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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Tampa, FL.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Tampa, FL

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

Training With An E-Collar

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

Tampa 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 in Tampa 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 Tampa, FL 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 Tampa, FL.

The Dog Training Elite in Tampa Difference


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Dog Training Elite in Tampa, FL uses modern dog training techniques and methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Dog Training Elite in Tampa 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 in Tampa’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 Tampa, FL, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it. The unique techniques of Dog Training Elite in Tampa 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

  • Sierra Larsen
    Dec. 19, 2024
    Marissa and Tonya are life savers, literally. Our pit mix puppy was really not getting along with our older dog and struggling with guarding, to the point we were afraid we were going to have to surrender him. Being a fearful pit mix, that is rolling the dice and we love him. He’s family. They were able to train them and teach us how to get them to coexist. It’s amazing how supportive and loving they are; both dogs get excited when either of them came… well for pets, compliments, and treats. Their expertise is vast and they even sent follow up videos and articles to further our knowledge. Plus individual and group classes! All around training from every angle including socializing with other dogs and them as distractions. If anyone is looking for a trainer, there is no question, they are the best. Best money we ever spent!
  • Leslie Sanchez
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. They have definitely made the process easy and explained everything thorough. Marissa has been a great trainer, and my pup loves her. Marissa has helped me and Hazel build confidence in being in public as we continue on our journey to get my dog as a service dog. I would recommend them to anyone 😊
  • Jeremiah Johnson
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Marissa is great with helping us learn how to manage our high energy dog, Sam. He is scared of new people, bounces off furniture and never settles, especially when nervous. After each in home training session with Marissa, Sam's behavior improved; not a little, but huge improvements. You can tell Sam is happier now as he knows what is expected of him and his anxiety is almost gone. He is still scared meeting new people, but calms down quickly and is their new best friend in a few minutes. He will stay in place when he is told for as long as we ask of him, no more constant pacing. As a 1 year old puppy, Sam is still learning, but with the techniques Marissa taught us; he is well on his way to being a well mannered and happy adult dog. I highly recommend, Marissa and Dog Training Elite. We couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Grant Kinley
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Trained my service dog with this group and had an amazing experience. They tailored training to my type of dog being small and non traditional for service dog but for my PTSD he is perfect. Encouraged both trainer and dog to be consistent. Group classes are great and the program i chose has lifetime support so if he starts a behavior or i need additional training they will be on board. Harley met his training within 1 yr with is astounding. We BOTH focused on each other and the needs he would serve and this training company was amazing to work with.
  • J C
    May. 28, 2024
    Kim, Jana, and Ryan have been great to work with. They have turned Benny's behavior around and are helping me to get him trained as a service dog. They have been very considerate and helpful with my physical limitations. We look forward to every session with them.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have a full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.
  • Deb Barrett
    Jul. 5, 2023
    Kim, Ryan, and Aaron are the best dog trainers. They are very patient both with my Frenchie and me! If you need a specific area that needs work, they are there for you and your dog. People continually comment on how well behaved my little Frenchie. He will be 3 years old in a couple of weeks. He began his training when he was 9 months old & I take him to group glass to reinforce what he has learned & to keep him on his paws!!! Jackson is a certified service dog and it's all thanks to Dog Training Elite Suncoast.
  • Linda Kelly
    Dec. 6, 2024
    Ryan, Kimberly and Aaron are the absolute best at what they do. I adopted Luna from the humane society and she is a BIG girl; I knew I would need help training her if I ever hoped to be out with her successfully. Kim came to interview us and believed in Luna's potential. She gave us homework and I truly believe she, Ryan, and Aaron trained me as well as Luna. The classes are small, ensuring that each dog gets personalized attention. This is such a key factor in fostering a real bond between you and your dog. Every session felt tailored to Luna’s needs, and the trainers were always available for follow-up questions or advice. The trainers keep the classes engaging with games and activities that help reinforce key skills. Under their excellent tutelage at home, in group sessions, and in public places, Luna achieved her Service Dog certification. I can’t recommend Suncoast Elite enough! Luna is now a happy, well-behaved dog, and our walks are something I look forward to. The experience and dedication of these highly skilled trainers and their training philosophy are unsurpassed in my opinion.
  • Heather Vicioso
    Oct. 6, 2024
    I cannot speak highly enough of Dog Training Elite Suncoast and their exceptional work in training my service dog, Sammy. From the moment we began working with them, it was clear that their expertise and dedication were unparalleled. The team at Dog Training Elite Suncoast transformed Sammy from a loving companion into an indispensable service dog. Their training methods were not only effective but also compassionate, ensuring that Sammy's natural personality shone through while developing the skills necessary for her important role. Thanks to their thorough and professional training, Sammy has become an integral part of my daily life. She's mastered a wide range of tasks that help me navigate my day-to-day challenges with confidence and independence. The impact of their training extends far beyond our local community - Sammy has since accompanied me on travels around the world, adapting seamlessly to new environments and situations. What truly sets Dog Training Elite Suncoast apart is their ongoing commitment to Sammy's development. They continue to work with us, teaching her new tasks and reinforcing her existing skills. This dedication ensures that Sammy remains at the top of her game as a task-trained service dog, constantly evolving to meet my changing needs. The bond I share with Sammy, and the freedom and security she provides me, are testaments to the incredible work of Dog Training Elite Suncoast. They haven't just trained a service dog; they've given me a loyal partner and a new lease on life. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone in need of professional dog training, especially for service animals. They truly are elite in every sense of the word.
