Seattle, WA
Michelle Reindal
Michelle Reindal's journey into dog training began with her own dog, Banjo, a Terrier/Chihuahua mix who came to her as a foster dog in 2011. Banjo had a history of fear and reactivity due to his time on the streets of LA and in the shelter system. Michelle discovered the power of positive reinforcement training and helped Banjo transform from a fearful dog to a confident and happy companion. This experience inspired her to pursue dog training full-time, and she has since worked with dogs at the Seattle Animal Shelter, Dog's Day Out, and in private settings. She is now a full-time dog trainer, specializing in working with shy, reactive, and nervous dogs.
Training Philosophy
Michelle Reindal's training philosophy is based on force-free, fear-free methods informed by science, kindness, and freedom of choice. She believes in using positive reinforcement techniques and avoiding any form of punishment or coercion. Her approach emphasizes building trust, understanding the dog's perspective, and creating a positive and enriching learning environment.
Services
- Private Training: Virtual and in-person lessons for dogs of all ages and breeds.
- Behavioral Health Visits: Home visits tailored to the dog's individual needs, focusing on foundational skills, behavior therapy, decompression walks, and enrichment activities.
- Initial Virtual Consultation: A 60-90 minute consultation to discuss the dog's background, goals, and create a training plan.
- 60 Minute Private Lesson: In-person or virtual lessons to work on specific skills and address behavioral challenges.
- 30 Minute Follow-Up Virtual Appointment: For ongoing support and guidance.
Certifications
Michelle Reindal is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and a Certified Family Dog Mediator (CFDM).
Specializations
Michelle Reindal specializes in working with shy, reactive, and nervous dogs. She is also experienced in training dogs with a variety of behavioral challenges, including fear, anxiety, aggression, and leash reactivity.
Training Methods
Michelle Reindal uses a multidisciplinary approach to dog training, incorporating principles from canine ethology, neuroscience, cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, Leslie McDevitt's Pattern Games, Amy Cook's The Play Way, and empathy. She emphasizes positive reinforcement, building trust, and understanding the dog's perspective.
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.
