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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite in Orlando

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Orlando, FL

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.

Orlando Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite in Orlando

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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 in Orlando car, contact us today for positive dog training in Orlando, FL.

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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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

  • melanie gold
    May. 10, 2025
    The training ia going well and my dog, Martini, seems enjoy learning. I cant wait to get the ok for the group classes, because I think that will really help her impulse control
  • Belen Estacio
    May. 3, 2025
    We’re so grateful for the help we received from Craig as we prepared our dog for the arrival of our baby girl! Our pup had been struggling with barking and some anxiety, but with Craig’s guidance, we saw a huge improvement. Not only is he barking less, but he has also picked up new commands (like “quiet”) and seems so much more relaxed and happy overall. The training was gentle, clear, and tailored to our family’s needs—and it gave us so much peace of mind going into this big life change. Highly recommend!
  • Sue M
    Apr. 26, 2025
    Cheyenne and Keri took time to bond with my dogs before training began. They were peaceful and kind- demonstrating, evaluating, and providing great suggestions to help us learn to communicate and give better guidance to our furbabies.
  • Karmilita John
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Such a professional staff. Maria is amazing. She has taught me how to be the best person for my fur baby. 💕
  • Jesse Bello
    Mar. 25, 2025
    I am incredibly grateful to Dog Training Elite for the amazing work they’ve done with my dog! From the very beginning, it was clear that their team genuinely cares about both the dogs and their owners. I truly value the time they’ve spent with us, not just in training but in offering support, guidance, and reassurance every step of the way. I couldn’t be more thankful for their commitment to helping us succeed. If you’re looking for a dog trainer that goes above and beyond, I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. They are worth every minute and every penny!
  • Philippe Monroy
    Apr. 23, 2025
    The DTE team is amazing!! Everyone I have met on the team has been wonderful to include the team members on four legs. Maverick and I enjoy each and every training session, we are learning so much. The knowledge and experience of the DTE team is exceptional, they can teach an old dog tricks (me).
  • JoEllen Click
    Apr. 21, 2025
    Craig was instrumental in helping us train our Goldendoodle puppy, Tally. He is patient and easy to work with. Dog Training Elite North Orlando has a great program and Tally is well behaved after going through training. She loves the group training in the park and we enjoy taking her with us to places now that she has manners. We highly recommend Craig and Dog Training Elite North Orlando.
  • Maureen A
    Apr. 18, 2025
    Cheyenne has been great to work with. Our primary goal was reliable off-leash recalls. Our Newfoundland "knew" his commands, but only did them when he felt like it and he definitely never felt like coming when called! Our dog was not a super quick learner, but Cheyenne was steady and patient. The transformation has been amazing. We can hike off leash, he doesn't run up to other dogs or people and he comes when called--even when there's something very interesting I want him to leave. Definitely recommend!
  • Kristen Blake
    Apr. 18, 2025
    I've been training with Dog Training Elite Orlando for many months now and have had a great experience with all of the trainers. Today Cheyenne administered our service dog test and I'm so pleased to say we passed. DTE has prepared us so well in our training over the months and we are excited to continue working with them to ensure he is the best service dog he can be!
  • Lisa McClish-Boyles
    Apr. 16, 2025
    Craig Pizer of North Orlando ELITE Dog Training did an AMAZING job with my boy. He is a service dog for an American Veteran Hero who is an amputee that depends on him daily. Through Craig’s training he knows his job, loves going every where and is a great example of a well trained dog that’s confident in his abilities. Craig approach uses positive reinforcement training him to make the right decision allowing him to build his confindence for every situation. Thank you Craig Pizer owner of Elite Dog Training of North Orlando, Fl.
  • Sophie Henner
    Apr. 15, 2025
    We’ve had a great experience with Dog Training Elite! Craig is fantastic, knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about what he does. The one-on-one sessions helped us build a strong foundation, and the group classes have been a great way to reinforce those skills around distractions. We’ve seen real progress and feel so much more confident as dog owners. Highly recommend!
  • Jessica Medina
    Apr. 13, 2025
    I first met Craig after countless attempts and years of efforts of finding a service dog. Craig went above and beyond to help me eventually be paired with Shay. Upon meeting Shay, I knew that she was an extremely well trained girl (as she was trained by Craig for more than a year) and that will help me as soon as she completed her service task training. Craig and his team worked with me to identify all the ways in which Shay will assist in time of need. Not only was her training impeccable, but he also made himself readily available (even after moving out of state) to answer any and all of my questions. I am happy to share that Shay is a working service dog that accompanies me everywhere and is there for me in my time of medical need. It is without exaggeration that I say that both Craig and Shay have made me feel in control of my life and health again. I am forever grateful and will never be able to fully express my gratitude.
