Private Dog Training in Muskegon
Certified and Experienced: I’m a CPDT-KA certified trainer, Fear Free certified, and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, bringing professional expertise to every session. Positive Reinforcement Focus: I use reward-based training that builds trust, motivation, and lasting results—no fear or punishment. Tailored Training for Every Dog: Each dog is unique. I design custom training plans for puppies, reactive dogs, and adult dogs to meet your goals. Hands-On Shelter Experience: I work with the Humane Society, helping shelter dogs adjust to new homes, giving me insight into challenging behaviors.
Behavior experience
Training skill set
What to expect
Consultation
A typical consultation with me begins with a discussion about your dog’s history, behavior, and your training goals. I observe your dog in their home environment to identify strengths, challenges, and triggers. From there, I provide practical, positive reinforcement strategies tailored to your dog’s needs. At the end of the session, you’ll receive step-by-step guidance, training exercises, and tips for real-life situations, plus ongoing support via text or email to ensure your dog’s success.
Sessions
Each training session is hands-on, personalized, and focused on positive reinforcement. We start by reviewing your dog’s progress and any challenges since the last session. Then, we practice specific exercises tailored to your dog’s needs, such as obedience commands, leash manners, or behavior modification techniques. Sessions are designed to be practical and fun, ensuring that both you and your dog learn together. You’ll leave each session with actionable strategies, homework exercises, and guidance to continue reinforcing good behavior between sessions.
More info
I use positive reinforcement, a reward-based training method that encourages dogs to repeat good behaviors by offering treats, praise, or play. This approach focuses on building trust and motivation, rather than using fear, punishment, or intimidation. Positive reinforcement helps dogs learn more effectively because it makes training fun, engaging, and stress-free. It’s suitable for puppies, adult dogs, reactive dogs, and those preparing for the Canine Good Citizen test.
Services
Consultations
Sessions
Availability
Im currently working part time with the Humane Society of west Michigan Monday - Thursday afternoons. I am available for private training during the day during the week and all day and evenings during the weekend.
Days available to train
What to expect
Consultation
A typical consultation with me begins with a discussion about your dog’s history, behavior, and your training goals. I observe your dog in their home environment to identify strengths, challenges, and triggers. From there, I provide practical, positive reinforcement strategies tailored to your dog’s needs. At the end of the session, you’ll receive step-by-step guidance, training exercises, and tips for real-life situations, plus ongoing support via text or email to ensure your dog’s success.
Sessions
Each training session is hands-on, personalized, and focused on positive reinforcement. We start by reviewing your dog’s progress and any challenges since the last session. Then, we practice specific exercises tailored to your dog’s needs, such as obedience commands, leash manners, or behavior modification techniques. Sessions are designed to be practical and fun, ensuring that both you and your dog learn together. You’ll leave each session with actionable strategies, homework exercises, and guidance to continue reinforcing good behavior between sessions.
More info
I use positive reinforcement, a reward-based training method that encourages dogs to repeat good behaviors by offering treats, praise, or play. This approach focuses on building trust and motivation, rather than using fear, punishment, or intimidation. Positive reinforcement helps dogs learn more effectively because it makes training fun, engaging, and stress-free. It’s suitable for puppies, adult dogs, reactive dogs, and those preparing for the Canine Good Citizen test.
Stephen D.
Stephen D.
Muskegon, MI