I have over 5 years of experience working with a variety of dog breeds and ages, from playful puppies to older dogs. My training approach is based in LIMA methods (Least Invasive, Minimally Aversive), focusing on positive reinforcement and using corrections as a last resort.
I have a CPDT-KA certification, I’m an AKC Evaluator, and a member of the IACP. I offer individual sessions for basic and advanced obedience, trick training, and essential puppy skills like potty and crate training, all for $150 per session. Additionally, I provide behavior modification packages tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
If you’re looking for a dedicated trainer to help your dog thrive, feel free to reach out!
Overview
Hired 10 times
Background checked
1 employee
6 years in business
Business hours
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Top Pro status
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2025
2024
2023
Services offered
Dog training package
Puppy training
General obedience training
Therapy or service dog training
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Dog training type
Private lessons
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
12 reviews
5
100%
4
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3
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Read reviews that mention:
Bilal F.
Nov 22, 2023
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Hired on Thumbtack
Michelle is an exceptional dogtrainer! Her expertise and patience transformed our Cookie from a spirited puppy to a well-behaved, obedient delight. Michelle's methods are effective, and her dedication to both the owner and the pup shines through her practice. Highly recommend her for anyone seeking top-notch training. Cookie is a hyper energetic mini goldendoodle, who loves every one and everything. He needed a gentle but firm teacher to keep him obedient and non reactive to other dogs or people. Now we are working on his service dogtraining! Thank you greatly Michelle!! You truly are the best...
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Digging • Biting • Leash pulling • Barking • House training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Premier K9's reply
Thank you so much Bilal! It’s been a pleasure seeing Cookie’s transformation and working with you and Zoya❤️
Dog Training
Colleen H.
Feb 28, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
We love Michelle! We have had a few sessions and she is so great with our stubborn puppy. She explains everything well and we're getting results. Michelle is patient with puppies and thier humans. :)
Details: 0 - 6 months old • Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • Barking • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Shira f.
Sep 22, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
Michelle works gently with the dog AND with the not so adept owner. She is patient and kind and a pleasure to work with. Our dog really looked forward to working with her.
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • Therapy or service dog training • My home, venue, etc. • At the pro’s location
Dog Training
Stu C.
May 9, 2023
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Hired on Thumbtack
Michelle answered our request promptly, asked questions about our rescue Frenchie, and listened to our concerns and needs. When she arrived at our house she had everything she needed to have a successful interaction with both us and our dog. Michelle is professional, personable, and listens. Our Frenchie was happy to work with Michelle and has made incredible improvements since our visit. We had to travel out of town and were able to board Layla with Michelle where she worked with her on socialization skills with Michelle’s dog. Michelle is wonderful, knows dogs, and how to train them and their families. Thank you
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • House training • Leash pulling • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Shelly C.
Jul 15, 2022
Michelle was phenomenal to work with. I've had multiple dogs in my lifetime and we've always been on the lookout for good trainers- and when we found Michelle we looked no further. She was immediately able to not only forge a bond with our dog but also quickly assess the individual needs of our pup. Communication is on point. With us and with our dog, Michelle was able to bridge the gap. Our goals and expectations were met and exceed in our time working with Michelle. I would highly reccomend her to anyone looking for a quality professional and educated trainer.
Credentials
Background Check
Michells Zaltsman
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My pricing is based on my years in the field and is the industry standard for south Florida. Discounts can be applied for in home board and training and packages.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), AKC evaluator and member of the IACP (international association of canine professionals)
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Dog trainers are talented, but are not miracle workers. Having a well trained dog takes time and dedication on everybody’s part.
