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Behavior Training vs. Obedience Training for Dogs
If you are in the market for dog training, you may run across a few terms like "behavior training" or "obedience training." But what's the difference between the two? And which one is best for your dog?
Here at Dog Training Elite Denver, we have been in the dog training business for over 40 years, so we can explain the difference between behavior and obedience training for dogs. We'll also help you determine which is right for you and your four-legged best friend. If you are interested in hearing more about Dog Training Elite training programs, call us today for a free in-home consultation!
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Denver location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Silver
$1,395
Training Equipment Included: Biothane, E-collar, Medium Cot, Bag, Lanyard, Bandanna, Flexi, Magnet, Pen, Collar Tips
- In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Sit(next to you)
- Off(furniture, if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
Gold
Starting at
$2,595
Training Equipment Included: Biothane, E-collar, Medium Cot, Bag, Lanyard, Bandanna, Flexi, Magnet, Pen, Collar Tips
- Group Park Training Sessions 6 Months
- One-on-One & In-Home Training Sessions 5 Sessions
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you)
- Off(furniture, if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Sit(off leash at a distance)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
- Get into Car or Kennel
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Chewing
- STOP Digging
In-Facility - $3,595
Includes 4 day in-facility camp and 3 in-home follow up sessions.
Platinum
Starting at
$3,395
Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.
Choose to Address Advanced Concerns:
- Anxiety
- Aggression/Reactive (dog & human)
Training Equipment Included: Biothane, E-collar, Medium Cot, Bag, Lanyard, Bandanna, Flexi, Magnet, Pen, Collar Tips, Muzzle (aggression only)
- One-on-One & In-Home Training Sessions 8 Sessions
- Group Park Training Sessions 12 Months
- Come
- Place(go to bed)
- Heel(walk with you without pulling)
- Sit(next to you)
- Off(furniture if desired)
- Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
- Down(next to you & off leash at a distance)
- Sit(off leash at a distance)
- Housebreaking / Potty Training
- Build Confidence
- STOP Running Away
- STOP Jumping on People
- STOP Puppy Biting
- STOP Chasing Animals
- STOP Chewing
- STOP Digging
- Focus on either Anxiety or Aggression/Reactive
- Or Choose One Tailored Skill Below: *Specialized training options based upon your dog's abilities. - Therapy dog training See Details - Emotional Support Dog Training (see details below) - Ride on a Golf Cart, Skateboard, or Wagon
- Stay with You on Jog, Hike, or Bike Ride
- Other Custom Command Approved by Trainer
In-Facility - $4,595
Includes 8 day in-facility camp and 3 in-home follow up sessions.
Behavior Training
This type of training aims to correct or rewrite an undesirable behavior. For example, if a dog or puppy whines and cries when the owner leaves the house, the dog may be experiencing separation anxiety and acting out. To fix this behavior, you would need to train this dog to respond differently to being left alone in the house.
With behavior training, the trainer and owner look at the situation that needs addressing, figure out the trigger for the bad behavior, and train the dog to respond differently to that trigger. After consistent training and positive reinforcement, the dog will perform the learned response to the trigger or stimulus even without commands or rewards, essentially rewriting their response to that situation.
Obedience Training
Trainers use obedience training to teach a command and then have a dog obey and perform that command. This training involves teaching a puppy or dog basic commands like “sit,” “come,” “heel,” or “down.” The Dog Training Elite trainers can also use obedience training to teach other commands more unique to your life and situation.
The goal of obedience training is in the name - training a dog to obey commands reliably. Obedience training for dogs can sometimes be lengthy and requires repetition, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcement to achieve lasting results.
When obedience training is employed correctly, it fosters a deep connection between dog and owner that encourages consistent compliance from the dog and positive reinforcement from the owner.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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 Training Method
Correct responses to a command or rewriting a reaction to a trigger can be accomplished through many methods. Dog Training Elite uses positive reinforcement, or “classical conditioning,” to achieve the desired results. Years of experience have taught us that classical conditioning is the most effective way to train a dog.
What is classical conditioning?
Also known as the Pavlovian model, classical conditioning refers to a learning process that occurs when you pair two stimuli with a command. Studies have proven that classical conditioning is the preferred training method as it offers long-lasting results and teaches deep-rooted obedience. At Dog Training Elite, an electronic collar and positive reinforcement are the two stimuli we use to teach your dog good behavior. The electronic collar is not a shock collar. Like a clicker device, it gets your dog’s attention during training.
Offering rewards and positive reinforcement will yield positive results and a happy and confident dog. In contrast, using negative reinforcement and punishment will result in a dog performing out of fear and lacking trust and confidence. The trainers in Denver want your dog to be happy and confident and have a deep and lasting connection with you as their owner. That’s why we only use positive reinforcement and classical conditioning.
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Which Training is Right For You and Your Dog?
Dog Training Elite offers behavior and obedience training for dogs, but how do you know which is right for you? Suppose your dog is exhibiting behaviors like biting, excessive barking, digging, or more. In that case, they may benefit from some behavioral training to rewrite those responses. If you have a new puppy or your dog has trouble obeying commands, obedience training is the ideal solution. In some cases, your dog may need a combination of both.
If you're still unsure what training is best for you and your dog, Dog Training Elite is ready to help! Find a trainer near you today to get started on your dog's training journey.
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!
