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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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati.
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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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.

See Our Pricing

Elite Dog Training in Cincinnati All Breeds. All Sizes. All Ages.

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The Dog Training Elite Cincinnati
Difference

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

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!

Our experience with Elite Dog Training was amazing! Alex our trainer was wonderful with my dogs. They have several physical limitations that he was respectful of and provided multiple options for them. I could tell each time that he thought about our dogs before each session and what might work best to help them. Above all I could tell that he loved what he does, which came through and helped to make our experience so successful. Not only are my dogs better behaved but I can see their confidence has increased. My dogs are both rescues who have bad cases of PTSD, so seeing them come into their own and feel comfortable has been the best part of my experience.
— Amanda Boeshart
Posted March 23rd 2024
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Our sweet puppy is doing so well with her training! Thank you, Alex, for the excellent training!! She’s about to pass her service dog training certification test and we are so excited!! She’s gone to many restaurants, group therapy, counseling and COSI for the day!! It’s so great to have her with us all the time!! Thanks so much!!
— Sarah VanAs
Posted March 17th 2024
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Excellent trainers. Friendly! Really cared about how my dog and I were progressing.
— Josh VanAs
Posted March 16th 2024
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I would highly recommend working with Dog Training Elite. Our basset hound rescue, Harold, was highly reactive and would not let us take care of basic needs like getting a harness on to go outside, grooming or going to the vet. We knew he needed training, but could not take him out of the house to a trainer. Michelle, the office manager, was very helpful in getting us set up for an evaluation and training. Scott and Jenn came to our home, evaluated Harold, and over a period of six weeks taught us how to deal with Harold's idiosyncrasies. They gave us the tools that we needed to work with Harold, BUT we had to put in the day-to-day work to utilize those tools, which we did. Within six weeks, we had a new dog. Harold figured out that he could trust us and that changed all of our lives.
— Sue McFarland
Posted March 15th 2024
google
This company is amazing, if you are looking for dog training that works, then this is your company. We were thinking of re homing our dog due to his behavior. We thought he wasnt the right fit for our family, until Alex came out and after 5 weeks of training we now have a different dog. He responded to the training immediately, Alex.and this company really care about your dog and their progress. It has been the best decision we have made.
— Joe Tinker
Posted March 14th 2024
google
Alex has been so great to work with. We have gained the confidence to be able to train our dog and be able to take him anywhere with us. We are so grateful for Alex's patience and knowledge to walk us through the process!
— Shelly Buck
Posted March 7th 2024
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Alex does a great job of listening to what you are trying to accomplish and uses proven techniques to help you train your furry friend. Training US was was the hardest part. 😁
— Andy Buck
Posted March 7th 2024
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Alex was wonderful with our German Shepherd. He paid attention to Gunner’s cues and took it from there. If you need someone to help with an anxious big dog like ours, I would not hesitate to call him.
— Christy Westendorf
Posted February 12th 2024
google
We have a very reactive dog. Great with those she loves and aggressive with strangers. This includes pizza delivery, door dash drivers, or friends and neighbors! We’ve tried Very expensive dog training services in the past from specialized Behavioral Vets to those with many years of experience with reactive dogs. Scarlet received the meds she requires and we learned to read her behavior but her behavior didn’t really change. We decided to give “Dog Training Elite” a chance. Within 2-3 sessions with Alex, Scarlet became a different dog. The collar acts as gentle reminder to stop her crazy behavior and she then can focus on her commands. I’m confident Scarlet is a good dog with an extremely high amount of fear and anxiety. This training is helping her to calm her brain and organize her thoughts so she can control her behaviors. I highly recommend Alex and Dog Training Elite Cincinnati East. Alex genuinely cares for your pets and their success and is a highly motivated trainer. Run don’t walk if you are looking for dog training with a unique and effective system.
— Kathy Harrison
Posted February 11th 2024
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Alex was great with our dogs!
