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German Shepherds consistently rank in the top five most popular dog breeds in America - and for good reason. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Not to mention, they’re beautiful!
Dog Training Elite Oklahoma has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience and personal protection training programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs.
Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly. The professional training of Dog Training Elite Oklahoma will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Oklahoma location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
(Service Dog reevaluation mandatory 6 months after certification to verify maintenance of training - small additional fee)
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite Oklahoma recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training.
If you adopt an older German Shepherd, or never got around to puppy training, don’t worry! Dog Training Elite Oklahoma has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained.
In-Home German Shepherd Training
Dog Training Elite Oklahoma offers specialized in-home German Shepherd training for both owners and dogs of any age. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Oklahoma offers both puppy and adult dog group classes.
Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost.
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.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Be Consistent
Dogs, and especially German Shepherds, do best with consistency. Always make sure to use the same verbal and/or physical cues during training to avoid any confusion. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. Then, don’t change the rule under any circumstances.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Get Plenty of Exercise
German Shepherds are an energetic breed - if you don’t have a yard for your dog to play in, that’s fine, but make sure your German Shepherd gets daily exercise through walking, hiking, etc. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog.
German Shepherd Specific Tips Positive Reinforcement
Since German Shepherds are historically trained as working dogs, they thrive on being busy. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Dog Training Elite Oklahoma has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Oklahoma training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite Oklahoma uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Oklahoma never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. 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.
The Dog Training Elite Oklahoma training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it.
Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. The electronic collar is not a shock collar; it is a gentle electronic pulse, similar to the tug of a leash, used to get the dog’s attention. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Dog Training Elite Oklahoma’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today!
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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!
Prior to DTE, Dashi was very nervous and reactive around other dogs, people, and vehicles. Treats were required to get her to do anything and we would never have dreamed she could ever be off-leash. Now, she is so well behaved and much better around all sorts of distractions. She regularly goes off-leash and is so much more confident and obedient! We can have so many more adventures now because we have confidence that she will listen. DTE was a game changer and our whole family is grateful! Multiple people have noticed that she really is a different dog. We won’t have another dog without DTE!— Lindsey Madden
Posted December 1st 2023
Look man, my day was a straight up "BREAK SOME shhtuff" day! While dealing with a family emergency, I realized, I was 30 minutes away from home and my apt started in 10 minutes! I called Kristen who relayed the message to Korbyn (already patiently waiting at my home because you know... punctuality matters... sorry again . She got a heads up that I was having a hard time and NEEDED the therapy. (I'm not crying, you're crying!) When I arrived to my home, 40 minutes later; (I said sorry...) Korbyn sensed my stress/anxiety and informed me that she enjoyed the views my Homefront offer. She just told me if I needed some time to center or grab a drink she would sit right there and enjoy the view. INSTANT relief. Despite my tardiness, she ensured I understood every aspect of the information she provided me. I even had a breakdown moment in front of this young lady y'all. There is not a single, tiny little thing I can say negative about her. I am HONORED to post this. ~ Adam— Adam Johnson
Posted November 12th 2023
David and Kristin have a real passion for the services they provide, and their love for both people and dogs is so genuine. We are grateful for the time and work they put into their training to ensure success!— Marcie Waligura
Posted September 17th 2023
You won’t find better training in the area for your best furry friend!! You’ll be so glad you called Dog Training Elite OKC!! We’ve known the owners/operators for many years and their results are truly inspiring!!— Holly Jule
Posted September 13th 2023
I loved DTE so much and believed in their training so fully that I became a trainer with them myself! Couldn't recommend highly enough.— korbyn carter
Posted September 11th 2023
Kristin and David helped me train my pup and now he is my full time service dog! They are so thoughtful and passionate about what they do. Couldn’t recommend them more!— Korbyn McKale Poetry
Posted August 27th 2023
This is the company and these are the people to use to train your dog. David and Kristin are amazing! They are patient yet authoritative with my dog. I saw an improvement in my dog after just the first session. But not only is my dog learning, but I’m also learning how to be a better owner. David and Kristin make the training simple and have given me the tools to reinforce everything they have taught my dog. I am so fortunate to have found them. I highly recommend David and Kristin and Dog Training Elite.— Jason Dawes
Posted July 28th 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite Oklahoma, 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 Oklahoma 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.
