Simple, interest-free payment plans to fund your dog's education.
Back to Obedience Dog Training
Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

A black and white corgi sitting on a skateboard smiling, choose positive reinforcement dog training in Cincinnati, OH.

Positive Dog Training Techniques

Cincinnati Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

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 than training that incorporates punishment for bad behavior.

Positive reinforcement dog training in Cincinnati, OH works because dogs are inherently eager to please. Rewarding your dog for good behavior helps create a deep, loving relationship with your dog built on trust, as opposed to one built on fear of punishment. The difference between a dog who has been trained to obey out of fear of being punished vs. a dog who learns to obey through a positive, loving bond with their owner is huge.

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati trainers use treats as an initial reward for puppies and dogs learning commands. When the trainer is absent, or you’re in between obedience classes, you can continue to use treats as a reward for your dog when they exhibit a desired behavior. Dogs tend to be highly food-motivated, so this is an extremely useful tool. You can also reward your dog with a play session, take them to the dog park or anything else you know your dog enjoys. After all, you know your dog best!

See Training Packages

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati

Your Questions Answered

Positive reinforcement training is a widely used and highly effective method for teaching dogs new behaviors while strengthening the bond between you and your pet. Below, we've answered some common questions about how this training approach works and why it's beneficial for all dog breeds.

Positive reinforcement training rewards dogs for good behavior with treats, praise, or play, encouraging them to repeat those behaviors. It focuses on creating a positive association with desired actions, making training enjoyable and effective for your dog.
Positive reinforcement builds trust and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. By rewarding desired behavior, your dog is more motivated to learn and respond willingly, whereas punishment can create fear and anxiety, hindering learning and damaging the relationship.
Yes, positive reinforcement training is effective for all dog breeds. Since it relies on rewarding good behavior, dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments can respond well, making it a flexible and universally beneficial training method.
A white poodle smiling at one of our Cincinnati positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Positive Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

Dog Training Elite

Read More
Read Less

As for not worrying about bad behavior – it may feel strange to act like everything is fine when your dog chews on your shoes, or goes to the bathroom inside your home. But focusing on rewarding good behavior and forgoing punishment for bad behavior is more successful in the long run.

Relying on punishment for errors and “low value” rewards, such as praise or petting are long held “traditional” methods for dog training. Punishments like flicking a dog’s nose, shocking them with a shock collar, or anything else that may cause a dog pain are unfortunately still in use today by many dog trainers.

Not only is it inhumane, but 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 — where the owner can’t find them.

Punishment training also damages the relationship between dog and owner. Dogs do not understand right and wrong. Instead of associating punishment with a specific behavior they learn to avoid, as with the bathroom example, they instead learn to live in constant fear of punishment. This prevents owners from bonding with their dogs in a meaningful way.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati - Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH

Classical Conditioning Training

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati - Puppy Obedience Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE

Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati - Off Leash Dog Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE

Off Leash Training

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati - Dog Agility Training in Cincinnati, OH. DTE

Agility Through Basic Obedience Training

A recent dog graduate sitting in front of a Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati car, contact us today for positive dog training in Cincinnati, OH.

The Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati Difference


Read More
Read Less

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati uses modern training methods focused on positive dog training using reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Our trainers in Cincinnati, OH 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. The electronic collar is not a shock collar and never used to punish bad behavior. Instead, it produces a sensation like the gentle tug of a leash, and is used to help recapture the attention of a dog who gets distracted.

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati’s method of focusing on positive behavior reinforcement nurtures a dog's loving and naturally obedient nature. The method is the same regardless of the situation, whether training a puppy, an older dog or a service dog. The positive reinforcement dog training in Cincinnati, OH ensures training is a success no matter what your dog’s behavior. If you have a brand new puppy who is stubborn and smart, or an older dog who has slipped into bad habits – or perhaps never learned – after proper conditioning and working with Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it.

Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati offers specialized in-home training services so your dog gets the attention and training he or she needs, and you learn alongside them so training continues when the trainer leaves. Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati, OH also offers group classes for dogs who are ready to take obedience training to the next level, and service training programs for a variety of needs.

If you’re looking to train a service dog, or just looking for a loyal four-legged companion, Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati, OH will help you get there with our positive dog training. You can get started 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

  • angelo shamel
    Nov. 6, 2025
    Mr. Scott is amazing!! He is informative and he makes training fun and comfortable for you and your pet! I would recommend this company to anyone!!
  • Anna
    Nov. 5, 2025
    I’m basically a fangirl when it comes to Jen and Scott!! 😂 I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about them! They’re so knowledgeable, helpful, patient and, most of all, their kindness and passion for dogs is so genuine and makes it so easy to build a bond with them through your dog!! I have never used professional training with my past rescues but Mabel is a one-of-a-kind, fluffy, energetic, snuggly, chaotic force that will not hesitate to lick inside your ear or eat every shoe you’ve ever owned. In just a few short weeks, my rescue puppy, Mabel Rae, has transformed!! I knew from reviews that the program would be beneficial for me and Mabel but it was so much more than I could have imagined! They are so flexible and accommodating with training packages, scheduling, etc. They personalize each experience to your dog and your specific needs and goals. I’m just so genuinely happy, Mabel seems to enjoy the structure, as well as all of the edible rewards when she does well! I’m honestly not sure who looked forward to our weekly sessions more - me or Mabel! I just cannot recommend them enough! You won’t regret it!! (see, I told you I would be fangirling!) Thank you, Jen & Scott!!
  • Alexandra Zeller
    Jan. 29, 2025
    I worked with DTE from the very start of my service dog journey. Finding those willing to help train a PTSD service dog for non veterans was excruciatingly difficult to find. Finding Jen, Scott and the crew was an absolute godsend. From day one, they sat down with me and discussed what I needed, what I was looking to accomplish and my goals. From there, we decided together that a Doberman was in my best interest for work. For the next couple of months, we worked together to find a breeder who had suitable service dog prospects. Then, as soon as she was able to come home, Sprout began training! After months of training (and continual refresher support now), Sprout has blossomed into my best friend and integral support. I used to never be able to leave the house, and just yesterday, me and Sprout went out for lunch, alone! Through their continual support and guidance, I've become a more confident handler and independent person. Sprout has evolved into a loving, sweet natured and well behaved working dog. She is absolutely amazing. Highly recommend DTE for anyone looking to better themselves, or their dogs!
  • Amanda Unkrich
    Oct. 30, 2025
    Great experience! Scott is very knowledgeable and good at educating me on how best to train my dog. My dog was very receptive to him and his techniques. He is very personable! Would recommend him to anyone that needs help training their dog!
  • Sascha Diotte
    Oct. 8, 2025
    I have two rambunctious Great Dane puppies who were in need of some serious training. I didn't know where to start and to be honest, am horribly inconsistent. I had tried several times before to do the training myself but would end up flustered and giving up. Eventually, I reached out to Scott about training and was pleasantly surprised at everything the dogs and I learned. The weekly trainings helped greatly. Several months after training completed a battery on one of the collars we received went bad. Scott helped us in getting a replacement, even stopped by to install and program it. I'll be forever grateful for the work he did. We even get invitations, to this day, for group training sessions. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
  • Darlene Doll
    Sep. 24, 2025
    This is my first time using Dog Training Elite and our first puppy in a long time. Our experience has been great and we are looking forward to having a Therapy Dog in the future. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone looking for great puppy training at any level!
  • Chastity Holler
    Sep. 4, 2025
