Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Green Bay / Appleton, WI

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 Green Bay / Appleton, WI 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 Northeast Wisconsin 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 Green Bay / Appleton positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Green Bay / Appleton Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin

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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 Green Bay / Appleton.
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 Northeast Wisconsin Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin 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 Green Bay / Appleton, WI 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 Green Bay / Appleton, WI 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

  • Stephanie Kyles
    Oct. 24, 2024
    I can’t say enough good things about Elite Dog Training! From our first session, it was clear that Ramiro is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly passionate about helping dogs and their owners. Ramiro took the time to understand my dogs personality and struggles, and tailored the training approach to fit our needs. Our timid, insecure little Izzy has made remarkable progress. What I appreciate the most, was his patience and encouragement. Our little girl is now a happy dog that is no longer scared of everything and everyone. If you are looking for a dedicated and skilled trainer, I highly recommend the team at Elite Dog Training. Thank you for helping us build a happier home!
  • james williams
    Oct. 22, 2024
    Lizzie came to us as a 27 Lb 3 month old rescue and totally cute. Our intent was to give her our time and attention to be her best self. If all went well she would accompany me at work providing health care to seniors in their homes. We reviewed several trainers and after speaking Dog Training Elite and talking with Alli we made a very easy choice. From the very 1st session with Alli and then with Marcy as well we were totally excited. Having them come to our home and work with us gave us confidence to follow through with the lessons. Lizzie was pretty easy, We had to learn, and we did. Lizzie passed her good citizen test. Today she and I interact with over 30 Seniors and many other staff members at the homes we visit. She gets so much attention and praise as well as thank you's from all. Almost everyone comments how well behaved she is. Alli and Marcy helped give us Our Dream Puppy. Thank Both of You as well as DTE.
  • Marty Klika
    Oct. 21, 2024
    Allison was an awesome trainer. Allison worked with my dog but most importantly me to help me understand you need to work every day to have a good healthy and lovable pet. I am a happier person because of the help. I no longer need to constantly yell at my dog. Thanks Allison
  • Katherine Janssen
    Oct. 14, 2024
    This has been a blast! Training our rescue dog with Ramiro has been so successful, so much fun and something we strongly recommend! Our dog, Jobin, has been a reactive dog with other dogs, getting in fights and biting multiple times. His veterinarian felt Jobin was reactionary from insecurity and anxiousness. I tried so many things to help him but just when I thought I had it figured out, Jobin would flare up again and prove me wrong. Hiring Ramiro was truly the answer and his training helped Jobin and us so much! Now we have an extremely well trained dog who loves to go on long walks, visit dog parks with confidence and is no longer showing insecure behavior.
  • Heather Ann-Marie
    Oct. 14, 2024
    Bronson was enrolled with Dog Training Elite Northeast Wisconsin in the obedience platinum package. His trainer, Alli was amazing to work with. She was very flexible with not only Bronson’s medical issues. He got kennel cough three times from doggy daycare, had a soft tissue injury that took a couple weeks to heal and more recently had food allergies and environmental allergies. Not to mention my very demanding work schedule was hard to accommodate but Alli made it happen! All of the one-on-one sessions were in the comfort of Bronson’s home/yard so it was less stressful for puppy and owner. Alli was very patient and explained all of the training components to help not only me to understand why things are trained in the manner they are and to also explain the tell tale signs of dogs in general that get it but refuse to cooperate at times and then reinforcing the positive feedback as each training session was accomplished on daily routine life. Bronson just graduated his obedience training course and he passed his Canine Good Citizen certification today. A lot of work was done with Bronson but I would highly recommend to anyone that’s looking for a personalized obedience training program for their canine to use Dog Training Elite. The trainers definitely put the extra personal effort to treat your dog as if it was their own. Look forward to continuing onto the group training and hopefully service dog training!
