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Classical Conditioning

Indianapolis Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Indianapolis, IN.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Indianapolis, IN

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 of Indianapolis dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in Indianapolis, IN to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite of Indianapolis 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 of Indianapolis

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite of Indianapolis NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in Indianapolis, IN 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.
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Indianapolis 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 of Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, IN 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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Dog Training Elite of Indianapolis - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Indianapolis, IN

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The Dog Training Elite of Indianapolis Difference


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

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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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Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Sheila Arnold
    Jul. 18, 2026
    We attended the reactive dog training for my 9month old Morkie today. She is not aggressive but very reactive to new dog. This was one of the best things we have done. Very informative and saw improvement during the class. It’s not the dog, it’s us (he humans) that need trained.
  • Thomas W
    Sep. 18, 2026
    I adopted a shelter dog who is settling in to his first forever home. He’s loving and sweet but becomes very aggressive with other dogs. We are one week into a daily training program with Dog Training Elite and already there is marked improvement. Anika, Josh, and staff give loving, structured and consistent training. They also work with me to extend that consistent training to home. I have nothing but great compliments to DTE for helping my good dog to be better.
  • Reginald Huff
    Aug. 22, 2026
    Very professional and was able to answer all of our questions
  • Lisa Legan
    Sep. 18, 2026
    Doug came to my home for an in person consultation and it was an amazing meeting. I felt comfortable knowing he and his staff are committed to helping me and my dog! I look forward to Bo starting the Elite Training Camp program!
  • Brenda Brill
    Sep. 15, 2026
    Elijah is very easy to work with and made Ghost and I feel very comfortable. I look forward to working together.
  • Jessie Reed
    Sep. 15, 2026
    Josh always does such a great job with Chance! He picks up on the smallest (but super meaningful) cue Chance gives and tells me what that cue means and how to handle it! Highly recommend!
  • K Crosley
    Apr. 28, 2025
    We are working on a therapy test and Elijah gave excellent instructions throughout. He reviewed what we’d be doing during session and gave excellent feedback as we worked thru the items…. Thank you Elijah for a wonderful session!!!
  • Noah B
    Sep. 4, 2026
    Elijah Turner was awesome. Explained things clearly, was patient, and even answered some preliminary questions about some stuff I want to teach Winnie (the Poochon) in the future. Winnie is comfortable and happy around him as well, of course. 😀 (On a side note: I know I tend to ramble a bit while asking questions and trying to process new information because it's sometimes difficult to organize my thoughts due to brain fog. He didn't make me feel awkward about it at all, which I'm extremely thankful for.)
  • Donita Covington
    Aug. 29, 2026
    good experience
  • Katherine Chartier
    Aug. 22, 2026
    This was the best experience and worth every penny! Our dog completed bootcamp and we are excited to keep working with the DTE team!
  • Diana Garcia
    Aug. 21, 2026
    What an amazing experience it has been training my dog, Peppa, with this incredible and highly qualified team! I noticed a HUGE change in Peppa—not only in her behavior, but also in her confidence and ability to respond. They trained her with so much care, kindness, patience, and genuine understanding of dogs. You can truly tell how passionate they are about what they do, and they always treated Peppa with respect and compassion. I’m so grateful for everything they’ve done for her and for us. The results have been beyond what I expected, and I would highly recommend this team to anyone looking for knowledgeable, caring, and effective dog trainers. Peppa is a happier, more confident dog because of them! ❤️
  • Gloria Lopez
    Aug. 19, 2026
    Personable. Explained everything in detail. Great with dogs and people
  • Kellie Stewart
    Aug. 19, 2026
    Elijah and the entire Dog Training Elite team has been wonderful to work with. My dog, Peppers, and I are learning so much and he's responded to the training so quickly. I appreciate the kindness and professionalism of everyone on the team.
  • Chris Thomas
    Aug. 18, 2026
    Most amazing training facility for dogs! Elijah is so kind and knowledgeable!
  • gagan saini
    Aug. 12, 2026
    Doug did an amazing job describing different programs and listening to my concerns, very kind and patient and super knowledgeable /experienced and what he and the team does, Marlene has been amazing as well. Would def recommend them to other dog parents 🥰
  • a w
    Jul. 22, 2026
    Anika, Josh, Annie and Elijah are a DREAM TEAM. Each has taken such care and kindness in helping my tiny 6 pound fur baby grow and learn in ways that support her specific needs, both physical and psychological. I could not be more pleased with our time at Elite and only wish we came sooner! She gets to enjoy so much newfound confidence, freedom and security through their training model and each trainer took time to help me integrate and guide me through the process of continuing the work at home. I love these guys!!
  • Gladys Gerena
    May. 1, 2026
    Excellent airport training
  • SM Grimmy
    Mar. 26, 2026
    Sessions are tailored to meet the needs of the dog, as well as the guardian. This team is amazing! They are experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate. My pup loves this team!
  • Alexander Voris
    Oct. 25, 2025
    Hoosier loves reinforcing all he has learned during group sessions. Such a great benefit!!
  • Jean Fox
    Apr. 9, 2025
    We can’t thank Doug, Josh and all the trainers at DTE enough for the incredible work they do with our new family member, Remy. She struggles with reactive and aggressive behaviors, but their calm, patient approach and deep understanding of dog behavior has made all the difference. They gave us practical, easy to follow training techniques that have helped her make incredible progress. Especially grateful for the coaching and encouragement we receive as her handlers. We couldn’t be happier with the team’s expertise, kindness and dedication - it was made all the difference. Highly recommended the DTE Team!