Back to Obedience Dog Training

Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training

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 dog training techniques are based on classical conditioning dog training to help your dog achieve deep-rooted obedience. Working with a Dog Training Elite trainer , your dog will become conditioned and develop those “automatic reflexes” to commands such as sit, down, heel, break, and more.

See Training Packages

Dog Training Elite

Training With An E-Collar

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

Classical Conditioning Dog Trainers

Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment

Read More
Read Less

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 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 trainer to help your dog be more obedient will help you create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. DTE

Positive Reinforcement Training

Dog Training Elite - Puppy Obedience Training. DTE

Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite - Off Leash Dog Training. Dog Training Elite

Off Leash Training

Dog Training Elite - Dog Agility Training Through Basic Obedience. Dog Training Elite

Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

A women playing with her service dog.

The Dog Training Elite Difference


Read More
Read Less

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

Get Your Free Assessment

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!

Photo Gallery

See An Elite Dog in Action

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Vinay Raju
    Jun. 13, 2026
    Elijah did a wonderful job. Very knowledgeable
  • Michelle McCaughey
    Apr. 22, 2025
    I am still traing for 11 sessions in group training at dog parks with Danielle. Danielle is WONDERFUL!!! We had 5 sessions of one on one and she was patient, kind, and thorough. I would definitely recommend her as trainer at Dog Training Elite Rhode Island. I am looking forward to the rest of our (Tucker and my) experience over the next 11 weeks. Soon, Tucker will be a therapy dog and go for his testing. This is an update on my original post: For personal health reasons, I had to take a year off from Tucker's training. I was nervous that Tucker would forget last year's work and Danielle reassured me he would not; he certainly did not. We restarted our traing in April and Tucker really did remember his lessons. Yes, we went over everything before we re-joined and he is doing well. As with any dog, the toughest part is the group traing with other dogs. It is an essential part because it helps them focus and stay on task. When her gets off task, the trainers are VERY helpful and we continue. He's coming along well. There was an additional trainer added while we were away and her name is Shelby. She and Danielle work together well and have the same firm, but loving and caring way with all breeds. I am, as is Tucker, thrilled to be back and he is right back in line to where we were. You cannot find a better training program and I want everyone to know about Elite Dog Training!!! You will not be disappointed!!!
  • Amanda White
    Jun. 12, 2026
    Loved our first meeting with Deidre!
  • eva oza
    Jun. 12, 2026
    I also want to give a huge shoutout to Kaitlin at Elite Dog Training Knoxville. She recently started joining our training sessions, and she has been absolutely wonderful. One moment that really stood out to me was during a training session at Market Square in downtown Knoxville. Another dog unexpectedly ran up to my dog and made him uncomfortable. Before the situation could escalate, Caitlin reacted immediately. Her reflexes were incredibly quick, and she stepped in right away to create space and make sure both dogs were safe. It was very impressive to watch and showed just how attentive and aware she is of her surroundings at all times. Not only is Kaitlin knowledgeable and professional, but she is also genuinely kind and caring. She takes the time to help both dogs and owners feel comfortable and confident throughout the training process. I am so grateful for everything Kaitlin and Rhett have done for my dog and me. Their dedication, knowledge, and support have made such a positive difference, and I cannot thank them enough. If you’re considering dog training, you’re in excellent hands with this team.
  • Eva Oza
    Jun. 12, 2026
    I can’t recommend Rhett at Elite Dog Training Knoxville enough! I’ve been working with him since my second session, and he has been absolutely amazing throughout the entire process. Rhett is incredibly knowledgeable and supportive. He takes the time to explain not only what to do, but why it works, and he’s given me so many helpful tips and tricks to keep my dog well-behaved both during training and at home. Every session, I learn something new about my dog and how to communicate with him more effectively. The biggest transformation has been in my dog’s behavior and confidence. He went from being a complete brat to becoming a smart, well-mannered boy. Rhett does an excellent job of coaching and correcting whenever either the owner or the dog makes a mistake, which is something I really appreciate. He holds both you and your dog accountable, and that consistency makes all the difference. If you’re looking for a trainer who genuinely cares, knows what he’s doing, and gets results, Rhett is the person to work with. Thank you for helping my dog and me become a better team!