  • Maya Bishop
    Oct. 10, 2024
    I got a working line doberman puppy, Draco, and was feeling lost with training on my own. I had no idea where to start but I ended up deciding to work with Dog Training Elite after reading their great reviews. Let me tell you if they can successfully help me train my crazy, super high energy, stubborn doberman, they can train your dog. We worked with Allison and I couldn’t be happier. We genuinely looked forward to in home lessons with her every week and so did Draco. I couldn’t have done it without her… not only did she teach my dog manners and commands but also taught ME and gave helpful tips and information. I picked the platinum package after looking at all the benefits of it and I have absolutely no complaints. As a bonus - you get to work with actual people who care about you, your family and your pet. There were multiple times that Allison went above and beyond for us. Set up the consultation, I promise you won’t regret it ;)
  • Lindzi Kryger
    Oct. 5, 2024
    We have a 2 year old corgi who was food aggressive and dog reactive and didn’t always listen, he also was in trusting to be left off leash. After training with Romero we can trust him off leash and he listens to all commands. His dog reactivity and resource guarding is getting better and we have the tools and knowledge to work with him. We feel more comfortable bringing him places and he can be trusted off leash now. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who is looking for a dog trainer!
  • Leigh Richardson
    Oct. 4, 2024
    When my wife and I had gotten our second dog, Lucy, we knew almost right away that we were going to need some help getting her trained to the level she deserved to be at. She came from a rough upbringing, and we were very unsure as to how to tackle it. One day however, we decided to get in contact with Dog Training Elite and I can say without reservation that it was the best decision that my wife and I have made for Lucy. The first session, while a little rocky at first, as Lucy began to learn the basics of what will make her a well trained dog, completely changed her whole personality. She began to listen to us, look at us when giving commands, and would nearly be able to read our minds depending on the situation, because she was properly trained to know how to respond. Both my wife and I cannot recommend Ramiro and his team enough. From start to finish, they have been so professional, willing to work around very busy schedules, and make the most out of every class we had. I’ve very proud to see how Lucy turned around from a stray off the streets, to a dog that we are so proud to show off to friends and family. Thanks so much for everything you all have done for us! We look forward to letting everyone we can know about this program, and the benefits it can offer!
  • Lindsay Horst
    Oct. 3, 2024
    Can't say enough good things about Romero and the Dog Training Elite team! My dog was reactive, hated going on walks, and had awful recall. I made my consultation after a disasterous visit to the vet and I regret nothing! Within a few lessons he was completely changed and I had such a better understanding on how to encourage or correct behavior. If you want your dog to be a model canine citizen, give them a call!
  • Pamela Meyer
    Oct. 2, 2024
    When we first contacted Elite dog training we had little hope in correcting our dogs behavior problems. We had tried online training and hired a personal trainer all to no avail. While we considered the investment in our dog or just giving up on our dog, I am glad we went with the investment. She has made great strides in not only her behavior but also in her demeanor . While she still needs work, she is well on her way to providing us with the well behaved, enjoyable companion she was meant to be. I recommend to anyone going through similar problems with their dog to not give up. Your dog & you can make the transition needed through training & education to become a cohesive & happy family. Our thanks to Elite training for making this possible & look forward to group sessions to continue our journey. MIKE & Pam Meyer
  • Josh
    Sep. 30, 2024
    My wife and I realized our dog, Max, needed some obedience training, as we were constantly trying to stop him from bolting out the door or getting overly distracted on walks by sniffing everything and approaching other dogs in a way that seemed too aggressive. After searching online for local dog trainers who specialize in these behaviors, we found Dog Training Elite, which had excellent reviews. We're happy to report that after 8 sessions with Ramiro, we've seen significant improvements in Max's behavior and obedience. He even passed the Canine Good Citizen test, thanks to Ramiro's guidance and our practice with Max between sessions. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite if you're looking for a great dog trainer.
  • Kerstin Scott
    Sep. 27, 2024
    We are so grateful to Elite and especially Allison for her diligence and hard work. Our Elsa was a real challenge but we now have a very happy, playful and obedient pup!
