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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Orlando, FL

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Orlando 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 Orlando, 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 in Orlando 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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Dog Training Elite in Orlando

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 Orlando positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Positive Dog Training in Orlando, FL

Dog Training Elite

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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 in Orlando Difference


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

Dog Training Elite in Orlando 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 Orlando, 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 Orlando, 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

  • Paula Grimaldo
    Feb. 6, 2026
    When searching for puppy training I was unsure of what to look for. However, my Pepper and I checked out a couple places. The moment he stepped into the training area at Dog Training Elite, he was mesmerized. I had to pull him away when it was time to leave. So truly Pepper chose Elite. There he learned the basics and it was so very easy to practice at home. The videos sent to me are the best source of reference for me as an owner. I have a busy work schedule so referring back to the videos and having practice sessions with Pepper have been great. I totally recommend Dog Training Elite, my dog has been very easy to correct and he remembers the commands. I haven't utilized the group sessions yet but I took advantage of a package that included a week long all day training camp for my puppy. Totally pleased with this investment and hope to continue utilizing Dog Training Elite in the future.
  • Miranda W
    Feb. 5, 2026
    Since rescuing my almost 2 year baby, we have gone through two different trainers before coming to Elite. My guy is very smart and sweet but very stubborn and had issues with fixations, boundaries and not having a recall to literally save his life. The first trainers were just awful and the second was wonderful, but Otis needed a different approach to training and Dog Training Elite was it! There was a night and day difference on day 1! Read that again .. day 1! Emily, Cheyenne, and Chelsea are just incredible people and so good at what they do! Otis did their two week program and it was the best thing I could have done for him. What I liked most about it is it’s not a board and train. I dropped him off for school in the morning and picked him up after work. He has a new level of confidence and he is more approachable with other dogs, meaning they want to play and engage with him first vs him not respecting boundaries and pushing himself onto others. He listens so well and his recall you ask? Fantastic :) He’s a potato with feet so I don’t expect him to come running but when I call his name but now he always turns and/or stops. I’m so proud of him and us and beyond thankful that I finally took him here. We are always training. Heel is a struggle for us but we’re getting there. This was exactly what my stubborn bully needed 😃 Thank you again!!
  • Madison Miller
    Oct. 2, 2025
    We had an amazing experiencing with DTE ! Our golden (Remus) did the platinum and is about to start psychiatric training. 10/10 recommend and cannot thank the staff enough ! Cheyanne and Chelsea are amazing with evaluating and helping you choose which program would be the best fit for you and your companion’s needs along with answering any/ all questions you may have . Logan and the other trainers that works with Remus , are super nice, helpful, and offer great feedback on your companion and ways to help you and your dog succeed in their program and dogs health! We saw an immediate difference in Remus within just 1-2 days of him training in the classes and it has boost his confidence level . He looks happier and shows a more confident and prouder stance in how he represents himself. In addition, the group classes and outings with the pack make it a great learning experience and welcoming to participate no matter where you are at training wise with your furry companion. We couldn’t be more proud and happy to be part of the DTE pack !!!
  • chase worden
    Jan. 30, 2026
    The team has been amazing at teaching Captain. They take a personal approach to his training and are informative with all of my questions.
  • Amanda Wills
    Jan. 26, 2026
    Craig did an amazing job training our mini-bernedoodles to become task-trained service dogs. We feel confident taking them in public and they have flown on over 15 flights since May, most of which are over 5 hours. Craig was very patient and helped the dogs go from puppies who needed obedience training to full service animals.
  • Paulette Delgado Juarez
    Jan. 26, 2026
    The training has been great, you can definitely see the gradual progress. The beginning vs present change is notable. It’s like meeting a brand new dog. Our dog Brandy was super hyperactive and reacted to anything that he saw outside pulling on the leash. Now he’s a-lot calmer and well behaved.
  • Laura Armstrong
    Jan. 25, 2026
    Thank you to Craig and DTE for helping us train our mini Bernedoodle! The one on one training and group classes are helping us so much. And it’s fun at the same time! We highly recommend. Thank you again!
  • lily priehs
    Jan. 12, 2026
