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Michigan Dog Training

Plymouth, Michigan

4.8/5· 158 Google reviews

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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
Linda Cox
5/5
I recently completed an 8-week training course with Michigan dog training. My dog Willow has always been aggressive when near other dogs and people. During the course, she quickly adapted to encountering other dogs. I was hesitant on using the e-collar but found that it did not s…Read full reviewClose full review

I recently completed an 8-week training course with Michigan dog training. My dog Willow has always been aggressive when near other dogs and people. During the course, she quickly adapted to encountering other dogs. I was hesitant on using the e-collar but found that it did not seem to hurt or bother her. Initially I thought the prices seemed high but seeing the results it is well worth it. Working with Michael Burkey and his team was a great experience. To actually see that my dog can be near other dogs without being over excited, barking and lunging makes me confident that she will eventually be able to interact with other dogs and even people. Thank you to Michael and his team at MDT for their help and guidance!

Business response

Thank you so much Linda for your kind words and for trusting us to work with you and Willow! It was such a pleasure to see the progress you both made over the 8 weeks. Willow’s transformation and your dedication as her handler were truly inspiring. We know it takes courage and consistency to work through reactivity, and you both did an amazing job. We’re grateful you allowed us to guide you through the process and are thrilled to see Willow growing more calm and confident. It was wonderful working with you, and we look forward to seeing her continue to shine! Thank you, Michael Burkey, Dog Behaviorist and CEO Michigan Dog Training

Review on Google
Michelle and Michael Mango
5/5

Michael with MDT was able to help us feel more confident handling Jimmy's dog reactivity. We learned how to react in challenging situations and Jimmy has become less reactive. We also struggle with a medical condition that increases Jimmy's anxiety and Michael's suggestions and support have been amazing.

Business response

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review. It truly warms my heart to hear that you’re feeling more confident and that Jimmy is making such great progress. Working with both of you plus your son and Jimmy has been a privilege, and I admire your dedication to helping Jimmy feel safer and more secure, especially with the added challenges of a medical condition that affects his anxiety. I'm so glad the strategies and support have been helpful. Please give Jimmy a big pat for me—he’s a great dog with a great family! Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist

Review on Google
Ada Lam
5/5
I signed Lily and myself up for the 1:1 sessions to help her be less reactive towards other animals. Since taking the sessions and working with Michael, I've noticed a huge difference in Lily. She listens a lot better and when we're on walks, I can pull her away from other dogs, …Read full reviewClose full review

I signed Lily and myself up for the 1:1 sessions to help her be less reactive towards other animals. Since taking the sessions and working with Michael, I've noticed a huge difference in Lily. She listens a lot better and when we're on walks, I can pull her away from other dogs, squirrels, bunnies, etc more easily. Before, I'd have to really tug her or carry her away. Michael really knows his stuff and is very patient. Any questions I've had or obstacles I've had with Lily, he's always had solutions or suggestions to try out. I'd definitely recommend utilizing his experience and knowledge.

Business response

Thank you so much Ada for your thoughtful review. It's been a joy working with you and Lily! Watching her grow more responsive and seeing your confidence grow alongside her has been incredibly rewarding. You commitment to the private training lessons and your love for Lily really shine through, and that's what makes the progress possible. I'm so glad the training sessions have made walks easier and more enjoyable for both of you. I appreciate your kind words and your trust--it truly means a lot to me. Lily is an incredible dog and companion for you! Michael Burkey, CEO & Dog Behaviorist Michigan Dog Training

Review on Google
Sarah Zelenak
5/5
Taking Michigan Dog Training’s e-collar class was the best decision for my dog and my family. Our dog is sweet and friendly and had been to other obedience classes, but she would pull constantly on walks and try to get food off the counter every time we turned our backs. Within a…Read full reviewClose full review

Taking Michigan Dog Training’s e-collar class was the best decision for my dog and my family. Our dog is sweet and friendly and had been to other obedience classes, but she would pull constantly on walks and try to get food off the counter every time we turned our backs. Within a few days of working with her on the e-collar she became a beautiful walker! That alone made our lives with her more enjoyable and made the course worth the money. Her consistency in listening to all her basic commands got much more consistent. Now I’m even confident enough in her listening to take her off her leash to play fetch. Michael really knows what he is doing! He answered all my questions and made sure the dog and I were getting what we needed out of the training. The obedience classes I had taken before were fine, but I feel like I had a much more personalized experience at MDT because of Michael’s experience. Also, to anyone scared of the idea of an e-collar, don’t let that keep you away. My dog was never in pain or scared. She doesn't mind having it on. I’m fact she’s usually excited because it means we are going for a walk or going to do some training.

Business response

Sarah, thank you so much for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. It truly means the world to us to hear how much of a difference the e-collar training made for you, your family, and your sweet pup. We love hearing about the transformation—not just in your dog’s behavior, but in how much more enjoyable your time together has become. That’s what it’s all about. We’re especially grateful for your openness in sharing your experience with the e-collar itself. It’s common for people to feel hesitant at first, and your words will help others feel more confident and informed in making the best choice for their own dogs. Your story is a perfect example of how proper guidance can turn a good dog into a great one—and help bring peace and happiness to the whole family. It was truly a pleasure working with you and Daisy. Your dedication, patience, and willingness to learn were key to your success, and we’re proud to have been a part of your training journey. Thanks again for trusting us at Michigan Dog Training! Warmly, Michael and the MDT Team

Review on Google
Natalie Patterson
5/5

I couldn't have made a better choice than to take my dog through the private training with Mike at MDT! I'm thrilled with the results and the relationship I have formed with my dog.

Business response

Thank you so much Natalie. It’s been a pleasure working with you and Buddy. I am thrilled that your relationship has been enhanced and he has made great progress. - Michael Burkey, CEO and Dog Behaviorist

Review on Google

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

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