  • Amy Bell
    Apr. 3, 2026
    My experience with Puppy training has been fantastic! Holly has been so patient and sweet to Tilly, it’s been a wonderful experience! Both Tilly and myself are learning a ton of good habits! Holly trained us again today and she was patient and kind with Tilly. She is such a positive influence, it makes the training seem effortless! I highly recommend her as a trainer! Holly trained Tilly today. It was great. She reinforced things we’ve been working on and taught us a few new commands. Things are really going well and I couldn’t be happier!
  • Tiffany Maloney
    Jun. 12, 2026
    We have loved working with Brennan. He has a passion for dog training and a wealth of knowledge. Our dog is always excited to see him. We have been impressed with how quickly she has learned from him. Brennan shows great patient with teaching us. We would recommend him to any of our friends!
  • Amy Fischer
    Jun. 12, 2026
    Here’s a polished version that incorporates your additional feedback about Larissa’s work with your family and her approach to e-collar training: Our experience with Dog Training Elite was excellent from start to finish. Larissa was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in Nala’s success. She took the time to understand our long-term goal of helping Nala progress toward becoming a psychiatric service dog and tailored the training to her specific needs, temperament, and learning style. The instruction was clear and easy for our family to follow, making practice at home highly effective. One of the biggest improvements was teaching Nala to focus on us and look to us for direction rather than making her own decisions. Larissa helped us establish consistent leadership so Nala understands that we are the ones in control, not the other way around. After just three sessions, we saw major improvements in her obedience, engagement, focus, and responsiveness. By the end of the program, Nala was reliably following commands at home and in distracting public environments while maintaining much better attention on her handlers. Larissa was also incredibly patient in teaching us, as owners, how to properly train and communicate with Nala. She took the time to explain the purpose and correct use of the e-collar as a training tool, emphasizing that it is meant to reinforce communication and consistency rather than punishment. She even offered to speak with any member of our household to ensure everyone understood the training methods and the importance of using the e-collar correctly and consistently. What impressed us most was the focus on building the handler-dog relationship that is essential for a future psychiatric service dog. Nala learned to check in with us more consistently, remain calm around distractions, and respond confidently to direction. Daily walks became more structured and enjoyable, unwanted behaviors decreased significantly, and we felt much more confident handling her in a variety of situations. We are grateful for the skills, leadership techniques, and confidence Larissa helped us develop, and we highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone seeking professional, high-quality dog training.
  • Eli Leo
    May. 29, 2026
    First day of dog training with Josh was so effective, I already feel more confident controlling my girl! Thanks, Josh. Second training today was amazing, I wish I had done this before now. Josh is wonderful! Today we trained with Elijah, also wonderful. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
  • Emily Kerstein
    Jun. 12, 2026
    We were having quite a tough time managing our girl Wednesday before we found dog training elite. She was very reactive on leash, had a habit of jumping fences and we had to make major adjustments to the way we lived our lives just to keep her and others safe. We’re only halfway through the program and the difference is already night and day. Walks are actually enjoyable now, her escape artist tendencies have stopped, and we have real peace of mind when we take her anywhere with us. It sounds dramatic but it genuinely has been life-changing. Yes, the price can be daunting at first, but it has been well worth it. Jeff and Meggie are wonderful people who are damn good at their jobs! Cannot recommend them enough!
  • Aubrey Freiberg
    Feb. 18, 2026
    10/10. So appreciate Meggie & Dog Training Elite. So enjoyable to work with!!
  • Lynda Bartlow
    May. 24, 2026
