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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 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 will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families.
German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults
Dog Training Elite 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 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 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 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 15 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 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 training method.
The Dog Training Elite
Difference
Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite 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 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’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!
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!
They are absolutely the best. My German Shepherd puppy was a real demon when he first went in, and they were able to transform him into a wonderful service pet that is well behaved and listens. They truly know their craft, and I absolutely recommend them. You’ll begin to see the difference right away and your dog.— Rodolfo Franco
Posted August 5th 2022
Everything about Dog Training Elite was great!!!! The staff are awesome with my dog Cyrus. This disabled veteran recommends DTE to anyone looking to train their pup!!!— Chris Asher
Posted August 5th 2022
They were great! My dog loved working with all of them. They eased my anxiety about the e-collar and everything. They definitely are the best trainers I’ve seen in a while!— neida garcia
Posted August 4th 2022
We brought our German Shepherd puppy to Dog Training Elite and couldn't be happier. We had Geneva as our trainer who is very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions and made sure we knew what we needed to work on as well. We saw results after the first day too.— Shannon Sixkiller
Posted August 1st 2022
if you are looking for a miracle like we were Dog Training Elite is the place to go-they changed our life for the better!! Geneva is so on top of communicating and telling you honestly how your dog is doing. you get videos and pictures of what your dog is doing everyday. I felt so safe leaving my doggo in their hands. You can have personal time with the trainer and your dog so you know exactly what your dog is learning and how you can keep up the work at home. Dog Training Elite has the best staff, i felt comfortable talking to everyone there because they are so kind and you can tell they have you and your dogs best interest in mind. TAKE YOUR DOG TO DTE!!!! we love everything about them and would recommend them to anyone and everyone who is wanting to get their dog trained :)— Megan Nichols
Posted July 27th 2022
This is an amazing business! Not only did I see incredible results, but my dog was so cared for by all the people here! I would highly recommend this for all your dog training needs. They are very good and what they do and I can tell they love the dogs so much. This is hands down the best center out there.— cc Si
Posted July 25th 2022
Fantastic trainers and proven methodology. We have a 1 1/2 year old 80 lbs Sheepadoodle. Within about 6 weeks, he changed from a leash-puller to a full on off leash dog. We hike and run with him off leash and enjoy walking with him a lot more (I climbed a 14er Mountain with him yesterday fully off leash). Life changing for us. Highly recommend.— Arun Sundar
Posted July 23rd 2022
Amazing dog trainers Geneva and Adakias they had my German Shepard well behaved in one week and helping me by then end of the program. I would so recommend it to anyone needing help with their pets— Amber Lashmit
Posted July 22nd 2022
I was really nervous about finding a good company to train my sons service dog & spent months researching. Dog Training Elite was the only one I found that would do at home training. I'm a hands on/observe learner. It was so great to have Melanie & Salena come to my home, show me exactly what to do, & practiced with me until I felt comfortable. They explained the process & answered my questions with kindness. They were always right on time & eager to work with us. They also worked really well with Drake. I feel he did so much better being at his home with me for his basic training. They also answered emails/texts within the same day. They worked well with me to figure out a plan that would work best based on my sons special needs/disability. Drake has now graduated from his basic training & we're excited to start group trainings. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite if you want convenient & professional dog training no matter what services you are looking for.— Rose Carter
Posted July 20th 2022
Dog training Elite has been awesome for our family. Our dog Koa has been going since he was 9 weeks old. Koa has learned so much and grown so much because of their training. We can’t wait to see our pup graduate into a service dog. They are flexible with our schedules and work with us even though we live about an hour and a half south. They have been amazing.— Brittany Lay
Posted July 14th 2022
Dog Training Elite was a great decision for us. We have a pitbull mix named Luna and went with the Platinum package. We just finished our 7 private sessions! Jeff has been wonderful with training. A true professional and GREAT at training. Does the job and does it well. We are super happy with Evan too and are confident that all Dog Elite trainers have the experience and skill! Luna is ready for Group lessons and we can’t wait to see her progress in the coming months!— Kristen McGee
Posted July 13th 2022
My wife decided to surprise me by bringing home three Malinois Puppies. I called Dog Elite Training Because I quickly got overwhelmed with these high-energy dogs. Can you imagine how crazy it was for me, a simple dog owner, trying to train 3 Malinois puppies? Dog Elite came to my rescue. Lexi, the trainor, has been amazing with the Malys. They are so much more obedient. They respond to my commands. It’s amazing. Everyone who meets our dogs are so impressed.— Joseph Vijungco
Posted July 12th 2022
They are the best trainer we have ever had. They are training our pup to be a service dog. I have never had such a well behaved animal.— Nicole Foster
Posted July 7th 2022
DTE is the only training method that has worked with my 1.5 year old stubborn lab. It has brought order back to our house and made her an all around better pup. The team is professional and knowledgable, I would recommend them to anyone!— Laura Bickel
Posted July 5th 2022
Had a great experience with DTE! I was a little skeptical of the method at first, but we stuck to the program and did the homework as instructed. We are lightyears away from where we started with our dog in just 2 short months. Looking forward to the group trainings to get us to our end goal.— Cole Harte
Posted July 1st 2022
Jeff is been great. He truly cared about Obi and teach him and me the best way to train him. 100% recommended— mchaverri86
Posted June 30th 2022
Jason helped me with my 2 Dogs. I have a Pit mix that was reactive and is now no longer reactive and does great off leash, along with a Hound mix that was near impossible to get to listen to simple commands that now can be off leash and listens very well.— Rick M
Posted June 27th 2022
The basic obedience camp was 1000% worth the money and time. My golden doodle is basically a completely different dog. Erin (the trainer) was so kind, patient and let me pick her brain about more training tips after the camp was finished. Would do this again in a heartbeat!— Hollie Steed
Posted June 25th 2022
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite, 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 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.
