Making life better for dogs and their people.

Proudly offering effective and welfare-focused dog training and behavior solutions in Traverse City, for northern Michigan families and beyond.

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Dog Training

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Puppy Socialization & Manners

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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

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Speaking Engagements

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

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 anxiety, 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more jumping on guests, pulling on walks, ignoring you, and causing chaos in your home – and no need to use forceful, outdated methods and painful tools!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

Private Training

Private training sessions in Traverse City offer personalized, 1:1 coaching for you and your dog. These sessions are appropriate 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 are booked directly through me and take place at an agreed upon location.
Group Classes

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

View the upcoming class schedule at www.barkranger.net or send me a message using the form below.
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.
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. Once you’ve selected a dog or puppy, we can work together to create a transition plan 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.

We Couldn't Have Asked for a Better Trainer!

“Forever grateful for the love, patience, and dedication Abbie poured into our girl. Thank you for believing in her, helping her grow, and giving us the confidence to be the best team we can be. We couldn’t have asked for a better trainer!"
— Charlie, Loren + Fern
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
You Were an Amazing Teacher

“You were an amazing teacher and we learned so much! Thank you for bringing such fun energy and ideas for different challenges.”
– Kat + Dolly

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!

Contact Abbie Today