  • Erin Weigel
    Dec. 4, 2024
    I reached out to Tonya to help me train a service dog for my son with Autism. When we started the platinum obedience training, our mini bernedoodle was about 6 months old. Tonya was amazing through this process and included our son in the training at every step. Once our pup graduated the obedience training we added the service training tasks. She took the time to talk with us and make the best decisions as to which specific tasks would be most helpful for our son. These tasks included deep pressure therapy, crowd control and blocking. Tonya always provides clear instructions during the appointment and exactly what to work on each day until the next visit. The training she provided along with lots of practice and hard work in between visits has allowed our mini bernedoodle to become a service dog which has made a huge positive impact on our son. I can’t recommend or thank Tonya enough for all of her kindness, caring, and help in this process.
  • SILVER ROOTS SENIORS MOVING AND REAL ESTATE
    Nov. 30, 2024
    Finnley is training to be a service dog for me personally and to help with my senior customers. We started with a At Home training classes and then moved to Group classes. The public park group classes where there are distractions have proven beneficial and enjoyable for him and I. The training at the airport was amazing, preparing him so that he will be able to travel with me. I have mentioned to Kim that I was struggling with him listening when the Grandchildren and are over, Kim quickly said let’s schedule a date for me to come over and have the grandkids there. Identifying problems and actually working with you Is one of the best parts of working with this team. I look forward to continuing to work with Kim and the team as Finnley progresses.
  • Kinley Sf
    Nov. 10, 2024
    I am so grateful to Elite Suncoast Dog Training for changing my relationship with my dog, Sunny. I came to them with a very leash-reactive dog. Walks were stressful ~ I would scan the block ahead looking for other dogs ~ I would pivot and turn around when I saw them: I even started driving to Glencliff or Baybridge Park to avoid my neighborhood, with its close houses and small yards. The first transformation came when Aaron evaluated and demonstrated to me that my dog had a strong protective drive (there is a positive side to his leash reactivity). The second transformation was in taking the group classes and seeing how capable Sunny was in following my direction in close proximity to other dogs. It has given me confidence in my abilities to command the situation with other dogs. Sunny is not cured of his reactivity, but it has diminished it, to the point where I don’t feel completely embarrassed and discouraged in taking walks with him again. If you are in my shoes, ask for a free consult with Aaron ~ learn what your dog needs ~ and go from there. I hope this can help anyone else who is in my shoes. ~ Eva
  • Alexis Hackworth
    Nov. 9, 2024
    Amazing experience! I was so excited to have a professional trainer to help and these guys don’t disappoint!! Copper is now an official therapy dog and he loves his work! I so appreciate the time the trainers took with Copper to understand him and the best ways for us to communicate! We’ve loved our experience and I recommend this company to everyone I know who’s looking for a well mannered pup! Best money we’ve spent on our dog hands down!
  • Anya Terrill
    Nov. 9, 2024
    Great choice, they really helped with my dog goose. No more jumping on people when they come over. Places very well and stays. And has more confidence in himself. All around glad I chose DTE suncoast.
  • Kaitlyn Thornhill
    Sep. 19, 2024
    We cannot say enough good things about Dog Training Elite and Tonya. We recently rescued our sweet boy and quickly realized that he has reactive tendencies due to his rough past. We seeked out Dog Training Elite after reading reviews about success with Tonya. We just finished our in-home sessions and wow, our pup has done a 360. With daily training and hard work, we have been able to gain confidence in him and feel more comfortable in public places. He has nailed commands such as sit, place, quiet, down, leave it, and the biggest one, heel! He seems to look to us for guidance now instead of reacting on his own terms which is huge! Thank you Tonya, we are forever grateful for your teachings, time, and patience.
  • Kalie Irwin
    Sep. 12, 2024
    We reached out to Dog Training Elite when our golden was about 3 months old. He was jumping over everything, peeing when he would encountered new people and trying to eat anything he could get his mouth on. The trainers were so helpful with their suggestions and we really felt like our concerns were addressed. After 6 weeks of one on one training, we have seen a huge improvement in his behavior at home and we have the tools to correct any unwanted behavior and we are really able to see his potential and know how to motivate him. We look forward to attending group sessions and using the skills we have learned to take him out into the community. I cannot recommend them enough.
  • Samantha Young
    Sep. 10, 2024
    Marissa has been great with my little pug Lucy! She has taught me so much and has helped us have a calmer dog. She’s very informative and takes the time to explain everything that she is doing and why. She is flexible with appointment times and is very accommodating. It’s been great having her help!
  • Casey Mortensen
    Aug. 22, 2024
    Both myself and Yoshi (1 year old German Shepherd) have had the most wonderful experience with Dog Training Elite. Marissa was our trainer and we couldn’t have picked anyone better for the task! Yoshi went from just about dislocating our arms from pulling on his leash, being terrified of other people, not listening at all, potty in the house on purpose, you name it. Marissa worked perfectly with him showing the ins and outs of the e-collar. Now here we are 2 months later and he’s a perfect gentleman, walks perfect at my side and is able to go places with us. I’m so grateful ❤️
  • Rozette
    Aug. 21, 2024
    Wonderful experience for both me and my dog! Marissa is well educated and knowledgeable about what each individual dog needs to succeed. Patient and willing to take the time to explain so you can be prepared to meet your dogs needs.
  • Kimberly Gillin
    Aug. 20, 2024
    We just moved to Tampa in an apartment complex and my 2 year old Hamilton became reactive and anxious. After 5 lessons I have a totally different fur baby. Ryan, Kimberly and Aaron are the best. I can now walk Hamilton in our complex with no reaction to other dogs and people.