Professional

Dog Training Techniques


Classical Conditioning

Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

816-308-6985


Se habla español!

Request a Free Assessment

Contact Dog Training Elite Kansas City

Or Call to Schedule FREE In-Home Assessment

816-308-6985


Se habla español!

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 Kansas City dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning and rely on positive reinforcement to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite Kansas City trainer , your dog will become conditioned and develop those “automatic reflexes” to commands such as sit, stay, and so on.


Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Kansas City location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Dog Training Elite uses classical conditioning as one of their dog training techniques in Kansas City.
Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment

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

Training With An E-Collar


As mentioned above, Dog Training Elite Kansas City NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite Kansas City 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.

Behavior Training Vs. Obedience Training


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? We break down the difference, and how to know which one is right for you and your dog. Whatever kind of training your dog needs, Dog Training Elite is here to help.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

Se habla español!

If you are searching for positive dog training near you, Dog Training Elite Kansas City is the place for you.

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.


Dog Training Elite Kansas City is the top company near you that uses professional positive dog training methods.
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.

See Our Pricing

Elite Dog Training in Kansas City All Breeds. All Sizes. All Ages.

Pricing Free Demo

The Dog Training Elite Kansas City
Difference

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

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

Se habla español!

Dog Training Elite Kansas City uses top dog training techniques in Kansas City

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!

Our experience with Chuck and the entire team at Dog Training Elite has always been great! They offer so much more than just training for your pet. Would recommend to anyone wanting to train there beloved pets!
— Benny Smith
Posted March 23rd 2024
google
The group class is great for the dogs. It helps with socializing and group work. The trainers are all great. I love the classes
— jodi khazin
Posted March 22nd 2024
google
Dog Training Elite is the real deal! Professional, accomodating and really good people. They take the time to explain and teach my service dog (and me as his handler). Highly recommend!!
— Paul Rieck
Posted October 12th 2023
google
Best trainers ever!!!! I have tried many. These are the best! I recommend them to everyone.
— Heather Massey
Posted January 28th 2024
google
If I could give more than five stars I would. Very knowledgeable on different dog behaviors and really focusing their attention on what the dog and owners need/want from training. Chuck came out for a consult prior to committing and he really walked us through their program and listened to all of our concerns and our reasonings for getting our dog training. We worked with Nate and now my dog looks forward to weekly visits. Great company and employees!
— Samantha Stallman
Posted January 5th 2024
google
The Dog Training threw ELITE is wonderful
— Mike Wentworth
Posted September 20th 2023
google
Truly phenomenal team! They train you in order to train the dog rather than just focusing on the dog. Very much a "Teach a man to Fish" type of training. Our Service dog was the Royals Buck O'Neil Honoree because of their tremendous skill.
— Aaron Mizell
Posted September 19th 2023
google
I absolutely loved Dog Training Elite. They came weekly to help both me and my dog to learn how to work together. DTE both demonstrated and allowed me to learn how to train my dog. DTE also answered all my questions, even making themselves available to continue and support my efforts in having a well trained family dog.
— Dennis Aldy
Posted July 21st 2023
google
Our Buster Brown has improved so much, Never likes the dogs on the TV but now we can tell him off and he just grumble talks to them. We are still working on boats that pass by on the lake but consistency will win the game. cheers to the Elite team!
— Douglas Scott
Posted April 15th 2023
google
Great group to work with and training approach if very effective and gets results.
— Charles Huddleston
Posted March 28th 2023
google
Working Willow with Kaylee was the best! She is very good at what she does and you can tell she genuinely loves it, she never hurts your furbaby. Kaylee explains how to teach them each step in easy to understand language. She makes sure you understand before you start training at each step. This was not the cheapest place, but I feel it was the best choice. Both before and after she was trained. My dog was so skiddish, she has learned to be calm and not bark so much as she has more confidence. I would give my highest recommendations to Dog Training Elite! If I ever get another dog I'd do it again. Worth every penny. They go above and beyond to your dog be everything you dream of!
— Darla Hawkins
Posted March 17th 2023
google
Haley with Dog Training Elite did an amazing job training our dog, Dingo. When we rescued him he didn't have really any house manners and would chase our cats, after the first lesson he was acting so much better! He gets along with our cats now and listens to us, we are beyond happy with the training! Their trainers definitely know what they're doing!
— Shelby Flowers
Posted February 27th 2023
google
Our trainers were very helpful in teaching us and helping train our 2 yr old dog.
— Molly Schwery
Posted February 22nd 2023
google
Excellent dog training. Best and easiest way to train a dog that I have ever come across. And the trainers are well educated on training techniques that work for everything i wanted my pup to know. I will be using this method to train all my dogs from here on out.
— Steven Adams
Posted February 8th 2023
google
This dog training company was very pleasant and down to earth. Genuine and honest and patient. Also very professional. We were apprehensive and they were so easy to work with and let our guard down. Highly recommend.
— Whitney Bennett
Posted February 8th 2023
google
If you are still looking for a dog trainer, your search should end here. Chuck and his team at Dog Training Elite KC truly have a vested interest in supporting your dog and you as the owner; they take the time to get to know you and your sweet fur baby. Private lessons were a great way to ease my anxiety as a dog owner, the individualized support has been so helpful. I appreciate group classes for continued learning, activity and socialization for our dog. The saying is true, "people don't care how much you know until you they know how much you care," and Dog Training Elite KC cares.
— McKenna Elfrink
Posted January 31st 2023
google
Wonderful people who know dogs. Took our 5 month old Standard Poodle from a great puppy to my licensed diabetic service dog in 6 months. Just do the homework. They continue to provide weekly learning activities. Great group. Highly recommend.
— Diane Gardner
Posted January 21st 2023
google
Chuck and his team are unparalleled in the dog training world. If you’re looking for an excellent trainer, look no further. I wish I called them 3 years ago.
— Jim Tharp
Posted December 15th 2022
google
I am so in love with this company! I have two older German Shepards and I thought you couldn't teach an old dog new tricks. Well I was wrong. Chuck was amazing with our dogs and it has changed our lives. Gave me freedom of not fearing taking my pups out. One of them has been aggressive and this training was worth every penny!!! Now...practice at home is vital but honestly I loved to do it. Only really 15 minutes a day per dog for me. Amazing!!!!!!! Now at home I have peace when someone new comes over and we get to go to the dog park! Also heeling and learning that correctly changed my life as one of my pups is a big...big boy!.
— Jonalyn Ell
Posted November 8th 2022
google
The entire "Dog Training Elite Kansas City South" bunch is fantastic! Very professional and absolutely top-notch/excellent with dogs. We were pretty skeptical about what they would be able to do with our reactive boy that we dearly love, but it didn't take long to make believers out of us. Given what we have seen so far, I can't imagine that there is a dog they cannot work with. They really are an "elite" group of dog trainers and lovers!
— debbie hendrix
Posted November 8th 2022
google

All Reviews Set Up an Assessment Today!

Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite Kansas City, 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 Kansas City 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.

Learn More