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Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite Springfield

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Springfield, MO

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 Springfield, MO 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 Springfield 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 Springfield

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 Springfield positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Springfield Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Springfield

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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 Springfield.
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 Springfield Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Springfield 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 Springfield, MO 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 Springfield, MO 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

  • Bill Virella
    Oct. 22, 2024
    The trainers are very proficient and knowledgeable. I like how they "train" the dog owners as well.
  • traveler
    Oct. 22, 2024
    Kristi and Jeremy were amazing training my 16 month old, 55 lb. dog, Wiley. They were both so knowledgeable, professional and patient. Erin in the office is wonderful too. Wiley was difficult to walk if there were other people or dogs nearby and didn’t always come when called, occasionally jumped on people, etc. I choose the 2 week day camp so I would have time to attend weekly group sessions before traveling with him. I saw improvement within a couple days! He has completed the 2 week session and attended one group session so far. He was very good around all the dogs and owners for the group session, I was so surprised. I highly recommend them!
  • ginger phillips
    Oct. 18, 2024
    When Sadie first arrived at Elite she had a big wide leash. She liked to drag me down the street. Quickly they taught she and I both how to have an obedient dog. She follows many commands now after 2 weeks and now she heals and we walk side by side with a reasonable leash. I highly recommend this team for obedience. Ginger Phillips
  • Kurt and Sally Larson
    Sep. 21, 2024
    I have owned and had dogs trained all my life. I wanted this puppy and I to understand how to communicate. Kristi and Jeremy deserve 20 stars at least. Plus don't forget Erin at the front desk she makes it all operate smoothly(she is supper sweet). They are patient kind thorough, and sincerely care that we have success. We started with the weekly puppy school. Well, I quickly decided to advance her to puppy camp best decision because they fast tracked her(us) to listening and understanding. Sophia is truly proud of herself and has such joy usually in the process. Do not hesitate to to spend the money you will not regret this decision.
  • Jade Graham
    Sep. 19, 2024
    We have been working with Kristi for 3 weeks now and have seen so much improvement in our 4 year old dog. Before training he would bark at any person, dog, or moving car he saw, pull on his leash during walks, and ignore commands he was given and after just 3 classes we were able to have a very calm and peaceful walk around our neighborhood with no pulling or barking. He has also started to listen to all commands given. If you’re thinking about training, DO IT!
  • Tani Kremer
    Sep. 18, 2024
    I am so thankful for Kristi and Jeremy, the owners and trainers for Dog Training Elite Springfield. They have been helping me train our 6 year old Boston Terrier to be a service dog. My husband has been in and out of the hospital for over 7 weeks this year. We were told by the doctors this will continue to be my husband’s life. Because of Kristi and Jeremy’s loving, positive training our sweet Bo was able to see his daddy in the hospital! Having Bo visit him in the hospital lifted his spirits so much! I can’t believe our stubborn, sweet dog is so well behaved and minds me! Bo gets so excited when I work with him and I enjoy taking him for walks, no pulling!!!!! It is obvious that Kristi and Jeremy love what they do! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Becky Fisher
    Sep. 17, 2024
    Rock-it is our 5 month Golden Retriever. He was very impulsive and difficult to manage. I thought I had made a huge mistake in bringing home this dog. ONE DAY WITH KRISTI and I have the manageable
  • Jerrica Brown
    Sep. 6, 2024
    I am speechless how amazing this Company has been for my family and my service dog. There has been many challenges that have approached since we started and no matter what the challenges are they have helped and figure out what was best for the dog and our family. We found out that our dog was deaf and I am crippled until I have Surgery plus I have ptsd towards other dogs since my attack. The whole staff has been so patient with me and my dog and understanding they have showed my kids my husband and I so many different ways to communicate with our dog now and I'm just so thankful for this opportunity. I am so glad that I found elite! 100% recommend!
  • Tina Sullivan
    Aug. 16, 2024
    If I could beam and flash spotlights on Dog Training Elite Springfield, I would! I once hated our little dog, Patsy, because of her terrible, obnoxious, and infuriating behavior. I was amazed that after the first session with Dog Training Elite, the monster became somewhat tame. I was not sold even yet. It was too good to be true for long! After a few more sessions, our Tasmanian Devil became a complete sweetheart. Our Patsy has now learned many commands which makes our lives so much easier. And I can now say, we love Patsy dearly; she is the dog we have always hoped to have.
