The Best Dog Trainers in Flint, MI of 2023

Welcome to the Flint, MI Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Flint based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public. Over 55,000 votes were used in compiling this list. We have only included the top trainers with sufficient votes and the trainers are ordered in terms of the number of votes received. Trainers that tied are ranked in reverse alphabetical order based on first name. All dog trainers on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This list is a subset of the broader Top Trainers in Michigan list. To learn more about our dog trainer contest, feel free to view the dog trainer contest post.

Dog training is one of the most important activities someone can do with their dog. Many come to dog training through a specific issue they want addressed, anything from barking to separation anxiety. Some have adopted dogs from animal shelters with an abusive experience and some just have happy puppies looking for everyday life skills. Trainers can help with all kinds of specific skills and issues, from leash manners to territorial aggression to anxiety around skateboards to common puppy challenges. However, what many discover is that working with a trainer is actually a way for a pet owner to deepen their relationship with their dog. The enhanced communication skills that result can increase quality of life, be a rewarding experience, be a social experience and lead to more harmonious relationships. Knowing that one’s dog is having a happier life can dramatically improve peace of mind. As the saying goes: happy dog, happy life. And it extends further than just the dog, to the pet owners. Owner empowerment can actually improve the relationship between owners. And finding the right trainer can make all the difference in the experience.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, which is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world. Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with all private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches and more. Sniffspot has worked closely with dog trainers to create safe spaces for dogs and our top trainer lists are a natural extension of that relationship. You can browse Sniffspot's local dog parks here.

The Best Flint, MI Dog Trainers in 2023

Becky Kamp

Since becoming a certified dog trainer in 2012, I have worked with many types of dogs, different breeds, temperaments and lifestyles.

I can relate to dog owners who have behavioral issues in their home. I have a Beagle/Spaniel mix that loves to challenge me every day. I believe that all dogs and their owners are individual, and your training should be tailored to fit you and your dog.

Certifications: ABCDT

Services include:

• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Obedience training, group classes (puppy & adult), trick class, loose leash class, day training, potty training, distraction training, reactive training, crate training, confidence boosting training, and in home behavior training

Behavioral issue focus: Dogs that are fear, resource guarding, pulling on the leash, door dashing and reactivity.

Training methods: Positive Reinforcement, force free, science based trainer. Private or studio consultations, homework sheets and handouts.

Why I became a dog trainer: I had a jack Russell growing up and I always wanted to understand his behaviors and see what I could of done to improve him. I want to teach people about dogs needs and behaviors so they can understand what is not being meant with their dog. I aim to keep each dog I work with out of the shelter

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I enjoying meeting new people and of course meeting all the dogs the world has.

My #1 dog training tip: Meet your dogs needs. Practice and have patience

Service areas: Sterling Heights, Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Shelby Twp, Macomb, St. Clair Shores, Chesterfield, New Balitmore, Warren, Roseville, Madison Heights, Clawson, Maybee, Cadillac, Grosse Pointe Woods, Detroit, West Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, Farmington, Berkley, etc...

Website: https://www.wolfpackdt.com

Sarah Fox

Sarah Fox M.A. SHRM-CP is a dog trainer, retired dog sledder, and business professional with over two decades of experience and knowledge working with dogs and people.

At Adventures With My Dogs, we use scientifically proven and modern positive reinforcement dog training methods for behavior change that creates a higher quality of life for you and your dog.

Sarah specializes in outdoor adventures with dogs including hiking, backpacking, camping, and dog sledding.

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Herding training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided:

I create tailored training packages to best meet your dog’s needs. Some of my areas of focus include:

Reactivity and fear
Leash behaviors
Outdoor basics and advanced
Puppy training and socializing
Recall and focus
Outdoor sports: bikejoring, skijoring, camping, hiking
High energy dogs
General Enrichment
Crate Training

Behavioral issue focus: Sarah commonly works with reactive and fearful dogs. She also specializes in leash behavior and outdoor dog sports.

