I am an honors graduate of the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers 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. I will coach you through effective and fun training so you can finally get the results you’ve been looking for. 


connect with michelle

meet your dog trainer

My name is Michelle and I am a certified, professional dog trainer and dog behavior consultant in YORK, PA.

Michelle Pennarola, CTC

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 train 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. 

our approach to dog training
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when i'm not training dogs i love...

June 
Aster

Spending time with my husband, Adam, our dog June and our senior rescue cat, Aster.

Hiking and exploring nature

Staying active (in particular weight lifting and Pilates)

Painting with watercolor

Reading fiction - my most recent favorite was 'The Girl with the Louding Voice' by Abi Daré

Visiting friends and family up in New England 

you don't have to go it alone.
Modern Manners Dog Training is here to help. 

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struggling with your dog's behavior?
feeling frustrated and isolated as you try to make sense of their issues?

Is your dog bouncing off the walls and driving you nuts?
Do you wish they could just “settle” and give you a break?

Then you need this free guide!

follow along on instagram @modernmannersdogtraining