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While dogs are man's best friend, that relationship didn't develop overnight. Creating a strong bond with a dog takes time, patience and lots of training. Dog obedience training is one of the best ways to deepen the bond between dog and owner.
Training a new dog takes a lot of time and effort but the payoff is well worth it. Some dogs may require more training than others due to breed type, past trauma, or just plain stubbornness. However, all dogs can become loyal, friendly and well behaved through dog obedience training with Dog Training Elite San Antonio’s programs, including in-home training!
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Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite San Antonio location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
In-Home Training
Dog Training Elite San Antonio has specialized training courses for both puppies and older dogs. For in-home training, dog trainers will observe dog breed, size, temperament and any other factors that will influence training.
Working with the dog and dog owner directly in an owner’s home, dog trainers will develop a personalized training plan for basic commands like sit, stay, come, heel, etc.; as well as to address any unique issues such as anxiety, aggression, fear and so on. Once a dog is trained, owners can sign their dogs up for group classes with more in-depth training.
Starting with in-home training is an unmatched service that provides dogs and dog owners with the opportunity to work together. Not only does in-home dog obedience training free dogs from the distractions of a group class, but ensuring a dog is learning from both their owner and a trainer will help owners and dogs strengthen their bond. Dogs that learn only from trainers may be inclined to disobey when the trainer is not around. Equally sharing the task of training between dog and dog owner leads to the development of trust and deepening love.
Trainers from Dog Training Elite San Antonio seek to not only help train dogs, but empower owners so they can continue training their dogs in years to come. This includes sharing tips and tricks (treats are always a good thing!), as well as pointing out personality traits and behavior issues dog owners should focus on.
The Dog Training Elite San Antonio Difference
There are numerous dog obedience training methods out there, which can be broken down into three main theories: traditional, modern and balanced.
- Traditional training typically relies on punishment for errors, and “low value” rewards such as praise or petting when a dog performs a desired behavior. In recent years traditional training has fallen out of favor.
- Modern training, which is more science-based, focuses more on positive reinforcement when a desired behavior occurs and doesn’t worry about correcting bad behavior. This training method has many benefits, including faster learning for dogs, less stress and anxiety for dogs, ability to teach more complex behaviors, and of course, a better experience for dog owners and trainers.
- Balanced training theory, while it sounds like the best of both worlds, still incorporates the use of punishment as a training tool.
Dog Training Elite San Antonio uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature.
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.
Start Your Obedience Training Journey
Dog Training Elite San Antonio knows the prospect of starting dog obedience training can sound daunting. But with our knowledge trainers and proven, gentle method, you and your pet can conquer obedience training without using any harsh shock collars or demanding training.
Dogs and dog owners can bond and work together to have a successful, enjoyable training process. Contact Dog Training Elite San Antonio today to start your dog obedience training!
Obedience Training FAQs
What age can a dog start obedience training?
The earlier, the better. Puppies are welcome! That being said, old dogs truly can learn new tricks - there is no reason an older dog can’t learn basic commands.
What issues will obedience training address?
Besides basic commands like sit, stay, heel, etc., dog obedience training can address issues such as chewing, whining or barking, jumping to greet others, and begging for food.
Are shock collars used?
No. Pain or punishment is never used in any form during training programs. A combination of positive reinforcement and an electronic collar has proven to be 100% successful. The electronic collar produces a gentle “tug” to get a dog's attention. It is not a shock collar and does not harm or alarm a pet.
Why in-home training?
In-home training is necessary because it allows trainers to focus on the particular issues of individual dogs (like terrorizing a pet cat or chasing the mailman). During in-home training sessions trainers also work side by side with owners and any other family members so the dog understands who is in control.
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!
