Exercise
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Positive Reinforcement
Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Dog Training Elite in Boston has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite in Boston training method.
Elite Dog Training in Boston All Breeds. All Sizes. All Ages.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite in Boston uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite in Boston never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out.
The Dog Training Elite in Boston training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.
Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite in Boston’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today!
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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!
We and Happy have really appreciated and enjoyed the dog training at our home. The teachers have each been so helpful with plenty of techniques, strategies and answers for our questions. We are excited to pass the test and move toward having Happy become our therapy dog. All our thanks! DK & MS— Diana Kierein, LICSW
Posted May 4th 2024
From the scheduling to the personal service, the attention to detail with our dog. The way that Marcus is not only educating the dog, but educating us as a family. We can’t say enough!!!!— Cassandra Cuddy
Posted May 1st 2024
Amazing. I have a 2 year old pitbull mix that is wild. I was thinking about giving her up. Matt came in and taught me how to trainer her. He showed up every week and held us accountable, gave us homework and praised us on what we did right. Even after she bit him…… I thought there was no hope. I glad we got this training done. I am beyond grateful for him. Worth every single penny!— Sila Rosario
Posted April 30th 2024
Awesome team! Very kind and assertive. Always on time and very effective training. Very knowledgeable.— shannon guimaraes
Posted March 23rd 2024
The team at Dog Training Elite has been nothing short of amazing with my 6 month old lab puppy. We are training him to be a service dog and the week to week improvements based on Dog Training Elite’s curriculum have been immense. The team of Marcus, Jamie, and Barbara have given me and my puppy the time, guidance, and confidence to progress each step on the way to our goal. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite for any level of training for your dog.— Matt Parr
Posted January 15th 2024
I have been very pleased with the training from Elite. The trainer has been effective and it’s making a difference for our very spirited Boston Terrier.— Thomas McIsaac
Posted January 23rd 2024
We had a wonderful experience with Dog Training Elite! Marcus is so knowledgeable and caring about the dogs he works with. He helped us train our German Shepherd rescue and the results were almost immediate. Using his techniques, our pup has become less reactive and a better listener. He also teaches some pretty cool tricks! Overall, this company is outstanding and we have enjoyed every moment!— Maya Dube
Posted January 20th 2024
Professional dog trainers who know what they are doing. So glad we chose Elite. Our rescue dog was extremely fearful and difficult to train. Marcus and Matt are dog whisperers!— Andrea Adams
Posted January 11th 2024
The training provided was exactly what we needed. Everyone we dealt with was amazing! Highly recommend Dog training Elite Boston!— Rita-Marie Auble
Posted January 4th 2024
Great results with our dog as a result of the professional training we received.— John Casey
Posted January 10th 2024
The trainers were not only professional but also patient with my dog who has a long way to go. We have seen major improvements and intend to continue with the training! Would highly recommend their services to anyone who is looking for dog training!— Jael Osei - Kofi
Posted December 31st 2023
I highly recommend Dog training elite. Matt was an absolute pleasure to work with and koop loves him. They truly care about the dogs and owners. With their guidance our dog koop is a whole different dog.— Matthew Tie
Posted December 20th 2023
Our rescue dog Maggie came to us as a puppy and in spite of all the best intentions and love, she (and many of her littler mates in other homes) has been reactive in multiple ways. We used to host gatherings with friends and family, but since having Maggie, our house has had to be closed due to her unpredictable and antisocial behavior. However, we loved her completely and knew she could be the best dog if we had some help. Elite training was just the program for us. It is intensive and thorough and expects effort from both the dog and the owners, but the outcome is amazing! The trainers, specifically Matt, equipped us with the tools and skills to successfully take Maggie for walks, into public settings and we can even have friends come over again! We have learned so many ways to help Maggie succeed. She has worked hard to overcome her anxieties to meet our expectations with the help of this training. Thank you to Dog Training Elite for giving us the dog we knew she could be.— Letitia Bartow
Posted November 21st 2023
My boyfriend and I just moved to the area and were looking for a trainer for my 4 year old Dutch Shepard. I am so happy we found Dog Training Elite. From the first time we met Matt at our free consultation, it was clear he understood our goals with our dog. My dog can be difficult and reactive so I am always hesitant when bring her into new situations. Matt helped us get out of our comfort zone and taught us new techniques that have been extremely beneficial. He was able to cater to our goals and adjust the trainings as needed. We have seen so much improvement with our dog throughout our sessions and I could not recommend this training program enough!— Olivia Nortrup
Posted November 17th 2023
Marcus and Barbara delivered an amazing program and showed incredible skills in training my dog Didi. They were not only patient with my dog, but also with me as an owner to learn best practices and techniques to get better results. Regarding the program itself, one of the things I was concerned with was the E-collar, but I was surprised that majority of the training is about positive reinforcement and love (lots of pets for Didi) and the training collar is not at all what one might think. Both Marcus and Barbara showed commitment and care for dogs, and it made me feel extremely comfortable and happy with the choice. The improvement on both Didi and I started since day 1, so I cannot say enough good things about Dog Training Elite and their trainers Marcus and Barbara.— Massimo Nardi
Posted November 1st 2023
Our dog has come a long way with the 6 private sessions. She is much easier to handle. Is much calmer and seems happier. My only con is one of the trainers seemed new and not quite as knowledgeable. I asked about a specific problem about our dog chewing and she had no answer. However the next visit Jamie had a brilliant suggestion.— Laurie Weck
Posted October 28th 2023
The best decision we ever made for our sweet Augusta, was to work with Dog Training Elite. We had the most incredible training provided by Matt. Matt's dedication, passion, support and expertise are second to none. The training is as much for the humans as it is for the dog. Maybe more. I learned a ton, and I've bonded with my best friend Augusta like I never could have imagined. Thank you!!!— Red Curry
Posted September 28th 2023
From our first lesson, when Marcus was able to pat my dog, Gracie, I knew I made the right choice for a dog trainer. Only 2-4 people have been able to touch her since I’ve had her (6 years). Needless to say, I was amazed. We also worked with Jaime. She was great to work with as well with home sessions and a couple sessions at Home Depot, where Gracie handled the noise and people really well. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!— Robin Mael
Posted September 27th 2023
Wonderful trainers. Each trainer that came to house really understood our pups and us as well. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Boston for your training needs— Stephen Arnold
Posted September 19th 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite in Boston, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite in Boston works with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.