My Philosophy on Dog Training
Every dog is different! My goal is to approach each individual dogs’ needs, assess where the dog is mentally and emotionally, their relationship with their owner, their drive and motivation, and the owner’s goals. I love building confidence in dogs and learning individually what makes them tick. My approach is to teach foundational communicational skills with the dog and owner with the least aversive methods possible first. I want to make sure both dog and owner understand what is being taught and why. Forming a solid foundation is so important! From there, proofing and refining these behaviors help solidify what is taught and create a stable, reliable dog. Initially, I establish a language with the dog through classical and operant conditioning. “Paint a correct picture” each and every time. Consistency is key! My desire is to give each dog the tools to understand and live peacefully in the world around them, building confidence and engagement with their owner, and the ability for the dog to think, process, and respond in a healthy way.
“Should I do Private Lessons or Board & Train?”
Here’s a comparison of what to expect for each service.
Board & Train
$500/week (7 days), $75/day for each additional day. FREE consult prior to booking!
I’ll start off with an initial, in-home consult to discuss your needs, meet your dog, and assess your relationship with your dog. The initial consult session is free and will be a slower-paced observation time for myself as I watch the dog and your relationship in your home environment, talk with you about your needs, and ask questions. This initial session is important to set the stage for a future curriculum.
For board-and-training, I recommend a minimum of 2 weeks (14 days) to establish a solid foundation. The length of training required, and what can be accomplished, depends in part on the dog’s prior experience and capacity to learn. In most cases, 14 days of training is not adequate to ensure higher level obedience such as off-leash reliability; the owner will be required to do follow up training to reach that goal. I offer a free go-home lesson and one free follow-up lesson to teach the owner what the dog has learned and make sure the transition goes smoothly.
Boarding checklist. Curious what to bring during your dog’s stay? Here’s a handy checklist:
Day Training
$75/day (drop-off before 8am)
For dogs who have already completed a board & train already with me already. Drop off your dog at my home while you’re at work for (2) 30-minute training sessions per day. We’ll progress your dog’s training while you’re hard at work. Training outings possible depending on where the dog is in its progress and training needs.
Day Training checklist. Curious what to bring during your dog’s stay? Here’s a handy checklist:
Private Lessons
$60/hour
I offer hourly, one-on-one lessons with you and your dog to troubleshoot specific issues and to teach you, the owner, how to handle and raise your dog. Most often these lessons are performed at your residence or wherever the dog is most often displaying these trouble areas. We can schedule subsequent lessons on a schedule that works best for you, whether weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly, etc. I do recommend the board-and-train option for dealing with multiple issues especially if the dog is new to training and unfamiliar with basic obedience.
Phone Consults
$15/15 minutes. For established training clients only.
Need a quick consult or instant feedback on a training issue? I can voice or video call over the phone with you, the owner, to work out issues you may be experiencing with your dog in real time. This is a great resource to troubleshoot what you’re working on, ask for advice, or get feedback on training. This wouldn’t be recommended to troubleshooting more serious issues that would require extensive, hands-on, or in-person education. Book in 15 minute increments at $15/15 minutes.
Private Lessons
$60/hour. Initial consult FREE
I offer hourly, one-on-one lessons with you and your dog to troubleshoot specific issues and to teach you, the owner, how to handle and raise your dog. The initial consult session is free and will be a slower-paced observation time for myself as I watch the dog and your relationship in your home environment, talk with you about your needs, and ask questions. This initial session is important to set the stage for a future curriculum. We can schedule subsequent lessons on a schedule that works best for you, whether weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly, etc.
Phone Consults
$15/15 minutes. For established training clients only.
Need a quick consult or instant feedback on a training issue? I can voice or video call over the phone with you, the owner, to work out issues you may be experiencing with your dog in real time. This is a great resource to troubleshoot what you’re working on, ask for advice, or get feedback on training. This wouldn’t be recommended to troubleshooting more serious issues that would require extensive, hands-on, or in-person education. Book in 15 minute increments at $15/15 minutes.
Testimonials from Dog Owners like You!
I highly recommend Dirigo Training and Boarding, I used them for training during my first year with my Airedale Terrier puppy and it has made THE WORLD of difference. She now listens, she’s obedient, she’s calm, she’s responsive, she is a pure angel. It is so worth it. I now feel comfortable taking my Airedale anywhere and she is an absolute delight. Same cute personality, just better behaved. I also have used Dirigo multiple times for boarding and she always comes back safe and happy. I trust Dirigo whole heartedly with my pet.
Eden Hazelip, Kiwi the Airdale
(Board & Train)
I most certainly do recommend Michaela/Dirigo!!!!! When we couldn’t take our carta to her, when we had to find sec choice, we dropped her off & I cried, I’d never cry with Michaela! She’s absolutely amazing in so many ways – love, patience, knowledge, experience & more whether boarding, training, or grooming!! She’s one of our big baby’s best friends!!!!
Heather Brier, Carta the pit mix
(Boarding)
Michaela is LITERALLY the reason we have our awesome dog, Zeke. He came to her as a foster from KHS with lots of anxiety and behavioral concerns. We met Zeke after he had been training with her for a few weeks and he was already a very different dog than had been described to us. She was able to address his particular issues with compassion, care, and patience, and we are the lucky beneficiaries of her hard work.
Lise Kruer, Zeke the GSD mix
(Private Lesson)
Nalley loves his accommodations at Dirigo when I travel. I know he’s safe, will be loved and well taken care of. Michaela is a pro with all under her care. Before we get to the driveway, as soon as we pull on her street, he starts getting excited and when he gets out of the car he can’t wait to get to the door and see her. It’s his home away from home.
Faith Nunley, Nalley the spaniel mix
(Private Lessons, Boarding)
Michaela does a great job working with all breeds of dogs. She most recently helped me out with dog walking services while I traveled. She was easy to communicate with, prompt, and followed all instructions. Plus, my pups love her!
Hannah Hobbs, Beau & Theo the corgis
(Dog Walks, Daycare)
Pepper loved boot camp. She has learned so much. Amazing! Love Dirigo. Can’t praise enough the progress Pepper has made. Michaela is fantastic so patient so consistent so dedicated. Pepper loved her. We do also. Thank you Michaela!
Vickie D., Pepper the Schnauzer.
(Board & Train)
