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Develop a Stronger Bond Through Training
Bringing home a new puppy can be a fun and special time. Puppies are cute and playful and bring a lot of joy into a home! They can also bring a lot of chaos and messes. Early days spent with your puppy are important for both bonding and training. In fact, if you’re wondering how to bond with your puppy, training can be a great way, as they look to you for guidance and direction. Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida is here to help.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida In-Home Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida’s offers comprehensive in-home puppy training. For the first 4-6 weeks, trainers use “treat training” before moving onto more advanced puppy training. Puppies will learn the following behaviors:
- Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
- Puppy corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
- Crate training/ housebreaking
Trainers will also help owners learn about the following:
- Socialization tips
- Environmental hazards
- Puppy enrichment
- Caring for your puppy
- And more!
Training a puppy can feel overwhelming. By pairing you with a professional trainer, not only will your puppy learn quickly, but you will feel confident and empowered to continue training your puppy after the sessions are completed. Training in your own home will help you bond with your pup so even after the professional trainer leaves, you and Fido can continue to progress together.
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.
In-Home Puppy Trainers
Working with a trainer and your puppy in your own home will help your puppy stay focused. Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida dog trainers create personalized training plans for individual puppies that will also address any unique needs or issues.
Once a puppy has completed in-home training, Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida offers puppy group classes for further training. These group classes are a great option for exposing a young puppy to other dogs, people, new sounds and sights so they become well socialized.
Positive Reinforcement Training Methods
The Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida training method focuses on encouraging proper behaviors with positive reinforcement. Punishment is never used as a form of training as it can lead to aggression and fear in dogs. Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida does use an electronic vibration collar (not a shock collar) to help puppies stay alert, and treats for extra encouragement.
Positive reinforcement teaches a puppy that performing obedient behaviors wins love and affection from their owner. Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida’s professional puppy trainers include owners in the training process so that puppies learn who is in charge. Working with professional trainers of Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida, your puppy will not only develop deep-rooted obedience, but working alongside these trainers will help you and your puppy build a strong, healthy relationship founded on loyalty and trust.
Tips on How to Bond
With Your Puppy
Training is a great way to establish a deep, loyal bond with your puppy. Outside of your training sessions, there is more you can do to strengthen your bond. Here are some more tips for how to bond with your puppy:
Learn how to "talk to them"
Your puppy may not understand the words you’re saying, but he or she will understand your tone of voice. Speaking in an excited tone of voice will get your pup excited and motivate them to do what you want them to. Speaking in a low, calm voice can help soothe and relax your puppy.
Establish a routine
Puppies thrive on routine. A consistent schedule will help your puppy adjust to their new home, and to you and your family. A puppy’s schedule needs to include eating, playtime, puppy training, potty breaks, and nap times.
Playtime and exercise
As mentioned above, playtime is an important part of your puppy’s schedule. Playing with your puppy will help strengthen your bond and stimulate their brains. Walks are an easy and great way to give your puppy much-needed exercise. Start small, walking around in your yard or driveway and gradually extending the distance around your neighborhood.
Create boundaries for you and your puppy
Creating boundaries in your home for your puppy helps strengthen your bond because your puppy will look to you for direction and guidance. It will also help your puppy avoid bad habits. Baby gates and playpens are a useful way to create physical boundaries.
Give your puppy their own space
Puppies can become overwhelmed about all the new things they’re exploring. Crate training is a perfect way to allow your puppy to have their own space where they feel safe and comfortable and help them develop some independence so they grow into a well-adjusted dog.
Cuddle your puppy
The most adorable way to bond with your puppy is by cuddling them! Snuggling with your pup can help him or her feel comforted and safe. The best time to get a cuddle session with your puppy is when they are sleepy. Cuddling also helps puppies get used to having their paws, belly, face, etc. handled, and can be a good time to introduce light grooming practices like brushing their fur.
It’s OK to be nervous about bringing your puppy home. But with the professional dog trainers and programs at Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida, plus these tips on bonding with your puppy, you will develop a rewarding relationship with your new best friend.
Schedule a free training demo 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!
