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Certified dog trainer
Michael John Muscato
Michael John Muscato

Altamont, NY

Canine Coach Mike

Mike was introduced to horses and dogs at a young age and soon knew these animals would become a rewarding part of his life. He was inspired to train dogs by Sherwood, his first Golden Retriever in 1990. Mike is determined to make a lasting impact with every dog and their owner, using positive training methods.
For over 20 years Mike has been a player development director for athletes, and feels right at home sharing his knowledge to help dog owners become a better coach to their dog!

Training Philosophy

Mike is dedicated to educating people about their dog's behavior. He is determined to make a lasting impact with every dog and their owner, using positive training methods.

Services

  • Full Training List
  • Home Visits
  • Private Training
  • Basic Obedience
  • Rockstar House Manners
  • Leash Pulling
  • Puppy Basics
  • Crate Training
  • Behavior Evaluations
  • Recalls
  • Canine Good Citizen
  • Foundation Training:
    Introduction to essential behaviors for a well rounded companion; Sit, down, stay, come, leash walking, jumping and more!
    Exposure to learning with built in distractions
    Consistent practice that will transform your dog into a well mannered home companion
  • In-Home Training:
    Initial 15 minute phone consultation
    Custom training plan around your goals; includes easy to understand methods to incorporate into your daily routine.
    Dedicated text/email access for any concerns
    Schedule each session at your convenience and go at your own pace
  • Reactive Rover:
    Dogs that act negatively towards dogs and/or people
    Learn how to help your dog make better choices in stressful situations
    safer walks
    Improve behavior
    build your dog's confidence

Certifications

CPDT-KA

Specializations

Basic Obedience, Rockstar House Manners, Leash Pulling, Puppy Basics, Crate Training, Behavior Evaluations, Recalls, Canine Good Citizen, Foundation Training, In-Home Training, Reactive Rover

Training Methods

Positive Reinforcement

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.

Want to train your dog independently?

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