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Are Dog Training Group Classes Necessary?
Your puppy or older dog has completed basic obedience training. Congratulations! You and your pet have not only developed trust and strengthened your bond, but your puppy or dog is well on their way to becoming a loyal, loving companion.
Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville knows dog training is truly a lifelong pursuit. As your puppy or dog masters the basics, you can move onto more complicated tricks and training. Maybe you’ve progressed from “sit” to seeing how long they can hold it, or you’re working on taking your pet through an obstacle course.
It can be hard to come up with new ideas to train your dog, and after months of having structured training one-on-one with your pet it can be especially difficult to know what to do next. What will benefit both you and your dog the most?
Dog Training Elite offers dog training classes in Hendersonville / Mt. Juliet for puppies and older dogs that may be the answer you’re looking for. While group training classes aren’t always necessary, they can be extremely beneficial to both your dog and you.
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Benefits of Group Classes
Just like humans, dogs all have their own personalities. Some may receive and respond to all the training they need from private, one-on-one instruction, while others may find great benefit from attending a group class. Group classes can be a great asset to both dogs and their owners, since it provides them with many different situations and experiences they may not otherwise have. Here are some other benefits of attending group dog training classes:
Socialization
Group dog training classes have a number of benefits, particularly with socialization. Taking a puppy to group classes once they’re immunized will help them grow into a well-socialized dog comfortable with other dogs and humans. Older dogs who weren’t well socialized as puppies can learn to socialize in a small, safe environment. Trainers will recognize signs of possible conflict between dogs and help owners learn how to diffuse situations and take care of their pets, and dogs will learn how to interact appropriately with each other.
Dog training classes can also be beneficial for owners! If you bring your dog to a group class, you’ll meet other dog owners and become part of a community. Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville likes to make group classes exciting for both dogs and their owners, so expect to learn fun training games and enjoy an environment that feels less like a class and more like a social outing. Classes meet once a week, and both you and your dog will look forward to going every week.
Focus
Besides the socialization benefits, group classes are a great tool for dogs to learn to work around distractions. If your dog is perfectly obedient at home, but loses his or her mind at the dog park and forgets all they’ve learned, group classes are the way to go. Group classes are a safe way to help your dog learn to listen to you, even when they’re surrounded by exciting sights, smells and sounds.
Hands on Learning
In a dog training class, you are in control of the training. While your pooch may occasionally be used as the ‘demo’ dog, there will be very few instances where your dog only has to listen to the trainer. With a class, you are the trainer, and the instructor is just acting as a guide. With all of Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville’s training options - in-home or through a class - you will always be the No. 1 trainer, not just sitting on the sidelines as someone else takes charge.
Each dog is unique, and the small classes at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville will allow you and your dog to still receive personalized attention and training. You will also have the opportunity to learn from other dogs and their owners. Imagine the trainer advises another owner how to help their dog learn to play independently. Later, you might remember the advice and apply it to your own dog, away from the class.
*Classes are open to all dog breeds and sizes, but all dogs are required to be immunized.
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.
The Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville Difference
Regardless of whether it’s an in-home training session or a group class, the Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville training method is the same. Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville focuses on positive reinforcement, also called “Classical Conditioning” or the “Pavlovian” method. Research has shown positive reinforcement to be more effective with longer lasting results than other training methods.
Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville does not use punishments or shock collars and instead pairs positive reinforcement training with an electronic collar for superior results. An electronic collar is not a shock collar and does not harm the dog. It is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. It is never used as a punishment for bad behavior.
Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. 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. Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog’s loving and naturally obedient nature.
Signs Your Dog is Ready for Training
Every dog can benefit from training, and it can sometimes be a lifelong pursuit. If you’re wondering if training is right for you, here are some signs your dog is ready for training:
Your Dog is Destructive
Whether it’s chewing on furniture or shoes, going to the bathroom in your house, or anything else your dog is not supposed to do -- it’s time to get them trained out of these sorts of behaviors. Even older dogs who were previously well-behaved may develop bad habits later in life and need a training refresher.
Your Dog is Aggressive
Aggression can manifest itself in multiple ways; perhaps your dog growls or snaps at you when you get close to his or her food, or toys. Even more concerning is when your dog is aggressive towards other dogs or humans. Yes, sometimes dogs play in a way that seems aggressive, but if your dog is lunging at or snapping at people or other dogs while you’re on walks, it’s time to get a trainer’s help.
Your Dog Misbehaves on Their Leash
Walking nicely on a leash does not come naturally to most dogs but it is something that can be learned. Again, even older dogs who previously walked well on a leash may start to act out.
