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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite Southeast Louisiana

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Baton Rouge, LA

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 Baton Rouge, LA 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 Southeast Louisiana 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 Southeast Louisiana

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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Baton Rouge Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Southeast Louisiana

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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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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 Baton Rouge.
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.
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The Dog Training Elite Southeast Louisiana Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Southeast Louisiana 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 Baton Rouge, LA 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 Baton Rouge, LA 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

  • Derrick Fitzpatrick
    Aug. 13, 2024
    I’m a little late posting but I can’t say enough good things about this company. From the immediate response when my little Nova was first brought home, to them coming to me for a consultation. Every experience I’ve had was amazing and every question was answered. This is the best place to train your dog. The group classes on Saturday are very informative and helpful. Nova has learned so much in the time she has been trained with this company. And let’s not forget how amazing Hannah is, she was incredible start to finish from puppy camp all the way to the end of the platinum classes, I highly recommend her, there is no one better. I’m so glad I went with this place and people. A+++++++++++ all the way around.
  • Anne Guilbeau
    Oct. 5, 2023
    Claire and Hannah are the best! Daisy Rose is learning so much ! They are training her to be a wonderful service dog!
  • Debbie Daniel
    Sep. 18, 2023
    Dog Training Elite has been fantastic! Caring & knowledgeable staff and the difference in Rusty has been amazing. Our in-home sessions were very helpful & informative. They spend as much time as needed an answer all questions. We are now attending the “come if you’d like” Saturday group sessions to fine tune our training. The vibration collar + plus excellent training has made such a difference. I very highly recommend 🐕🧡
  • Kelley Smith-Rosequist
    Jul. 20, 2023
    Such an incredibly passionate group of people!
  • donna bossier
    Jun. 28, 2023
    DTE was fantastic. Our trainer, Claire, was flexible with the schedule and made the whole process painless and fun. Our pup, Casey, looked forward to working with Claire and us! She now performs exemplary - And on command. We highly recommend DTE and would use them again if we increase the size of our pack.
  • Jenna Henning
    Jun. 13, 2023
    DTE has helped me be a way more confident dog mom for Comet. Not only have they gone above and beyond to make sure he is comfortable and content, they really care about how you feel too. I’ve dealt with anxiety and worry over Comet’s reactivity and leash pulling seeing as he is a larger boy, but with their help we can take longer walks and handle distractions much more easily now. It’s definitely a progress but worth every minute of it.
  • Tzippy
    May. 25, 2023
    If you are looking for a trainer, look no further. Our dog Apollo was struggling with aggression and only listened when he wanted to, he had attacked our other dog, would get out of the house and run for miles, completely uncontrollable. I honestly didn't believe he would ever be able to do off leash walking, but went ahead with the training anyway because I was hoping to help with his aggression. THIS CHANGED OUR LIFE! A few weeks later our puppy takes complete off leash walks, goes to his place when told and stays, he can walk in a heal, go into stores with us (off and on leash) He basically has a whole new lease on life because we now can let him play off leash and with other dogs. He is happier as are we. Training is expensive but it is the best thing we have ever done for our entire family
  • Paul Granada
    Apr. 2, 2023
    Ed and his staff understand dog behavior and are great at training both the dog and the owner.
  • P Forstall
    Mar. 31, 2023
    They are absolutely amazing. They help me with my unmanageable dog. He has never been happier in his life after going through training! The group classes have really helped my dog become less reactive! Their staff is so nice!
  • Amy Pinero
    Feb. 25, 2023
    I have a rescue dog who is reactive to other dogs. Ed has given me the tools to help her and we have now progressed to group training. Ed and his team and professional, patient and amazing. I cannot recommend them enough,.
  • Gracie Boudreaux
    Feb. 23, 2023
    I am so glad I found DTE! Working with the trainers and my service dog in public is exactly what we needed to grow as a team! We now have a stronger connection and I cannot wait to see all of the adventures we go on in the future!!