— Julie Connell
Posted February 11th 2024
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Alex did a great job with my Great Dane, she wasn’t awful before she just needed to learn some manners. He was detailed and took his time teaching her and myself all the tricks! Highly recommend.
— Lydia Turner
Posted January 31st 2024
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Dog Training Elite has been the most effective tools I’ve had for training my dog. Alex VanWeeldon provided superior instruction for me and my toy Golden-doodle and I can’t wait to get started on my other dog. Within a day of her training the high pitched excessive barking was completely under control. I have a very busy schedule but working only 15 minutes a day on her training has addressed all concerns for raising a happy, and well-behaved dog. I was amazed with the results because at 1-1/2 years old she had established some pretty annoying habits. The training absolutely works and I highly recommend Dog Training Elite and Alex!l
— Bonnie Esposito
Posted January 19th 2024
google
Scott and Jen with Dog Training Elite are phenomenal! We have a 3-year-old mini Aussie/heeler mix named Mazie who is a big ball of anxiety and stubbornness, but is super sweet with the people she knows. When we started with DTE, Mazie was extremely reactive to new people in our house and when seeing dogs on walks. Scott and Jen have been tremendously patient working with us and Mazie and have guided us through numerous strategies to reduce Mazie's reactiveness. We are absolutely thrilled that Mazie is no longer reactive to people coming in our house! The in-home sessions were exactly what Mazie needed and she has started to join the group classes instead of watching from a distance while losing her mind. We are continuing to work with Mazie when she is around other dogs but she is miles ahead of where she was before we started the DTE program! We highly recommend Scott and Jen with DTE for anyone who struggles with a reactive dog :)
— Micah Garcia
Posted December 27th 2023
google
I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Cincinnati to train your puppy/dog or emotional support pup. I loved their specialized services they offer. The trainers are so caring, reliable and a joy to work with.
— Danielle Seymore
Posted December 18th 2023
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They work wonders for your furry friends, excellent group of trainers!
— Steve Lane
Posted November 20th 2023
google
It has been wonderful working with Scott and Jen to address the problems (primarily fights exuberant puppy/older dog) we were having with our puppy dogs. We gained insight into both dogs behaviors and know what to watch for to prevent fights. Also, they equipped us with training aids and worked with us individually to lay the foundation of obedience. After several weeks we began group instruction to work on obedience with distraction of other dogs in local park/public settings. I highly recommend Scott and Jen at DTE Greater Cincinnati! They changed our pack dynamics in the best way.🐾🐾
— Emily Webb Miller
Posted July 14th 2023
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It has been wonderful working with Scott and Jen to address the problems (primarily fights exuberant puppy/older dog) we were having with our puppy dogs. We gained insight into both dogs behaviors and know what to watch for to prevent fights. Also, they equipped us with training aids and worked with us individually to lay the foundation of obedience. After several weeks we began group instruction to work on obedience with distraction of other dogs in local park/public settings. I highly recommend Scott and Jen at DTE Greater Cincinnati!
— Emily Miller
Posted July 14th 2023
google
Dog Training Elite is very professional and personable. Within a week of attending a training session, which was offered at the house, we could see immediate results. Our dog loves the training sessions with other dogs as well, and is always excited to attend. I highly recommend this company, well worth your money and time. Your search is over, you won't regret it!
— Becky Lynn Bridgman
Posted June 26th 2023
google
When we realized we needed some extra support with training our dog we went on the hunt for a trainer that we felt would meet our needs and our dog’s needs. We felt amazingly confident and comfortable with Scott and Jen and so did our pup. She has made amazing progress already and continues to improve every day. We are even considering enrolling our less difficult dog in training now based on the progress of the one in training. They truly understand dogs and care for each and every one they work with. Thank you!
— Laura Marsh
Posted January 26th 2023
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Elite Dog Training helps your dog become a happy, trusted part of the family. They help train you to help train your dog so you can build the best relationship possibly with your furry friends ☺️
— Chelsea Winterman
Posted November 30th 2022
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Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite Cincinnati, 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 Cincinnati 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.

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