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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Broward / Fort Lauderdale 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 Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL 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 Broward 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!

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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 Broward / Fort Lauderdale positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Positive Dog Training in Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL

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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.

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The Dog Training Elite Broward Difference


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Dog Training Elite Broward uses modern training methods focused on positive dog training using reinforcement and bonding you and your dog. Our trainers in Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL 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 Broward’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 Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL 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 Broward, when you say “sit,” your dog will automatically sit without thinking about it.

Dog Training Elite Broward 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 Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL 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 Broward / Fort Lauderdale, FL 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!

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Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • pavel redkin
    Aug. 26, 2025
    As the owner of a Belgian Malinois, I feel truly fortunate to be part of this group. The trainers have equipped me with valuable skills that make working with my dog both fun and rewarding. Beyond techniques, they’ve also given me the confidence to keep growing as a handler and inspired me to become better — for my dog and for myself
  • Ofelia Lopez
    Aug. 15, 2025
    (Translated by Google) Wednesday has improved a lot since taking classes with Professor Gustavo Rodriguez, who is a person of excellent character: passive, calm, receptive, careful, and patient. I highly recommend him. (Original) Wednesday ha mejorado muchisimo desde que recibe las clases con el profesor Gustavo Rodríguez quien es una persona de excelente carácter pasivo tranquilo receptivo cuidadoso con paciencia lo recomiendo ampliamente
  • Romy Herrera vega
    Aug. 15, 2025
    (Translated by Google) I'm very happy because Moka's behavior has improved a lot; she's learned new commands. Thank you, Professor Gustavo, for your patience. The whole family is very happy; we have a calmer life thanks to Moka's new progress. (Original) Estoy muy contenta porque Moka ha mejorado mucho en su conducta, aprendió nuevos comandos . Gracias profesor Gustavo por la paciencia . Toda la familia está muy feliz , tenemos una vida más tranquila a los nuevos progresos de Moka
  • peter swischuk
    Aug. 15, 2025
    Marie and her staff are amazing. She was able to take our Vizsla through a journey that started with a shy dog full of anxiety to a bold mature girl brimming with confidence and now able to go to the busiest of places and stay focused on her work. Marie makes an incredible effort to personalize the education specifically for the dog that needs training and has incredible patience with both the owner and puppy. Through the process I became much closer to Rosie and could not be any more proud of what she has become. I cannot say enough about Marie. She is dedicated to the work needed for the results desired.
  • Yenifer Gandia
    Aug. 14, 2025
    I love my experience with them! They trained my dog very well! I highly recommend them. They truly care about their clients
  • Theresa Hus
    Aug. 13, 2025
    We started our service dog training with Dog Training Elite a year ago and let me tell you, we have a 1 year old dog that is highly obedient, loving, would never bite a soul and is task trained for my daughter. Not just that, included in their plans you get a weekly group session once your dog graduates from minor obedience training. My daughter enjoys the Saturday classes, seeing all the other dogs and being able to socialize with others which has been a challenge for her in her elementary years. If i get another dog i would definitely utilize their services.
  • Judith McLeod
    Aug. 12, 2025
    I highly recommend getting your dog trained by Marie and her team. Mila had so many bad habits like digging big holes in the back yard and not listening to basic commands. Marie lovingly put a stop to all of this and now I get continuous complements about how well mannered my dog is. I can take my dog so many places with confidence now as she is so calm and well behaved. I am so grateful I chose Dog Training Elite to work with Mila. Marie is a true dog lover and dog expert which is evident from the first moment you meet her.
  • Migdalia Rodriguez
    Aug. 12, 2025
    Ann Marie- has been an excellent trainer! She has provided great structure and education & lots of patience :) My dog has significantly improved in just a few weeks (and thats only the beginning). Totally recommend, especially if you're trying to get your animal trained as a Service Dog!
  • Daniella Diaz
    Aug. 12, 2025
    Marie and Matt have been absolutely amazing! Their depth of knowledge is truly impressive, and they’ve guided us with clear, effective strategies every step of the way. They are incredibly trustworthy, reliable, and genuinely care about our dog’s progress. We couldn’t be happier with the results and highly recommend them to anyone looking for a dedicated and skilled trainers. They definitely treat Mateo like family ❤️
  • Cristina Serrano
    Aug. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Broward is absolutely fantastic! Marie and Gus were professional, on time, and so friendly—they truly loved my dog and made the whole experience enjoyable. Working with them was such a pleasure. The skills my dog has learned on his journey to becoming a therapy dog are incredible and so helpful. The joy he now brings to others is all thanks to their expertise and dedication. Highly recommend!
  • Viviana Ramirez
    Aug. 4, 2025
