WELCOME TO SAVVY CITY DOG!
We specialize in effective training based on a happy, healthy relationship with your dog.
We understand that owning a dog comes with its challenges, whether you're dealing with puppy training, behavior issues, or simply wanting to get off on the right paw with your new rescue. That's why we offer a range of services to cater to every need.
We also understand that every dog is unique and requires tailored attention. Whether you're dealing with puppy challenges or an older dog with behavioral issues like anxiety or aggression, we have the expertise to help you overcome any obstacle.
At Savvy City Dog, we believe that with the right training and guidance, any dog can become a well-behaved and happy member of your family. Let us help you achieve that goal!
Check Out Our Top-Rated Podcast
Michelle will help you tackle common puppy and dog training issues like potty training, separation anxiety, barking, and more. Each episode is packed with actionable advice that you can use to start seeing results right away.
But we don’t just talk at you - we want to hear from you too! That’s why we encourage you to submit questions for Michelle to answer on the podcast. Whether you’re dealing with a specific behavior issue or just want general training tips, we’ve got you covered.
So if you’re a dog owner who wants to create a happier, healthier relationship with your pup, tune in to the Savvy City Dog training podcast today!
Expert Guidance
We have the experience to help.
Meet Michelle, a dedicated and experienced dog trainer with a passion for helping dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments. With over 18 years in the field, Michelle has amassed a wealth of knowledge and expertise, including a certification as a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine. This certification involves 300 hours of behavior consulting, veterinary attestation, and a rigorous exam covering applied behavior analysis, ethology, anatomy, physiology, and more.
Michelle has worked in a variety of settings, including several years as the Behavior and Training Director for a nationally-known rescue group, where she developed innovative training programs for dogs from challenging backgrounds, such as hoarding cases, feral dogs, dogs from fighting rings, and puppy mill cases. She also founded the first puppies-only day camp in Washington, DC, where the focus was on all aspects of puppy training, including potty training.
Michelle loves working with puppies and new rescue dogs, and she currently helps clients through her online courses and private sessions. In addition, Michelle offers consulting services to other trainers and rescue groups. Her numerous credentials include being a ProMember Association Professional Dog Trainer, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, C.L.A.S.S. Evaluator, and Certified Trick Dog Instructor.
With her wealth of experience, dedication to science-based training, and commitment to helping dogs thrive, Michelle is a trusted resource for anyone looking to build a strong, positive relationship with their puppy or dog.
Tailored Training for City Dogs
Living in the city with a dog is an experience like no other. The sights and sounds, the hustle and bustle, and the limited green spaces make urban dog ownership uniquely challenging. That's where Savvy City Dog comes in. Unlike many other dog training services, we specialize in tailoring our methods specifically for dogs and puppies raised in city environments.
City dogs encounter distinct situations daily—navigating crowded sidewalks, adjusting to unpredictable and loud sounds, traffic, construction, strollers, bikers, encountering dozens of novel dogs and people, being approached and pet by strangers, and having to stay calm amidst all of those distractions.
Our training programs are designed with these specific challenges in mind. With over 18 years of experience, based right in the heart of Washington DC, we've refined our approach to address the nuances of city living. From mastering elevator etiquette to behaving impeccably in tight shared spaces, we help to ensure our puppy and adult dog clients have the skills they need to handle city life with confidence.
Our commitment extends beyond just training. We've also raised our own dogs right in the city, so we truly understand the urban canine experience. Choose Savvy City Dog to benefit from a training program that not only talks the talk but walks the city walk. We're your go-to experts for puppy and dog training tailored specifically for the modern urban dog owner.
Join the Savvy City Dog family and let's navigate city life with your canine companion, hand in paw.
