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While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.
Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite in Cleveland’s programs, including in-home training!
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite in Cleveland location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
In-Home Training
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.
Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, stay, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.
Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.
Trainers from Dog Training Elite in Cleveland seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.
The Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Difference
There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.
- Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
- Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
- Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite in Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
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.
Start Your Obedience Training Journey
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.
Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite in Cleveland today to start your dog obedience training!
Obedience Training FAQs
What age can a dog start obedience training?
The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
What issues will obedience training address?
Besides basic commands like sit, stay, heel, etc., dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
Are shock collars used?
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
Why in-home training?
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.
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!
Great staff and great training! You can tell they love their job, love dogs and love helping people move to the next level in their dog training.— Coach Dan Howard
Posted April 28th 2024
We had a great experience with Dog Training Elite! We were sold the minute we had the pleasure of meeting Josh and Lexi and got to learn about them and the wonderful training program. Our puppy Maggie was 12 weeks old when we started her basic training with Lexi. She was very professional, efficient and effective with training and also really fun to work with! Maggie loved her and was SO excited to see her every week. It's been such a positive experience for us as dog owners to learn how to train Maggie in a way that makes it fun and get the results that we want. We have moved through the in-home puppy classes and obedience classes and Maggie has learned all the basic commands and good manners, on leash and off, in a program that was tailored for her and the way she best learns. We feel very comfortable taking her out and about with us. We are looking forward to the Saturday group training sessions with Josh soon. Maggie is going to love it!— Lori Davis
Posted April 26th 2024
Josh and Lexi have been in my home for multiple sessions and not only are the professional and knowledgable, but they are really personable as well. We have a great time each session and my 7 year old dog has made tremendous progress in just 3 sessions. I can't rave enough about these guys, you will not be sorry if you choose them for your canine family!— Agata Stasiak
Posted April 13th 2024
I have so much more confidence in my dogs obedience thanks to elite dog training. Worth every penny.— Meredith Mazza
Posted April 10th 2024
The Puppy Package was just what I needed to set my little guy up for success! Even with all of my research, I still needed some help! Josh was awesome and patient and gave me the tools to train my puppy. I plan to continue my training with Josh to help build on Winston’s (and my) skills! I would recommend this for any dog owner!— Christy Gearo
Posted March 25th 2024
I can honestly wish I could give more than 5 stars. As Josh and Lexi are amazing. I couldn’t ask for a better set of training. Josh is absolutely incredible and I am proud to support him and anyone who works with or for him. I admit if I wanted to stop what I’m doing and become a dog trading this is certainly the organization that I would be part of. By far this has been the greatest training I have ever been a part of. I am motivated and so is my pup as we look forward to our next class every week.— Josh Pallardy
Posted March 25th 2024
Josh helped our dog, Rossi, learn so much! He was very experienced, knowledgeable, and answered all our questions and assisted with all our concerns. Would absolutely recommend him for any training!— Alarra Jordan
Posted February 24th 2024
Josh from Dog Training Elite is a fantastic trainer. Josh has helped us with the whole process of training our dog. From helping us select the best puppy to all of the training we have needed. With all of the hands on in depth training our dog has learned so fast and is excelling at public access and the group training. Josh has answered every question we have had and is training our dog to be a service dog and helping us through the whole process. I would 100% recommend Josh and Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland for anyone who wants their dog trained.— thomas hartline
Posted February 22nd 2024
We rescued a 6mo aussiedoodle while having a 6mo baby, 3yo and 8yo. We were immediately overwhelmed and knew we needed support to have the family dog we dreamt of. Josh and his team are amazing. They are so professional, calm and collected. Their attitude toward our dog is that she can do it. She wants to know the ropes and to be a good dog. In just a few sessions, we noticed improvement in her obedience. Two months ago, we could hardly walk her on a leash as she pulled and chewed the line. Now, I can walk her and my double stroller with ease. I cannot recommend this team enough! She can hangout on our porch while the kids play and other dogs walk by, no problem at all. It is money SO well spent to invest in this training.— Mary Breslin
Posted February 22nd 2024
Andrea has helped us train our golden retriever to be a service dog for my child. She and her team are incredibly phenomenal and I would highly recommend them. Kiddo was admitted to hospital and Andrea even met us there to work with him on some hospital specific skills. They’ve become part of our family!— Tonya Knowles
Posted February 13th 2024
Josh and his crew are some great trainers. I appreciate everything they did with my dog Rhys, I’ve seen a dramatic change in Rhys’s behavior since working with them. Highly recommend working with them, make it easy to learn with them by breaking everything down and explaining what we did and how we did it. I can’t thank them enough.— Colin Ransom
Posted January 28th 2024
We have been working with Josh since our dog was a puppy. We started with the puppy training and transitioned into the adult program. Josh has been amazing! We have tried other trainers with previous dogs (including board and train) and this has been by far the best experience we’ve had. Josh teaches you and your dog at the same time. Not only do you learn the fundamentals but he teaches you so that you can teach your dog anything outside the scope of the class. I would recommend Josh to anyone!— Tony Sileo
Posted January 7th 2024
We are completely blown away with the "magic" that Josh brings to the training sessions. He is articulate and knowledgeable and shares that knowledge in a way that makes it easy to understand and follow. We saw an immediate change in our weimaraner after just the first session. It's made visiting friends and family so much easier.— Jeff Harbin
Posted December 23rd 2023
After going through 5 other trainers, we are super-grateful to have found Josh Lopez and DTE. He’s experienced, creative, dependable and committed to helping us resolve all our dog-training challenges. Having an older dog with established long-standing issues makes it more challenging, but he doesn’t give up. We’ve seen great success in several areas (dog aggression, not coming when called) and anticipate a long-term ongoing relationship with Josh. I recommend DTE highly— Beth Schuster
Posted December 23rd 2023
Josh has been fantastic at helping us get our puppy Nugget to a place where he is much better behaved. We went from a mindset of, "oh no we might have to rehome this new puppy that won't stop chasing our cats and kid," to a point where he listens to basic commands and is now a happy, welcome part of our household. Thank you so much, Josh, you're appreciated more than you know!— Sonya Acosta
Posted December 23rd 2023
Josh is awesome to work with and gave us all the tools to train our Bernese puppy to be better behaved. By far the best trainer I've used!— Andrew dutt
Posted December 23rd 2023
Josh has been training my shepard Emma, ( and myself) for a while now. His training techniques and attitude before, during and after classes FAR exceeds any and all expectations that I had. Emma is a very stubborn dog at times and he will give tips and tricks to help me. I really enjoy the group classes. Emma and I have both learned a lot and also made a couple of friends along the way.— Bill Pawloski
Posted December 23rd 2023
Training is amazing, Josh has worked with our dog and it is amazing how well behaved our dog is now.— Michael Hogan
Posted December 23rd 2023
My wife and I have a new puppy who was causing tons of stress in the home. Dog Training Elite has helped tremendously. Our dog, Nugget has improved a lot since we started the training. He is more obedient and confident. He also enjoys the training sessions. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who wants to have a well-behaved and happy dog.— Jaime Acosta
Posted December 23rd 2023
Josh is an amazing trainer and makes you feel heard and helps with any question you have regardless of the time. He makes all the time for you and takes the time to get to know each person and dog individually. I highly recommend.— Olga Pierce
Posted September 5th 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite in Cleveland, 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 Cleveland 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.