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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Los Angeles

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Los Angeles, CA.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Los Angeles, CA

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

Training With An E-Collar

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

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, CA 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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The Dog Training Elite Los Angeles Difference


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

  • georgialawrence1
    Feb. 6, 2025
    I cannot recommend Clayton, Elite Dog Training, highly enough for anyone struggling with a reactive GSD, When I first reached out, I was feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with my dog's reactivity towards other dogs. Clayton not only understood my concerns but also provided a clear, structured plan to help us both. From our very first meeting, Clayton took the time to assess my dog's behavior thoroughly. He listened to my experiences and helped identify specific triggers for my dog's reactivity. This initial assessment set the stage for a tailored training program that felt achievable Clayton gradually introduced my dog to controlled environments, allowing him to encounter triggers at a comfortable distance and the tools/instructions to counter these triggers The progress we made was remarkable! Within a few weeks, Luger showed significant improvement. Clayton provided practical strategies that I could use which empowered me as an owner. If you're facing similar challenges, I wholeheartedly recommend Clayton and Elite Dog Training. Their expertise and patience can truly transform your relationship with your dog. Thank you, Clayton, for your incredible work!
  • Kat McGinty
    Feb. 6, 2025
    I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough! Clayton has been incredible in helping me to train my terrier/pit bull mix. He's patient and clearly loves dogs. My dog was instantly comfortable with him. I'm already planning on adding more sessions because Clayton has helped me see just how much my dog is capable of!
  • Shelby Dash (Shelby & Kristina)
    Feb. 5, 2025
    We had such a wonderful experience with our trainer. He was knowledgeable, patient, and professional. I would highly recommend!
  • Julia Steinweg
    Feb. 4, 2025
    My experience with Clayton was fantastic. He understands the nature of dogs really well and is therefore able to adapt his training style to the specific personality of your dog to achieve immediate improvements of critical dog behavior with great results. I can only recommend Clayton as an experienced dog trainer who delivers great results in a short period of time.
  • Christina Hutchinson
    Jan. 18, 2025
    I honestly cannot say enough good things about Dogs Elite training! I rescued a ~5 year old male German Shepherd 5 months ago who was a lot to handle. He was a sweet enough boy and playful with my other GSD, but terrible to walk and dog reactive. I spent thousands with another trainer to be disappointed and only witness mild improvement; I felt like this poor dog was too much for me. So I interviewed a few other trainers and decided on Dogs Elite. What sold me on them is the final goal of walking him on a “J leash” (meaning a relaxed leash). Sure that sounds great and like I’m in control, but the real meaning behind it is transferring leadership from the dog to you. Rescues have had to be hyper-vigilant to survive, so that’s a lot of “on” energy. Once YOU are trained how to lead your dog, they can relax and be a dog who enjoys a comfy life going on walks and meeting other dogs at the dog park. Today was my 6th session with Clayton and I never thought my Jack would succeed in a dog park without incident, I couldn’t be more wrong. Look at this face after class: he’s happy, learning was a joy and not something negative, and he’s relaxed. He’s a different dog and I’m so happy to see these behavioral changes in him. It never would’ve happened with training that didn’t tap in to the psychology of his mind. I’m so grateful to what Clayton has done for us!!
  • Czarina Lim
    Dec. 29, 2024
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all your dog training needs. My partner and I rescued a 3.5 yr old puggle who exhibited episodes of aggression and actually bit my partner after a stressful road trip. I found DTE during my Google search of aggression-specialty dog training, and I'm so glad I did! Clayton, our trainer, does a fantastic job teaching both our rescue and us how to behave with each other, and continues to give us the right tools in helping us train our beloved rescue so that everyone has a good time. His patience while we all learn together has been invaluable. Also, just as an added plus for this program, DTE gives a discount for rescues! While the initial price tag may feel daunting, know that this is an investment you're making for both you and your dog, and everyone involved will be better off for it!
  • Nate Van Fleet
    Dec. 21, 2024
    Clayton is a fantastic trainer, and a great guy! My partner and I highly recommend Dog Training Elite
  • Natasha Radojcic
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Clayton is great, am I’m so grateful for his expertise and guidance!
  • Dane Larsen
    Nov. 6, 2024
    Very very thankful I hired them for their services. The perk of having them come to your house and working around your neighborhood is profoundly helpful. We were lucky enough to have Clayton train our dog (or rather train us on how to). My relationship with my dog has improved, my dog’s confidence has improved, and all my neighbors think I own a new dog. I couldn’t recommend hiring them more. Clayton really took care of us. His knowledge / insights into dog training are robust. He clearly loves what he does and he empowers you to find the balance between you and your fur baby. THANK YOU CLAYTON!!
  • Brooke Anthony
    Nov. 5, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been such an amazing company to work with. Our trainer Clayton turned our puppy into the most confident and obedient dog. Our excited young puppy struggled with pulling on his leash and a lot of displaced energy. Since the very first session with Clayton, our puppy learned and applied so quickly. Clayton is the best trainer and is so patient and knowledgeable. We are confident that anyone who uses this company will have a great experience and will be setting their dogs up for great success!
  • Brooke Viselli Anthony
    Nov. 5, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been such an amazing company to work with. Our trainer Clayton turned our puppy into the most confident and obedient dog. Our excited young puppy struggled with pulling on his leash and a lot of displaced energy. Since the very first session with Clayton, our puppy learned and applied so quickly. Clayton is the best trainer and is so patient and knowledgeable. We are confident that anyone who uses this company will have a great experience and will be setting their dogs up for great success!
  • Joneen Murphy
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Clayton has been a great trainer. He has not just been helpful for Poppy, but for us as his owners. He explains things clearly and is great to work with.
  • Ashley Santos
    Oct. 28, 2024
    Dog trainer Clayton has been excellent with his approach, showing great patience and skill in working with my dog Zoey. I’ve seen improvements in her behavior and obedience since we started the training sessions. His positive reinforcement methods make a difference, and I’m happy with our progress so far!
  • Maria G
    Oct. 15, 2024
    Great time helping my pup name Ace he’s a Belgian Malinos breed after his training he has been easier to handle Hard work has paid off We are expecting to keep with his training at the park with your facility Trainer took his time to explain n help us greatly I would Highly recommend them
  • Ryan Peterlin
    Oct. 15, 2024
    Would 10/10 recommend. Clayton was so helpful and understanding when it came to my reactive cattle dog
  • Brittney Post
    Sep. 20, 2024
    Clayton is an amazing trainer who has not only taught our stubborn Jack Russell Terrier to listen and respond…..he has also taught us to be consistent with the training techniques and the results are fantastic. The time we have spent training our dog Gary for the last 8 weeks will pay off for a lifetime!
  • Josh S
    Sep. 18, 2024
    Clayton was great and very knowledgeable. They do awesome work.
  • Mike Feldman
    Sep. 5, 2024
    Jon and Clayton are awesome. Our German Shepherd is a rescue and was very territorial at our house. The guys gave us great tools to redirect his aggression and teach him good manners. The whole experience has been outstanding. Highly recommend these guys.
  • Sonia Vera
    Aug. 7, 2024
    Just had my training session with Clayton he was so sweet and gentle with my big 92 lb dog. Taught me a lot in such a short time. Will be ordering Anya her little bed to focus on practicing her place command. Thank you again Clayton was a pleasure:)!
  • brianna gutierrez
    Jul. 31, 2024
    Amazing training session for my nervous puppy! She was able to learn 3 new training skills the first day.