Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Clarksville, TN

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 Clarksville, TN 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 Clarksville 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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Clarksville Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Clarksville

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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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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 Clarksville.
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 Clarksville Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Clarksville 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 Clarksville, TN 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 Clarksville, TN 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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  • Hit Man
    Oct. 29, 2024
    Reina was very knowledgeable and professional..Highly recommend
  • Jessica Sherbourne
    Oct. 18, 2024
    Love the work my pup had a great time jen was amazing and will recommend to everyone
  • Jessica A.M. Sherbourne
    Oct. 18, 2024
    Jen dose an amazing job shes easy to understand and i love her energy
  • Malinda Manchester
    Oct. 4, 2024
    Very knowledgeable people with great people
  • Holly Horncastle
    Sep. 30, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing! My dog, Lola, and I have made great strides as we have worked with the group, and Reina has been great! She trains ME how to train and work consistently with my pup. We are working towards therapy certification, and I’m so glad we found Dog Training Elite. Highly recommend!
  • Mollie Woltmann
    Sep. 25, 2024
    Our two Great Pyrenees mix pups were getting too difficult to train on our own. When Reina arrived for the assessment she knew what we needed- and we have learned so much! She loves dogs, is easy to work with, and responds quickly when there are any questions, issues, or schedule changes. Highly recommend!
  • Jessica Coleman
    Sep. 19, 2024
    Reina was so patient and calm while working my pup
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    Sep. 13, 2024
    I am so glad that I called Dog Training Elite! They have provided me so much peace of mind! I can now take my dog to dog friendly places and feel confident that my dog will act appropriately!
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    Jul. 17, 2024
    Reina is a pro. My dog was super stubborn, and she stayed firm, waiting her out until she listened to the command. I couldn't be happier with my experience.
  • Rachel Baudendistel
    Jul. 20, 2024
    Reina did great with Max! He absolutely loved his time with her ❤️
  • Karol Olvera
    Jul. 18, 2024
    Riena did an amazing job training my dog! Highly recommend she is a very patient person :)
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    Jul. 16, 2024
    I trust Reina with any dog of mine, she is the absolute best!! 🥰 This little guy really needed some training and now he is thriving! I cannot recommend her enough! 🙌🏻
  • Elaine Armstrong
    Jul. 13, 2024
    Reina did a great job on our dog! We’d definitely use her again!
  • Ahmir King-Thomas
    Jul. 12, 2024
    Brilliant training! Thanks for the wisdom Reina.
  • Mark Brittelli
    Jul. 11, 2024
    I would highly recommend Reina of Dog Training Elite to anyone! Sending my dog Quincy through the obedience program at home was truly life changing for my wife and I, and has allowed Quincy and us to enjoy much better and less stressful lives. With Dog Traing Elite, Reina provided us with the proper tools and knowledge to keep up with our dog's training regimen long term. This has been incredibly helpful as we are now able to work with Quincy at home on our own. I am so thankful for Reina's professional attitude and dedication, and truly cannot say enough good things about her and Dog Training Elite.
  • Sanel Husnic
    Jul. 11, 2024
    Reina Wasmund did great job training my dog she loves her a lot and always looking forward to seeing her.
  • Bob Marley
    Jul. 10, 2024
    Best training that’s out there! Make sure to ask for Reina!! She worked wonders for my pup (3 year old Shepherd lol) turns out you still teach an old dog new tricks. He was a trouble pup but now with he’s an angel.
  • Jayleen Rogel
    Jul. 10, 2024
    10/10, Would recommend! Reina trained my dog and she is an absolute gem when it comes to dog training! I brought my energetic pup to her hoping for some improvement in basic obedience, and I was beyond satisfied with the results. Her approach is not only effective but also compassionate towards the dogs she works with. She formed an amazing bond with my dog and within just a few sessions, my dog showed remarkable progress. She took the time to understand my dog's personality and worked hard to fit her needs perfectly. I couldn't recommend her enough to anyone looking for professional and caring dog training services.
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    Jul. 10, 2024
    Reina was amazing and so friendly. She really put me at ease and gave me confidence I choose the right place to help with training Kitt.
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    Jul. 9, 2024
    Highly recommend Dog Training Elite. Our trainer Reina was amazing!