FirstBark.
Michigan Dog Training listing logo

Michigan Dog Training

Plymouth, Michigan

4.8/5· 158 Google reviews

Call businessVisit website

About Michigan Dog Training

MICHAEL Burkey, CEO and Dog Behaviorist with 45 years experience and his highly trained team at Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan specialize in helping high energy dogs, fearful aggressive dogs, and Service Dogs. Michael is a professional dog trainer and dog behaviorist who has been highlighted regularly on Metro Detroit News Channels 2, 4 & 7, WJR Radio and has been the “On Set Dog Trainer” for movies and commercials. Michael is an: * Expert trial witness on dog behavior, * Specializes in aggression rehabilitation / modification * Service Dog Trainer, * Former Police K9 Officer, * Search and Rescue (SAR) K9 Training Director and SAR K9 Handler, * Social Worker, and * Obedience and Rally competitor with 1st Place finishes.

Training & services

Training goals

  • Behavior consultation
    Program details

    Customized behavior modification programs designed to address unwanted behaviors and help dogs develop more appropriate responses.

  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
    Program details

    Structured Canine Good Citizen classes designed to teach dogs appropriate manners, obedience, and skills needed for the AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluation.

    Canine Good Citizen testing to evaluate a dog's manners, obedience, and ability to demonstrate appropriate behavior in everyday situations.

    Canine Good Citizen preparation and testing focused on obedience, manners and appropriate behavior in everyday environments.

  • Crate training
    Program details
  • Leash training
    Program details

    Training designed to help reduce leash pulling and teach dogs to walk with better control, attention and manners.

  • Obedience training
    Program details

    Basic obedience training focused on essential commands, manners, communication, attention, and reliable everyday behavior.

    General obedience classes covering essential commands, leash skills, manners, attention, and reliable everyday behavior.

    Obedience classes designed to teach dogs essential commands, manners, leash skills, focus, and reliable everyday behavior.

    Group obedience classes providing structured training for commands, manners, leash walking, attention, and appropriate behavior around distractions.

    Off-leash obedience training focused on reliable commands, responsiveness, attention, and safe behavior when working without a leash.

    Pet obedience training designed to improve everyday manners, communication, responsiveness, and household behavior.

    Advanced dog obedience training for improving reliability, focus, impulse control and response to commands.

    Structured group dog training classes that teach obedience, manners, focus and reliable responses around distractions.

    Advanced training for dogs that have mastered basic commands and need greater reliability around distractions and real world situations.

    Continued obedience training for dogs ready to progress beyond basic commands and improve reliability around distractions.

    Training focused on loose leash walking, attention, reliable commands and better behavior during walks.

  • Puppy training
    Program details

    4 week puppy training class focused on basic obedience, manners, socialization and building a strong foundation.

  • Recall training
    Program details
  • Socialization
    Program details

    Structured puppy socialization designed to help young dogs become confident and comfortable around people, dogs and everyday environments.

Behavior support

  • Aggression training
    Program details

    Individualized behavior training for dogs displaying aggression, helping address triggers, improve responses, and develop safer behavior patterns.

  • Fear and confidence
    Program details
  • Reactivity training
    Program details

    Behavior training for reactive dogs that bark, lunge, pull or become overwhelmed around people, dogs or other distractions.

How training happens

  • Board and train
    Program details

    Boarding combined with professional dog training to reinforce obedience, manners, communication, and positive behaviors throughout your dog's stay.

    Immersive board and train programs combining overnight care with structured obedience and behavior training to reinforce skills and good manners.

    Immersive dog training designed to provide structured obedience and behavior work while your dog stays with the training program.

  • Day training
    Program details
  • Group classes
    Program details

    Group dog training classes that provide structured instruction while helping dogs practice obedience and appropriate behavior around other people and dogs.

    Group training focused on proper e collar use alongside obedience, communication and reliable responses.

  • In-home training
    Program details

    In-home dog training lessons that address obedience and behavior within the dog's everyday home environment.

  • Online or virtual training
    Program details

    Convenient online dog training programs providing guidance and instruction that can be followed from home.

  • Owner coaching
    Program details
  • Private training
    Program details

    One-on-one dog training sessions focused on your dog's specific behaviors, training goals, and everyday obedience needs.

    One on one dog training programs tailored to your dog's behavior, obedience needs and specific training goals.

    One on one online dog training sessions tailored to your dog's specific behavior and obedience goals.

