Finding the right dog trainer in a bustling city like New York can feel overwhelming. You want someone who is not only effective but also uses methods that build a positive relationship between you and your canine companion. For many dog owners in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, the search leads them to Mike Preis, a certified trainer known for his commitment to force-free, positive reinforcement techniques. If you’re exploring options for Mike Preis Dog Training, this comprehensive guide will walk you through his philosophy, services, and what makes his approach a trusted choice for city dogs.
At its core, Mike’s training philosophy is about strengthening the human-animal bond through trust, encouragement, and fun. It’s a method that moves away from outdated, punitive techniques and instead focuses on scientifically-backed principles of how animals learn. This creates a more harmonious and respectful partnership, turning training from a chore into a joyful process for both you and your dog.
Who Is Mike Preis?
Understanding a trainer’s background and credentials is a critical first step. Mike Preis is not just an experienced dog lover; he is a certified professional dedicated to his craft. He holds two key certifications that set him apart:
- CPDT-KA: This stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed. It’s a credential awarded by the independent Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) to individuals who pass a rigorous exam on animal learning theory, training techniques, and animal husbandry.
- CSAT: This identifies him as a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer, signifying specialized expertise in one of the most challenging behavioral issues for urban dogs and their owners.
Mike’s journey began over a decade ago, providing dog walking and pet care services throughout New York City. This hands-on experience exposed him to various training methodologies, where he quickly recognized the profound benefits of positive reinforcement. He formally began his training studies in 2012, apprenticing under established trainers and dedicating himself to the force-free community. His approach is influenced by renowned animal behaviorists like Pat Miller, Jean Donaldson, and Patricia McConnell, ensuring his methods are rooted in science and compassion.
The Philosophy: What is Positive Reinforcement Training?
When you hear the term “positive reinforcement,” it’s more than just giving your dog treats. It’s a systematic approach to teaching and behavior modification that focuses on rewarding desired behaviors. When a dog performs an action you like—such as sitting politely instead of jumping—you add something they value, like a treat, praise, or a favorite toy. This makes the dog more likely to repeat the behavior in the future.
The Mike Preis dog training method is built on this foundation. It’s a force-free approach, meaning it avoids the use of pain, fear, or intimidation to train a dog. There are no choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars involved. Instead, the focus is on communication and understanding.
“One of the most important aspects of positive reinforcement dog training is the strong bond it creates between dogs and their humans,” is a guiding principle in Mike’s work. This process fosters a relationship based on mutual trust and clear communication, rather than one built on dominance or fear.
This approach is not only more humane but also highly effective for long-term results. It teaches a dog what to do, rather than just punishing them for what not to do. This empowers the dog to make good choices, building confidence and a love for learning.
What Training Services Are Offered?
Mike Preis offers a variety of services designed to meet the diverse needs of dog owners, from new puppies to adult dogs with specific behavioral challenges. All programs are tailored to you and your dog’s unique situation.
Private Dog Training
These one-on-one sessions are the cornerstone of his services. A private lesson allows for a fully personalized training plan that addresses your specific goals. Whether you’re dealing with leash pulling on busy sidewalks, excessive barking in an apartment building, or want to teach basic manners, Mike provides hands-on coaching and troubleshooting. These sessions are available for residents of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens.
Online Dog Training Sessions
For those outside the service area or who prefer a remote option, virtual coaching is an excellent alternative. Online sessions are particularly effective for behavior modification consultations where discussing theory, dog body language, and management strategies is key. This format is ideal for tackling issues like separation anxiety, where the trainer’s physical presence might alter the dog’s behavior.
Walk & Train
A popular option for busy New Yorkers, the “Walk & Train” service involves one-on-one sessions between the trainer and your dog. Mike works directly with your dog on skills like loose-leash walking, basic manners, and socialization in a real-world environment. This is a fantastic way to reinforce training and provide your dog with valuable mental and physical exercise while you’re at work.
A diverse group of dogs and their owners participating in a Mike Preis dog training class in a Brooklyn park, learning basic commands together.
Is Mike Preis Dog Training Right for You and Your Dog?
Choosing a trainer is a personal decision that depends on your goals, your dog’s temperament, and your own values. Mike Preis dog training is an ideal fit if you align with the following:
- You believe in humane, force-free methods. You are looking for a trainer who will respect your dog and use science-backed, positive techniques.
- You want a collaborative partner. His approach involves coaching you, the owner, to become a more effective and confident handler. He provides detailed follow-up support, including videos and articles, to help you practice.
- Your dog has fear, anxiety, or is a rescue. Positive reinforcement is especially powerful for sensitive dogs. It helps build confidence and trust, which is crucial for dogs who may have had a difficult past. His specialization in separation anxiety is a major asset for owners of dogs with this condition.
- You’re looking for long-term results. While positive training can yield quick results, its true power lies in creating lasting behavioral change and a stronger bond with your dog.
If you are looking for a quick fix that involves punitive tools or a “do it for me” approach without owner involvement, this may not be the right style for you. The success of positive training relies heavily on the owner’s commitment to practicing and reinforcing the lessons learned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does CPDT-KA certified mean?
CPDT-KA stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed. It is a credential from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, an independent certifying body. To earn it, trainers must pass a comprehensive exam covering animal learning theory, ethology, training equipment, and instruction skills, as well as log a minimum number of training hours.
Where are the training sessions held?
Private training sessions are typically held in your home or a nearby park in the Brooklyn, Manhattan, or Queens boroughs of New York City. This allows the training to occur in the environment where the behaviors naturally happen.
Does positive reinforcement work for “difficult” dogs?
Absolutely. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for all dogs, regardless of breed, age, or behavioral issue. For challenging behaviors like reactivity or fear, a force-free approach is often more effective because it addresses the underlying emotion driving the behavior, rather than just suppressing the symptom.
What kind of issues can Mike Preis help with?
He can help with a wide range of issues, including basic manners for puppies and adult dogs (sit, stay, come, leave it), leash pulling, jumping, excessive barking, and resource guarding. He is also a certified specialist in treating separation anxiety.
How do I get started with Mike Preis dog training?
The best way to start is by visiting his official website. There, you can find contact information to inquire about services, discuss your dog’s specific needs, and schedule an initial consultation to develop a personalized training plan.
Conclusion: A Partnership Built on Positivity
Ultimately, Mike Preis dog training offers more than just obedience commands; it offers a path to a better relationship with your dog. By focusing on communication, trust, and scientifically-proven positive reinforcement methods, his approach empowers owners to understand and motivate their dogs effectively. For those in New York City seeking a certified, humane, and dedicated professional, Mike provides the tools and support needed to help your dog become a happy, confident, and well-behaved member of the family.
