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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Advanced training
  • Beginner training

Class options

  • Small classes

Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support

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

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
  • Positive reinforcement

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
Samantha Smart
5/5
My husband and I enrolled our German Shepherd, Zeus, at MDT after receiving numerous recommendations from neighbors who had previously worked with Michael and his staff. Choosing MDT was one of the best decisions we could have made. When Zeus started training, he was highly react…Read full reviewClose full review

My husband and I enrolled our German Shepherd, Zeus, at MDT after receiving numerous recommendations from neighbors who had previously worked with Michael and his staff. Choosing MDT was one of the best decisions we could have made. When Zeus started training, he was highly reactive to other dogs and people. While he was never aggressive, he struggled with overexcitement, jumping, and remaining calm when guests entered our home. Through private lessons, we were able to better understand Zeus and give him the structure, guidance, and confidence he needed. From walking, heel, and place training to one-on-one interactions with other dogs, every session helped create a more comfortable and controlled environment for him. Not only did Zeus learn, but I learned as well. I genuinely looked forward to our weekly classes, and the entire staff was always supportive, knowledgeable, and encouraging. We are truly going to miss seeing everyone each week, though I promise we’ll still stop by to say hello. One thing Michael said early on has stayed with me throughout this journey: “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” That reminder meant so much during the process and perfectly reflects what training truly requires. For anyone considering board-and-train or private lessons, it’s important to understand that success doesn’t come from training alone — it also comes from the consistency and effort you put in at home using the tools MDT provides. Zeus would not be where he is today without both the expertise of MDT and the continuation of that training in our daily lives. Real change takes commitment, patience, and consistency. We are incredibly grateful for this training academy and for all of the wonderful people we met along the way. I will always recommend MDT to anyone looking for professional, compassionate, and effective dog training. Sincerely, Sam

Business response

Thank you so much, Sam, for this incredibly thoughtful and heartfelt review. We are truly grateful that you and your husband trusted me and the MDT team with Zeus’s training journey. Zeus is such a wonderful German Shepherd, and it was a privilege to watch his confidence, focus, and self-control grow throughout private lessons. Helping him become calmer around people, dogs, guests, and daily distractions was rewarding for all of us, but what made the biggest difference was the commitment you put in at home. Dog training is truly a team effort, and you embraced that process beautifully. I'm glad the saying, “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” resonated with you. Real progress takes patience, consistency, structure, and love — and Zeus is a great example of what can happen when owners stay dedicated. Thank you again for recommending us at Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan. We will miss seeing you and Zeus each week, but we will always be happy when you stop by to say hello. It was an honor to be part of your journey. Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist www.MichiganDogTraining.com

Review on Google
R H Coy
5/5
We proudly recommend Michael and the team at Michigan Dog Training (MDT). Each team member was professional, knowledgable, and willing to answer questions or concerns. They walked us through each of their services to find the right fit and kept us up to date throughout the train…Read full reviewClose full review

We proudly recommend Michael and the team at Michigan Dog Training (MDT). Each team member was professional, knowledgable, and willing to answer questions or concerns. They walked us through each of their services to find the right fit and kept us up to date throughout the training process. Even making a special effort to send our daughter a birthday message from Scout while she was in service dog training! We are already planning dates to bring our 5 year-old GSP in for training classes after seeing the benefits from Scout’s training experience. Thank you to Michael and the entire MDT Team!

Business response

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. We are truly grateful for your trust in our Michigan Dog Training team! It was a pleasure and honor helping Scout through her service dog training journey, and we’re so happy to hear that you felt supported, informed, and confident throughout the process. The birthday message for your daughter was such a special moment for us too, and we’re glad it brought joy to your family. We are excited to continue working with you and look forward to helping your GSP (German Shorthair Pointer) in future training programs. It'll be especially meaningful for me as one of my personal dogs was a GSP. Thank you again for proudly recommending MDT and allowing us to be part of Scout’s success! ...Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist at www.MichiganDogTraining.com

Review on Google
Jon Andrews
5/5
Just finished up our graduation session with Michael and staff. Absolutely great experience. 2 year old Rot-pit mix, my dog had issues with aggression with strangers. Day 1 meeting with Michael, my dog constantly barked and pulled aggressively towards Michael. By class #4, my dog…Read full reviewClose full review

Just finished up our graduation session with Michael and staff. Absolutely great experience. 2 year old Rot-pit mix, my dog had issues with aggression with strangers. Day 1 meeting with Michael, my dog constantly barked and pulled aggressively towards Michael. By class #4, my dog loved Michael and staff and I witnessed the positive changes in behavior, week by week. We are looking forward to remaining sessions to complete training. Please take this note, the dog is not the only thing being trained, I was trained as well. It will always be my responsibility to continue training, outside of the classes. I highly recommend this great group of people to assist you and your pup.

Business response

Jon, Thank you so much for the wonderful 5-star review and for trusting me and the Michigan Dog Training team with CHUCK, a Rottweiler/Pit mix. We are thrilled to hear about the progress and able to see the progress from that first lesson to seeing positive behavior changes week by week. You said it perfectly—great dog training also includes teaching the owner how to continue the work at home and be able to better read your dog's behavior cues. We’re proud of both of you and excited to keep helping you build confidence, obedience, and better behavior. Thank you for recommending Michigan Dog Training for dog aggression training and behavior training. We truly appreciate it! Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist MichiganDogTraining.com, 734-892-1447

Review on Google
Mandy Coy
5/5
MDT (Mike and Cari) did an exceptional job with Scout. She was 10 months old when they started working with her and in 8 weeks she learned so much and is now a certified service dog. They were very responsive when we asked questions, helped us learn how to work together with Scou…Read full reviewClose full review

MDT (Mike and Cari) did an exceptional job with Scout. She was 10 months old when they started working with her and in 8 weeks she learned so much and is now a certified service dog. They were very responsive when we asked questions, helped us learn how to work together with Scout. They took extra time to send our daughter a birthday message from Scout. They are extremely supportive and we highly recommend their services.

Business response

Thank you so much for your kind and heartfelt review. It was truly a pleasure and a honor to work with Scout and your family throughout her 8-week service dog training journey. Scout is such a special dog, and we are so proud of how much she learned and accomplished. Helping your family learn how to work together with her was just as important to us as training Scout herself. A successful service dog team is built on trust, communication, consistency, and support, and your family did a wonderful job being part of that process. We are also so happy that Scout’s birthday message to your daughter brought some joy. Those personal moments mean a lot to us because we know service dogs are not just highly trained dogs; they are beloved family members and life-changing partners. Thank you again for trusting us. We are honored to have been part of Scout’s service dog training journey and truly appreciate your recommendation of our dog training services. Sincerely, Michael, Cari and the MDT Team Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan

Review on Google
antje steinmuller
5/5

Michael was extremely supportive during training and testing. He customized training to my needs, making it easy to achieve our goals. Thank you!

Business response

Thank you so much Antje for your kind words and 5-star review. It was truly a pleasure supporting you through the training and testing process. You both did great! At Michigan Dog Training, we believe dog training is most successful when it is customized to the needs of both the dog and the owner. I’m so glad the training plan helped make the process clear, achievable, and successful for you. Thank you again for trusting us. We appreciate the opportunity to be part of your training journey and are so happy you reached your goals! Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist Michigan Dog Training

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