  • Maya Silverberg
    Apr. 9, 2025
    Dog training elite is the real deal! Make the investment. I took my first dog to 2 different trainers (over 12 weeks of classes) and nothing stuck. We recently adopted a second dog and hired dog training elite and I wish I started with them from the start. All of the trainers are extremely knowledgeable and talented. If you are on the fence just go for it you will not be disappointed.
  • Eileen Marquez
    Apr. 5, 2025
    María is amazing so knowledgeable about dogs but overall extremely patient. She is someone I would recommend hands down and all my future dogs will be trained with Dog Training Elite.
  • GLAD SQUAD: ONE TEAM. ONE DREAM.
    Apr. 1, 2025
    Maria from Dog Training Elite is absolutely amazing! From the very first session, she demonstrated incredible knowledge, patience, and a true passion for working with dogs. She took the time to understand our dog’s unique personality and tailored the training to fit our needs perfectly. Her positive reinforcement approach made a huge difference, and we saw noticeable improvements in behavior almost immediately. Not only is Maria great with dogs, but she also does a fantastic job educating owners, making sure we feel confident in continuing the training at home. If you’re looking for a skilled, compassionate, and dedicated trainer, I highly recommend Maria! She has truly made a lasting impact on our dog’s behavior and our overall experience as pet owners. Thank you, Maria, for everything!
  • Lauren Badia
    Apr. 1, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Orlando has been amazing! Our dog was very reactive to people and dogs and although he’s not perfect, he has gotten so much better. All of the trainer are very knowledgeable and great to work with. 10/10 recommend!
  • Marnie Bialosuknia
    Apr. 1, 2025
    Maria was great and my dog loved her but also respected her. I learned so much, most importantly that I need the training more than the dog 😊 keep calm and have lots of patience.
  • Lizbeth Fernandez
    Jan. 3, 2025
    We have a great time with Mia’s training today! Dog Training Elite was the best decision for me and my dog, we have learned so much and it just keeps getting better!!!
  • Stefani Monn
    Mar. 25, 2025
    I was amazed with how much was accomplished in just our first session, and I’m looking forward to seeing how much more my pups and I can learn from Cheyenne!
  • Yaidelice Rodriguez
    Mar. 20, 2025
    Excellent experience, we would give 10 stars if we could...Maria is an excellent trainer very exeperienced and good with our pup, explains everything as detailed as possible. So far this have been an great experience for us. Glad we found them and good to have them for our dog training; Training is not done yet and we are seeing great results... 100% recommended.
  • melanie gold
    May. 10, 2025
    The training ia going well and my dog, Martini, seems enjoy learning. I cant wait to get the ok for the group classes, because I think that will really help her impulse control
  • Belen Estacio
    May. 3, 2025
    We’re so grateful for the help we received from Craig as we prepared our dog for the arrival of our baby girl! Our pup had been struggling with barking and some anxiety, but with Craig’s guidance, we saw a huge improvement. Not only is he barking less, but he has also picked up new commands (like “quiet”) and seems so much more relaxed and happy overall. The training was gentle, clear, and tailored to our family’s needs—and it gave us so much peace of mind going into this big life change. Highly recommend!
  • Sue M
    Apr. 26, 2025
    Cheyenne and Keri took time to bond with my dogs before training began. They were peaceful and kind- demonstrating, evaluating, and providing great suggestions to help us learn to communicate and give better guidance to our furbabies.
  • Karmilita John
    Apr. 25, 2025
    Such a professional staff. Maria is amazing. She has taught me how to be the best person for my fur baby. 💕
  • Jesse Bello
    Mar. 25, 2025
    I am incredibly grateful to Dog Training Elite for the amazing work they’ve done with my dog! From the very beginning, it was clear that their team genuinely cares about both the dogs and their owners. I truly value the time they’ve spent with us, not just in training but in offering support, guidance, and reassurance every step of the way. I couldn’t be more thankful for their commitment to helping us succeed. If you’re looking for a dog trainer that goes above and beyond, I highly recommend Dog Training Elite. They are worth every minute and every penny!
  • Philippe Monroy
    Apr. 23, 2025
    The DTE team is amazing!! Everyone I have met on the team has been wonderful to include the team members on four legs. Maverick and I enjoy each and every training session, we are learning so much. The knowledge and experience of the DTE team is exceptional, they can teach an old dog tricks (me).
  • JoEllen Click
    Apr. 21, 2025
    Craig was instrumental in helping us train our Goldendoodle puppy, Tally. He is patient and easy to work with. Dog Training Elite North Orlando has a great program and Tally is well behaved after going through training. She loves the group training in the park and we enjoy taking her with us to places now that she has manners. We highly recommend Craig and Dog Training Elite North Orlando.