Training methods: Sarah provides behavioral consultations and individual training plans to best meet the dog guardian and dog’s needs.

During a 2 hour VIP Session, we will identify the foundational reasons behind your dog's behavior, and establish a plan that will eliminate this behavior as quickly and permanently as possible so that you can regain control and tranquility in your life. This session eliminates the need for ongoing lessons that can be time-consuming and difficult to fit into your life. This VIP Session is great for clients that are extremely busy and have a dog training need that can be addressed quickly with the help of expert guidance and strategies. After your VIP session, I am available for virtual consultation follow-ups and questions as needed.

Why I became a dog trainer: I've worked with dogs my whole life, starting at just 5 years old and raising a team of dogs for competitive dog sledding. As dog ownership continued to grow in popularity I saw a need to teach dog guardians tools to build their relationship so both dog and human can have a meaningful connection and life together. I specifically work with people who have an interest in outdoor dog sports so their dogs can come with them on their many adventures.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love helping people grow their relationship with their dog and create environments where their dog is not just a pet, but a family member and strong companion.

My #1 dog training tip: You can never over-reward good behaviors. Don't be stingy with the treats!

Service areas: Metro Detroit

Website: https://www.adventureswithmydogs.com

Nancy vonKoehnen

I've been training dogs for over 50 years always learning about the sports I train and compete in. I've been training people to train their dogs for over 40 years. I've been competing in dog sports for over 40 years. I've been learning from the world's top trainers for most all of those years using the most current, up to date training methods.

More info about service provided: Freestyle (tricks and obedience choreographed to music), Rally, Rally Free (Rally with trick signs), Nosework

Training methods: All training is fun with lots of rewards helping dog know when they are right whether nosework or rally or other - I have learned from top trainers around the world and share my knowledge in classes I continue my education continually to keep up to date on the best practices. I compete so know personally about the sports I teach

Why I became a dog trainer: I love having fun with my dogs. I love sharing the information I've learned with students

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part with my own dogs is learning about what motivates my dogs as well as the actual training and competition. Why I train others: Sharing the success of my students whether at home or in competition.

My #1 dog training tip: 2 tips: look for the good and catch your dog doing something right! ALSO little bits of training thru a day provides big rewards toward your goal

Service areas: Oakland and surrounding counties

Website: vonknancy@gmail.com

Dianna Heverly

I am a licensed veterinary technician with a passion for dog training. I have been training dogs in some form for over 20 years. I compete in IGP/schutzhund, agility, and rally. I love incorporating enrichment into the daily lives of dogs I am working with. I believe it is important to address the overall well-being of the dog when addressing problem behaviors.

Certifications: Licensed Veterinary Technician, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner, Certified Fear Free-Veterinary, Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed.

Services include:

• Board and train
• In home training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided:

Puppy foundations including socialization, crate training, housebreaking, leash manners, and recalls.
Board and train geared towards basic obedience, confidence building, and enrichment.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is enriching the live of the dog and providing owners with the skills and knowledge to do the same.

Service areas: Oakland County, West Bloomfield, Commerce Twp, White Lake

Website: https://www.k9-fundamentals.com/

Sniffspot Flint Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Flint dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Flint as selected by broad voting from the Sniffspot community and the general public. These trainers are expert dog trainers, who received votes from their delighted customers, due to their excellent dedication to customer service, excellent results and general care they exhibit for their clients. Many have worked with thousands of dogs and are highly experienced trainers.

How can I get in touch with dog trainers?

Each of the trainer profiles contains a link to their website. You can click through to their website where you can find more contact information.

Are these Flint dog trainers certified professionals?

Dog training is not regulated at the federal or state level, so there is no standard dog training certification and professional trainers are not required to be certified. However, certifications are important to show that a professional dog trainer has a standard of expertise to help train your dog. Each trainer’s certifications are listed on their profile.

What are the top certifications for Dog Trainers in Flint?