Your Dog is Anxious or Fearful
If your dog is dealing with severe separation anxiety, or is fearful in new environments, a trainer can help. For separation anxiety a trainer will work with you and your dog on a routine to reassure your dog. General training, especially in group classes, can help dogs build confidence.
Your Dog Ignores You at the Park
Or on walks, or whenever you’re outside. If your dog is obedient when they’re in your home, but loses their mind outside, he or she would benefit from more training. Group classes can be especially helpful because they put your dog in a safe environment with the kinds of distractions you experience outside. Training your dog in situations where there are other distractions helps them learn to obey even when there are other stimulating sights and sounds.
Join a Group Class Today!
Don’t wait! Find your nearest Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville location to find a group class schedule and join a group dog training class today. Start building a community for you and your dog, and continue to strengthen your bond with your furry best friend.
Find a trainer near you today!
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!
Malancy (our trainer) is fantastic. We have gone from a wild boxer puppy (10 months), named Kash, to an easily controllable one year old in a few short weeks, with her help. The progress on a weekly basis is unbelievable. I come away from each session completely shocked at what our puppy is learning and the control that Malancy is teaching my wife and I to have with him. An added bonus is it really seems like Kash is enjoying being trained. I highly recommend this program to anyone who has a four legged friend that needs help with manners. The difference is night and day and we certainly have not regretted this decision.— Brandon Clemmons
Posted August 24th 2023
Malancy with Dog Training Elite has been my savior! Before working with her my schnoodle Luna was extremely stubborn and even though she knew basic commands, she refused to listen. I specifically chose DTE for behavioral training, and I am so happy I did. Not only does Luna LOVE malancy, I finally feel like she loves me too! This training program has made our relationship so much better. She’s learned discernment around other dogs, walks and heels perfect on a leash, listens to all basic commands and it has even helped her stay calmer alone when I leave her to go to work. I can’t thank DTE and Malancy enough. Now that she’s fully training I feel comfortable getting her a playmate and I will once again work with Malancy when puppy comes home. :)— Krys Nicole
Posted August 17th 2023
Malancy was an amazing trainer, her energy and passion was infectious! Tess loved every minute of her training and I couldn’t be happier with the results! Thank you to Dog Training Elite.— Craig Anderson
Posted June 27th 2023
We are so pleased we chose your company for training. Malancy is so good at her job that we were fortunate to get her. We’ve come to love her and what isn’t to love. Our puppy has learned from the best of the best. We’re gonna miss her. This is the best training in this area.— Tom Gaumer
Posted June 7th 2023
These guys deliver! After a few sessions, I was able to take my dog on a walk without fearing she’d be aggressive to others. Malancy and Brad are super!— Cathi Phillips
Posted May 30th 2023
We were assigned Melancy to help train our pup. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend her and Dog Training Elite!!— Lynne Gaumer
Posted May 27th 2023
My dog is so much better! I have a husky mix with a huge running away problem but after the in home sessions in our package his recall is amazing. He’s improved so much! Our trainer Malancy is so knowledgeable about dogs and how their minds work, somehow she was able to conquer his stubbornness and showed me how to make this a forever change! Love Dog training elite and Malancy!— Angel Durrani
Posted May 25th 2023
I am totally satisfied and happy with the results. My dog “Jackson” was very difficult to deal with. He was always dragging me or pulling, he was combative with other dogs and just uncontrollable . However, after a few lessons we got him to sit, finally! Then lie down, then go to your place. We got him use to walking near other dogs. Now I look forward to walking him in the park, I can take him to dog park he has learned to play rather than be aggressive. Brad was very patient and did a good job teaching me how to teach Jackson.— James Knott
Posted May 27th 2023
With an in-home demonstration and a full breakdown of what they offer and what you can expect from the training sessions, you can't go wrong when starting work with Dog Training Elite. Malancy has been laser-focused and firm with our dog, completely methodical as a trainer, and the progress we have seen in six weeks has been incredible. We not only have a much better-behaved dog but also a road map on how to work with him going forward. If you have a dog who's out of control or simply requires a bit of direction, Dog Training Elite's services are exactly what you need.— Mack Elder
Posted May 27th 2023
My wife and I own a nine-month-old Vizsla male who is an energy machine. We needed obedience and off-leash training and after working with a couple of other trainers went to Dog Training Elite Nashville for help. Out trainer, Malancy, had him under control within a few sessions and running off leash in open fields within 5 weeks. Using a verity of training methods, Malancy had our Vizsla’s attention and respect, and she was able to convey those techniques to us. Our dog still has the same energy and enthusiasm but is now under control. We highly recommend this trainer.— Kevin Raleigh