    My dog Gracie is a bit of a firecracker! She has some issues like resource guarding and a lack of confidence, which sometimes leads to acting out in fear. I decided to reach out to Dog Training Elite for help. Scott and Jenn are incredible! They were incredibly patient with Gracie and me. Even my fiery Gracie loves Scott. It’s amazing to see her transform into a happy and well-behaved dog. Their training and Gracie’s happiness are totally worth every penny. I highly recommend them!
  • Dori Colwell
    Aug. 1, 2025
    Scott and Jen are AMAZING to work with. When they came to the house to meet us and evaluate my Neko, they took the time to get to know her, her personality, and listened to my concerns about Neko's behavior and my expectations about her training. Scott gave me a couple of tips and things to do with her that I started on following their initial visit. I could already see a change in her behavior. I was nervous about how Neko would act at our first group session, but her behavior had changed so much (for the better) that I actually cried tears of joy when it was over. I cannot thank both of them enough and am extremely grateful to them for their understanding, help, and support. You cannot go wrong with DTE!
  • Kyla Bedel
    Jul. 21, 2025
    Scott and Jen are very friendly people and our golden retriever absolutely loves them. Our pup, Mav, has been training with them for about a year now and has grown a lot in that time. This was a great way for him to meet other dogs and work on his commands.
  • Sandra Kinney
    Jun. 29, 2025
    Scott and Jen are truly exceptional when it comes to dog training on a more personal level. They make the work fun and easy to understand. I’ve been able to reach them for problem solving and advice during more challenging stints with my black lab. They work with you and your dog’s personality to reach the goal task. They are a JOY to work with …which makes sense since the word is in their name. THANK YOU!!
  • David VanDyne
    Jun. 24, 2025
    We have used other dog trainers in the past and it was not a good experience. Finding Scott and Jen was such a blessing, they far exceeded our expectations! We are working with them to train my black lab as my service dog and the progress has been amazing. I have a traumatic brain injury and get overwhelmed at times with the training but their patience and willingness to work with me is so helpful. We have already been recommending them to those we know searching for dog training and will continue to do so. We plan to get another dog down the road and will be using them again!
  • Kyla Flora
    Jun. 4, 2025
    Scott and Jen's professional experience, coupled with their friendliness and kindness makes each meeting a pleasure. Even my children look forward to their visits. As a labrador breeder who has been around dogs and in the dog world ever since I was a teen, the fact that I learn something new every time they come speaks volumes about their knowledge. The gentleness and genuine love they show towards my puppies is so sweet to watch! You won't find a better trainer, and I am always ready to share their info with anyone needing a trainer for everything from basic puppy obedience to advanced service dog training.
  • Laura Sims
    May. 24, 2025
    Scott & Jen went way above and beyond for us. They are wonderful and very knowledgeable of what is needed to train your dog. Thank you both for everything!
  • Jennifer Chiles
    May. 22, 2025
    I cannot say enough wonderful things about Scott and Jen from Dog Training Elite of Greater Cincinnati. They worked with our beloved BoBo—affectionately known as “Bubby”—and turned him into the best therapy dog anyone could ask for. From day one, their professionalism, kindness, and deep understanding of canine behavior were evident. Scott and Jen took the time to understand BoBo’s unique personality and needs. Their training approach was compassionate, structured, and incredibly effective. They built a strong bond with BoBo and with us, making the training process feel more like a collaboration than a class. It was clear they genuinely cared about BoBo’s success—not just as a well-behaved dog, but as a trusted therapy companion. Thanks to their guidance, BoBo now brings comfort, joy, and emotional support to those around him. Whether it’s with our family or in public settings, he carries himself with the calm, confident presence that only exceptional training can instill. If you’re looking for skilled, dedicated, and genuinely caring trainers, I wholeheartedly recommend Scott and Jen. They changed our lives—and BoBo’s—for the better, and I am forever grateful.
  • Carri Burgjohann
    May. 4, 2025
