Business Details
Professional Dog Training Services in Long Island, NY
Ain't Misbehavin' Canine Academy has dedicated over 30 years to professional dog training across Columbus, Ohio, and the Metro New York/Long Island area. Founded on the principles of positive, balanced training methods, we specialize in transforming dogs of all breeds and temperaments into well-mannered family pets. Our expertise spans basic obedience, puppy training, behavioral problem-solving, and socialization, with customized programs tailored to individual needs. As a certified professional trainer by the CCPDT and member of the IACP, we uphold rigorous standards of excellence and ethical practice.Our owner, Michelle LaMarca Knapp, brings 20 years of hands-on experience and a commitment to continuous education, ensuring clients receive innovative, results-oriented training. We serve Northeast Queens, Nassau County, and Western Suffolk County, offering in-home lessons and discounts for shelter/rescue dogs. With a focus on building trust-based relationships between owners and pets, we have helped hundreds achieve harmonious companionship through effective communication and clear training techniques.
Services
Private Dog Training
Puppy Training
Behavior Modification
Obedience Training
In-Home Lessons
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of professional dog training experience
- Our trainer holds CCPDT certification with rigorous testing standards
- Private in-home training sessions tailored to your dog's environment
- Specialized programs for behavior modification and puppy development
- 10% discount available for shelter and rescue dog training
Associations and certifications
- CCPDT
- IACP
- AKC CGC
What people say
Well-behaved puppy
Positive reinforcement
Skilled trainer
Amazing progress
Lifelong skills
Services
Private Dog Training
Customized one-on-one training sessions conducted in your home environment. Our certified trainers address specific behavioral issues while teaching obedience commands through positive reinforcement techniques. Programs adapt to your dog's learning pace and household dynamics, ensuring practical application of skills in real-world settings. Clients receive personalized training plans with measurable progress tracking.
Puppy Training
Specialized programs for puppies under five months focusing on housebreaking, bite inhibition, and basic commands. Structured socialization exercises build confidence while establishing foundational obedience. Training emphasizes positive experiences to shape well-adjusted adult dogs through age-appropriate learning techniques and owner education.
Behavior Modification
Targeted interventions for fear-based behaviors, aggression, and reactivity issues. Our certified professionals develop customized behavior plans using science-backed methods to address anxiety triggers and modify unwanted patterns. Training incorporates desensitization techniques and environmental management strategies for lasting results.
Obedience Training
Structured programs teaching essential commands including sit, down, stay, come, and loose-leash walking. Advanced training builds reliability in distracting environments while reinforcing impulse control. Sessions emphasize clear communication between owner and dog to establish consistent behavioral expectations across various situations.
Socialization Classes
Controlled group settings for developing proper canine social skills. Professional guidance ensures positive interactions while addressing reactivity issues. Classes focus on reading body language, appropriate play behavior, and building confidence through structured exposure to new environments and stimuli.
People
Michelle LaMarca Knapp
Owner/Head Trainer
Certified Professional Dog Trainer with 20 years of experience. Former North Shore Animal League behavior specialist and Long Island Labrador Rescue board member. Mentored under top trainers nationwide while developing balanced training methodology combining positive reinforcement with clear communication.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We employ positive reinforcement combined with balanced techniques that include leash guidance when appropriate. Our methods focus on building trust-based relationships without using fear or pain-based corrections.
Do you offer in-home training sessions?
Yes, all our training programs are conducted in-home to address specific environmental factors affecting your dog's behavior within their natural living space.
Are your trainers certified professionals?
Our head trainer holds the CPDT-KA certification from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and maintains active membership in the International Association of Canine Professionals.
What areas do you service?
We provide training services throughout Northeast Queens, Nassau County, and Western Suffolk County including Bayside, Great Neck, Huntington, and surrounding Long Island communities.
Do you offer discounts for rescue dogs?
Yes, we provide a 10% discount for training shelter dogs and rescue animals to support successful adoption transitions through professional behavioral development.
How long are training sessions?
Program lesson counts range from 3 to 8 sessions depending on training goals. The initial behavior evaluation takes 1 hour, with subsequent sessions typically lasting 60-90 minutes each.
