From an early age, Michael’s life has been deeply intertwined with dogs.

What began as a childhood passion has evolved into a lifelong vocation, marked by hands-on experience, formal education, and a deep commitment to canine welfare and behavior.

Michael’s foundation in animal care began early—working in veterinary clinics during elementary school, volunteering with rescue and therapy programs in middle school, and competing with Great Danes in AKC dog show events by the end of high school. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with honors from George Mason University, combining scientific knowledge with practical experience to inform his training approach.

Michael has personally worked with over 1,000 dogs across the United States and internationally, including in Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Denmark, Mexico, Costa Rica, India, and Malaysia. His clientele ranges from entertainment industry leaders and political figures to ambassadors, business executives, veterinarians, psychologists, and devoted dog lovers from all walks of life.

Michael’s method is grounded in evidence-based practices and a deep respect for the individual needs of dogs and their families. His goal is to make life with dogs not just manageable, but joyful—for both ends of the leash.

In The Media

Michael’s work in the dog world has included a variety of media including print, production staff positions and live TV segments. He’s appeared regularly on Good Day DC (Fox 5 DC), ABC World News Now, Good Morning America, KTLA, Facebook Live Audio Rooms, NBC California Live, and NBC 4 DC. He worked on staff with the dog cast for ABC’s Pooch Perfect series and has appeared in FORBES, LA Times, Robb Report, NY Post, NewsBreak and Beverly Hills Lifestyle. Find links to Michael's appearances here.

Background

Michael actively competes with both his own dogs and client dogs in AKC dog shows and contributed over 100 video interviews for the publication, The Canine Chronicle. Michael is a Canine Good Citizen evaluator for the American Kennel Club and has conducted educational staff seminars for dog walking companies, boarding kennels and veterinary hospitals throughout the United States. Additionally, Michael is a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and has completed both the Darkness 2 Light and Safe Sport certification courses for child safety.
‍
He was a founding board member of the dog show non-profit Show-Safe and maintains supporting membership of Take the Lead. He is also a member of the Long Island Doberman Pinscher Club and represents the west coast portion of the famed Alisaton Dobermans breeding program.

Michael's dog training business is fully bonded and insured by Business Insurers of the Carolinas.

Client Review

I can't say enough positive things about Michael! He has turned little Harper into a rockstar. Michael started training Harper when she was just 4 months old. Honestly the training started with me first! As a first time per owner he really calmed my fears and walked me through the ideology that Harper needed to adjust to my life not the other way around. We worked through so many common behavioral problems that puppies go through and after her week of board and train she literally learned all the fundamentals. We recently moved to Florida and Michael has popped down in person and on FaceTime to keep our progress going. Harper is now 10 months and loves her sessions with Michael this will be a life long relationship!

~Marti H.

Client Review

Michael is a wonderful dog trainer. Our dogs have learned so much from Michael, and he has also done a great job of training us how to teach our dogs effectively. He's especially kind and gentle with our dogs, while simultaneously giving us concrete and definitive instructions on how to work out whatever problematic behaviors our dogs have. He breaks the training down into manageable parts that build into the result we are seeking. We love that he is focused on positive reinforcement and we still use what we learned and continue to learn from him every day. We would highly recommend Michael to anyone!

~Yao M.

Client Review

We had the absolute pleasure of having Michael train and board our 7 month puppy this past week. She used to be extremely hyper, ADD and always on "squirrel mode". Michael is hands down the best. His philosophy and approach to training is deeply rooted in behavioral psychology and promotes long term, lasting outcomes. He is an expert in his field, extremely professional, responsive and helpful. Forever grateful to have met Michael and will always have him around for our puppy Butter.

~Vanessa L.

Client Review

I can't start to thank Michael enough!!! I had just got a 3 month year old puppy and was complete lost and overwhelmed. He help put me at ease and guide me through tools and tips to train my puppy. He was so fast and efficient with all his knowledge on training.She was potty trained in a week! He's beyond educated in all areas and has your pets best interest at heart. I only trust his advice! He really cares about your pup and you. Thank you Michael so much. Luca and I love you!!!

~Tina C.

Client Review

Michael is a phenomenal dog trainer! He is truly in tuned with a dog and their needs. I've learn more about dog anxiety and mental health. My dog is happier and better behaved because of Michael's help! Now, she is a service dog ready to Jet set! Thank you again Michael!

~Sireh B.

From an early age, Michael’s life has been deeply intertwined with dogs.

In The Media

Background

Let's Get in Touch