Learn, Grow, Connect.
" It’s a bonding process between you and your dog that opens the doorway to an amazing friendship."
— Mike Preis, CPDT-KA, Owner and Founder
Our Approach
At Mike Preis Dog Training, we are committed to force free methods and developing leadership through a relationship based on trust, positive reinforcement, encouragement, and fun! Developing this relationship starts with non-aversive dog training rooted in animal behavioral science. We strive to create a safe space for dogs and their people to learn and grow.
Caring for a dog in a city as busy as New York can be really challenging. All around us there is traffic noise, crowds of people, hustle and bustle, loud construction, and more. The levels of distractions and conflicting motivators are immense. It is hard to process these even as a human that understands the world around them. It’s no wonder that so many dogs in the city and urban areas are overwhelmed and stressed.
Chances are, much of the behavioral issues your dog is exhibiting are at least in part a result of these factors. The first step to alleviating your dog’s level of discomfort is learning how to understand and communicate with him/her so that you can become a trusted mentor and advocate for your dog. Dog training is not just teaching your dog cues and how to walk politely on a leash, it is also teaching them about you and the world around them. It is a bonding process between you and your dog that opens the doorway to an amazing friendship. The reality is that you will not only be teaching your dog but he/she will be teaching you as well. You will develop a relationship not as owner and pet, but as partners and trusted friends.
Developing this relationship starts with science based, non-aversive dog training. The science of animal behavior has proven that you cannot alleviate a dog’s stress or anxiety through punishment and aversive methods. Positive reinforcement training has changed how we train. A relationship based on trust and reinforcement is much healthier than a relationship based on punishment, fear, and intimidation.
At Mike Preis Dog Training we are committed to creating a safe space for people to learn and grow. We apply the same philosophy of developing a relationship based on trust and positive reinforcement with our clients. You will find that the techniques and methods learned in sessions will not only help you to train your dog, but will also change your perspective on how you interact with the people in your lives. These techniques are based on studies of animal behavior and despite our computers, iPhones, airplanes, and automobiles, human beings are animals! So join us and embark on the amazing journey of dog training. Get to know your dog and yourself better!
-Mike Preis, CSAT, CPDT-KA
-Jean Keesler, CPDT-KA, FDM, CGC
Book Your First Session Now!
Learn How to Understand your Dog Better.
Build open and understanding communication with your dog through love, trust and compassion.
Personalized Training Based on your Needs.
We will take into consideration your dog’s history, personality, environment and family dynamics when making a training plan to fit your goals.
Enjoy Training your Dog!
Most of all, training should be rewarding and fun for both you and your dog!
FAQs
What does “Force Free” Mean, and is it Effective?
Force free training is an extremely effective form of dog training. It is a method of training based in behavioral science that doesn’t use fear, intimidation, or aversive equipment (such as choke chains, prong collars, and electronic collars) for training. There have been great advancements in dog training and animal behavioral science over the past 50 years. Thanks to the work of dog trainers Karen Prior, Dr. Sophia Yin, Dr. Ian Dunbar, Patricia McConnell and many others, we have found that force free methods such as counter conditioning and desensitization are extremely effective for behavior modification and get to the root of the issues. Unlike fear and intimidation methods which utilize punishment and aversive equipment, Force free methods don’t simply shut down behaviors, they actually address and improve how dogs feel in various situations in order to modify behavior. These methods won’t damage your relationship with your dog by causing excess stress and trust issues. Not only will they address problem behaviors, but actually strengthen and improve your relationship with your dog.
Where do we meet for sessions?
We offer in-home sessions with masks-on, outdoor sessions at an agreed upon location or virtual sessions (video chat) via Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime.
who should be present for the sessions?
In order to have the best results, it is beneficial for all family members to be on the same page with the training. All who are available can participate! Parents can use their discretion on younger children’s attendance.
How many sessions does it take to train my dog?
This varies. Every dog is different and the amount of effort people put into training their dogs is a big factor as well. It also depends on how extensive you want to get with the training (building on training in high distractions, teaching tricks and nose work, etc). Generally for puppy basics, 5 sessions is good to get you started. For more severe behavior cases, training can require many more sessions. We will give you recommendations based on our assessment of your needs.
What areas of new york do you serve?
We serve most areas of Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan.
What happens if I need to Reschedule my session?
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled session in order to reschedule. Otherwise you will be charged for the session. Exceptions may be made in the case of emergencies or due to inclement weather at the discretion of the trainer.
How do virtual sessions work?
We will schedule a time to video chat on whichever platform is most convenient for you (Zoom/Skype/FaceTime). We will coach you verbally through the training over video. It is helpful if you have a stand (but not required) for your video (phone or iPad) so that you can set it up so that we can watch you and your dog work through training techniques while we coach you. Otherwise, it may be helpful to have another family member hold the camera or device for you.
Can you come train my dog while I am not home?
We offer this option on a case by case basis. We can discuss what exactly you are looking for and see if this is the right service for you.
Do you guarantee results?
It would be unethical of us to guarantee results for training. It would literally be impossible for us to make guarantees about a dog’s behavior since they are not computers or robots that we program so we cannot predict behavior with absolute certainty.
What forms of payment are acceptable?
Cash, Check, or Zelle (most banks have this option. It’s really easy, you just need our email to send payment) are the preferred options. Venmo or PayPal may be available if requested.
Do you offer group classes?
No, but our friends at www.pumpkinpups.com in Brooklyn are amazing and offer puppy and manners classes.
Need help picking out equipment and tools for training and play? Check out our trainer’s recommendations.