    A few months ago I began working with the trainers from Elite. My dog is a senior (14 years old!) and had developed some pretty bad habits over the years and I let them continue. I work from home and he’s become increasingly disruptive during work calls and rowdy at all the wrong times. I had let him sleep in my bed with me for years even though I knew that wasn’t setting either of us up to win. I was embarrassed that I’d let it get this way and knew I wanted better for him and for me. I wanted him to be confident and independent and I was concerned that training would somehow change our relationship. As I worked with the team and learned new skills alongside my dog, I found BOTH of us gained confidence! I was never made to feel ashamed that my dog struggled with his behavior or the role I’ve played in. The team taught skills and ideas with humor, grace, and ingenuity and I always had homework in between sessions. Now my dog sleeps in his crate at night, doesn’t make a peep during work calls, understands and performs basic commands, and we are communicating much more smoothly. He’s confident when people are at my house and we continue to work on skills because I know how to make it fun. It’s true: you can teach an old dog new tricks! And, I even learned some myself that I’ll be able to take with me into the future for any dog who calls my house home. I’m grateful for the team at Elite—however many years my dog has left on this earth our friendship will be better because I made the investment and was willing to ask for help.
  • Sara Bennett-Wealer
    Apr. 20, 2025
    We knew our pitfall rescue was a good boy, but with such a powerful dog we wanted to feel confident we could communicate with and control him both at home and with other animals and people. Scott and Jen have been amazing at showing us how to help Bagel be his best self. They help troubleshoot when we have questions and the skills we've learned have helped us be better friends and owners to our dog. Hiring them was a great investment!
  • Olivia Cleri
    Apr. 16, 2025
    I, hands down, have the best dog ever, and it is thanks to Scott and Jen at Cincinnati Dog Training Elite. They make training fun and effective and I was able to start my journey with a service dog confidently and with ongoing guidance and support.
  • Allison Sears
    Apr. 14, 2025
    The team at Dog Training Elite Greater Cincinnati are so lovely. My dog and I had to take a break from trainings because of my schedule, but the minute she saw Scott she started excitement crying and bouncing around to see him. They're very knowledgeable, very patient (especially when I'm not lol), and so encouraging. I definitely recommend Scott & Jen and their team :)
  • Allison Connors
    Apr. 14, 2025
    Jen and Scott are amazing to work with. Our three dogs were under the age of 3 when we first called DTE. It felt like a lot and I was overwhelmed. I reached out to a few other trainers and the cost was either too much or I felt judged for not being prepared for having three dogs. From the moment I called DTE, I felt heard and my overwhelmed feeling felt understood. We talked out training options and then they came out to meet us and our pups. Having them assess the dogs in person and give us a plan to start training our middle and most anxious dog first, took such a weight off my shoulders. The change in our middle dog was almost immediate and we found he even looked forward to the training sessions with Jen and Scott❤️ Fast forward to a year later, all three of our dogs are trained, with at least one working towards being a therapy dog! Just this past weekend we sat outside at a restaurant with all three dogs and people stopped to compliment us on how well behaved they were. All the credit goes to DTE! The group sessions are a plus and so helpful. Jen and Scott are also always available and quick to respond with any questions or concerns.
  • Sy Miller
    Apr. 11, 2025
    We are beyond thrilled with the exceptional service dog training program that our beloved dog, Baymax, completed. From start to finish, this program exceeded our expectations in every way. The in-house training was tailored to meet all of our specific needs, ensuring that Baymax received the focused and personalized instruction required to succeed as a service dog. The 12+ week training program was thorough, effective, and truly transformative. The trainers demonstrated remarkable expertise, patience, and dedication, guiding him every step of the way. Thanks to their hard work and the program's well-structured curriculum, Baymax is now fully equipped to support me in living a positive, fulfilling life. What sets this program apart is the continuous learning opportunities they offer even after the training is complete. These additional options provide ongoing guidance and reinforcement, ensuring that both Baymax and we, as his family, can continue to grow and thrive together. We cannot recommend this program highly enough. Baymax is now not just our service dog but also the key to enhancing our daily life. We are endlessly grateful for the impact this program has had on our lives, and we wholeheartedly encourage anyone in need of a service dog to consider this outstanding program.