We live in Palm City FL to they are based next to us in Fort Pierce and the area. Shelly was amazing !! We just completed training for our 1 year old Bull Mastiff and our 2 year old French Mastiff (Dogue) and will start attending some group trainings/meetings. Our dogs are no longer pulling and jumping up on people and she taught us the techniques that WE need to be the best dog parents for them. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite - be sure not to mistake them from other companies with similar names. It was worth every penny and knowing also that going forward Dog Training Elite (and Shelly) are there for us and our pups.— suzy messina
Posted April 2nd 2024
Absolutely love the folk here, they have made such a big difference in mine and my dog’s life and he’s not even done with his training program yet. They clearly love what they do and take such good care of the dogs and want the best for every single one! I have recommended them to everyone I know for both dog training and service dog training.— BaileyRose
Posted February 25th 2024
I'm very fortunate to be able to see the well-trained dogs that get trained here.— Adam Inman
Posted December 31st 2023
I brought my rescue dog, Logan, to DTE after we have been struggling with some pretty severe anxiety and fear aggression. While Logan and I both still has a lot to work on and learn, the trainers at DTE have given us the tools to work through Logan’s issues. Even though I currently go to veterinary school out of the country, I have never had a problem reaching out to DTE for help. They are always very quick to respond and always willing to set up a phone call where I can tell them what I’m concerned about and they help develop a plan to help overcome what ever the issue is. I feel like people believe that they can drop their dog off at the trainer and get a completely different dog back at the end of the day. The truth is that having a well trained dog takes time and dedication. The trainer’s just help build the foundation for the owners to expand on. DTE has given me the necessary tools to help my boy be as happy and safe as he can be and I know that it is now my job to use those tools to make it all worth it. I would recommend DTE to anyone with a dog and especially to anyone with a dog with any kind of behavioral issues.— Caroline Vangi
Posted November 20th 2023
Can't say enough wonderful things about this company. They helped my 14 yr old son train his service dog starting at 16 weeks. Each trainer we worked with was extremely friendly and patient with my son. They are very knowledgeable about everything to do with having a service dog (including helping me, the mom, what all the dog could and should do). They answered all our questions and helped us navigate the school system. They even have a monthly airport training so we did a 'trial' run before flying. From private sessions through the group classes, we always had great support and never felt like we were a bother. The trainers are great, the owners are wonderful. I highly recommend DTE to all my friends.— Alyssa McCluskey
Posted November 14th 2023
Went here for the dog open house haunted house. It was really cute and we had a great time. I would consider coming to this to get my dog trained, but something didn’t feel right. There was a guy, presumably, one of the owners of the company, walking around ominously with several guns and knifes hanging off him. I’m a gun girl, so normally this would not bother me, but it just kind of gave me a creepy vibe and made the experience quite uncomfortable for me and obviously other potential customers there too. I understand everyone has a right to carry fire arms, and if it is your own business, you may choose to carry then as well, but it seemed weird for an open house, where they are trying to attract customers.— Claire Janet
Posted October 31st 2023
I highly recommended Dog Training Elite Denver for all training needs. I have trained 3 dogs through their service animal program with great success and have first hand the efficacy of their method in resolving all types of behavioral issues. On top of everything, the DTE Denver team has provided over the top personalized support through every challenge I have faced with my precious pups. I’m a big fan - to say the absolute least!— Alexa Tetzlaff
Posted May 23rd 2023
DTE-Denver truly lives up to their tagline. They absolutely are the last dog trainers you'll ever need. I found DTE-Denver after my Goldendoodle was certified as a therapy dog through another trainer, but I didn't feel that her behavior was as reliable as I wanted it to be in order to to feel safe with students in my classroom. After 4 months of training with DTE, my pup passed her therapy test and is as reliable off-leash as she is on-leash. We love all of you at DTE-Denver! Thank you for changing our lives and the lives of the students Kona will continue to help for years to come!— Catherine Kaminski
Posted May 22nd 2023
The Ballards have changed my life by training my dog and I to be the best team we can be! If you are looking for service dog training, I would highly recommend. DTE’s training program works fast and it sticks! Han Solo and I have so much fun at group classes. They make things fun and structured. You are not only training your dog! You are finding a like minded community to support you in the process. ☀️That’s a beautiful thing ☀️ Thank you guys for being such a compassionate company!! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️— Tiffany Cody
Posted April 13th 2023
The Ballards and their staff are amazing people! They truly have become part of our family. They have helped change two of my sons lives raising, training and loving their service dogs. I will 100% use their services for all current and future training needs and recommend anyone who wants top notch training to use them as well.—
Posted March 1st 2023
I would give 5 stars and more if I could. Great people that care about pets first. I can’t wait for my son go through certification;)— Iveria Lorenz
Posted February 11th 2023
My pup loves going here, and she is learning so much! Our other two dogs also do in home obedience and have learned so much and become such better listeners after working with the trainers from DTE.— Betsy Barron
Posted February 4th 2023
DTE has been a game changer for the training of our future therapy dog, Kona. Their no-treat training methods, extrememly knowledgeable, patient and kind trainers, personalized training approach in both 1-1 and group classes, and attentiveness to their clients (canine and human) have been the catalyst for bringing out the very best in Kona and the very best in me, as Kona's handler. DTE will always be a part of our family and we will truly never need another trainer again. Thank you, DTE!!!— Catherine Kaminski
Posted January 14th 2023
Amazing trainers. Our little pup learned so much so fast. Highly recommend.— Jachin Rutt
Posted January 11th 2023
You can see an immediate effect from their work, and the long-term impacts are even greater.— Micki O'Neil
Posted December 20th 2022
You can see an immediate effect from their work, and the longterm impacts are even greater.— Micki O'Neil
Posted December 20th 2022
Great trainers who are extremely kind, patient and most importantly - knowledgable. Had great results and quick results.— Giles Clasen
Posted December 20th 2022
Excellent trainers that really care. Love their group classes as well.— Claire Snyder
Posted October 5th 2022
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite Denver, 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 Denver work's with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.
Dog Training Elite Denver Partners
