Mike began working with dogs at age 10 as an apprentice to his grandfather Preston, a trainer who specialized in hunting and field trial dog training. In 2007 Mike began training professionally on a part-time basis, and in 2018 retired from his career in Information Technology to bring his dream of dog training as a second career to life.
Training Philosophy
Mike is passionate about helping dogs, from fostering rescue dogs to volunteering at shelters and rescues, and of course working with his clients. His approach to training is modern, reward-based and balanced. He rehabilitates and trains dogs by working not only with the dog, but most importantly with YOU, the owner.
Services
Woof Works Training offers a variety of services, including:
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1-on-1 Training:
Private instruction allows for a customized training plan to your dog’s unique challenges. This service is available for both on-site and off-site training, with travel time charged separately for off-site training.
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Stay & Train:
An immersive experience where your dog will stay with Woof Works for 2 to 6 weeks and receive customized, hands-on training. This program focuses on obedience training, behavior modification, and physical and mental enrichment. Requirements include crate training, current vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and providing bedding, toys, and food for the stay.
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Agility Training:
This service helps dogs sharpen their cognitive skills and feel motivated, while strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Minimum requirement is completion of basic obedience training with Woof Works.
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Training Walks:
For busy owners looking to maintain their dog’s leash skills, a trainer will pick up your dog and practice movement exercises, reinforce learned behaviors, and ensure proper manners when passing other dogs, people, and distractions.
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Gift Certificates:
Woof Works offers gift certificates for one, five, or ten 1-on-1 in-person training sessions, including a free phone consultation.
Certifications
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) (#1227946)
Principles of Dog Training Advanced – Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers
Principles of Dog Training – Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers
Leash Reactivity Certification – Tyler Muto/Leerburg
Leash Reactivity Certification – Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers
Michael Ellis 3 Day Workshop
Puppy Development Workshop – Leerburg
Specializations
Obedience training, behavior modification, agility training, leash reactivity
Training Methods
Modern, reward-based and balanced training methods
