I am an honors graduate of the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers, Fear Free Certified, and hold a B.S. in Animal Science from The University of Connecticut. I know first hand how confusing it can be to sift through endless dog training content online, all claiming to have the answers to your dog’s behavior issues. Yet each post or website contradicts the one before it, I am here to provide you with a clear path toward improved behavior, a better quality of life, and uplifting support for you and your dog along the way.
As a dog trainer, I will coach you through fun training so you can finally get relief and move towards a happier life with your dog.
meet your dog trainer
My name is Michelle and I am a certified, professional dog trainer and dog behavior SPECIALIST in YORK, PA.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior stands behind reward-based training and cautions dog owners to steer clear of painful or frightening punishment in dog training as research shows it is detrimental. I take these findings seriously and as a result, I work as a dog trainer using only reward-based, force-free methods. When you work with Modern Manners, training your dog will be a fun and joyful experience for both of you!
This is a judgment-free zone. I am happy to work with dog owners who have used other methods in the past and now want to train their dog with reward-based training. All are welcome here.
Studies show that dogs learn best through reward-based training.
Simply put, dogs must be motivated in order to work.
You can motivate dogs using either rewards or fear/pain.
Certifications and Continuing Education
Certified Trainer and Counselor, Academy for Dog Trainers
Fear Free Certified Trainer
Stranger Directed Aggression Series, Lisa Mullinax CDBC
Resource Guarding in Dogs, Kenneth Martin, DVM
Addressing Noise Aversion in Dogs, Kenneth Martin, DVM
MET Conference 2025
Pet Professional Guild Conference 2023
when i'm not working with clients and their dogs, you can find me ...
Spending time with my husband, Adam, our dog June and our senior rescue cat, Aster
Training June for her AKC Intermediate Trick Title
Running on the rail trail
Hiking
Reading fiction - my most recent favorite was 'Banyan Moon' by Thao Thai
Visiting friends and family up in New England
Frustrated with reactive outbursts on walks?
Wondering if you will ever enjoy a "normal" walk with your dog?
you need this free guide!