We have our new 3 month golden retriever training to be our service dog with them and they have been very professional ! He is learning very fast with all there training .i would recommend them .— Sharlene Thum
Posted April 16th 2024
I have nothing but great things to say about Dog Training Elite. Professional, knowledgeable, and they offer a wide variety of training options and classes. I am very happy I found this program for my dog. Addakias is awesome and always makes classes meaningful and fun. I highly recommend this business to anyone looking for general training to service dog training.— Jordan Marie Diggs
Posted April 11th 2024
I have nothing but great things to say about Dog Training Elite. Professional, knowledgeable, and they offer a wide variety of training options and classes. I am very happy I found this program for my dog. Adakias is awesome and always makes classes meaningful and fun. I highly recommend this business to anyone looking for general training to service dog training.— Jordan Diggs
Posted April 11th 2024
The trainers at Dog Training Elite are absolutely fabulous! They are training my dog, a Serbian Rottweiler, currently, eight months, old, to be my Service Dog. They have done a fantastic job up to this point! In addition to training at their facility, they have training at my home and in public areas. They explain the training thoroughly as they are not just training the dog, they are training me. I couldn’t be more pleased, and I strongly recommend them as trainers for. Service dogs, and general training for pets. They are worth every penny.— Cestmoimoi
Posted February 28th 2024
I sent my 2-year-old female Golden Retriever, who has separation anxiety, to be trained by Dog Training Elite to become my service dog. Day 1 of obedience training I noticed a huge difference in her anxiety levels as well as her basic obedience! Could not recommend enough!!— Caitlin Fulk
Posted March 18th 2024
We have been working with the training team for 10 months. They have been training our service dog Ruger since he was 9 weeks old. He attended puppy camp with Geneva and he learned so fast. He went back for advanced obedience and his Service Dog training. We are so happy. There are a million positive things I could say but the thing I value most is they are always there for you. If you find things you need help with they always have a plan to support— Renee Marble
Posted December 31st 2023
"Reign" is my 3rd pure bred AKC German Shepherd and I "knew" how to train puppies....or at least I thought I knew. This time it didn't work. Whitley and Dog Training Elite have helped my husband and I to train our dog so we now have a well-mannered, happy, pet that I can count on to listen and behave. When you have an 80-pound German Shepherd people tend to be nervous when you approach them- with training, Reign is my guardian AND a good dog! There are a lot of programs out there....all promising to bring about remarkable changes in your pet...but Whitley has proven their methods work and kept the company's promise to us- something you don't always find in today's marketplace. Words to describe Whitley and her training: Compassion/Kindness. Quality. Attention to detail. Responsive. Effective! I have, and will continue to recommend Whitley and Dog Training Elite to my friends and colleagues, as I recognize the quality of training we paid for and will not settle for less. Dr. Laurie Singel— Laurie Singel
Posted February 9th 2018
Our baby Doberman is already improving so much in temperament thanks to the direction and guidance of the trainer and staff. Would definitely suggest anyone looking to help train their dominant breed baby to go there for sure.— Marie Hall
Posted December 12th 2023
I inquired about training my dogs specific issues, (potty training) and I received a thorough and insightful response on what is to be expected, the prices, and personal advice. I appreciate the prompt response and professionalism, I will hire them for any future dog training.— Clariza Rizalado
Posted October 26th 2023
Such a phenomenal experience that I’ve now had 3 of my pups trained with DTE. There’s truly something special about a well trained dog bonded with its owner and DTE makes this a main point in their work. Highly recommend for any basic obedience, service dog work, therapy dog, etc!— Lea Hajjar
Posted October 24th 2023
The trainers are always friendly and professional. My daughter's "Service Dog in Training" couldn't ask for a better Trainer. Terrance answers all my questions but also takes the time to show my daughter how to implement at home what the dog has learned.— Christine Drain
Posted August 25th 2023
The best place for dog training! The trainers are excellent as well as friendly and communicative to pet parents. They are available for parents ant time you need them So glad we entered our dog in their training program. Try them. You won’t be disappointed.— Kathe Dobson
Posted August 24th 2023
I brought My baby blue a (Belgian malinois” here for puppy training and soon to be service dog training. What can I say? The service and the Team are amazing. They love their job and they love dogs and care for your babies. I enjoy seeing my baby grow up and The training and guidance They provide is Amazing. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a dog training program— Israel Deluna
Posted August 13th 2023
The instructors at Dog Training Elite are not only knowledgeable and experienced but also kind, patient and fun. Our dog was driving our family crazy and we feel fortunate to have found DTE. Louie went from being a rebel to becoming a service dog in just 3 weeks. What an amazing transformation! He is a totally different dog, although mischievous at times, he now listens and follows commands. We continue training and working with DTE so that Louie can continue to improve. Thanks to all the instructors who have worked and helped train Louie :)— Gabriela Barba
Posted August 13th 2023
I have a dog that had some major anxiety issues. After training for a few weeks there was a big change in how my dog and all for the better.— Lacey Kornicki
Posted August 12th 2023
Great trainers, our puppy, a Rottweiler, been so obedient after theb1st day there. Geneva and Andrea they know what they doing , the facilities are wonderful too. We get videos and reports end of each day our puppy is there. Thank you all .— Laura Howard
Posted July 30th 2023
Dog Training Elite San Antonio helped us go from a situation where we were looking at rehoming our newly adopted dog because of resource guarding. They trained the people and the dog well and now we are a happy dog family. The bonus is that we can go out in public and we always have the best behaved pooch around! Big thank you to our trainer Atakias.— Amy
Posted June 20th 2023
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite San Antonio, 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 San Antonio 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.
Dog Training Elite San Antonio Partners