Anthony at Dog Training Elite helped me get my reactive dog under control. Within just a couple sessions, we saw noticeable differences with our dog, and by the end of our at home lessons, our dog is able to be out in public and completely under control. They are communicative and responsive for scheduling and questions. We highly recommend their team for general training but specifically for reactivity/aggression. If you would have told me a year ago I would be able to walk my dog in the farmer's market, I would not have believed you, but here we are! :)— Molly Lanners
Posted April 29th 2024
When we first got our Rottweiler puppy, we began to wonder if we made a mistake. She was biting, chewing on objects, jumping on people, pulling on the leash, and using the bathroom in the house. Then we hired this amazing company to help us properly train our dog. Our Stella is an unbelievable puppy with an amazingly sweet demeanor. She is so well behaved now, we have a completely different dog! She is 7 months old now, and we constantly get compliments about how well behaved she is. This trainer is worth every single dollar. The best investment you’ll ever make. Anthony is an unbelievable trainer. He understands dogs so well, assists with any questions, and is very attentive to making sure you finish training with the best dog possible. I cannot say enough good things about him and this company. 10/10 all day long!— Tyler Vaden
Posted April 25th 2024
Can't say enough about my trainer and all the help with my stubborn French Bulldog puppy! I was taught the tools to help teach her to be a better dog and am so thankful for your services! Thank you and recommend to anyone with a dog need training.— Jennifer Cunningham
Posted April 24th 2024
I have had an awesome experience with the entire DTE team starting with the initial in-home assessment and continuing through the individualized Service Dog training and group classes. Riley and I both adapted to the lessons and teaching style quickly and found that the pace of instruction was tailored to both of us, ensuring that we were challenged, but not overwhelmed with the process. It was amazing to see the transformation in Riley each week as she learned new skills and became more attentive and focused on tasks. I appreciated that the DTE team was approachable and that I was able to ask questions and receive feedback along the way. Group lessons were probably one of the most intimidating aspects of the program, but after the first one they became one of our favorite activities and we met a lot of great dogs and owners during these learning sessions. Knowing what we know now, we would 100% choose DTE again! Highly recommend Dog Training Elite of SW Florida and their entire team.— Allison Conley
Posted April 21st 2024
Absolutely great. I am closer to my dog and she is close to me. We're not all the way through yet. I'm waiting to do the group lessons.— Paulette Scarry
Posted April 21st 2024
10/10 would highly recommend Dog Training Elite of SW Florida. Anthony was our trainer, and he was awesome! Anthony was very helpful, knowledgeable and patient (with us and our Vizsla pup, Ziggie). He taught us the skills to succeed in training Ziggie (and vice-versa!). Much thanks to Anthony!— Maggie
Posted April 17th 2024
We were very happy with the work that Dog Training Elite staff did with our puppy and us! He truly has become an even better and loving version of himself!— Stephen Scogna
Posted April 16th 2024
We have been having a great experience with Elite! Big shout-out to Anthony! Thank you for working so patiently with Max (and us! 😊)— Joanne Weiss
Posted April 12th 2024
Anthony/trainer is Outstanding . Within the first few minutes of the vet first session he was able to train my then naughty Pug named Pearl. Then he trained me to train her. I was very nervous when Pearl graduated to group training. She did so well Alisa owner/trainer called her a “Rock Star”! Denise owner/trainer even spent extra time with Pearl and me on some issues I was having with her being stubborn. Chris/trainer also spent extra time with us on the down command. It is called Dog Training ELITE for a reason. All the trainers were very patient with me. They are the ones who are truly “Rock Stars”!— Ed Shilney
Posted April 9th 2024
The training sessions were great, our trainer went out of his way to help and instruct. The one thing I’d appreciate more of was more one on one time, like twice the number of lesson for the cost we paid, as the strong willed puppy we have often wore out during the lessons, as did my mother and I, and needed more of that intense and intentional focused training with the professional.— Alys West
Posted January 3rd 2024
I loved my experience with DTE! They were always on time and clear communicators and taught me so much about dog training! My dogs, Nash and Kila, are amazing examples of the hard work that DTE puts into their clients! I love my pups so much and I am so glad we chose to work with Dog Training Elite Southwest Fl.— Andie Haslam
Posted April 5th 2024
We have a reactive dog who has done really well with the training. I appreciate Anthony’s patience and knowledge. He made it fun.— Marjorie Shoobe
Posted April 3rd 2024
Couldn't be happier with Dog Training Elite, and Chris. The first session with Chris we had to chase Parker around the yard for 10 minutes to catch him to get the lessons started. Now I can retrieve him from most anywhere (not-so much if other dogs are involved). Can't wait for the group classes. We might have muddied the waters a bit by bringing a new puppy in the house, but so far all is well.— Russell Gnant
Posted March 13th 2024
We were so lucky to find the most amazing trainers for our puppy Sydney. Chris has been fantastic. Sydney has learned so much and so have we. They are amazing. We are so happy to know that we found the best place to learn and get such great support!!!— Barbara sellinger
Posted March 11th 2024
Our dog has been difficult to train (on the leash with distractions)but the different techniques we have been taught have started to work. Dog training Elite won’t give up until the right method works. The group class is extremely important and helpful. There are several trainers that attend and are willing to help if needed.— Janis Schechter
Posted February 22nd 2024
It has been a great team to work with. They are very knowledgeable and our dog is responding to the training. It's been very easy.— Lorin Cartwright
Posted March 5th 2024
I was impressed by this organization from the first phone call with Denise, to the in home assessment with Alissa to our in home training sessions with Anthony. I have 2 siblings, rescued from the streets of Aruba. Maya is very reactive and cannot sit still and Cooper is just the opposite but they are inseparable. Anthony was very patient and working together we figured out how to train them separately without a lot of drama. It had been an amazing journey to see the progress they have made so far We are looking forward to the rest of our journey. Thank you everyone from Patti, Walter, Cooper and Maya— Patti Baptiste
Posted March 4th 2024
This has been the best investment of time and money. Our Teddy is well on his way to being the perfect dog thanks to Chris’s invaluable training tips. I highly recommend Elite Dog Training.— Margaret Lopez
Posted February 9th 2024
Winston is a new man! He is still making progress and has finished his home training.— Judy Romano
Posted February 5th 2024
Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation
At Dog Training Elite of Southwest Florida, 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 of Southwest Florida works with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.