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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, 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 Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, 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 Greater Nashville 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 Greater Nashville

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 Murfreesboro / Spring Hill positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Murfreesboro / Spring Hill Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville

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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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A recent dog graduate sitting in front of a Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville car, contact us today for positive dog training in Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, TN.

The Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville 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 Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, 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 Murfreesboro / Spring Hill, 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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You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Melinda Kellams
    Jun. 7, 2025
    Excellent puppy training from Brad. Brad was very patient with Archie snd clearly knew what he was doing. Archie has learned so much and is well behaved and pleasant to be around
  • Staysee Lynn
    Jun. 6, 2025
    We were impressed with Brad’s comprehensive understanding and expertise on dog training. He provided valuable insights and effective techniques that greatly enhanced our knowledge of dog behavior and how they react to training. He is funny too. During the training process we always looked forward to our session. We highly recommend Brad and Dog Training Elite.
  • Brad “Buckeyebradley” M
    Jun. 6, 2025
    Brad did an amazing job training our puppy. In just 5 training sessions our dog will come when called, sit and stay until we release him, lay down when we tell him to, and go to his bed when we give him the command. If you need a dog trainer, this is your guy.
  • Cheryl Freeman
    Jun. 5, 2025
    Brad was amazing! Noticeable improvement in our puppy’s behavior within the first week.
  • Kim Marie Anderson
    May. 21, 2025
    Brad and team were AMAZING!! They are flexible and gave us the skills to keep our dogs calm and happy! So glad to be able to go out into public with my anxious dog!!! Thanks Dog Training Elite!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
  • Ruth Hasty
    May. 16, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville showed immense kindness and patience during our training sessions. Brad’s expertise and clear dedication to his craft made for detailed and clear training sessions that gave us the tools to confidently become leaders for our dog — creating happy dog owners and a happy, healthy canine citizen! We would highly recommend them to anyone looking to create a strong relationship and bond with their dog. The in home sessions were a game changer for us as well, providing us with in the moment solutions to behaviors with our new Labrador puppy.
  • Renee Miller
    May. 14, 2025
    I have participated in private in-home dog training with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville, and I was impressed by Brad's expert guidance, bolstered by his kindness, patience and true desire to successfully train our dog who has done great with this training!
  • Greg Hines
    May. 8, 2025
    The expertise, patience, and kindness exemplified by the Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville staff made our dog training journey an incredibly positive and encouraging experience. Their positive reinforcement approach and expert advice on obedience training for dogs left us feeling empowered and confident to tackle any challenges that may arise. Brad was Awesome!!!
  • Emily Boller
    May. 6, 2025
    Working with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville has been a game-changer for our puppy and family. We went from being stressed and overwhelmed with our puppy’s behaviors and how our kids reacted to them, to truly enjoying our puppy. Thanks to Brad and all he taught us, we have a great dog who fits in great with our family.
  • Penny Crook
    May. 4, 2025
    Choosing Brad to help us with our new puppies has made all the difference. We had a great experience working with Brad. He was incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and really took the time to understand each pup’s personality. His calm approach and clear guidance made training not only effective, but enjoyable for all of us. Highly recommend!
  • Eddie Buford
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Brad was an excellent choice for training Piper. He was very knowledgeable and patient with Piper and us. I would recommend him to anyone but his services.
  • Kristie Bayse
    Apr. 20, 2025
    I'm the owner of 5 large dogs. My German Shepherd had started being aggressive toward my other dogs. I knew Brad had his work cut out for him, the first day was super intense. Brad worked his skills and got her under control. By the end of our training I have a different dog now and the knowledge to start training the rest of my pack. Brad was wonderful and I enjoyed working with him.
  • Ben Boutwell
    Apr. 5, 2025
    We loved working with Brad! He provided top-notch instruction and support for our Golden Retriever. We were blown away by how well Brad was able to care for and work with, not only Wesley, but us as well. Making sure we had all the knowledge necessary to continually work with Wesley. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite of Greater Nashville!
  • Courtney
    Apr. 4, 2025
    Our Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville experience was outstanding from the first moment to the end session! Brad not only made us feel comfortable, he approached us with humor as well, which is our comfort zone! He quickly learned our baby and honed in with patience and his lessons stuck due to his consistent approach with both our dog and us! I highly recommend to anyone needing their proof. This is it!