  • Daniel Solberg
    Sep. 19, 2024
    Ramiro and Stephanie have been a joy to work with to train our dog, Bacon. They are professional, knowledgeable, patient and fun! We are 100% satisfied with the effectiveness of the training that was above and beyond our expectations.
  • Kristen Gombar
    Sep. 12, 2024
    We couldn't be happier with our trainer Allison and Dog Elite. They completely understood that it wasn't only our dog that needed training, it was us too! Our dog's progress has been a miracle for us. We would 100% recommend this service and company.
  • Nicole Socha
    Sep. 10, 2024
    Had a great experience with Dog Training Elite. I worked with Allison and she was great. Worked well with my and my dog throughout our 8 week training program. Looking forward to thw group classes.
  • Marcia Broeren
    Sep. 4, 2024
    I had an outstanding experience working with Ally. Ally is incredibly patient. She gives detailed explanations, works well one on one and gave positive feedback to both our dog and the me. Each lesson contained just the right amount of new skills and every lesson built on the lesson before. I highly recommend them. Individual lessons are so great and you make such rapid progress. I received an excellent return on my investment.
  • Maria Koch
    Sep. 3, 2024
    Outstanding. Superb customer service, flexible with individual needs and Results. I have a less than favorable breed for service training but it was no problem. Ramiro’s experience, knowledge (and patience) has taken us to new levels of training together. I am thoroughly pleased and grateful with our results. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite of NEW to anyone with any breed. Thank you Ramiro, Stephany & Allison.
  • Samantha Roberts
    Aug. 30, 2024
    Ramiro did a great job with my dog Percy. Percy is a rescue who came from a hoarding situation. He was very nervous and sometimes over reactive in situations where he felt uncomfortable. After working with Ramiro, Percy has become so much more secure, and I feel more confident in my ability to help him manage his anxiety. Other people in my family have even commented on how much better his behavior has been since we started training at the beginning of the summer. I couldn't recommend this trainer (and company) enough!
  • Christian Pilar
    Aug. 14, 2024
    Dog training elite is amazing. We got are boy Shiloh from the shelter an he was a lot to handle from pulling as hard as he could on walks to chewing things up a barking. Romero made this process a whole lot easier with the 1 on 1 sessions with Shiloh. They treat everyone one like family and only want the best for our pups. Shiloh is a year and a half now an is as confident as ever is almost everything his does now. I highly recommend dog training elite to anyone who is looking for a great outcome for there pups!
  • Caleb Peterson
    Aug. 9, 2024
    We used DTE to train our rottweiler puppy, Moose. We were in contact with Stephany and Ramiro from DTE before knowing what breed of puppy we would be getting. I am wheelchair bound and we wanted to get a puppy to train to be my service dog. Through video meetings, we discussed my needs and found a breed we agreed on. Through their contacts, they found a rottweiler breeder that has a great reputation. (Moose has been a great puppy since the beginning. Very relaxed and easygoing. It has never felt like a task to train him.) We had Moose attend, or more stay home (they come to you!) for the Puppy Platinum and Obedience Platinum courses, which started shortly after Moose was 8 weeks old. Moose just graduated from his obedience trading and received his Canine Good Citizen certificate. Moose is currently attending DTE's group training sessions with the other dogs that have also been through their obedience training. Ramiro was Moose's trainer for every class. Each lesson was very efficient and Ramiro was great with explaining what, how, and why we were doing each step. Moose loves Ramiro; he treated Moose as he would with his own dog from the beginning. Moose is now 7 months old and is such a good boy! He listens so well and can already heal and go for a walk off leash. He's learning more every day and is set to go to Milwaukee to get service dog training. He definitely has a good base to go from. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND contacting DTE for dog training if you're needing help getting started with getting a puppy, just got a puppy, or are having issues with your own. If results are proof with Moose, be confident that you will have a puppy that is super well trained, confident, and that you're proud of.