Dog age

  • Puppies
    Program details

    Training programs for dogs and puppies focused on obedience, manners, socialization, behavior, and practical skills for everyday life.

    Puppy training designed to build good manners, confidence, social skills and foundational obedience.

    Foundational puppy training focused on socialization, manners, handling and basic obedience skills.

    Puppy training focused on appropriate household behavior, basic obedience, impulse control and polite interactions.

    Early puppy training focused on building foundational obedience, good habits, confidence and communication.

    Information and support for individuals looking for an available puppy and guidance on getting started with training.

Training level

  • Advanced obedience
    Program details
  • Advanced training
    Program details
  • Beginner training
    Program details

Class options

  • Small classes
    Program details

Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support
    Program details

Assistance and working dogs

  • Medical-alert and mobility assistance
    Program details

    Specialized training for dogs being prepared to recognize and respond to diabetic related alerts and tasks.

  • Psychiatric service dog training
    Program details

    Specialized training for dogs being prepared to assist individuals with PTSD related tasks and daily support needs.

  • Service dog training
    Program details

    Service dog training designed to help owners train appropriate task-based skills and reliable public behavior for qualifying service dog needs.

    Mobility service dog training focused on developing appropriate task-based skills and reliable obedience for qualifying mobility-related needs.

    Service dog training support focused on obedience, appropriate behavior and preparation for public access.

    Guidance for owners who want to train their own service dog with structured instruction and practical training techniques.

    Structured service dog training focused on obedience, public behavior and developing task specific skills.

  • Therapy dog training
    Program details

    Training for dogs preparing for therapy work, with an emphasis on manners, obedience and calm behavior around people.

    Therapy dog preparation focused on obedience, manners, calm behavior and appropriate interactions with people.

Dog sports

  • Agility
    Program details

    Dog agility training that combines obedience, physical activity, focus and obstacle work in an engaging environment.

  • Scent work
    Program details

    Nosework training that teaches dogs to use their natural scenting abilities through structured scent detection exercises and private lessons.

    Nose work training that teaches dogs to use their natural scenting abilities through engaging and mentally stimulating exercises.

  • Trick training
    Program details

Your dog’s background

  • Rescue dogs
    Program details

    Training for rescue dogs focused on building trust, improving manners and establishing reliable obedience.

Training approach

  • E-collar training
    Program details
  • Positive reinforcement
    Program details

Additional services

  • Boarding
    Program details

    Safe and structured dog boarding with attentive care, daily routines, and a comfortable environment for dogs while their owners are away.

  • Daycare
    Program details

    Supervised dog daycare providing a structured environment for exercise, socialization, play, and daily care.

  • Dog walking
    Program details

    Professional dog walking services that provide exercise, enrichment, and supervised outdoor activity tailored to your dog's needs.

  • Grooming
    Program details

    Professional dog grooming services including bathing, brushing, coat care, nail trimming, and basic grooming to help keep dogs clean and comfortable.

Other listed services

View 23 additional details
  • Dog training
    Program details

    Personalized dog training designed to improve obedience, manners, communication, and everyday behavior while helping owners build a stronger relationship with their dogs.

  • Behavior Evaluation
    Program details

    Professional evaluation of your dog's behavior and temperament to identify challenges, triggers, and appropriate training strategies.

  • Community Canine
    Program details

    Community Canine training focused on helping dogs develop reliable manners and appropriate behavior in public settings and everyday environments.

  • Dog Behavior Consultant
    Program details

    Dog behavior consulting to help owners understand challenging behaviors and develop practical strategies for improving their dog's responses and habits.

  • Dog Behavior Education
    Program details

    Dog behavior education for owners who want to better understand canine communication, learning, body language, and behavior.

  • Dog Behavior Solutions
    Program details

    Customized training and behavior solutions designed to address individual dog behavior challenges and improve communication between dogs and owners.

  • Dog Bite Prevention
    Program details

    Dog bite prevention training focused on recognizing warning signs, understanding triggers, improving handling, and promoting safer interactions.

  • Dog Tricks
    Program details

    Trick training that teaches dogs fun and engaging behaviors while building focus, communication, confidence, and mental stimulation.

  • Family Dog
    Program details

    Family dog training designed to teach practical obedience, manners, household skills, and appropriate behavior around family members.

  • Private Instruction
    Program details

    Individual dog training instruction tailored to your dog's specific needs, behavior challenges, and training goals.

