Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Dog Training Elite Oklahoma

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Positive Dog Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Tulsa, OK

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 Tulsa, OK 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 Oklahoma 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 Tulsa positive reinforcement dog trainers.

Tulsa Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainers

Dog Training Elite Oklahoma

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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 Tulsa.
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 Oklahoma Difference


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

Dog Training Elite Oklahoma 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 Tulsa, OK 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 Tulsa, OK 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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  • sharon ward
    Nov. 6, 2024
    Before beginning training my German Shepherd, Trixie, was out of control. Not aggressive, but misbehaving and not minding me at all. She was jumping on guests and I couldn't walk her down the street. I was amazed how much progress was made in just the first visit. After the second visit I was walking her around the block and by the 4th we could start having company again. We're looking forward to our first group class and meeting other dogs as well as going shopping together. Best decision I ever made and I highly recommend. A well behaved dog is the best kind of friend. Hope to see you and your best friend in a group class soon.
  • Kim Walker
    Oct. 21, 2024
    My year and a half-old goldendoodle, Sophie, loved her training sessions and trainers, Kristin and David. I hold Dog Training Elite of Tulsa in high regard. Their training method is very positive and easy to learn. Everyone concerned (dog, owner, and trainer) is actively involved in the training process. The trainers make it a fun and insightful experience, even offering building block tips for what the dog is learning. They are very approachable, attentive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. As a result of their training, the dogs they train are confident, happy dogs that stand out in a crowd!
  • Heather Pfeifer
    Sep. 11, 2024
    Fantastic experience training our service dog! He is learning so quickly and we love their gentle methods of teaching!!
  • Cheryl Rettig
    Aug. 22, 2024
    This is a such a wonderful company!!! My 5.5 month old cane corso mix is training to be my service dog and because they are so skilled she will well on her way to being certified. The trainers are super caring and knowledgeable. Tootsie is even happy to see them every time! Highly recommend!
  • Hannah Bunn
    Aug. 19, 2024
    We love all the trainers at Dog Training Elite! They are patient, kind and explain everything thoroughly. We have felt very supported on our journey to getting our Luna girl ready for her important job as a school therapy dog.
  • Lindsey Simmons
    Aug. 18, 2024
    We are currently doing service dog training and the growth I have seen in 6 -7 weeks has been unreal. I feel confident that my dog will be passing the public access test and confident in my ability as a handler. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
  • megan salyer
    Jul. 24, 2024
    Amazing training facility! They know what they are doing!
  • Ashley Kirven
    May. 16, 2024
    Excellent experience training our autism service dog! Very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
  • Michele Watson
    May. 16, 2024
    My puppy is a rescue. She had been through another company's training and came back after 10 days and learned only how to sit, which I'd already taught her. I called Elite. They are the best ever! They came to my house for 5 sessions and trained me how to train my puppy. What a difference it is when the dog mom/ dad is involved! I can't say enough wonderful things about this place. Any questions I ever had, I was able to text them and get my answers promptly. My dog is almost perfect at this point. Thank you Elite. We will next be doing service dog training to make my Anna more perfect. The first photo is her cap and gown graduation photo.
  • Jennifer Champlain
    May. 15, 2024
    We have done puppy, obedience and service with this company and I would highly recommend them they are very knowledgeable, engaging and make you feel like family!!
  • Jane Van Pelt
    May. 7, 2024
    Dog Training Elite Ok has been a treat to work with. Our Hazel has become the most obedient and happy girl. We are thrilled with her training program and will now attend Group! This training has totally changed her and she's not the wild animal she was in the beginning. Thanks!
  • Susan Cochrane
    May. 1, 2024
    I was needing help in training my Great Pyrenees puppy and a friend referred me to DTE. Jamie, Kristen, and Paul were a fantastic team. They would always explain in great detail why you should, or not, do certain things. Their love for dogs was evident in their training. Their training was easy commands and have been very beneficial. Instead of having a large dog who’s out of control, I now have a large dog who minds and is a joy to have around. Thank you guy’s for all the time you took to train “me” so I could train, Minnie.
  • Alyse Grzymala
    Apr. 17, 2024
    They were honestly the best in helping me train my service dog. Along side that because you are involved in the training I got to learn how to train my other dogs as well. They are patient and kind and truly love dogs. You can tell that they truly have a passion for dogs and helping them and the owners succeed. The group classes are fun and great practice as well. 10/10 recommend.
  • Jennifer Marie
    Mar. 27, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is amazing! My one yr old male labradoodle is 95 lbs of non-stop energy. He loves his training sessions and comes away from every session better behaved than the last time. DTE really takes the time to not only train the dog, but the owner as well which has made all the difference. Beyond their obedience training package, I use their day-long training sessions at their new facility when I have to be at a job site all day. It’s been great! My dog gets in a day of work on training and I don’t have to worry about trying to exercise him enough or work on his training after a long day. I can’t recommend the DTE team enough - they are awesome!
  • Marilyn Fooshee
    Aug. 3, 2023
    David, Kristin, Paul & Jamie are exceptional trainers. Ginger and I went to a group class for some refresher training and it was like spending time with family. The approach to dog training is consistent, well managed, and easy to follow. I am forever grateful for the obedience and service dog training Ginger received. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite!
  • Kitzie
    Feb. 22, 2024
    💙 Blue and I have loved working with Dog Training Elite Oklahoma. Blue is becoming a Therapy and Service dog so he can help on multiple platforms. You can really see the passion D.T.E.Ok has for what they do, and the dogs feel it too! They do an excellent job of training us so we know how to speak K-9 🐶 What I love the most is how well behaved my boy Blue is 🥰 I take him everywhere with me and people are always incredibly impressed. Then they want to love on him, and because he's a therapy dog as well, he adores allowing them to do so 💙 It's been a true blessing to both 💙 Blue and myself to work with Dog Training Elite Oklahoma!
  • Megan Parris
    Feb. 19, 2024
    They did amazing at helping me train my 10 month old GSP puppy! He is a different dog now. 10/10 would recommend!
  • Sarah Hintz
    Feb. 9, 2024
    We've had a great experience with Dog Training Elite. Jamie has been wonderful with obedience training our Great Dane/Great Pyrenees, Chance. He was a very nervous and reactive dog that made walking and being around strangers a struggle. Over the past few weeks we've seen noticeable changes and can see his confidence growing. We're able to walk comfortably now and the trust between us and Chance is getting better everyday.
  • Matthew Parker
    Feb. 6, 2024
    Grateful to DTE for truly taking the time and caring about our dog’s success. It is helpful to not have a one size fits all approach….they have taken the time to get to know us, our dog, and have helped all of us make progress. They have listened and been patient as we learn we are seeing improvements with each session. Thank you!!!!! Would highly recommend to any family who wants a happy, thriving dog.
  • Michelle Talbot
    Jan. 23, 2024
    My dog and I have had the best experience with Dog Training Elite. They have shown me how to building a trusting relationship with my dog that has in turn allowed him to trust me and it took our training to a whole new level. I am so excited to be working on a Therapy certification with my petite Golden Doodle and they have made it possible. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite for all of your training needs.