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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite San Antonio

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in San Antonio, TX.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in San Antonio, TX

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 San Antonio dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training in San Antonio, TX and rely on positive reinforcement to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite San Antonio 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 San Antonio

Training With An E-Collar

Dog Training Elite San Antonio NEVER uses punishments like shock collars to train dogs out of bad behavior. Dog Training Elite in San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio classical conditioning dog trainers.

San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio, TX 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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A women playing with her service dog in San Antonio, TX.

The Dog Training Elite San Antonio Difference


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Dog Training Elite in San Antonio, TX uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite San Antonio 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 San Antonio’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 San Antonio, TX, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite San Antonio 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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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Glori Tate
    Dec. 31, 2024
    I love the trainers and how they are helping my little Poppy learn all she needs to know on her journey to become a service dog. She is tiny and they treat her like she is normal dog with a big heart . They do not baby her and treat her like she can do everything a regular size dog can do. She can be a bit spicy but she listens to them and is also so happy to see them. Her little nub tail goes a mile a minute as soon as we pull up. She knows she is going to see the amazing staff and trainers. Her first week she learned a lot and it was up to me to keep it up. They found treats she likes. * She was super picky* She was a bit shy at first and they got her out of her shell. Now she is not afraid of anything. They still come to the house for additional training and we can go every Tuesday for refresher training until she is old enough to start service dog training. I know, I was so nervous at first before Poppy joined this program. After meeting with them and visiting the facility I was very happy. The facility is very clean. The trainers, staff have been absolutely wonderful and take time to answer my questions. If I don’t feel confident in what I am doing they do not hesitate to guide me. When Poppy joined she was only 1.5 lbs and they made sure she was safe while she started puppy basics. Yet she still played with the big puppy’s and did everything all the other puppy’s got to do. She is 3lbs now and I have no concerns in leaving my little treasure with anyone at Dog Training Elite for her continue education onto Service dog training. If you’re looking for Basic training to advance to anything in between. I highly recommend this wonderful facility. They truly care about their clients and the work they do. My little Poppy loves going to see them every time. They also educate me on what I am doing wrong and guide me in the correct way to handle poor behavior in my Poppy. Come join this place! Poppy would love to make new friends too
  • Natasha Kova
    Dec. 31, 2024
    We have been coming to DTE for 3 years and it was the best decision we made after getting a dog! She still has her wild side but way more behaved when she was in the beginning. Trainers are amazing, facility is at a great location, several classes every week to choose from, and classes are super fun! 100% recommend reaching out to DTE for anyone who is considering getting a dog💜
  • Dana Bishop
    Dec. 30, 2024
    Where do I even begin? DTE took a 4 month old Doberman puppy and turned him into the most amazing service dog in a period of 3 months time. This boy was wild! He learned discipline, self control and all the things necessary to pass the test. This was all done with a perfect balance of building amazing confidence while maintaining his wonderful disposition. Leo truly loved his trainers and we could tell that they absolutely loved him as well. I recommend them 100 times over.
  • Chrisany Franklin
    Dec. 18, 2024
    The basic puppy training and service dog training options are amazing. The staff is so nice and very informative. Chewbacca has learned so much and is always happy to come to class. We’ve done the puppy class and now on week 2 of service dog training! The trainers are so helpful and educational when it comes to showing what Chewbacca has learned and answering all of our questions! You get daily updates of what was taught to include videos and written information. Plus, cute photos of your pup! I highly recommend DTE!
  • Troy Sahai
    Dec. 17, 2024
