Alpha K-9 Obedience

Michael's methods as a dog behaviorist worked so well for our 16-month old English golden retriever, Kai! Previously, our little pup would just go nuts when he picked up a scent, saw a rabbit, squirrel, or another dog. He just completely zoned us out and pulled a LOT on the leash. To the point where my wife could no longer manage it. After about 6 sessions with Michael, Kai is now heeling, paying so much attention to us, and not pulling on the leash like a maniac anymore! By consistently following Michael's behavioral techniques, Kai now views US (not himself) as the leader and is very attentive and responsive! We are so very pleased with the results!!!

My 1 1/2 year German Shepherd began to show aggression toward other dogs and would not obey my commands and I was afraid I would have to give her up. I tried other suggestions but nothing worked. I looked at Michaels reviews and called him desperately hoping he could help me. Like so many of Micheal’s clients after just one session there was a significant and wonderful change in respect and obedience. Micheal expressed many times the importance of being a calm confident leader and that it is not as much about “training” as it is about understanding your dogs behavior and speaking her/his language! After a very difficult year personally I did not know if I could be that for my dog but Micheal teaches you how to be that leader and shares his experience and knowledge to give you the tools. It works because it makes sense and if you are willing to take the time with your dog you will be Amazed at the relationship change between you and your dog. I cannot express my gratitude enough for Micheal. He brought hope to me and my sweet dog who, by the way, loves when Micheal comes for a session.

Michael came highly recommended to us. We have a golden retriever puppy who will soon be ready to help me with patients in my psychology practice. I specifically needed a behaviorist because it was important to me to not just train Skye, but to learn how to communicate with her. Learning what she needs has helped me bring out the best in her and strengthened our bond. In the months we've worked with Michael, I've been impressed by not only his knowledge and professionalism, but how remarkably gifted he is with dogs. Our puppy adores him and looks forward to her sessions. Each time we meet I learn something new and I see Skye reaching deeper into her potential. Everywhere we go, people compliment her excellent behavior and I'm confident it's because of our time with Michael.

What an incredible experience I have had working with Michael. Ozzie, is a two year old Belgian Malinois mix who has leash reactivity and pretty high anxiety. He constantly would lunge, bark, growl at anything that he set his sights on and I could simply not gain control. I would dread having to take Ozzie outside and now I can finally feel more relaxed when encountering stressful situations. I have been to countless trainers and behaviorist’s that have cost me well over $10,000. Exactly one year before I saw Michael I had an animal behaviorist tell me it was time to put Ozzie down. The pain and sadness that I felt from that simple statement was enough to stop me from seeing trainers or anyone again and I accepted the fact that I may never have a "normal" dog and avoided walks, people, dogs, friends ,etc. After reading the reviews, a referral, and speaking at great length with Michael, I decided to give it one last go. I have been working with Michael for two (yes two!) sessions and the difference already is night and day. While we still have a long way to go, and more sessions scheduled, not only is Ozzie more relaxed and easier to understand, but my anxiety and life has changed drastically. You MUST put in the work, but it is beyond worth it. My relationship with Ozzie couldn’t be better and we look forward to every session we have. Do NOT give up on your furry friends no matter how low you get. It just takes the right person, and let me tell you - Michael is it!

We contacted Michael about our 5-year-old Australian Shepherd, Tucker, after we moved to a new house in the foothills. In a new environment with new distractions, he was a much more reactive and anxious dog — barking at everyone walking by and chasing after dogs and deer. When new people would come to the door, he would aggressively bark, which would make us nervous to have strangers visit. We have completed three sessions with Michael so far, and we have noticed such an improvement! As an animal behaviorist, Michael helps you understand the emotions and reasoning behind your dog's response. We had previously completed basic dog obedience courses, and while those help with commands, Michael has taught us how to communicate better with Tucker and earn his respect and trust. While we still have work to do, he has become less reactive to people and no longer chases other animals. We can tell he is more relaxed and willing to let us take the lead — he looks to us before reacting and is much more responsive to commands. He is just overall a happier dog! We will continue to work with Michael and can't wait to see the progress Tucker makes in the coming months. Regardless of your dog's issues, Michael can help!