Pittsburgh, PA
Two Dads and a Dog LLC
Michael Cunningham and Luis Rosa founded Two Dads and a Dog in 2016. They spent years working with their own dogs, observing their behavior, responses, and personalities. They attended dog training schools with world-renowned dog trainers like Pat Miller and Victoria Stilwell.
Training Philosophy
Two Dads and a Dog believes in creating a fun and positive training experience for dogs and their owners alike. Their methods are truly positive, force-free, and science-based that result in a solid human-dog bond. They emphasize the use of reward-based techniques that can easily be replicated by owners themselves anywhere.
Services
- Essential Plan: A 90-minute core session focusing on communication between owner and dog, identifying new behaviors to reinforce, and optimizing learning. Includes in-home training, virtual session at a discounted fee, and the "Less-than-5-minute" approach. Price: $240
- Advanced Plan: Optional additional training that follows the Essential plan, focusing on building confidence and preparing the dog for challenging scenarios. Includes virtual or in-person follow-up sessions. Price: Varies based on individual needs.
- Walk Training & Behavior: Training walks to teach essential leash skills. Includes a 30-minute assessment, progress reports, and an exit assessment. Packages available:
- Six sessions - $380
- Ten sessions - $610
- Separation Anxiety: Virtual training sessions tailored to meet the unique needs of clients. Includes a 90-minute baseline assessment, a personalized treatment plan, daily session creation and support, weekly live virtual assessments, and a 90-day follow-up. Price: $XXX (not specified)
- Reactive Fido Foundations: Group class designed to help owners understand reactivity, manage reactive dogs, and learn intervention fundamentals. Options:
- Virtual class - 3 weeks / 55 minute classes (Summer only)
- In-person class - 5 weeks / 55 minute classes (first session virtual)
- Reactive Fido Advanced: Group class for dogs who have completed Reactive Fido Foundations, focusing on practicing healthy behaviors while interacting with other dogs. Options:
- Indoors - 4 weeks / 55 minute sessions
- Outdoors - 4 weeks / 55 minute sessions
- 1-2-1 Reactivity Interventions: Consultation with a behavior consultant to discuss behavioral concerns, level of risk, prognosis, and pathway options. Price: Not specified.
- Group Classes: Held at The Rose Barn in North Park, covering various topics. Price: Not specified.
Certifications
- Michael Cunningham: Certified Dog Trainer
- Luis Rosa: Certified Behavior Consultant
Specializations
- Basic obedience training
- Puppy training
- Behavior modification
- Separation anxiety
- Leash reactivity
- Walk training
Training Methods
- Positive reinforcement
- Force-free
- Science-based
- Reward-based techniques
- "Less-than-5-minute" approach
Customer Reviews
- D Lutz: "We highly recommend anyone with a puppy to consider their course! Mike and Luis are excellent, so friendly and full of knowledge!"
- L Medarac: "I discovered Two Dads and a Dog by a chance internet search and boy, have we ever lucked out! Michael is a fantastic trainer! His training approach has helped me learn how to develop an even deeper bond with my dog."
- I Navrotskaya: "I had a private lesson with Luis for my reactive pitbull mix. Luis is very thoughtful and gentle. I feel more confident now with his advice."
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
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.
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.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