  • Kandie Breaux
    Jan. 19, 2023
    Mr Ed was so great with my pit bull Kaira! I chose Dog Training Elite after one trainer told me I had a very vicious dog and needed one on one training that I’d have to leave my baby there! But when Mr Ed came do the home evaluation he said that she didn’t have a vicious bone in her! And she and I have been living a happy life ever since!! Thank you so much!!
  • Monica Francis
    Nov. 11, 2022
    We have been stunned by the turn around in our already "great" dog. He is operating as a Super Service Dog for Catherine thanks to you! My daughter struggles with mobility and our big 200lb Great Dane does a great job of leading and holding her up but wasn't so good at "following her lead." You have helped her as well with a confident commanding process that was possible for her to master. From our family to yours, thank you Dog Training Elite!
  • Jennifer Depew Taylor
    Nov. 9, 2022
    It has been an amazing experience working with Dog Training Elite! Claire and Ed were both so helpful in training my dog and me. :) Any question I had they were able to answer for me. Helpful hints for car rides, recommendations for groomers, understanding behavior changes during teething, getting our puppy to stop jumping on guests and the list goes on. When we started training, our 11 year old daughter was afraid of our puppy when he started jumping, barking and biting. Now she feels completely comfortable with our puppy. Our golden doodle puppy went from out of control jumping and biting to such a fun and obedient puppy to be around. Thank you so much Dog Training Elite!
  • Jennifer Taylor
    Nov. 9, 2022
    It has been an amazing experience working with Dog Training Elite! Claire and Ed were both so helpful in training my dog and me. :) Any question I had they were able to answer for me. Helpful hints for car rides, recommendations for groomers, understanding behavior changes during teething, getting our puppy to stop jumping on guests and the list goes on. When we started training, our 11 year old daughter was afraid of our puppy when he started jumping, barking and biting. Now she feels completely comfortable with our puppy. Our golden doodle puppy went from out of control jumping and biting to such a fun and obedient puppy to be around. Thank you so much Dog Training Elite!
  • Matthew Cancienne
    Nov. 4, 2022
    Between the E-collar and the trainers coming out to us, I couldn't recommend them more. The difference between my dog's behavior before and after the training sessions is like night and day. He's like a whole new dog and I couldn't be happier.
  • Olivia Cornu
    Nov. 1, 2022
    I have been working with Dog Training Elite with my 2 year old mini Australian Shepherd for about 2 months now. We love all the trainers we have met Ed, Claire and Jacob! I have really seen great changes in my dog Ellie! Each trainer takes their time to explain and all work really well with my dog to make sure she’s as comfortable during our training sessions! Group classes are fun to meet other people and their dogs!! Would 10/10 recommend them! Looking forward to more training!
  • Karen sardi
    Oct. 31, 2022
    I have been working with Ed and Claire for a few weeks now, and I'm impressed! I've worked with several trainers recently, and Dog Training Elite has been the most helpful in my current situations with my Doberman. I appreciate the fact that they don't train "by the book" and believe that training is based on each individual dog. I have been dealing with a few issues with my Doberman puppy and they have been able to observe and find the best working solutions to assist with those issues. I also enjoy the group classes each Saturday to work on distractions. It's really been great for my boy! One recent victory that Claire helped me with was getting my pup to allow me to put a vest on him! She made that happen in 1 hour during our session at home!
  • Natalee Menge
    Oct. 28, 2022
    All the trainers at Dog Training Elite are amazing!! Our Labradoodle received some training from another group, but we still struggled with particular behaviors/situations. After making the switch to Dog Training Elite and the e-collar, our dog has soared! We are so thankful for Ed and his team!
  • Kelly Lee
    Oct. 6, 2022
    I have nothing but good things to say about Dog Training Elite (Southeast Louisiana). I have an 80 pound, 2 year old Boxer Pit bull mix who was extremely hard to walk. He used to get triggered by everything when I would walk him and the triggers often lead to him pulling me down as he would suddenly dart towards the trigger. I dreaded walking him. I was very afraid that he would get us seriously hurt or, God forbid, hurt someone else or another dog. But the training we have received has been a literal life saver. I can now walk him peacefully and can give him commands like “Sit” and “Come” and he not only responds, but holds the command until I release him to continue. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND these trainers to any dog owner!!! They are professional, kind, knowledgeable, and their love for dogs is evident in everything they do. I truly can’t say enough good things!!