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Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite

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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.

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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

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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 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


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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!

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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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Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Kay Norton
    Apr. 18, 2026
    Dog Training Elite Chattanooga was really flexible with scheduling and the trainer explained everything in an easy to understand way. My dog’s behavior improved noticeably after the first private lesson, and the results were exactly what I hoped for. I’d recommend them to anyone looking for a straightforward, effective dog training experience. The trainer answered all questions I had and demonstrated so that I was comfortable with the concept so that I could train during the week to be ready for our next training session. We were training 2 puppies at the same time and he was very patient with me. Outstanding trainer.
  • Jacqueline Ellis
    Apr. 18, 2026
    Very good trainer. Provided a lot of good information and helped me find a great collar for training.
  • scott frisoli
    Apr. 17, 2026
    I personally worked with Jason and Illiana. I recommend both highly. We did group sessions with other dogs and training in busy malls and home training indoors and outdoor training at home. I was extremely impressed and happy to benefit from the professional calm experience of both these trainers. My dog Bear and I were held to a high standard, training which was taught with Professionalism and confidence. The results speak for themselves. I realize that much of what they teach is for my dogs sake but much of it was also for me. The interaction between Owner and Dog is key to success. I feel extremely fortunate to have been trained and supported by Jason and Illiana.
  • Chavis Smith
    Apr. 17, 2026
    Our first two training sessions have been awesome experiences with Annabel and Loghin! They are very knowledgeable, patient, and they explain everything in detail. We are looking forward to continuing our sessions with DTE!
  • Karen Sehi
    Apr. 17, 2026
    Jessica is amazing. She is finally getting Gibbs trained along with the owners. All are doing great.
  • Karen Sehi
    Apr. 17, 2026
    Jessica is amazing. She is finally getting Gibbs trained along with the owners. All are doing great.
  • Donna Hughes
    Apr. 17, 2026
    My Trainer was outstanding. Her name was Tina. The problems I was having with Jake she solved. Jake was like another dog. Tina knew how to fix his problems. Pulling, barking at cars and other dogs. I want to thank so much.
  • Austin Arndt
    Apr. 17, 2026
    Amazing. I wouldn't pick anywhere else. Dave has been so crucial in being the dog Mac I knew could be. Bob is so knowledgeable and just sees things to help dogs others can't see
  • Sean Forbes
    Apr. 17, 2026
    Michael Kwan is a fantastic trainer. He made educating an English Bulldog look easy (which it isn’t!). Super personable guy. Would work well with anyone. Highest recommendation from me and from Moose.
  • Jennifer Borrello
    Apr. 17, 2026
    If you’re wondering “ Is it worth the investment?” The answer is a huge YES! The in-home training with Carrie has taught two large dogs and our whole family how to coexist in harmony. We have learned so much at each session and the dogs love it as much as we do. This is the change we were looking for and Carrie’s knowledge with Elite’s techniques made it all possible.
  • Linda Fernandez
    Apr. 17, 2026
    We had a great experience working with David at Dog Training Elite – Asheville! We’re very happy with the training he provided for our 5-month-old Basenji puppy, Ace. Not only did he do a wonderful job training Ace, but he also took the time to train us, helping us all work together as a team, which made a huge difference. We’ve already seen great improvements and feel much more confident moving forward. Highly recommend!
  • MELISSA FORESTAL
    Dec. 22, 2025
    Laydon was great. Very comfortable to work with and my dog really liked her!!
  • Pamela Aizad
    Oct. 14, 2025
    Always a pleasure to work with Jeff and Yaga!
  • Mo D
    Apr. 17, 2026
    This was my first puppy living alone and wanting to also train him as a therapy dog I was really worried about messing up. Dog Training Elite has been amazing in guiding training without turning him into a robot clicker dog and meeting where he is at the training points. The individual training helps start and guide while the group classes help solidify the lessons with distractions around to really lock in. Brennan and Hannah are awesome and even outside of lessons I can ask them for help or clarifications on the lessons which has been amazing!
  • Rosa Boland
    Apr. 17, 2026
    Justin did a great job in our initial meeting. He explained what I could expect with Dog Training Elite and demonstrated with his dog some of the commands. I look forward to the training Sercy and I will receive in the months ahead.
  • Caroline Cathey
    Apr. 17, 2026
    or whatever purpose you are contemplating for training your dog, Elite is the only place you need to look. From the beginning, Jackson made us, and our pup, feel safe, loved, and excited to work. Professionally, Jackson was always punctual, took proper time to help us understand the training philosophy and expectations, and really motivated us to work dilligently with our dog. He was with us the entire way through the Platinum dog training. Most recently, our pup has just completed his Service Dog PA test. He passed with 100% score because of Del’s efforts. Del was our trainer during this phase and will be throughout the remaining parts of the service dog training. Del has a deep understanding of the importance of a service dog and treats this process with the attentiveness and care that is necessary to this process. We are so grateful to have worked with these two guys though this process. The dog and our livelihood were always the top priority, and we will appreciate that forever. Please consider them for your pup’s journey.
  • Amayrani Padilla Cortes
    Apr. 16, 2026
    Dog Training Elite Asheville changed our life forever. We brought Sophie into our home at just 12 weeks with one goal in mind. For her to become my service dog. Little did I know that this journey would bring us to find Nicole and David. There is not enough words to describe this process with them. I am a first responder that suffered from severe PTSD and other health related problems. How was it going to be possible to continue doing the job I love? Well DTE walked us both through building confidence, trust, hope, resilience and most importantly public re-engagement. Being a first responder our schedules are always changing with short notice and DTE was able to accommodate us. More than just training Sophie, this team found a tough job of training me! It was not easy or pretty but one thing that I have learned is that "never disable but differently able." Sophie is now 3 years old and is thriving in her job. During our hardest time she has been right along side reminding us to appreciate even the little things. Sophie is not just a dog or a pet but a member of our family that has provided freedom. We are one team continuing to work on self-care and sharing the love for service animals. I encourage everyone to please call Dog Training Elite Asheville and begin your journey to living life to the fullest. Please remind yourself that regardless of any cost for training, your wellness is priceless. Use this training as a investment to a better life!
  • Ashlie Mothershead
    Apr. 16, 2026
    Top 3 things I loved: 1) The experienced and knowledgeable trainers who really understood my dog’s needs, 2) Their patient, encouraging and supportive approach during every session, 3) The flexible private dog training options that felt like a personalized program. I was looking for dog training near me and found exactly what I needed. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville.
  • Gina Harrison
    Apr. 16, 2026
    Elijah did a fantastic job teaching us new commands and helping us reinforce knowledge on known commands for both dogs tonight! Highly recommend DTE, wonderful program and terrific results! Thanks again!
  • Michael “Indiglo” Swart
    Apr. 16, 2026
    Excellent service! Ranger appreciates me getting educated!