  • Trick Dogs
    Program details

    Fun and engaging trick dog training that develops focus, communication, confidence and obedience.

  • Animal Behavior Consultants
    Program details

    Professional guidance for owners dealing with challenging behaviors, helping develop practical strategies for improving communication and behavior.

  • Weekly Lessons
    Program details

    Ongoing weekly dog training lessons designed to build consistency, reinforce obedience and address specific training goals.

  • Basic Manners Course
    Program details

    Training focused on everyday dog manners including listening, greeting appropriately, impulse control and basic obedience.

  • Dog Acting
    Program details

    Training that teaches dogs behaviors and skills used for acting, performance and structured demonstrations.

  • Dog Bite
    Program details

    Behavior and obedience training focused on addressing serious bite related behavior and developing safer handling and control.

  • Dog Day School
    Program details

    Day training program providing structured obedience, socialization and behavior work throughout the day.

  • Dog's Behavior Train
    Program details

    Individualized training to address unwanted behaviors and improve obedience, communication and everyday behavior.

  • Nail Trimming
    Program details

    Dog handling and training designed to help dogs become more comfortable and cooperative during nail trimming.

  • Temperament Test
    Program details

    Dog temperament evaluation designed to assess behavior, confidence, social responses and reactions to different situations.

  • Canine Conditioning
    Program details

    Physical conditioning exercises designed to support strength, coordination, mobility and overall canine fitness.

  • Educational Programs
    Program details

    Educational dog training programs designed to teach owners effective handling, communication and practical training skills.

  • Dog Pack
    Program details

    Structured group dog training designed to build obedience, focus and appropriate behavior around other dogs.

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Business-stated qualifications

Qualifications stated by the business, not independently verified.

Training team
CDBC

Questions & answers

From Google

What people have asked about this business.

Can older dogs benefit from training?

Yes, older dogs can greatly benefit from training, enhancing their behavior and strengthening the bond with their owners.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Can I train my own service dog?

Yes, we offer the Train Your Own Service Dog (TYOSD) program, providing professional support throughout the training process.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?

Leash pulling is a common issue. We offer personalized training to teach loose-leash walking, helping your dog walk calmly without pulling.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Do you offer on-leash and off-leash training?

Yes, we specialize in both on-leash and off-leash obedience training to ensure your dog’s safety and responsiveness in various settings.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I become a member to access boarding?

To become a member, enroll your dog in one of our training programs, where they’ll learn the skills needed to thrive in our training-based boarding environment.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I help my anxious dog feel more comfortable around new people in Plymouth, Michigan?

Use positive reinforcement and gradual exposure to new people to help your anxious dog feel more comfortable.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What is the goal of the Advanced Manners (E-Collar) class?

This class aims to enhance off-leash reliability and obedience using modern E-Collar training techniques, allowing dogs to respond promptly even amidst distractions.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How does E-Collar training work in Advance Manners class?

E-Collar training uses low-level stimulation, akin to a gentle tap, to communicate with the dog. This method reinforces commands and improves responsiveness without causing distress.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Is the CGC evaluation included in the class?

Yes, on the last night of class, students and their dogs have the opportunity to take the CGC evaluation at no additional cost.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What should I bring to the first class session?

Participants should bring their dog's vaccination records (DHPP, Bordetella, and Rabies), a negative fecal test result from the past six months, and soft treats that their dog enjoys.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Can mixed-breed dogs participate in the CGC program?

Absolutely. Mixed-breed dogs can earn the CGC title by registering with the AKC Canine Partners program.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What is the primary focus of the Intermediate Manners class?

The Intermediate Manners class is designed to prepare dogs and their handlers for the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test, emphasizing obedience and social skills in various environments.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the Intermediate Manners class?

Dogs should have completed a basic obedience class or possess equivalent skills, including basic commands and the ability to focus in a group setting.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Is there a specific age requirement for puppies in training classes?

Puppies aged 8 weeks to 5 months are welcome in our training classes to ensure optimal socialization.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What can I expect from the puppy training classes at Michigan Dog Training?

Our puppy training classes focus on socialization, basic commands, and developing engagement through fun exercises.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What age should my dog be to enroll in Intermediate Manners?

Dogs should be at least 6 months old and fully vaccinated.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
Have any body train there German Shepard there? Is there price resonable?