  • Megan Snow
    Aug. 16, 2024
    I knew that my experience at Dog Training Elite of Springfield would be amazing just based on the passion that Kristi and Jeremy have for what they do, but seeing Lucy in action at a busy Kindergarten open house with a hundred excited kids (Lucy's kryptonite) and just being totally focused on me and the task at hand.. it's indescribable. I get chills just thinking about it. Lucy is kind of a celebrity around our school district because she has always come with me to drop off and pick up kids. I had several parents come up to me at open house and tell me that they couldn't even believe she was the same dog! I am forever grateful for the peace that having Lucy as my service animal has given me and for the sense of purpose it has given her. Thank you so much for helping me get my life and sense of freedom back! ❤️
  • Valerie Bradham
    Aug. 2, 2024
    Absolutely thrilled with Dog Training Elite! Their expertise and personalized approach have made a world of difference for our furry friend. The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable and patient, working diligently to address our dog's specific needs. The positive reinforcement techniques have not only improved our dog's behavior but also strengthened our bond. The transformation has been remarkable, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite for anyone looking to enhance their dog's obedience and overall well-being. Five stars without a doubt!
  • Maureen Wilson
    Jul. 28, 2024
    We can’t even begin to explain how much of a blessing Kristi and her team have been. Our sweet puppy has mastered some awesome skills and as she has grown so have we. Having gone through the service dog training with Kristi, I couldn’t imagine how we would have made it here if we didn’t have her, her team, the community to go through it with. If you’re on the fence about investing and making the commitment… just do it!
  • Ashlie
    Jul. 28, 2024
    I can’t say enough about how much Kristi and Jeremy have done for my family. They helped a shy 12 year old take her over exuberant miniature schnauzer puppy and meet her goals of an outstanding service dog. Denali shows calm demeanor and dedication to his best friend - be it at small basketball tournaments or one of the largest girls basketball tournaments in the country. Denali has become the best companion for my daughter who has big dreams and aspirations. He is going to help her meet those by keeping her calm and present when she needs to be.
  • Ruth Sonnenberg
    Jul. 27, 2024
    We had Kristi come & train our girl Bella& she did an amazing job! By the time Kristi left on training day our girl had her new command down pat. Kristi was kind but had high expectations & we have not been disappointed. We now have a well behaved, obedient dog we can take anywhere with us!! We Thank Dog Training Elite & Kristi for all of their hard work!
  • Jamie Perkins
    Jul. 25, 2024
    Kristi and Jeremy are amazing trainers! I love that they have put my dog to the test and he is now able to do things other trainers have told us he would not be able to do! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for everyone and I will definitely be sending every other dog I get to Kristi for training.
  • Elizabeth
    Jul. 24, 2024
    If you are looking for a great dog training experience, look no further!!! I enrolled my two-year-old Golden Retriever and saw results on the first day. I cannot say enough positive things about the Dog Training Elite team!!! Kristi, Jeremy, and Erin are all amazing professionals who are extremely knowledgable and also give encouragement and support (both to you and your dog) throughout the whole training process. 100000/10 recommend!!!!!!!
  • Riley Woodward
    Jul. 8, 2024
    Truly grateful for Kristi and her team for helping us with our German Shepherd (Angus). He is the best big boy ever but after training he's even more amazing. I can finally take him for a walk instead of him taking me for a walk! Kristi came to our house once a week and did an hour training with Angus and made sure we knew exactly what was going on and helped guide us through the whole training. We're so thankful for all they have done and continue to do to help us have a well-behaved dog!
  • Heather Bicknell
    Jul. 2, 2024
    Amazing company, Kristi and her daughter are wonderful to work with. They accommodated our busy schedules, and broke down the training process making it easy to learn and implement. Their training was a big positive in my, and my pets lives. Would certainly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone interested in training their pups!
  • Tessa Irvine
    Jun. 28, 2024
    We have taken our German shepherd to just 2 sessions and she has improved SO much already. We have been trying to work on her leash reactivity (barking & lunging around dogs) for awhile now, and within these two sessions she hardly makes any noise when passing a dog now. Her recall has also gotten a lot better. I can’t wait to see what else she learns and improves on as we continue through these sessions!
  • Penny Jackson
    Jun. 26, 2024
    Been working with Kristi for the last couple of months with my two standard poodles. One is 3 years old and one was 8 months when starting. I learned so much and my dogs are so much better behaved. I wanted more training with my dogs because my elderly parents come to visit and I was afraid they would take them out running around because the puppy has almost taken me out several times. Now when my parents come I can tell the doggie’s to go place and get my mother settled before releasing them for pets. I highly recommend if you are having issues with your dog or dogs Kristi can help you out.