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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Cincinnati, OH.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

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 Cincinnati dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Cincinnati, OH and rely on positive reinforcement to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati

Training With An E-Collar

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

Cincinnati 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 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 in Cincinnati, OH 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

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Agility Through Basic Obedience Training
A women playing with her service dog in Cincinnati, OH.

The Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati Difference


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

  • Tammy Lynn Morgan
    Dec. 14, 2024
    I cannot express enough gratitude for Alex and his incredible service dog training program. From the very first meeting, it was clear that Alex is not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about his work. His patience, dedication, and understanding of both dogs and their handlers are truly exceptional. Our service dog, Ryker, has undergone a remarkable transformation under Alex's guidance. The training sessions were well-structured, informative, and tailored to meet our specific needs. Alex took the time to understand our goals and challenges, and he provided us with the tools and techniques necessary to succeed. The results speak for themselves. Ryker, while already a smart doodle, is even more well-behaved, confident, and a highly reliable service dog. The positive impact on our daily lives is immeasurable. We feel more independent and secure, knowing that we have a highly trained companion by our side. I highly recommend Alex to anyone in need of service dog training. His professionalism, expertise, and compassion make him a standout in the field. Thank you, Alex, for everything you have done for us! You aren't 'just our dog trainer', but you're now a family friend in our household, including your dog Buddy! You're welcome at our home anytime just to visit or for a playdate with Ryker & Buddy. Much Love Jeff & Tammy Morgan
  • J Kaster
    Dec. 12, 2024
    Alex did an amazing job training me to train our dog. I saw an immediate difference after just the first session and the week following of short (5 min) daily training sessions. She is much less anxious and has learned to follow our commands. I couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Shannon Rokey
    Dec. 11, 2024
    After finishing all of my one-on-one trainings with Trainer Alex, I feel so much more confident in my ability to work with my dog’s reactivity. Alex helped me navigate my dog’s food aggression and helped me grow in my confidence around redirecting my dog and correcting unwanted behavior. My dog and I are so much happier and healthier for it! Dog training, elite helped bring out the best in my dog and taught me how to use the appropriate tools for each of these challenges.
  • takeitha lawson
    Dec. 2, 2024
    I couldn't have chosen a better establishment to help my dog become a service dog. The professionalism and care demonstrated throughout the training process were excellent. It is clear that the trainers are true experts when it comes to dogs, and it's evident that they genuinely love them.
  • Annie Venerable
    Dec. 2, 2024
    Very helpful teaching me how to get my rescue to walk on a leash.
  • Kim
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Wow. Just wow. I can not say anything but amazing things about Dog Training Elite! We were looking to get a service dog for our little girl but were running into the issue if the extreme cost of it so we decided to go a different route and get a puppy and get it trained as a service dog. We searched for the best of the best and we stumbled upon Dog Training Elite and boy were we happy we did. After sending in an interest form we were contacted within the day and set up for a FREE in home consultation! We were wowed by everything they had to say and the price was not too bad for all we got! We signed up right on the spot! From the first visit to the last visit our trainer was amazing with our non verbal 4 year old daughter and the dog and our dog learned so so fast. They are not only there for your dog but to train YOU to train your dog when they aren’t there! If you are ready to take the time to invest life long strategies and skills for your dog… click to get more information. You will not regret it!
  • Kawartha Ohio
    Nov. 22, 2024
    We engaged Dog Training Elite to help with our young German Shepherd puppy, Rolo. Because we had owned and trained dogs previously Rolo already had many basic commands but we had issues with reactive barking and with getting him to focus on us instead of whatever was getting his attention. Because of his reactivity calm leash walking was a problem. We worked with Scott, who introduced us to the slip leash, the e-collar, and several new commands. With these new training aids we gained a much greater level of control over young Rolo and gained a lot more confidence in our ability to walk him. Scott was wonderful to work with. He soon made a friend of Rolo, who greeted Scott's arrival each lesson with great enthusiasm. Scott was clear in communicating with us too so we understood how to apply the training to Rolo. We also appreciate the group training sessions which help us work on Rolo's behavior around other dogs. We highly recommend Elite Dog Training, and Scott in particular.
  • Kody Pierson
    Nov. 19, 2024
    We are truly grateful for Scott and Jen. when we moved here , our dog was anxious, unruly, and struggled with listening to us. After just a couple training sessions we saw a remarkable improvement. Training with Scott has not only helped our dog learn to relax, but also strengthened our bond. I highly recommend Scott and Jen to anyone looking for exceptional dog trainers.