    We recused bolt in late Dec 23. He was about to be put down because there was no room at the shelter. Initially, he would take off running had no recall, and was constantly acting up. That’s when we reached out to Dog Training Elite. We met with Whitley and she immediately promised us we can get him trained. Throughout his training Adakais(his trainer) was patient and gave us numerous lessons that we were able to apply. It was life changing for us. Bolt went from being a dog that would lose his mind if you even put a leash on him to becoming fully service dog qualified by summer of 2024. He knows all the commands and really responds well to having a job as a service dog. There a lots of group classes and everyone attending is supportive. Plus you have the one on one with the trainer. This is a great team and you’re really part of a supportive community. That’s bolt at my retirement ceremony being a great service dog. The other photo was after training at the facility. He was relaxed even with other dogs around.
  • Jazzmen Wilken
    Dec. 17, 2024
    I am so thankful to DTE for being patient with me and my pup during the training process. The group classes are a plus as they allow me and my dog to work in various environments with distractions. I have received constant feedback from them as well which has helped me build my confidence as a dog owner!
  • Amber Rodriguez
    Dec. 16, 2024
    I can’t say enough good things about this facility. The staff is always so friendly and they were absolutely amazing with my dog. Gunner is very well behaved now, and I have a better understanding of how to upkeep his training at home because they give you the tools you need to be able to work with your dog at home. My dog went through the puppy boot camp and service dog training. Definitely recommend!
  • Amber Rodriguez
    Dec. 16, 2024
    I can’t say enough good things about this facility. The staff is always so friendly and they are absolutely amazing with dogs. My dog is very well behaved now, and I have a better understanding of how to upkeep his training at home because they give you the tools you need to be able to work with your dog at home. My dog went through the puppy boot camp and service dog training. Definitely recommend!
  • leticia sanders
    Dec. 14, 2024
    The staff is professional, helpful, and patient. I am pleased with my dogs’s progress… She’s a Llasa Apso so that says a lot when it comes to training. You’ll see a difference day one after training … one week later is amazing and then group training just adds to the benefit of having your dog trained. Highly recommend.
  • Timothy Shaw
    Dec. 12, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been the best! We are so happy that we chose them for our training needs. They have really helped our strongminded bully breed become an exceptional member of our home. Worth every penny of the cost to work with people who truly care about meeting our needs.
  • Roxanne Kiesling
    Dec. 12, 2024
    Beyond 5 Stars!! From day one of service dog camp, Hogan (the cutest puppy around) was learning new commands and breaking bad habits. Beyond the AMAZING trainers--Ali & Whitley, the training facility was top-notch and well kept. Sometimes I would walk in and think they were baking cookies because it smelled so good :) Highly would recommend Dog Training Elite! After just 3 weeks of training and reinforcing, we now have a graduate of Service Dog Camp!
  • Andrea Calleros
    Dec. 12, 2024
    This is the best place for all your dog training needs. During covid i was able to get my dog trained as a PSD and the experience was so great that when my guy retired i went back to get his replacement trained. Everyone is incredibly helpful, friendly and flexible with your schedule. They were able to come to my home for all of the training. I highly recommend DTE!
  • Julie Aulner
    Nov. 14, 2024
    DTE has been amazing! Their services are truly the best and have been a huge blessing to our family. The training and support they have provided to Calypso and my husband has truly been above what we could have imagined.
  • Kris NeSmith
    Nov. 2, 2024
    They have been awesome with training my lab, Harley. Harley had a stubborn streak but with their help he is doing great. Our trainer Adakias has been great to work with, understanding and accommodating. I highly recommend them!
  • Diane Foster
    Oct. 20, 2024
    Very professional and listens to your concerns. Their work is amazing!
  • Sharonanne Brunet
    Sep. 4, 2024
    Trainers are sensitive to Dog’s personality and the specific concerns of owners. Excellent feedback on the commands taught during training. They detail your dog’s “report card”. They are pleasant & patient in teaching & having owners demonstrate understanding & use of learned commands with their pet. We love that we bring our Pet home for the evening & a reassuring night’s sleep!
  • Hollow Tree Ranch
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Cannot express how happy and appreciative I am for DTE. Truly heartfelt and personal trainers who were all patient, informative, caring, and interested in the needs for our particular situation. We have a special needs child and they went above and beyond helping us get our dog service dog trained and task trained for her needs. Cannot say enough! 10 stars for sure!!
  • Bob Berg
    Aug. 20, 2024
    I will have more to say as time goes by. This was our first day and had a lot to digest!!
  • donald
    Aug. 8, 2024
    Terrence has been sole trainer, his knowledge and experience has surpassed our expectations. He and Lexxa bonded quickly and the training has progressed much quicker than we expected. We highly recommend and couldn’t be happier with the results.
  • Haley Schenasi
    Jul. 7, 2024
    Highly recommend Dog Training Elite! We trained our German Shepherds through their program and love everything about it. The care and attention to detail they have for dogs is incomparable. Kai is a phenomenal trainer!