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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Columbus

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

Dog Training Techniques

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

Training With An E-Collar

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

Columbus 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 Columbus 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 Columbus, OH trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

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A women playing with her service dog in Columbus, OH.

The Dog Training Elite Columbus Difference


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

Get Your Free Assessment

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

  • Joanne Beyer
    Dec. 12, 2024
    I am very happy with our choice of dog training. Seeing how much not only our dogs have learned, but ourselves as well. I couldn’t be happier. Thank you for all your help! Joanne and Dave / Buster and Eva
  • Tiffany Bettac
    Dec. 14, 2024
    Brennan has been amazing with our super smart high energy Australian shepherd collie mix. He’s always willing to adapt and try new things with her until we get it dialed in. Callie looks forward to all her sessions with Mr. Brennan.
  • Haley Shots
    Dec. 12, 2024
    We found Elite Dog training at the pet expo, and no other trainers caught our attention like they did. They were very welcoming , understanding, and instantly came up with a plan that was executed perfectly . She’s stubborn but caught on quickly. I’m so proud of my dog Lady and how far she has came. If it wasn’t for Brennon who knows how lady would be. We got her training just in time . I am unsure of her background history, I found her running through traffic , she was severely matted and scared. Couldn’t find the owner, and now she goes up to people , she isn’t as shy, and she really is so loved and living her best life … thanks to Elite dog training !!!
  • Haley Shots
    Dec. 12, 2024
    If you knew my dog, The picture would say it all… the fact she was able to stand on a bucket! When my lil Lady would be so scared to even be near a step… We found Elite Dog training at the pet expo, and no other trainers caught our attention like they did. They were very welcoming , understanding, and instantly came up with a plan that was executed pretty . I’m so proud of my dog Lady and how far she has came. If it wasn’t for Brennon who knows how lady would be. We got her training just in time . I am unsure of her background history, I found her running through traffic , she was severely matted and scared. Couldn’t find the owner, and now she goes up to people , she isn’t as shy, and she really is so loved and living her best life … thanks to Elite dog training !!
  • Monica Rickrich
    Dec. 11, 2024
    My rescue used to snap at everyone! After training with Brennan, she now sits on the couch with strangers after 5 minutes of meeting them! Brennan is amazing! You can't go wrong with him and Ami!!
  • Edward Solano
    Dec. 11, 2024
    They are great experts in dog behavior. Their training has been life-changing for our 9-mo the old puppy!
  • Sue Schlairet
    Dec. 11, 2024
    Very knowledgeable and helpful. Extremely pleased and would definitely recommend!
  • Sue schlairet
    Dec. 11, 2024
    Great experience - well worth the money!!
  • Laura Lawrence
    Dec. 11, 2024
    Enjoy the extra weekend sessions. My dog Cosmo is getting used to existing with the other dogs. I have learned myself how to handle him in different scenarios. Brennan had done a great job teaching us how to be comfortable around other dogs.
  • Brandi Orsini
    Nov. 16, 2024
    Very pleased with our experience with Brennan and Dog Training Elite Columbus! My girl can be a little stinker and Brennan never gives up on her (or me!)…and keeps coming up with new ways for me to challenge her and work toward our goals. Thank you, Brennan! I think you are stuck with us for a while! 😉
  • Kathy
    Nov. 9, 2024
    I would like to say our trainer Brennan was amazing ! I learned so much that I would have not thought about doing with Pickle! How to give Pickle commands when needed, and obedience training . Pickle was excited to see Brennan each visit ! Thank you Brennan!
  • Leann
    Nov. 9, 2024
    My family is so grateful for the training that Brennan was able to share with us and our dog Pickle. The training helped relieve a lot of stress we had been feeling before reaching out for help. He went above and beyond to answer any questions that we had along the way. Our lessons felt personalized, and we were grateful that he would take whatever time was needed until we felt comfortable practicing that week’s lesson on our own. Pickle also had a lot of fun during the lessons and got some treats along the way. Two months later, Pickle is still doing really well with all that he has learned from Brennan. Thank you for all that you do!
  • Simon Freitas
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Brennan is my one and only dog trainer. I got my dog army last summer and she has come so far because of all the work that Brennan has put in with us. If you need to train your animal to be a service dog, listen to your commands, or do fun tricks then sign up with this guy!!!
  • Emily Heath
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Brennan is amazing! He was a pleasure to work with and he was great with our Frenchie, Tully. It was amazing to see her quick transfomation in the short time we worked together. Thanks to Brennan we have a really great relationship with our pup now. 10/10 deff reccomend, worth every penny.
  • Emily Heath
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Brennan is amazing! He was a pleasure to work with and he was great with our Frenchie, Tully. It was amazing to see her quick transfomation in the short time we worked together. Thanks to Brennan we have a really great relationship with our pup now. 10/10 deff reccomend, worth every penny.
  • Natasha Schafer
    Oct. 20, 2024
    I can't recommend Dog Training Elite enough! Brennen, our trainer, is exceptional. His kind yet firm approach creates a positive atmosphere for both dogs and handlers. He takes the time to assess each handler's abilities, ensuring everyone is equipped to train effectively. With a focus on positive reinforcement, Brennen's methods truly work. He has been working with my Doberman, Minnie, who is in training to be a therapy dog in a behavioral health setting. If you're looking for top-notch dog training, look no further!
  • Nick Smith
    Oct. 16, 2024
    Brennan is the best dog trainer in town. He is the third trainer I used for my dog Kaden. The other two trainers did not get my dog where I wanted him to be. Brennan went beyond my expectations. My dog used to react to other dogs, now he can be around any dog. My dog can now be off leash and still have the obedience as he is on leash. I used to be nervous to have Kaden near my daughter, but now I feel 100% confident with him around her. Highly recommend Brennan and his dog training methods.
  • James Owen
    Aug. 18, 2024
    Best trainer ever. Trained my Golden Retriever beyond all expectations! And Mabel loves him.
  • Dave Hamlin
    Jun. 3, 2024
    Brennan and Dog Training Elite Columbus have been fantastic in helping with the training of Ozzy. Brennan has been involved since Ozzy was a young puppy and continues to provide great training. Brennan is enthusiastic, caring and is timely. I highly recommend him to help with training. -Dave H
  • Janelle Miller
    May. 5, 2024
    We’ve loved this experience! Brennen (our trainer) has been amazing to work with. He adapted to the needs of our dog and continued review basic training commands in the mix. Our dog was timid with loud sounds and he brought all the ideas and tools for each training session. We get 1:1 at our house and group sessions at the park. No matter what your end goal may be, Brennen is supportive and hard working to get to that goal.