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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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Central Nashville uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville 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 Central Nashville’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!
Such a great experience working with Dog Training Elite. They did an amazing job training my dog! They did an even better job educating me so that way I can be consistent with keeping my dog well trained. Highly recommend their service! Worth every penny!— Branson Lewis
Posted May 9th 2024
Had a great experience with Shawn and would recommend 10/10— Jake Holmes
Posted April 26th 2024
Had a Great experience at the Dog Training Elite Clarksville. High recomend. Shawn was super.— Penny Hale
Posted April 25th 2024
Dog Training Elite has been life changing! Our lab is now the most obedient dog. If you’re looking for dog training, look no further!— Lindsay Robison
Posted April 21st 2024
I love Dog Training Elite and how far my dog has come with her aggression towards other dogs. It has given us so much freedom with her now! I am so thankful!— Andie Haslam
Posted April 21st 2024
Working with Parker has been so helpful! I learned so much and my dog has made so much progress. Can’t say enough good things about Dog Training Elite!— Hannah Mason
Posted April 21st 2024
Shawn is great with the doggos. He did amazing with my pup. You can tell he takes his job serious and loves these animals.— Alex Fotias
Posted April 20th 2024
Shawn is amazing with our dog. The connection they share is as if they have been together for the past 8 years. Highly recommend.— John Buie
Posted April 20th 2024
5-STARS all the way! I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough, especially thanks to Parker, their incredible dog trainer. Parker's depth of knowledge and expertise in canine behavior is truly impressive. His ability to teach both dogs and their owners is unmatched; he breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand lessons. What's more, Parker's patience knows no bounds. He takes the time to ensure every dog and owner feels comfortable and confident through out the training process. If you're looking for top-notch dog training, look no further! Thank you Parker and Dog Training Elite!— Alisa Kellington-Welsh
Posted April 19th 2024
We love elite! Izabel is the best and our Goldendoodle, Nash has made so much progress!— Kami Harold
Posted March 30th 2024
These dogs are the most well-trained and behaved dogs I've ever seen!— Katie Gurney
Posted February 20th 2024
Wow, so happy with my experience here. The amount of knowledge that I learned from dog training elite was incredible. My pup and I are so grateful for the experience.— Timothy Ochoa
Posted December 9th 2023
One of the most premier and professional dog training companies I’ve ever been affiliated with! If you live in the area and you’re looking for a good trainer in, look no further.— Ethan Seegmiller
Posted December 8th 2023
We met with Dog Training Elite earlier in the year and decided to go with them to train our Great Dane Shada. We could not be happier with them. The transformation that she has made is nothing short of spectacular. Before working with them she was eating poo and was very misbehaved. Now not only has those been rectified, we went even further and had her trained as my service animal. Their attentiveness, natural ability and hands on experience are second to none. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.— Jonathan Breckel
Posted November 28th 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite Central Nashville, 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 Central Nashville 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.