    When we picked up our Aussie, he was doing a obstacle course like it was nothing. He is learning so much and so am I. Can't wait to see what happens next week.
  • Emilie Laudie
    Jun. 11, 2026
    Hunter came out to help us assess how to help our new puppy learn not to chase our smallest cat. He was patient and gave very helpful advice. He felt like we had everything else well in hand as far as his puppy training goes so he just told us to be in touch if we wanted to sign up for any of their services down the road. He was such a knowledgeable kind person 10/10 🙂
  • Bianka Rangel
    Jun. 11, 2026
    I always appreciate when people share the same enthusiasm for the things I love. From the moment I called to inquire I was met was so much excitement and care. When my trainer arrived she was also happy and excited to work with me and my pup. I felt like I was drowning in the first time puppy owner unknowns.. and you know the biting 😩. She kindly gave me some easy steps to follow. I feel empowered to train. Thank you Deidre, you saved me from future emotional meltdowns haha! I look forward to seeing my Nala girl progress ! ❤️
  • Kelly Hough
    May. 24, 2026
    I was at my wit’s end with my rescue pup, Finnegan , a 75 pound bully mix who was terrified of everything. I could barely get him to leave the bedroom and he was a nightmare on leash. I was in over my head and in tears every time I tried to walk him. From the moment Finnegan met Aaron, everything began to change for him. Finn sensed he could trust well before I did. Kim, Ryan, Aaron and the entire team at Dog Training Elite Suncoast are simply amazing. They’re patient, professional, and truly know how to bring out the best in a dog. They’ve changed Finnegan’s life — and mine. He’s gone from being afraid of his own shadow to becoming an increasingly confident, happy pup. I continue to see improvements every single day. The group lessons pull everything together and give me the tools and confidence I need to be what Finn needs. Finn is finally coming into his own. He even watched thunder and lightning calmly from the couch the tonight. I couldn’t be more grateful to the crew at Suncoast. 100000% recommend
  • chrissie taddeo
    Jun. 3, 2026
    I can't recommend my dog trainer, Josephine Grace at Dog Training Elite, highly enough! She is incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and truly cares about both the dogs and their owners. She took the time to explain each training technique and always made sure I felt comfortable and confident throughout the process. One of my favorite parts of the training was that she brought two of her own dogs to several sessions. Having well-trained dogs there to help demonstrate behaviors and provide real-life training opportunities was invaluable. It made the lessons more effective and gave my dog a chance to practice in realistic situations. Her calm, encouraging approach made training enjoyable, and I've seen such a positive difference in my dog's behavior. If you're looking for a trainer who is patient, professional, and dedicated to helping you succeed, I highly recommend her!
  • Meghan Lane
    Jun. 11, 2026
    We went through three different trainers and thousands of dollars down the sink before we finally found Taylor. Our 1.5 year old mix-breed rescue, Bella, was proving to be a challenge for me & my husband. Unable to help with her reactivity, counter surfing, constant barking, and guarding behavior, we were feeling frustrated & defeated. Taylor taught us to identify her subtle cues to interrupt problem behavior before it escalates and, as a result, Bella is becoming a joy to have in the home. She barks appropriately, waits in her place for meals, stays off the counter, and has learned that guarding people & furniture is no longer rewarding. He was patient, fair, and kind with our doggy … and us humans, too! 10 out of 10 recommend.
  • Sherri Garner
    Jun. 11, 2026
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite North Orlando as the company to use for service training or in general. Craig, is a knowledgeable, caring, and patient person who helped my life change, during and ongoing, since he helped me guide my dog to become my service animal. He made me feel like I could accomplish my goals with the first phone call, listened to my issues and made changes when I needed them so we as a team could get the results I needed. He made me feel like a person not my disablities. I am glad I made the call and I highly recommend anyone looking for a service dog trainer you make the call too. Thank you Craig and his team!
  • Julie Moore
    Apr. 9, 2026
    We are very impressed with Rich and his dedication , Sarah was our trainer and we are absolutely the best
  • LYNETTE MCLEMORE
    Jun. 11, 2026
    Justin did a great job. We had a lot of questions his knowledge sincerity and honestly answering, made us ready to join the program. We want what’s best for our babies so I believe That Dog Training Elite Midlands will be our answer