Making life better for dogs and their people.

Proudly offering practical and welfare-focused dog training and behavior solutions for northern Michigan and beyond.

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Dog Training

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Puppy Socialization & Training

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Behavior Modification

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Reactivity Training

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Dog Sports

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Nosework

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Agility

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Enrichment Programs

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New Puppy & Dog Adoption Consulting

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Educational Programming & Speaking Opportunities

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Dog Training ✳︎ Puppy Socialization & Training ✳︎ Behavior Modification ✳︎ Reactivity Training ✳︎ Dog Sports ✳︎ Nosework ✳︎ Agility ✳︎ Enrichment Programs ✳︎ New Puppy & Dog Adoption Consulting ✳︎ Educational Programming & Speaking Opportunities ✳︎

Ready to learn the secrets to a well-behaved dog?

Welcome to Northern Michigan Mutts, where modern and effective dog training solutions are used to solve your dog’s behavior problems. Whether you need help with basic manners and obedience or working through challenges like reactivity and aggression, my goal is to help you and your dog live more harmonious lives together!

No more jumping on guests, pulling on walks, ignoring you, and causing chaos in your home – and no need to use forceful, outdated methods and painful tools. I’m here to help you get results for the real world. Find out how the future of training can be fun for you and your dog, while making life better!

Dog Training and Behavior Services

In-Person Group Classes

Join me for group classes at Barks and Rec. Animal Training and Behavior in Traverse City, Michigan. I currently teach everything from puppy socialization and beginner obedience, to dog sports like agility and scent work.

View the upcoming class schedule at www.barkranger.net or send me a message using the form below.
In-Person Private Training

Private training sessions offer personalized, 1:1 coaching for you and your dog. These sessions are approriate for dogs that do not do well in group environments, handlers that would like additional time to ask questions and practice skills, and those that want to tackle specific training scenarios. Sessions can be booked directly through me and take place at Barks and Rec (training field trips taken as needed).
Virtual Training

Interested in working with me, but not local to Traverse City? Have a specific training issue you would like help troubleshooting? Want to receive coaching from the comfort of your home, eliminating the stress of travel for both you and your dog? Contact me today to schedule a virtual session, perfect for addressing anything from basic manners to complex behavior issues (like leash reactivity).
Pre-Adoption Consultations

Choosing a dog to join your family can be challenging. Whether you need help selecting a dog breed, deciding whether or not to adopt from a shelter, or welcoming a re-homed pet into your life, I can help you determine which option is best for your lifestyle. Then, once you’ve selected a dog or puppy, we can work together to ensure you have a transition plan in place for welcoming home your new family member.
Speaking Engagements

I love hosting workshops and speaking with local businesses, organizations, civic groups, animal shelters, schools, and social clubs on topics ranging from dog body language to managing behavior problems. Workshops and presentations can be customized based on the needs and interests of your group.
Contact me to discuss topics, pricing, and availability.

So Patient, Knowledgeable and Kind

"You are absolutely wonderful!!! So patient, knowledgeable and kind. We have really enjoyed our time with you! Thank you for all that you're teaching Gus (and us)."
— Kalli + Gus
Thank You for Your Instruction, Guidance, and Wisdom

“Thank you for all your instruction, guidance, and wisdom in helping me to teach obedience and manners to Wiggins. I have seen great improvement in his 'teenage' behaviors at home, he amazes me with how quickly he learns."
— Kim + Wiggins
Thanks for the Great Class

"Thanks so much for the great class! So much to work on. My sister-in-law and niece were so impressed. My niece volunteers for a shelter in Chicago, and really loved seeing the training, games, and techniques."
— Monica + Zayla
Your Class Was Excellent

"Thank you, again, Abbie. And as I said before, your class was excellent. Well organized, managed, and you have good experience. We would enjoy taking another class from you."
— Sue + Bolt
We Really Enjoyed the Way You Communicated and Instructed

"Pip, Chelsea and I really enjoyed the class and especially the way you communicated and instructed. We will continue working on the base training you helped Pip achieve."
— Billy + Pip

Meet the Trainer

Abbie Robinson, CPDT-KA, FDM, FFCP

I’m a multi-certified and fully insured dog training and behavior professional located in Traverse City, Michigan. My greatest passion is helping dogs and their people gain confidence and improve their relationships through fun and effective reward-based training. Let’s work together!

Let's Work Together