Michelle Wieser

I am a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) , Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP), and a professional member of the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers. I’ve spent over 20 years teaching and supporting dogs and their people in Whitehorse, Yukon, specializing in behavior concerns like reactivity, fear, and predatory instincts. My approach is rooted in positive and modern, science-based methods. I’m passionate about helping both ends of the leash and recently completed the Handlers & Humans Person-Centered Dog Training program to strengthen my skills in client support, empathy, and communication. I believe lasting change comes from understanding both dog behavior and the human experience.

I’ve spent the past 8 years working full-time as a professional dog trainer, leading group classes, providing private coaching, and offering day training programs. My work focuses on early puppy socialization, manners and obedience, and addressing behavior concerns like reactivity, aggression, high arousal, and predatory chasing. I also teach enrichment-based activities including nosework and parkour. I use humane, science-based methods to help dogs and their humans succeed—supporting behavior change while preserving each dog’s unique personality.

With over eight years of full-time experience in dog training and behavior consulting, I’ve completed an extensive range of advanced certifications and continuing education in canine behavior, human learning, and the client experience. My formal training includes:

Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC) – Earned with distinction (95%) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, one of the most rigorous certifications in the field.

Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) – Completed a comprehensive, science-based program focused on positive reinforcement and behavior change.

Person-Centered Dog Training: Handlers & Humans – A specialized program created by a licensed therapist to strengthen client-trainer relationships through empathy, communication, and a strengths-based coaching approach.

Aggression in Dogs – Master Course – Taught by world-renowned aggression expert Michael Shikashio CDBC and veterinary behaviorist Dr. Chris Pachel, covering advanced treatment protocols for aggression cases.

Predation Substitute Training – Instructor Certification – A 10-week course on safely managing predatory behaviors in dogs using fun, effective, force-free methods.

Puppy Start Right Instructor Certification – Developed by a veterinary behaviorist and RVT, this course emphasizes early socialization, development, and preventative training.

Therapy Dog Team Training (KPA) – Focused on preparing teams for successful, ethical therapy dog work across a variety of public environments.

Ongoing Education – I regularly attend international conferences (e.g., Clicker Expo, Aggression in Dogs Conference) and specialized workshops on topics including leash reactivity, intra-household aggression, scent detection, and behavior medications.

This education supports a humane, science-based approach grounded in empathy—for both dogs and their humans.