We had our 2 very energetic Doberman puppies trained there and we could walk then on a loose lead

Community answer · Al Qualman · 2019-09-21

I've taken my GSD there, it's not badly priced. They are willing to work with your schedule too. If you cant make a certain day every week you can schedule your sessions every week if needed (private sessions).

Community answer · Victoria Urquhart · 2019-09-21

We had our Labrador retriever trained there. They are competitively priced. Facility is large and roomy.

Community answer · Marianne Frank · 2019-09-21

Hi David, We train a lot of German Shepherds. All of our prices are on our website, www.MichiganDogTraining.com. To get started, please set up a free meet and greet for you and your dog on our website or give us a call at 734-634-4152 and we'll schedule the appt for you. Look forward to meeting you soon. Thanks, Michael Burkey, CEO Michigan Dog Training

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2020-09-21

I took my German Shepard. He didn't do good.They told me to get a spike collar for him.He liked going there because he talk to other dogs. Maybe they'll work for u.

Community answer · David Mcginnis Sr · 2020-09-21

Question on Google
Do you train dogs for alert training for diabetics?

Yes we do. It's called Train Your Own Service Dog and is a mixture of 24 private sessions and group classes (mostly private sessions though). Please schedule a free meet and greet on our website at www.MichiganDogTraining.com or call us at 734-634-4152. We'll be happy to help you.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2020-09-21

Question on Google
how much money is it to send your do there?

About 1300 for 4 visits

Community answer · Acer372 · 2018-09-21

Question on Google
I'm interested in group classes for my 3 yr old lab mix. She's very friendly & submissive, but jumps on me & has started to claim me as her own. I'm interested in pricing (& curriculum) for group classes.

It depends on which class you're interested in. We offer a variety of services and prices. The first step is to talk with one of our trainers during a Needs Assessment as that will determine which program or programs you should consider along with pricing. Prior to that talk its premature to talk about prices because then you will be comparing apples to oranges instead of apples to apples.

Community answer · Michigan Dog Training · 2024-09-21

Question on Google

Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.

Customer reviews

Google listing
4.8
out of 5158 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • knowledgeable staff 21
  • leash training 10
  • ecollar training 8
  • dog daycare 7
  • expert staff 5
  • private lessons 5
All 10 topics
  • group training classes 4
  • immaculate facility 3
  • 6 week board and train program 2
  • nosework sessions 2

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

100 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Barbara Hughesian
5/5
We adopted our “fearful” LilBuddy in June of 2021. We noticed he developed anxiety of riding in vehicles, storms, beeps, clicks and other odd things. We began training classes with MDT as we remembered Michael from when our son interviewed him for a high school project, nearly 2…Read full reviewClose full review

We adopted our “fearful” LilBuddy in June of 2021. We noticed he developed anxiety of riding in vehicles, storms, beeps, clicks and other odd things. We began training classes with MDT as we remembered Michael from when our son interviewed him for a high school project, nearly 20 years ago. LilBuddy thrived in the obedience classes and got his Canine Good Citizen Award. He was very well trained but would still have some dog reactive issues when taking our walks, so we returned for some private lessons with Michael. He was able to give us direction on how to notice the anxiety over an approaching dog and how to best avoid a reactive situation from happening. We now feel more confident and better equipped to handle an approaching dog situation and how to avoid any reactive behavior. Whenever we ask if he wants to go to “class,” he races to the back door of our car and leaps into the back seat (despite not loving car rides). Michael (as well as the MDT staff) has a calm, yet authoritative demeanor with dogs. He treats your dog with all the kindness that you would treat your own dog with. Our Lil Buddy is a better, calmer dog because of the training he has received at MDT. His is less anxious with people who enter our home and calmer when he encounters strangers or other dogs on walks. We highly recommend that you trust the development of your canine friend to Michael and his staff at MDT. They will help to maximize not only the development, but also the well-being of your furry friend. Jim and Barb Hughesian

Review on Google
Jacob O'Connor
5/5
I had previously left a poor review of this business and I wanted to publicly apologize, as well as acknowlege how wrong I was about them. These people CARE about your pets, and also about you as an owner. Michael had the courtesy to call me at 10pm on a saturday night, because I…Read full reviewClose full review