Some of the top certifications in the dog training industry are CPDT- KA, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy - KPA certification, Jean Donaldson's Academy - CTC certification and Fear Free Certification. You can review the dog trainer certifications for each specific dog trainer on their profile on this page.

What methods are used in the dog training sessions?

There are many methods for teaching dogs and a lot of disagreement about the correct training approach. All of the Flint trainers included on this list use positive reinforcement training only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This includes not using any specifically aversive approach to training or training aid, such as a prong or electronic dog training collar (also called remote dog training collar or shock collars). As for specific training programs and specialties, such as day training / doggie daycare or obedience training, you can see more information in each trainer’s profile.

Are dog training lessons in a training facility or are virtual options available?

Some dog trainers operate exclusively from a training facility, some do house calls and some offer video calls or other virtual options. There are pros and cons to each option and the most efficient behavioral training option depends on specific circumstances, for instance, what hours work best for you. A training center or training ranch can be a good option if your training plan requires facilities, training equipment or dedicated space. We recommend reaching out to the specific trainer you are interested in or browsing their website for more information.

Are dog training lessons private or in a group setting?

Every different circumstance of dog and owners may require a different setting, whether it’s housebreaking issues, anxiety issues, lack of proper socialization, food aggression or just bad habits. Each trainer has different offerings as far as whether they can offer clients a private training session or a group class. Trainers provide information about their private class and group class offerings in their profiles and you can browse their website for more information as well. It may make sense for your specific circumstance to reach out to the trainer to ask if they recommend group or private dog training classes. Some trainers also have a team of specialists that can provide even higher levels of service, or provide specialized sessions, such as pack walks.

How much does dog training in Flint cost?

Flint dog trainers have a wide range of costs for different services and phases of training. For instance behavioral modification that involves boarding is often more expensive than day training, and private lessons are generally more expensive than group lessons. Prices can also vary depending on specific behavioral issues. Lastly, some trainers have more overhead than others, We recommend first picking a trainer that provides the services that you are looking for, then reaching out to them to get up to date pricing.

Is training a dog good for the dog?

Yes! Training has many benefits for dogs. Whether with basic training skills or complex training techniques, going through behavior training with your dog can improve the bond that you share with them. Also, training can do a lot to improve the level of confidence enabling of a dog (and it can also help with building customer confidence!). Rather than being about exerting maximum control over them, it gives them more certainty that they understand how the world around them works. For instance, crate training can help a dog feel safe and at home in a crate vs fearful and uncertain. Dog training can teach important skills, such as leash control, potty training or a general level of obedience skills. And lastly, it’s just fun for the dog to learn life skills and for their family. Training can be very stimulating and enriching for a dog and serve them throughout their entire healthy life!

Can an aggressive dog be trained?

Yes! Any dog behavior can be worked on through training and coaching. Aggression in dogs is a serious issue, but it is also a term that is used very broadly. Many dogs that are thought to be aggressive are actually reactive, which is a different behavior altogether. A trainer can help you interpret signs of aggression, such as excessive barking, fear aggression and leash aggression, and type of aggression. If you believe you have a dog with aggressive behaviors, we recommend reaching out to one of your local top trainers to get their diagnosis and advice.

I am a Flint dog trainer. How can I get listed here?

As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Flint you can be considered for this list. We update this list once per year, normally starting in January. Make sure to keep an eye on our social media and sign up for email updates with Sniffspot in order to be in the loop on the next round of nominations.

How much do dog trainers make in Flint?

Dog trainer earnings vary widely depending on many factors, such as whether a dog trainer is an employee or owns their own full-service professional dog training business. According to ZipRecruiter, the average dog trainer salary in Michigan was $32,963 per year and $15.85 per hour. It is impossible to say how much a dog trainer can earn with a full-service professional dog training company, because the size and profitability of companies can vary widely.

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See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Michigan Cities

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

Ann Arbor, MI
Detroit, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Lansing, MI
Traverse City, MI

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near Michigan

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

Indiana
Ohio
Wisconsin

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