Classical Conditioning

Dog Training Elite Worcester

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A dog walking on a leash after finishing a classical conditioning dog training in Worcester, MA.

Dog Training Techniques

Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Worcester, MA

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

Training With An E-Collar

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

Worcester 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 Worcester 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 Worcester, MA 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 Worcester - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. DTE
Positive Reinforcement Training
Dog Training Elite Worcester - Puppy Obedience Training. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite Worcester - Off Leash Dog Training. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training
Dog Training Elite Worcester -
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

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FAQs

One of our trainers will visit your home to meet you and your dog and discuss any issues you're facing. We will then demonstrate one of our model dogs so you can see what you can expect after hiring our trainers. From there, we will discuss the various packages we offer and which we feel best suit your (and your dog's) needs.
We provide full obedience training that covers all basic commands, both on and off-leash. Our in-home visits target specific issues like counter-surfing, digging, and more. Unlike some trainers, we work with all breeds, including those often considered challenging.
Yes. You (and anyone in your family who wants to be involved) are integral to your dog getting trained. We need you to practice 5-6 days a week, about 15-20 minutes a day for optimal results.
Once a week. We come to you (with the silver, gold and platinum packages) once a week to start your dog off, then you come to park sessions which are held once a week in Worcester.
We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Whether your dog is a tiny Chihuahua or a large Mastiff, we have the experience and expertise to work with them.
A women playing with her service dog in Worcester, MA.

The Dog Training Elite Worcester Difference


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

  • Robin Wolkiewicz
    Nov. 4, 2024
    Second session, remarkable progress! Can't wait to practice. Matt has been super patient with my "helicopter" dog parenting. He's truly building my confidence and reducing my anxiety. I'm so happy to see the changes in Maxx!
  • Caitlin Bogue
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Marcus came to my house for a consultation. He was calm and knowledgeable, and made me feel like he had my family’s best interest in mind.
  • Melanie
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Matt is truly a dog person. He understands them and my dog loves him. He doesn’t get upset if you’re doing a command wrong and will correct you as many times as it takes. I recommend him and Elite 100% to anyone who’s looking to train your puppy!!
  • Claire Butrimowicz
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Matt is SO helpful. Marvin and I are making great progress with his firm but kind approach. And he is patient with me as well! Marvin knows place, sit, down, back to sit, come. Not jumping. Working on walking and pulling less. Happy boy!!
  • Joseph Clem
    Nov. 17, 2024
    He was very professional and attentative to my dogs needs. He was confident and it showed by how he was able to take control of the dog without hurting him.
  • Paul Flanagan
    Nov. 19, 2024
    Tiffany did a great job! It was nice to have her in the apartment meeting our dog in a comfortable space for her, and we were really happy with how it went.
  • Rob Shaw
    Nov. 19, 2024
    Extremely professional, very impressive from the first moment. Exceeded expectations. I have a lot of confidence we can train my 4-year-old dog
  • DavidandJulie Safaii
    Nov. 14, 2024
    Matt has been patient, clear, and very intentional in his work with my dog and me. I highly recommend him, as well as the team at Dog Training Elite. In 6 sessions, I have seen the rewards of the training on our rescue dog in so many ways & have learned skills that I will use everyday.
  • Anna
    Oct. 1, 2024
    Patrick came and did assessment of our dog and took time to listen to us and hear what we wanted to do with training for our almost 1 year old dog. i feel so relieved and happy that we will learn (and out dog) how to handle any situation with ease. We completed individual lessons which Patrick listened to our requests and did training in walks meeting dogs and in the field and gave us so many new ways to interact and create learning with our dog. We are going on to group lessons next so building on what we have done and just really keep our dog well behaved in many situations. thank you Patrick and Elite dog training!
  • Ryan Hall
    Nov. 12, 2024
    The communication and information has been great from Dog Training Elite. A trainer (Matt) came very punctual to do a no-cost assessment, meet our dog and even brought his 1.5 year old pup to demonstrate the training that has been done first hand. Very fair pricing for training that will last a lifetime for our dog.
  • Julie Karlson Safaii
    Oct. 30, 2024
    The best investment I have made. Matt is great - I get so much out of our sessions!!
  • Dean Shapley
    Oct. 30, 2024
    DTE was very flexible working with my erratic schedule. The trainers I worked with were professional, knowledgeable, and personal. I would recommend to anyone for basic or therapy dog training.
  • Christopher young
    Oct. 30, 2024
    We just had our free consultation done and Marcus was great. He was very calm and collected when meeting our pups, answered all of our questions in a way that we could understand, and after his live demo with his pup we knew it was worth the investment.
  • Trina & AJ
    Oct. 28, 2024
    She’s doing so well!! Very obedient!!!
  • Jessa Common
    Oct. 24, 2024
    Our trainer Matt was so knowledgeable and kind during our evaluation! He explained every step of the process thoroughly, answered all of my questions patiently, and was very compassionate and professional. Thank you so much!
  • Jessica Waldron
    Oct. 21, 2024
    Consultation was great answered all our questions
  • Ricardo Andino
    Oct. 19, 2024
    I want to express my sincere thanks to Barbara, Mark, and Marcus at Elite Dog Training for their incredible work. Training a pitbull was a big challenge for me and my family, but with their guidance and the tools they provided, our dog has come a long way. We now feel much more confident in continuing the training on our own. Their patience, expertise, and encouragement were exactly what we needed. I highly recommend Barbara, Mark, Marcus, and the Elite Dog Training team to anyone looking for professional help with their dog!
  • Nicole Washington
    Oct. 17, 2024
    He was excellent
  • Jessica Costa
    Oct. 17, 2024
    We couldn’t be happier with our experience working with Marcus! He is incredibly knowledgeable and patient, which has made all the difference in our dog’s training. Marcus takes the time to really understand both the dog and the owner, ensuring that the training is tailored and effective. His calm demeanor and expertise have not only helped our dog learn quickly but have helped how we speak and interact with our dog to make the training more successful and the whole process enjoyable. We highly recommend Marcus to anyone looking for a trainer who truly knows what they’re doing and goes above and beyond for their clients.
  • Donna Pinkus
    Oct. 4, 2024
    We had our assessment today and it went great! Marcus was wonderful. I have confidence we will gain lots from training. Had our 1st class today with Matt K. He is very knowledgeable and is way to work with. Looking forward to more! Had our 2nd class today with Tiffany. We are all learning a lot and I believe I will have a better behaved and happier dog. Looking forward to next week.