Posted May 24th 2023
Our trainer was Malancy. My wife and I found her to be extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Our dog Dan loved her also, and she made a positive difference in him from day one. Dog training comes very natural to her. Thanks Malancy for everything.— Dave Ten
Posted May 23rd 2023
Brad from Dog Training Elite was great! My territorial dog has become much more calm! We were able to get another dog and have since added goats. We would have never been able to do that prior to training!— Alicia Hoyle
Posted May 5th 2023
I started my dog with the basic gold package to work on obedience. Malancey has been my trainer and she has been wonderful! She has helped me learn to watch my dog for cues on his behavior and has helped my dog learn to listen and obey while still having fun. Malancey came to my home for the training (I’m unable to do group training due to my work schedule) and it has been so helpful to have training done in my home setting so that I can continue that same work during the week. She has also offered different tips and tricks, outside of basic commands that have been so helpful! I’m closing in on the end of this golds package training and I really look forward to continuing on to therapy training next. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite of Greater Nashville because I am learning so much, but also I am seeing my dog become even more of a sweet, smart, and Obedient puppy! Thank you so much Dog Training Elite!— Abbie Tingle
Posted May 3rd 2023
Elite dog training is simply the best ! Our golden retriever Nala is so smart and well behaved now. Malancy is a wonderful, respectful, and talented dog trainer who is always welcomed in our home. Her love and passion for training dogs is evident !— Denise Durham
Posted April 26th 2023
I am currently going through the training with Malancy as the trainer. My family and I have been working with her to establish the baseline for our dog Luna. She has been phenomenal in working with our dog. Teaching her the basic fundamentals of what is required to eventually become a service dog. Everyone praises how well behaved and trained Luna is. Malancy was very thoughtful, and thorough in explaining the whys and don'ts of this process. I would highly recommend and encourage anyone seeking training services to move forward with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville!!— Larry d
Posted April 4th 2023
I interviewed multiple dog trainers. This company does what they promise. They come to you for a demonstration for free!— they stand behind their work. No gimmicks. They know what they’re doing; they’re effective. The training is straight-forward, easy and sustainable.— Amy Brashear
Posted April 4th 2023
They transformed our chaotically energetic dog into the most attentive, calm and focused boy! Our trainer was so friendly and thorough and I would recommend them 100% to anyone! Their services totally transformed our dog and family. Thank you!— Jennifer Gragg
Posted March 24th 2023
8 weeks ago my wife and I were at a crossroad. Our 1 1/2 year old lab was destroying everything in and outside of our house and he would overwhelm guests by jumping/peeing on them. It had gotten to the point we had to keep him in our garage when we were expecting visitors. He was and is the sweetest thing, but no matter the amount of dog training books or videos, the situation we were in was only getting worse. We were at a point when we thought he wasn't going to work out with our family, so it was decided that we needed some help from the professionals. We reached out and talked with Brad at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville. He was empathetic with us and the situation we were in. He reassured that whatever behaviors our dog was expressing, could be easily remedied. Malancy at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville was the professional trainer we worked with throughout the entire process and she was amazing! Extremely knowledgeable and friendly! We just finished our last in home training visit and we couldn't be happier. With their guidance and expertise, our dog is not only well-behaved, but truly feels like he's part of our family. Thank you again to Malancy and the team at Dog Training Elite for helping mold our puppy into the best dog we've ever had.— Nick Gragg
Posted March 17th 2023
Absolutely amazing, they’re 100% respectful and extremely knowledgeable at what they do. Can’t thank them enough for helping us with our dog!— Dylan L
Posted January 26th 2023
I'm not gonna lie. My french bulldog is a hot mess. She's adorable but has high anxiety, dog reactivity, and acts out by eating all of the wood in our house (stairs, windows, furniture...anything expensive, obviously). At our meet and greet I just said, "good luck." We have just finished the in home training portion and are about to go to group trainings. Let me tell you. They are miracle workers. We even had a neighbor ask his dog why it couldn't act more like ours! I never thought I'd see the day. And they did it while we had a 12 year old senile french bulldog wandering around trying to sabotage all the classes. But they were patient and friendly always. And they have been able to accommodate my work and travel schedule. The holiday didn't even mess things up, which really surprised me. If you think your dog is untrainable, definitely call Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville. You won't be disappointed.— Lisa Thayne
Posted January 21st 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite Greater 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 Greater 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.