  • Nancy Feliciano
    Apr. 3, 2025
    I was very pleased with the specialized coaching and detailed training skills that Brad (Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville) shared with me and my dog. His precise yet gentle training approach was spot on for my disability needs. Brad’s training instructions were instrumental in guiding us become a better and more effective service dog team. The home training sessions exceeded my expectations every week; we had a familiar environment in which we learned, practiced and troubleshoot new skills. Think about it, an expert coming to your home to do dog training - You can’t beat that! This is just some of the reasons that I am so glad I found this company and that Brad is our trainer!
  • Jennifer Quigley
    Mar. 27, 2025
    We can’t say enough amazing things about our experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville and our incredible trainer, Brad! Our 4-year-old Icelandic Sheepdog, Kylo has with a very enthusiastic herding instinct—cars, birds, squirrels, rabbits, even small children on our walks were all fair game in his eyes. But from the very first session, we were blown away by how well Kylo responded to Brad’s calm, confident guidance. Brad brought a perfect mix of kindness, patience, and consistent leadership to each session, and it was clear he genuinely loved working with dogs. We saw noticeable improvement after every visit, and best of all, Kylo was having the time of his life learning and growing. Brad made training fun for all of us—not just effective! Thanks to Dog Training Elite, walks are no longer chaotic but enjoyable, and we feel so much more connected to our pup. If you’re looking for someone who brings heart, professionalism, and real results, Brad and the team at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville are second to none. We wholeheartedly recommend them!
  • chris okeson
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Brad was the best when it comes to working with my dog! Highly recommend to anyone with a dog that needs training!
  • Cindy Williams
    Mar. 5, 2025
    I was impressed by Brad at Dog Training Elite. After working with my Australian Shepherd, who is a handful she is definitely a different dog . He has built up her confidence and she’s no longer scared of people . I would highly recommend any dog training . He is very patient and kind and he really loves the dogs.
  • Bryan Rogers
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Masterful and skilled! The best dog trainer I’ve ever met! He is so kind and compassionate also! Highly recommend!
  • Alex House
    Feb. 25, 2025
    Brad has changed my life! I can't say enough good things about this program but specifically about Brad himself. I came into this process uneducated, unsure, and anxious. After completing our 8 in-home one-on-one sessions I can truthfully say I am educated, sure, and no longer anxious! Brad made me feel comfortable from day one and met my dog where he was. Brad handled difficult situations with grace and never made me feel embarrassed or ashamed of my dogs behavior. I seriously cannot say enough good things - take the leap! It's well worth it.
  • Melinda Kellams
    Jun. 7, 2025
    Excellent puppy training from Brad. Brad was very patient with Archie snd clearly knew what he was doing. Archie has learned so much and is well behaved and pleasant to be around
  • Staysee Lynn
    Jun. 6, 2025
    We were impressed with Brad’s comprehensive understanding and expertise on dog training. He provided valuable insights and effective techniques that greatly enhanced our knowledge of dog behavior and how they react to training. He is funny too. During the training process we always looked forward to our session. We highly recommend Brad and Dog Training Elite.
  • Brad “Buckeyebradley” M
    Jun. 6, 2025
    Brad did an amazing job training our puppy. In just 5 training sessions our dog will come when called, sit and stay until we release him, lay down when we tell him to, and go to his bed when we give him the command. If you need a dog trainer, this is your guy.
  • Cheryl Freeman
    Jun. 5, 2025
    Brad was amazing! Noticeable improvement in our puppy’s behavior within the first week.
  • Kim Marie Anderson
    May. 21, 2025
    Brad and team were AMAZING!! They are flexible and gave us the skills to keep our dogs calm and happy! So glad to be able to go out into public with my anxious dog!!! Thanks Dog Training Elite!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
  • Ruth Hasty
    May. 16, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville showed immense kindness and patience during our training sessions. Brad’s expertise and clear dedication to his craft made for detailed and clear training sessions that gave us the tools to confidently become leaders for our dog — creating happy dog owners and a happy, healthy canine citizen! We would highly recommend them to anyone looking to create a strong relationship and bond with their dog. The in home sessions were a game changer for us as well, providing us with in the moment solutions to behaviors with our new Labrador puppy.
  • Renee Miller
    May. 14, 2025
    I have participated in private in-home dog training with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville, and I was impressed by Brad's expert guidance, bolstered by his kindness, patience and true desire to successfully train our dog who has done great with this training!
  • Greg Hines
    May. 8, 2025
    The expertise, patience, and kindness exemplified by the Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville staff made our dog training journey an incredibly positive and encouraging experience. Their positive reinforcement approach and expert advice on obedience training for dogs left us feeling empowered and confident to tackle any challenges that may arise. Brad was Awesome!!!