  • Kody Pierson
    Nov. 19, 2024
    We are truly grateful for Scott and Jen. When we moved here, our dog was anxious, unruly, and struggled with listening to us. After just a couple of training sessions, we saw a remarkable improvement. Training with Scott has not only helped our dog learn to relax but also strengthened our bond. I highly recommend Scott and Jen to anyone looking for exceptional dog trainers.
  • tim tuttle
    Nov. 17, 2024
    We recently re-homed a 4-year-old border collie named Alfie, who, although smart and active, had issues with reactivity both in the house and on the leash. Truthfully we were scared when Alfie was acting out. Alex from Dog Training Elite was a game changer for us. His patience and expertise not only helped Alfie but trained us as well. He introduced us to an e-collar, which became an invaluable tool in managing Alfie's behavior. In just a few weeks, Alfie developed great recall and would quickly go to 'place' even during reactive episodes. Alex also taught us proper leash-walking techniques, putting an end to Alfie's leash-pulling. The e-collar helped keep Alfie focused and discouraged his reactive behavior. What stands out the most is the confidence we now have in handling Alfie, knowing he's becoming an integral part of our family. Alex was always punctual, incredibly nice, and patient, and Alfie loved his visits. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite and Alex for anyone in need of professional dog training assistance.
  • Jillian Hegemann
    Nov. 12, 2024
    I cannot say enough good things about our experience just that I wish I did this sooner! I truly thought my dog was untrainable, I was scared to let him outside in our fenced in yard because he’d charge the fence and don’t get me started on walking him. We got to the point where only my husband could walk him. After training all of that has changed! I feel like I know how to control my dog in the yard and on the leash. And I can tell my dog is way more relaxed! Like he knows I’ve got it under control for the first time. We worked hard with our dog because we needed him to be successful! We have a baby and live by an elementary school and it was worth it!! The time, energy and resources are worth it for you and your dog!
  • Madeline Rieman
    Nov. 4, 2024
    Hands down the best decision I’ve made is choosing Cincinnati Dog Training Elite. The depth of knowledge I’ve learned & applied over the course of our training sessions has been incredible. I’ve seen my one year old puppy transform in so many positive ways & it goes without saying how impactful the Training Elite team has been, ensuring we are focusing on areas of concern I had at the beginning & tailoring the courses to fit my (and Boo Radley’s) needs all throughout. Huge shout out to our favorite dog trainer, Alex (who we now call Uncle Alex 😊), he’s so incredibly knowledgeable and patient with not only Boo Radley, but me as well. You’re in tremendous hands & you will see immediate results even after session #1. If your new puppy parent, or even want to brush up on overall training techniques for an existing pet, you will not regret making this decision. It’s well worth every penny, I promise!
  • Kylie Champagne
    Nov. 4, 2024
    An amazing program very helpful and patient did an amazing job working with my dog. I highly recommend there services.
  • Jeff Caldwell
    Nov. 2, 2024
    From the initial evaluation of the situation with our dogs through the final training session, Scott and DTE have been excellent. The thorough assessment from DTE resulted with us switching which dog needed the training. As training progressed, we included both dogs with wonderful results. Scott, thanks for the expertise, experienced handling and insight you provided us. I would definitely recommend DTE.
  • Sean Cox
    Oct. 24, 2024
    Our family’s dog learned so much in our sessions. My confidence as an owner increased and it has changed the relationship I have with my dog. I highly recommend this staff. Everyone involved is very professional.
  • Jim Swift
    Oct. 23, 2024
    Dog whisperers! Great in house training for our two terriers.
  • Lauren McRae
    Oct. 16, 2024
    My pup and I have had the best time working with everyone at Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati! Responses are always timely, at-home training and group training have been informative, and scheduling has been easy. They also go above and beyond ensuring that training, even at group class, works for me and my pup. We’re getting close to achieving a leash-less life in every scenario that we can. Pup pics included for fun
  • Shiann Massie
    Oct. 12, 2024
    The trainers were great! Worked with me for my crazy schedule and a payment plan! Very helpful. My dog is behaving and listening much better!
  • Holly Gooch
    Sep. 23, 2024
    Elite Cincinnati East was amazing! We had Alex as our trainer and he was wonderful! We bought our puppy for our daughter to eventually become a service dog for her. Alex was able to teach us the skills and work with us to train our puppy to perform the basic commands and have a strong foundation for further service dog training. Alex did more than show us how to work with our puppy; he taught us about how to read our puppy’s actions/body language and the best ways to communicate with our puppy what behavior we expect from her. Thanks to Alex we were able to figure out what was the best approach for training our puppy to get the best results. I would highly recommend Elite Cincinnati East and Alex!
  • Shelby Looper
    Sep. 11, 2024
    My partner and I recently moved in together. My dog and her dog did not get along very well with my dog being the main aggressor. We did 5 training sessions with Alex and couldn’t be happier. We can live in peace knowing that we have the tools in hand to keep our dogs living together happy and in peace. Great program to fit a lot of different needs that your dog might have.