Request a Free Assessment
Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?
Your puppy or older dog has completed basic obedience training. Congratulations! You and your pet have not only developed trust and strengthened your bond, but your puppy or dog is well on their way to becoming a loyal, loving companion.
Dog Training Elite Cincinnati knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.
It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?
Dog Training Elite offers dog training classes in Cincinnati for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.
Se habla español!
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.
Benefits of Group Classes
Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have. Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:
Socialization
Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.
Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite Cincinnati likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.
Focus
Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.
Hands on Learning
In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite Cincinnati’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.
Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite Cincinnati will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.
*Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.
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 Cincinnati Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Cincinnati training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Cincinnati focuses on positive reinforcement, also called “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown positive reinforcement to be more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.
Dog Training Elite Cincinnati does not use punishments or shock collars and instead pairs positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. 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. Dog Training Elite Cincinnati’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.
Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training
Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:
Your Dog is Destructive
Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
Your Dog is Aggressive
Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash
Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful
If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
Your Dog Ignores You at the Park
Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.
Join a Group Class Today!
Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite Cincinnati location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today. Start building a community for you and your dog, and continue to strengthen your bond with your furry best friend.
Find a trainer near you today!
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!
Dog Training Elite helped us with our 3 year old basset who had severe separation anxiety. She knew basic commands, and Alex was still able to take us to new levels and met us where we were at with our specific issues and needs. Highly recommend!— Cory Reynolds
Posted April 22nd 2024
Alex is an outstanding dog trainer who worked wonders with our 6-month-old Bernedoodle, Snoopy! His kindness and patience were evident throughout the training sessions, and Snoopy responded positively to his techniques. Thanks to Alex, our family now and enjoys peaceful walks, and we no longer dread visitors at our front door. Alex’s expertise has greatly improved our relationship with Snoopy, and we highly recommend him for anyone seeking effective dog training. -The Fitch Family— Little Rascals Photography
Posted April 9th 2024
Alex is a fantastic trainer. His love for dogs is easy to see. We loved how quickly he learned our puppy’s personality and adapted training to optimize her strengths. The whole experience was easy and delightful. Everyone in the company is friendly, professional and supportive. I absolutely will use them on our next dog and strongly recommend them to everyone.— Jenna Meyer
Posted April 1st 2024
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
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
Excellent trainers. Friendly! Really cared about how my dog and I were progressing.— Josh VanAs
Posted March 16th 2024
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
They work wonders for your furry friends, excellent group of trainers!— Steve Lane
Posted November 20th 2023
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
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
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.