    We absolutely loved using Dog Training Elite to train our golden retriever. Craig was the perfect trainer to help with our dog and also gave us tips and tricks to keep working with our dog in between lessons. It was nice and easy that Craig came to our house so that we could translate the commands to the everyday environment that our dog would be in. We also love doing the group training classes so we can learn to focus and obey commands with distractions. Our dog’s behavior changed so fast after our lessons and our friends and family still comment on how good and how well trained he is. I will use Dog Training Elite for our future dogs and recommend them to any of our friends that are looking for training.
  • Kathy Maltabes
    Dec. 31, 2025
    Absolutely adore Craig and staff. We transferred from the Venice location to our former home in the Orlando area and we were blessed with Craig. Whenever there's an issue with our Brussels Griffons Odile and Giselle we get a response within an hour ( most often less) and get a resolution to our issues. Craig is extremely polite as well as professional and ( at times) quite humorous. Our girls worship him as do we.
  • Megan Wills
    Dec. 30, 2025
    Craig transformed our dogs (2 miniature bernedoodles) behavior to be obedient task-trained service animals. Because of him, we have felt confident and comfortable to bring the dogs on 10 hour + flights. We couldn’t recommend enough!
  • Vic Vic
    Dec. 15, 2025
    Craig and his team did amazing getting Arthurtheservicedog to his full potential. Arthur is a rescued American pitbull terrier who today helps a veteran manage there PTSD.
  • Jessica White
    Dec. 14, 2025
    I have been working with this company for a few months with my dog, Gucci. He has made so much progress with his temperament and overall. obedience. Being able to be more hands on with his training has taught me how to help him become successful and continue learning as he gets older. He has successfully passed his training test thanks to Craig!! I would highly recommend this company for training needs. Instead of just taking your dog away for training, they teach you the tools you need to be able to aid in the training process at home for on going and long-term success.
  • Nadia Paredes
    Dec. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite was a game changer for my Cane Corso. Zion became aggressive overnight, and we were afraid he would not only be a liability, but life became really stressful. We needed help fast. Craig's knowledge, and his calm nature gave us confidence and reassurance. His calm nature and welcoming demeanor made him the perfect person for the job. Zion is a completely different dog. We are forever grateful.
  • lance brown
    Nov. 17, 2025
    Went well... Looking forward to save time next week !!!
  • demi hernandez
    Nov. 23, 2025
    I found multiple dog training facilities near my house, but this one is exactly what they promise! The reviews are legit and the training is right at your door & at your convenience! Worth every penny!
  • Hannah Miner
    Nov. 21, 2025
    Very helpful in training my therapy dog. Craig was great and very flexible with meeting times and locations. The group classes are a bonus too!
  • Sheila Hobson
    Nov. 20, 2025
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite in North Orlando. The owner Craig is an outstanding trainer. Craig is very knowledgeable, friendly and patient. He has helped me train my English crème pass her Public Access Test and is now helping me finish her training to be a service dog for both me and with my husband’s mobility challenges. I can’t say enough good things about Craig and his expertise! I am so grateful to have had this experience training my dog. It’s been very rewarding watching how quickly my dog responds to the positive reinforcement that Dog Training Elite uses in its training program. Thank you Craig!
  • Kate Lombardo
    Nov. 19, 2025
    We have had an amazing experience working with Craig and his team to train our golden retriever into a diabetic alert dog! We have seen so much progress in her and can’t wait to see how much more she continues to grow!
  • Delany Giannoble
    Nov. 19, 2025
    We adopted our two-year-old German Shepherd about six months ago, and while she’s an amazing dog, she definitely is high-energy and needed some structure. Working with Craig has been a game changer! Iris has learned so much and the difference in our day-to-day life is incredible. She’s more focused, calmer, and so much easier to communicate with. We still have group classes ahead of us, and we’re excited to continue building on the progress she’s already made. Trainers at DTE are patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do - so thanks to Craig and the whole team at Dog Training Elite Orlando — highly recommend!
  • Alexandria Pinto
    Nov. 19, 2025
    I cannot recommend enough going with Dog Training Elite. I have learned an incredible amount of valuable information on how to best direct my dog Enzo. To train him, learn with him, grow with him. The trainer I have the pleasure of working with is Craig, and he couldn’t be better. Polite, calm, friendly and assertive, he has taught me how to best provide the most successful future for my dog. My dog over the course of the training has vastly improved in his obedience, his attitude, and ability to learn. Every tip and trick is customizable to the specific dog, such as interchangeable phrases and terms. The trainer has taught me as the handler how to correctly encourage my dog, correct my dog, and encourage growth. I went from having a crazy silly puppy to a well trained and well mannered dog that I am working towards getting a certification to be a service dog. It wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for Dog Training Elite! Thank you, a million times over, for helping my dog and I grow into the best team!