  • Emily Boller
    May. 6, 2025
    Working with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville has been a game-changer for our puppy and family. We went from being stressed and overwhelmed with our puppy’s behaviors and how our kids reacted to them, to truly enjoying our puppy. Thanks to Brad and all he taught us, we have a great dog who fits in great with our family.
  • Penny Crook
    May. 4, 2025
    Choosing Brad to help us with our new puppies has made all the difference. We had a great experience working with Brad. He was incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and really took the time to understand each pup’s personality. His calm approach and clear guidance made training not only effective, but enjoyable for all of us. Highly recommend!
  • Eddie Buford
    Apr. 29, 2025
    Brad was an excellent choice for training Piper. He was very knowledgeable and patient with Piper and us. I would recommend him to anyone but his services.
  • Kristie Bayse
    Apr. 20, 2025
    I'm the owner of 5 large dogs. My German Shepherd had started being aggressive toward my other dogs. I knew Brad had his work cut out for him, the first day was super intense. Brad worked his skills and got her under control. By the end of our training I have a different dog now and the knowledge to start training the rest of my pack. Brad was wonderful and I enjoyed working with him.
  • Ben Boutwell
    Apr. 5, 2025
    We loved working with Brad! He provided top-notch instruction and support for our Golden Retriever. We were blown away by how well Brad was able to care for and work with, not only Wesley, but us as well. Making sure we had all the knowledge necessary to continually work with Wesley. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite of Greater Nashville!
  • Courtney
    Apr. 4, 2025
    Our Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville experience was outstanding from the first moment to the end session! Brad not only made us feel comfortable, he approached us with humor as well, which is our comfort zone! He quickly learned our baby and honed in with patience and his lessons stuck due to his consistent approach with both our dog and us! I highly recommend to anyone needing their proof. This is it!
  • Nancy Feliciano
    Apr. 3, 2025
    I was very pleased with the specialized coaching and detailed training skills that Brad (Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville) shared with me and my dog. His precise yet gentle training approach was spot on for my disability needs. Brad’s training instructions were instrumental in guiding us become a better and more effective service dog team. The home training sessions exceeded my expectations every week; we had a familiar environment in which we learned, practiced and troubleshoot new skills. Think about it, an expert coming to your home to do dog training - You can’t beat that! This is just some of the reasons that I am so glad I found this company and that Brad is our trainer!
  • Jennifer Quigley
    Mar. 27, 2025
    We can’t say enough amazing things about our experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville and our incredible trainer, Brad! Our 4-year-old Icelandic Sheepdog, Kylo has with a very enthusiastic herding instinct—cars, birds, squirrels, rabbits, even small children on our walks were all fair game in his eyes. But from the very first session, we were blown away by how well Kylo responded to Brad’s calm, confident guidance. Brad brought a perfect mix of kindness, patience, and consistent leadership to each session, and it was clear he genuinely loved working with dogs. We saw noticeable improvement after every visit, and best of all, Kylo was having the time of his life learning and growing. Brad made training fun for all of us—not just effective! Thanks to Dog Training Elite, walks are no longer chaotic but enjoyable, and we feel so much more connected to our pup. If you’re looking for someone who brings heart, professionalism, and real results, Brad and the team at Dog Training Elite Greater Nashville are second to none. We wholeheartedly recommend them!
  • chris okeson
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Brad was the best when it comes to working with my dog! Highly recommend to anyone with a dog that needs training!
  • Cindy Williams
    Mar. 5, 2025
    I was impressed by Brad at Dog Training Elite. After working with my Australian Shepherd, who is a handful she is definitely a different dog . He has built up her confidence and she’s no longer scared of people . I would highly recommend any dog training . He is very patient and kind and he really loves the dogs.
  • Bryan Rogers
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Masterful and skilled! The best dog trainer I’ve ever met! He is so kind and compassionate also! Highly recommend!
  • Alex House
    Feb. 25, 2025
    Brad has changed my life! I can't say enough good things about this program but specifically about Brad himself. I came into this process uneducated, unsure, and anxious. After completing our 8 in-home one-on-one sessions I can truthfully say I am educated, sure, and no longer anxious! Brad made me feel comfortable from day one and met my dog where he was. Brad handled difficult situations with grace and never made me feel embarrassed or ashamed of my dogs behavior. I seriously cannot say enough good things - take the leap! It's well worth it.