Everett, WA
Michelle Smith
Michelle Smith's journey to animal training began over 25 years ago as a Marine Mammal Trainer. She later specialized in human talent development and today combines both passions in her dog training business. She has a B.A. in Biology, an M.S. in Public Relations, and a Masters Certificate in Creativity and Change Leadership.
Training Philosophy
Michelle Smith is a certified professional dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement methods. She believes in humane training and does not use choke chains, pinch or shock collars. Her training is based on the Karen Pryor Academy methodology, which she also used in her work with marine mammals.
Services
- Puppy Training
- Basic Manners
- Fearfulness
- Day Training (available upon request)
Certifications
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT)
- Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP)
- Fear Free Certified
- AKC CGC Evaluator
Specializations
- Puppy Training
- Basic Manners
- Fearfulness
- Trick Training
Training Methods
- Positive Reinforcement
- Clicker Training
- Shaping
- Capturing
Customer Reviews
- Anita Kern: Michelle had a wonderful way with our puppy. Marty immediately responded to her. She is professional, flexible and responsive, willing to work with ours and Marty's needs. Clicks Dog Training is an effective positive reinforcement approach to changing your dog's behavior.
- Heather Smith: With contagious enthusiasm and a certainty of a successful outcome, Michelle cheerfully coaches you to train your dog or puppy. After each session, Michelle leaves me feeling like I am one amazing dog trainer who is doing a wonderful job. In the following few days I look forward to receiving a personalized, detailed report with, not only all the material from our training session, but scads more information, including links to articles of interest, available resources I can find to help with the specific challenges I am having with my puppy, as well as beneficial training videos. I can't recommend Michelle highly enough!
- Lucy Hodgson: I cannot thank you enough for connecting us to Michelle Smith. She has done such amazing work and on top of being an amazing trainer she also writes wonderful reports so you can track progress and learn. I would recommend her highly to anyone. Slowly, with Michelle's help, Bee is coming out of her shell and finding the confidence she needs.
- Jeanette Webster: I rescued a 7 year old dog that was afraid of people. I heard about Michelle through a friend and scheduled a training session. Michelle was amazing. She understands so much about my dog's issues. Maggie now walks around the condo units without barking and pulling on the leash. Maggie has come a long way. Michelle worked with us with a clicker. Maggie hears the click when she did good and turns around to get her treats. Very well satisfied with the method of training. Thank you, Michelle
- Barbara Stein: I contacted Michelle and Clicks Training for help with our new shelter dog, Penny. Penny was exhibiting anxiety and aggressive behavior toward our long-time pet sitter, a man Penny was afraid of as soon as she met him. With Michelle's first visit, Penny's demeanor with the pet sitter (who joined us for our first lesson) changed from suspicious and defensive to wary but accepting. She was literally eating out of his hand before the visit was over! We could hardly believe the change. I was then able to use the techniques Michelle taught us to help Penny become more accepting of other (scary) men in our family. Since that visit, Michelle has given us several more tools to teach Penny behaviors that help her self-confidence. We love working with Michelle, and Penny and our other dog, Cole, love her!
- Diane Monahan: Michelle has been working with my anxious beagle since he was several months old. She does a wonderful job and Joey absolutely loves her. We both look forward to her training visits!
- Norene Spoelker: LOVE LOVE LOVE Michelle and her training process. It was great to see Daisy progress over the weeks and continue to progress. I look forward to future check-in sessions with Michelle and highly recommend her and Clicks Dog Training.
- Ray & Sandy Burger: We liked the fact that the training was positive. Michelle is very knowledgeable and on time. Daisy liked that she had an endless amount of boiled chicken. There is a new dog in just six sessions. Would recommend Clicks Dog Training to anyone.
- Shannon Kahrs: Thanks Michelle for offering dog training at my convenience! Your expertise is much appreciated and my dogs LOVE you! We all know you are really training me but it makes me feel great when my dogs LOVE the stranger that comes over to help me! Because I do a lot of training myself I appreciate being able to call on you for reinforcement when necessary without buying a huge training package.
Social Media Links
- Instagram: @clicksdogtraining
Media Appearances
- Friendship Collar's Blog Interview
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.