  • Maureen A
    Apr. 18, 2025
    Cheyenne has been great to work with. Our primary goal was reliable off-leash recalls. Our Newfoundland "knew" his commands, but only did them when he felt like it and he definitely never felt like coming when called! Our dog was not a super quick learner, but Cheyenne was steady and patient. The transformation has been amazing. We can hike off leash, he doesn't run up to other dogs or people and he comes when called--even when there's something very interesting I want him to leave. Definitely recommend!
  • Kristen Blake
    Apr. 18, 2025
    I've been training with Dog Training Elite Orlando for many months now and have had a great experience with all of the trainers. Today Cheyenne administered our service dog test and I'm so pleased to say we passed. DTE has prepared us so well in our training over the months and we are excited to continue working with them to ensure he is the best service dog he can be!
  • Lisa McClish-Boyles
    Apr. 16, 2025
    Craig Pizer of North Orlando ELITE Dog Training did an AMAZING job with my boy. He is a service dog for an American Veteran Hero who is an amputee that depends on him daily. Through Craig’s training he knows his job, loves going every where and is a great example of a well trained dog that’s confident in his abilities. Craig approach uses positive reinforcement training him to make the right decision allowing him to build his confindence for every situation. Thank you Craig Pizer owner of Elite Dog Training of North Orlando, Fl.
  • Sophie Henner
    Apr. 15, 2025
    We’ve had a great experience with Dog Training Elite! Craig is fantastic, knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about what he does. The one-on-one sessions helped us build a strong foundation, and the group classes have been a great way to reinforce those skills around distractions. We’ve seen real progress and feel so much more confident as dog owners. Highly recommend!
  • Jessica Medina
    Apr. 13, 2025
    I first met Craig after countless attempts and years of efforts of finding a service dog. Craig went above and beyond to help me eventually be paired with Shay. Upon meeting Shay, I knew that she was an extremely well trained girl (as she was trained by Craig for more than a year) and that will help me as soon as she completed her service task training. Craig and his team worked with me to identify all the ways in which Shay will assist in time of need. Not only was her training impeccable, but he also made himself readily available (even after moving out of state) to answer any and all of my questions. I am happy to share that Shay is a working service dog that accompanies me everywhere and is there for me in my time of medical need. It is without exaggeration that I say that both Craig and Shay have made me feel in control of my life and health again. I am forever grateful and will never be able to fully express my gratitude.
  • Maya Silverberg
    Apr. 9, 2025
    Dog training elite is the real deal! Make the investment. I took my first dog to 2 different trainers (over 12 weeks of classes) and nothing stuck. We recently adopted a second dog and hired dog training elite and I wish I started with them from the start. All of the trainers are extremely knowledgeable and talented. If you are on the fence just go for it you will not be disappointed.
  • Eileen Marquez
    Apr. 5, 2025
    María is amazing so knowledgeable about dogs but overall extremely patient. She is someone I would recommend hands down and all my future dogs will be trained with Dog Training Elite.
  • GLAD SQUAD: ONE TEAM. ONE DREAM.
    Apr. 1, 2025
    Maria from Dog Training Elite is absolutely amazing! From the very first session, she demonstrated incredible knowledge, patience, and a true passion for working with dogs. She took the time to understand our dog’s unique personality and tailored the training to fit our needs perfectly. Her positive reinforcement approach made a huge difference, and we saw noticeable improvements in behavior almost immediately. Not only is Maria great with dogs, but she also does a fantastic job educating owners, making sure we feel confident in continuing the training at home. If you’re looking for a skilled, compassionate, and dedicated trainer, I highly recommend Maria! She has truly made a lasting impact on our dog’s behavior and our overall experience as pet owners. Thank you, Maria, for everything!
  • Lauren Badia
    Apr. 1, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Orlando has been amazing! Our dog was very reactive to people and dogs and although he’s not perfect, he has gotten so much better. All of the trainer are very knowledgeable and great to work with. 10/10 recommend!
  • Marnie Bialosuknia
    Apr. 1, 2025
    Maria was great and my dog loved her but also respected her. I learned so much, most importantly that I need the training more than the dog 😊 keep calm and have lots of patience.
  • Lizbeth Fernandez
    Jan. 3, 2025
    We have a great time with Mia’s training today! Dog Training Elite was the best decision for me and my dog, we have learned so much and it just keeps getting better!!!
  • Stefani Monn
    Mar. 25, 2025
    I was amazed with how much was accomplished in just our first session, and I’m looking forward to seeing how much more my pups and I can learn from Cheyenne!
  • Yaidelice Rodriguez
    Mar. 20, 2025
    Excellent experience, we would give 10 stars if we could...Maria is an excellent trainer very exeperienced and good with our pup, explains everything as detailed as possible. So far this have been an great experience for us. Glad we found them and good to have them for our dog training; Training is not done yet and we are seeing great results... 100% recommended.