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Certified dog trainer
Jennifer M. Michaelis
Jennifer M. Michaelis

Corvallis, OR

Jenn has been training professionally since 2003 and is committed to force-free positive reinforcement training techniques that are fun, effective, and easy to learn. She enjoys empowering and educating dog guardians to create a well-behaved and cherished family member.

Jenn's engaging teaching style specializes in raising puppies, teaching humans to help their reactive dogs, building rapport through cooperative care, and the amazing sport of canine musical freestyle. Her training partners include two dogs, Terra and Ringo, a paint horse, Roger, and a kitty, Mr. Big.

Owner of SassyT Canine Academy LLC, and co-owner of Camp Unleashed, Jenn previously served as the Family Manners Training Director for 7 years at Port Chester Obedience Training Club, one of the oldest AKC obedience clubs in the country. After moving to Oregon in August 2018, she bought Wonder Dogs in late 2019 and has been growing the business while pursuing her CCBC credentials through IAABC. Her current dogs compete in Rally-FrEe, Musical Freestyle, and Canine Nosework.

Her Cane Corso, Terra, is the first dog to earn the Musical Dog Sport Association's highest title, a Premier title, and the first dog to earn Rally Freestyle Element's two highest freestyle titles, Musical Freestyle Grand Champion and Musical Freestyle Elite Grand Champion. Her Chinese Crested, Ringo, recently earned his RFE Musical Freestyle Elite Advanced Title, loves demoing in class and has been enjoying going to Camp Unleashed for six years!

She also enjoys clicker training other species, including her cats, Mr. Leo and Mr. Big, and her horse, Roger. Jenn and Roger have even been training in canine nosework for 10 years, proving that all species enjoy the enrichment and interaction of positive reinforcement!

Accreditations & Associations:

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge-Assessed - www.ccpdt.org
  • AKC Canine Good Citizen & STAR Puppy Evaluator
  • Co-Owner, Director of Activities and Marketing at Camp Unleashed
  • Certified Instructor of Rally Freestyle Elements
  • Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
  • Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers
  • Executive Board Member of the Musical Dog Sport Association
  • Member of the National Association of Canine Scent Work
  • Previous Training Director for Family Manners Program at Port Chester Obedience Training Club in White Plains, NY

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

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