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Certified dog trainer
Michael Cantu
Michael Cantu

Pittsford, NY

Michael Cantu

Michael Cantu has been training dogs since 2009 and has rescued countless dogs from being euthanized. He loves dogs and helping families become closer with their pets.

Training Philosophy

Michael Cantu believes that all dogs can be good dogs and that all owners can be great owners. He uses various positive methods and caters the training and methods used to the situation needed.

Services

Rochester NY Dogs offers a wide range of dog training services, including:

  • Private In-Home Dog Training: One-on-one training sessions in the client's home or at a location determined by the trainer. This service covers a variety of issues, including puppy basics, biting, jumping, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, behavioral correction, leash training, excessive barking, aggression, and more. The cost is $250 per hour, with package rates available for those paying in advance.
  • Private Online Dog Training: One-on-one training sessions conducted via live streaming services such as Skype or Facebook. This service is ideal for clients who are out of state or unable to meet in person. The cost is $165 per hour or $500 for 5 sessions.
  • Board and Train Program: A three-week or five-week program where the dog stays with the trainer and receives intensive training 24 hours a day. This program is recommended for dogs with behavioral issues or for owners who need a strong foundation established for their dog. The cost is $3000 for three weeks or $4500 for five weeks.
  • Puppy Training Classes: Group classes designed for puppies 8 weeks to 6 months of age. The classes cover puppy basics, socialization, obedience, and more. The cost is $250 per session or $1350 for 6 sessions.
  • AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certification: A ten-skill training program that focuses on teaching basic obedience and good manners. The cost is $150 for a 6-week group class, which includes the CGC test. The CGC test can also be taken separately for $110.
  • Service Dog Training: An extensive training program that prepares dogs to meet state and federal requirements for service dog certification. The cost can range from $25,000 to $85,000, depending on the specific tasks the dog needs to learn.
  • Therapy Dog Training: A training program that prepares dogs to provide comfort and affection to people in hospitals, schools, elderly homes, and other locations. The cost can range from $10,000 to $25,000.
  • Emotional Support Dog Training: A training program that prepares dogs to provide emotional support to their owners. The cost can range from $7,500 to $25,000.
  • Pet Sitting: Dog boarding and pet sitting services offered in the trainer's home. The cost is $65 per dog per day.

Certifications

AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certification

Specializations

Obedience training, puppy training, behavioral correction, service dog training, therapy dog training, emotional support dog training

Training Methods

Positive reinforcement methods

Customer Reviews

Marisa Feeley: "Professionalism, Reliability, Value! Mike was so good with our little Westie. She was treated like a family member and that certainly was a comfort to us. Thank you for the excellent service!"
Zoe Mahlum: "We adopted a dog recently and found out she had some separation anxiety, and since we live in an apartment we couldn't have constant barking while we were gone. I found this out the second day we had her, and Mike got us in 2 days later! Due to the pandemic, we were not eager to meet in person, so he was able to coach us via Skype. We have had a couple sessions so far and she now only barks for a couple minutes and settles herself in. His help was greatly appreciated!!! Highly recommend Mike!"

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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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