    We adopted our fur baby, Charlie, back in March when he was just 2 months old. Wanting to start his training early, we reached out to Dog Training Elite Broward. From the beginning, the experience was outstanding, Gus came to our home to meet Charlie, and his knowledge and genuine love for dogs immediately gave us the confidence to sign up for the puppy program. Charlie’s first trainer, Nubia, was an absolute sweetheart. She guided us through the challenging early stages of potty training and teething with patience and care. Then we signed up Charlie for the progressed program, we began working with Matt, such a gentle soul with incredible patience and a clear passion for dogs. His calm demeanor and consistency truly helped us and Charlie build on those foundational skills. Both Nubia and Matt were flexible with their scheduling and always came to our home, which made the process so convenient for our busy lives. Now, as we approach the final stage we started the group classes, Gus is once again guiding us, bringing great energy, fun, and structure to each session. The classes are both challenging and enjoyable for Charlie, and we can truly see the results of all the hard work. We can’t recommend Dog Training Elite Broward enough! Charlie is still a work in progress, like any puppy, but visitors are always impressed by how well-behaved he is. Our investment in his training is definitely paying off, and we’re so grateful to be on the right path with such a fantastic team
  • Romi Carrasco
    Aug. 4, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been wonderful. We have very high standards for our adopted teenage soon-to-be service dog and her training has not disappointed. Gus did our assessment promptly, walked me through all the steps and different course options and promptly answered all my questions. He also paired me with Matt based on my and my dog’s specific needs. We now see Gus weekly at group class and he leads those in social settings. He has a way of exhausting the most active puppy while calmly walking in very busy settings. We love his classes at downtown Ft Lauderdale. Matt found a slightly anxious but sweet dog that had a lot of energy and enthusiasm to make friends which could be a bit intimidating to strangers. He shaped her to be a perfectly obedient dog who looks for my approval before approaching a stranger and asks for pets by politely sitting at their feet. Kygs is now well received at casinos, malls, grocery stores, and more. Marie is an excellent leader. She runs the weekend group classes and makes sure no dog is out of line. We have very high standards for our dog behavior and Marie finds a way to inspire to be even better. She evaluates every dog for their public access tests and gives us, the owners, invaluable feedback about our dog’s strengths and weaknesses as well as general things to look out for in dog behavior, body language and psyche. With Dog Training Elite Broward, you can rest assured that they meet all the requirements for certifications as they belong to a chain of training institutes. You don’t get one but three layers of trainers and reviewers giving feedback on your dog so if one technique doesn’t work for you, they will find something g that does. And most importantly, you get personalized responses because once you join, you get every person’s phone number. No call centers, no waiting on the line. Bottom line is: I have and would continue to recommend them to anyone who asks me for trainers, I will use them again if I get another dog and I will continue to promote and put in a good word for them. Feel free to ask for any questions about my experience with them!
  • Cari and Kyle
    May. 15, 2025
    We have had a great experience with Dog Training Elite! From the free initial evaluation with Gus, to our weekly sessions with Matthew, each member of the team has been a pleasure to work with. Our dog has made tremendous progress with their help.
  • Zineb EL AMIRI
    May. 7, 2025
    I cant say enough good things about Marie and the team. They are very knowledgeable and passionate. The quality of their training is fantastic. They listen to your dog’s needs and customize the training. We recommend them without reservation
  • Norys Pinto
    May. 7, 2025
    (Translated by Google) Our experience as a Family has been excellent. Kenai, who is our German Shepherd son, has made incredible progress with this program. Gustavo and Marie are the best (Original) Nuestra experiencia como Familia ha sido excelente. Kenai que es nuestro Pastor Aleman hijo ha avanzado increiblemte con este programa . Gustavo y Marie son los mejores
  • CARMEN C LAURIA
    May. 7, 2025
    I am as IMPRESSED with their training ethics and professionalism’s as much as with their care, love, and dedication to each dog they train. ACE is amazing thanks to them! BOTH GUS & MARIE have helped me train my puppy since he is 3 months old and they are TOP. Their program is a super complete… He is now nine months and about to be certified. You get private classes, group classes each weekend and way more! Hands down the best of Florida!!!
  • James Narmore
    May. 1, 2025
    Great professional trainers !
  • AB
    Mar. 11, 2025
    Our dog trainer, Matthew is a game-changer! He's transformed our puppy's demeanor, making her more confident and calm. His accommodating schedule and attentive nature made training a breeze. We're forever grateful for his expertise and kindness. Highly recommend him and the company, Elite Broward!
  • Michelle Diaz
    Feb. 6, 2025
    I can't say enough great things about Dog Training Elite Broward. From day one, our trainer Matt Wong, was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly patient with both me and my pup. The entire team takes the time to understand our needs and customize the training accordingly. My dog has shown amazing progress- better leash manners, improved recall, and much calmer in a group environment. The positive reinforcement techniques Marie and her team use really work, and I love that my pup enjoys her training and group sessions. They truly care about both dogs and their owners, and it shows in the results.
  • Tracy Newmark
    Feb. 5, 2025
    although I have been an experienced dog owner, when I came upon the challenge of brother and sister Great Dane puppies, I reached out to professionals for help. From the very first time I met our trainer, Matt. through the present time, I have been nothing but impressed and pleased. One of my dogs was very stubborn and took some extra care. Matt has been professional, patient understanding and compassionate with both my fur babies and myself. He’s punctual and timely which is much appreciated. He is even patient with assisting my young grandchildren and learning how to properly approach and address the dogs. If I could give 10 stars I would. I strongly recommend this company and especially our trainer Matt.