I had previously left a poor review of this business and I wanted to publicly apologize, as well as acknowlege how wrong I was about them. These people CARE about your pets, and also about you as an owner. Michael had the courtesy to call me at 10pm on a saturday night, because I have been struggling so bad with crate training a new puppy. He gave me tips, and reinforced my process by telling me I am doing the right things. I also took my older dog to them for two group classes, and he is the best dog i have ever had, already. People are blown away when they find out he isn't even a year old yet. I recommend MDT to everyone i know that has a dog at home. I will never take mine anywhere else, for advice, or training needs. Thank you MDT, for everything you've done for me and my family, already. 🙏 (both pups are posted as well, to show them off. Kylo is 8 months old, Opal is 11 weeks)

Business response

Jacob, thank you so much for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. Your willingness to share your experience means more to us than you know, and no apology is necessary. We truly appreciate the opportunity to earn your trust.<br><br>It has been a pleasure helping you with Kylo’s obedience training through our group dog-training classes and supporting you with Opal’s puppy crate training. Since you emailed us so late in the night and sounded, desperate for help; I wanted to reach out to you that evening rather than waiting till the next day. Raising a new puppy can be challenging, and we are always here to provide practical guidance, encouragement, and reassurance. <br><br>Thank you for trusting Michigan Dog Training with your dogs and for recommending MDT to other dog owners. We’re proud of the progress Kylo has made at only eight months old, and we’re excited to watch Opal continue to learn and grow. They are both adorable!<br><br>Our entire team is grateful to be your choice for professional dog training and behavior support in the Plymouth, Michigan area. Please give Kylo and Opal some extra love from all of us at MDT! 🐾<br><br>Sincerely,<br><br>Michael Burkey & the MDT Team<br>MichiganDogTraining.com, 734-892-1447

Review on Google
Ann Marie Rogers
5/5
Five Stars (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) Incredible expert with unmatched dog intuition! If you need a dog trainer or behaviorist, Michael Burkey at Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, MI is the gold standard. I have known Michael for more than three decades, and his dedication to understanding dog beh…Read full reviewClose full review

Five Stars (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) Incredible expert with unmatched dog intuition! If you need a dog trainer or behaviorist, Michael Burkey at Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, MI is the gold standard. I have known Michael for more than three decades, and his dedication to understanding dog behavior is a 24/7 passion. He just completed an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluation and therapy dog temperament testing for my Collie, William. Michael brings a wealth of real-world experience as a former police canine and search and rescue handler. He is smart, exceptionally knowledgeable, calm, and kind. His ability to read and understand dogs is unmatched. Your dog is in the best possible hands with Michael and Michigan Dog Training!

Business response

Ann-Marie, thank you so much for your thoughtful five-star review and for trusting me with William’s AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluation and Therapy Dog Temperament Test.<br><br>It has been a pleasure knowing you for more than three decades, and I truly appreciate your kind words about my experience and dedication to understanding dog behavior. William is a wonderful Collie, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with both of you. He will bring a lot of comfort to people in need of a calm and loving Therapy Dog.<br><br>Thank you for recommending Michigan Dog Training to families seeking an experienced dog trainer and dog behaviorist in Plymouth, Michigan. Your confidence and support mean a great deal to me and the entire MDT team!<br><br>Sincerely,<br><br>Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist<br>MichiganDogTraining.com<br>734-892-1447

Review on Google
Barb Coury
5/5

Michael has really has taught my puppy who is only 4 months old how to sit,stay,and walk on a leasch in a short time. He is a great trainer I highly recommend him. Barb

Business response

Thank you so much, Barb, for your kind review and recommendation! It has been a pleasure helping the two of you and your four-month-old puppy build a strong foundation with important skills such as sit, stay, and polite leash walking. Your puppy is doing a wonderful job, and your dedication to practicing at home makes a tremendous difference. <br><br>I truly appreciate you trusting me and Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan, with your puppy’s training!<br><br>Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist

Review on Google
Tamara Nelson
5/5

Our Blu heeler wanted nothing to do with listening to us especially during walks his training was a game changer. He now listens better than ever great experience!

Business response

Tamara, Thank you so much for the wonderful 5-star review! We’re thrilled to hear that Blu's training was a game changer and that he is now listening better, especially during walks. Blue Heelers are intelligent, energetic dogs, and it was a pleasure helping you and Ed build better communication, obedience, and confidence with him. And, we love Blu's picture! It made us laugh! He's so cool!<br><br>Thank you for trusting Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan. We truly appreciate your support and are so happy you had a great dog training experience! -Thanks, Michael Burkey, CEO and Dog Behaviorist and on behalf of the MDT Team.

Review on Google

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

Explore nearby & related training

Explore training

Show all 41 pages

Explore qualifications