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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite Los Angeles

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Los Angeles, CA

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 Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles 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.
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Los Angeles Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Los Angeles

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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 Los Angeles Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA 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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  • georgialawrence1
    Feb. 6, 2025
    I cannot recommend Clayton, Elite Dog Training, highly enough for anyone struggling with a reactive GSD, When I first reached out, I was feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with my dog's reactivity towards other dogs. Clayton not only understood my concerns but also provided a clear, structured plan to help us both. From our very first meeting, Clayton took the time to assess my dog's behavior thoroughly. He listened to my experiences and helped identify specific triggers for my dog's reactivity. This initial assessment set the stage for a tailored training program that felt achievable Clayton gradually introduced my dog to controlled environments, allowing him to encounter triggers at a comfortable distance and the tools/instructions to counter these triggers The progress we made was remarkable! Within a few weeks, Luger showed significant improvement. Clayton provided practical strategies that I could use which empowered me as an owner. If you're facing similar challenges, I wholeheartedly recommend Clayton and Elite Dog Training. Their expertise and patience can truly transform your relationship with your dog. Thank you, Clayton, for your incredible work!
  • Kat McGinty
    Feb. 6, 2025
    I cannot recommend Dog Training Elite enough! Clayton has been incredible in helping me to train my terrier/pit bull mix. He's patient and clearly loves dogs. My dog was instantly comfortable with him. I'm already planning on adding more sessions because Clayton has helped me see just how much my dog is capable of!
  • Shelby Dash (Shelby & Kristina)
    Feb. 5, 2025
    We had such a wonderful experience with our trainer. He was knowledgeable, patient, and professional. I would highly recommend!
  • Julia Steinweg
    Feb. 4, 2025
    My experience with Clayton was fantastic. He understands the nature of dogs really well and is therefore able to adapt his training style to the specific personality of your dog to achieve immediate improvements of critical dog behavior with great results. I can only recommend Clayton as an experienced dog trainer who delivers great results in a short period of time.
  • Christina Hutchinson
    Jan. 18, 2025
    I honestly cannot say enough good things about Dogs Elite training! I rescued a ~5 year old male German Shepherd 5 months ago who was a lot to handle. He was a sweet enough boy and playful with my other GSD, but terrible to walk and dog reactive. I spent thousands with another trainer to be disappointed and only witness mild improvement; I felt like this poor dog was too much for me. So I interviewed a few other trainers and decided on Dogs Elite. What sold me on them is the final goal of walking him on a “J leash” (meaning a relaxed leash). Sure that sounds great and like I’m in control, but the real meaning behind it is transferring leadership from the dog to you. Rescues have had to be hyper-vigilant to survive, so that’s a lot of “on” energy. Once YOU are trained how to lead your dog, they can relax and be a dog who enjoys a comfy life going on walks and meeting other dogs at the dog park. Today was my 6th session with Clayton and I never thought my Jack would succeed in a dog park without incident, I couldn’t be more wrong. Look at this face after class: he’s happy, learning was a joy and not something negative, and he’s relaxed. He’s a different dog and I’m so happy to see these behavioral changes in him. It never would’ve happened with training that didn’t tap in to the psychology of his mind. I’m so grateful to what Clayton has done for us!!
  • Czarina Lim
    Dec. 29, 2024
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all your dog training needs. My partner and I rescued a 3.5 yr old puggle who exhibited episodes of aggression and actually bit my partner after a stressful road trip. I found DTE during my Google search of aggression-specialty dog training, and I'm so glad I did! Clayton, our trainer, does a fantastic job teaching both our rescue and us how to behave with each other, and continues to give us the right tools in helping us train our beloved rescue so that everyone has a good time. His patience while we all learn together has been invaluable. Also, just as an added plus for this program, DTE gives a discount for rescues! While the initial price tag may feel daunting, know that this is an investment you're making for both you and your dog, and everyone involved will be better off for it!
  • Nate Van Fleet
    Dec. 21, 2024
    Clayton is a fantastic trainer, and a great guy! My partner and I highly recommend Dog Training Elite
  • Natasha Radojcic
    Nov. 23, 2024
    Clayton is great, am I’m so grateful for his expertise and guidance!
  • Dane Larsen
    Nov. 6, 2024
    Very very thankful I hired them for their services. The perk of having them come to your house and working around your neighborhood is profoundly helpful. We were lucky enough to have Clayton train our dog (or rather train us on how to). My relationship with my dog has improved, my dog’s confidence has improved, and all my neighbors think I own a new dog. I couldn’t recommend hiring them more. Clayton really took care of us. His knowledge / insights into dog training are robust. He clearly loves what he does and he empowers you to find the balance between you and your fur baby. THANK YOU CLAYTON!!
  • Brooke Anthony
    Nov. 5, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been such an amazing company to work with. Our trainer Clayton turned our puppy into the most confident and obedient dog. Our excited young puppy struggled with pulling on his leash and a lot of displaced energy. Since the very first session with Clayton, our puppy learned and applied so quickly. Clayton is the best trainer and is so patient and knowledgeable. We are confident that anyone who uses this company will have a great experience and will be setting their dogs up for great success!
  • Brooke Viselli Anthony
    Nov. 5, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been such an amazing company to work with. Our trainer Clayton turned our puppy into the most confident and obedient dog. Our excited young puppy struggled with pulling on his leash and a lot of displaced energy. Since the very first session with Clayton, our puppy learned and applied so quickly. Clayton is the best trainer and is so patient and knowledgeable. We are confident that anyone who uses this company will have a great experience and will be setting their dogs up for great success!
  • Joneen Murphy
    Nov. 1, 2024
    Clayton has been a great trainer. He has not just been helpful for Poppy, but for us as his owners. He explains things clearly and is great to work with.
  • Ashley Santos
    Oct. 28, 2024
    Dog trainer Clayton has been excellent with his approach, showing great patience and skill in working with my dog Zoey. I’ve seen improvements in her behavior and obedience since we started the training sessions. His positive reinforcement methods make a difference, and I’m happy with our progress so far!
  • Maria G
    Oct. 15, 2024
    Great time helping my pup name Ace he’s a Belgian Malinos breed after his training he has been easier to handle Hard work has paid off We are expecting to keep with his training at the park with your facility Trainer took his time to explain n help us greatly I would Highly recommend them
  • Ryan Peterlin
    Oct. 15, 2024
    Would 10/10 recommend. Clayton was so helpful and understanding when it came to my reactive cattle dog
  • Brittney Post
    Sep. 20, 2024
    Clayton is an amazing trainer who has not only taught our stubborn Jack Russell Terrier to listen and respond…..he has also taught us to be consistent with the training techniques and the results are fantastic. The time we have spent training our dog Gary for the last 8 weeks will pay off for a lifetime!
  • Josh S
    Sep. 18, 2024
    Clayton was great and very knowledgeable. They do awesome work.
  • Mike Feldman
    Sep. 5, 2024
    Jon and Clayton are awesome. Our German Shepherd is a rescue and was very territorial at our house. The guys gave us great tools to redirect his aggression and teach him good manners. The whole experience has been outstanding. Highly recommend these guys.
  • Sonia Vera
    Aug. 7, 2024
    Just had my training session with Clayton he was so sweet and gentle with my big 92 lb dog. Taught me a lot in such a short time. Will be ordering Anya her little bed to focus on practicing her place command. Thank you again Clayton was a pleasure:)!
  • brianna gutierrez
    Jul. 31, 2024
    Amazing training session for my nervous puppy! She was able to learn 3 new training skills the first day.