Welcome to Steppinstone

Dog Training

In Oconomowoc & Surrounding Areas

Serving Oconomowoc, Merton, Sussex, Waukesha, Dodge, Jefferson, Washington, and Ozaukee counties, we’re committed to providing the highest level of care and training for your furry friends.

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Effective Dog Training, Real Behavior Solutions

Unlike one-size-fits-all training approaches, our customized programs are carefully designed to address each dog’s unique temperament, learning style, and specific training goals. We understand that every dog is different, and we take the time to create personalized training plans that meet their individual needs. Whether you’re looking for basic obedience training for a new puppy, behavior modification for an older dog, or advanced training for a service or therapy dog, we offer tailored solutions that deliver lasting, real results. Our goal is to help every dog become well-behaved, confident, and happy, while also giving you, the owner, the tools and guidance needed for continued success at home.

  • Develop a clear and loving relationship
  • Strengthen owner-dog communication
  • Improve social skills in real-world settings
  • Address behavioral issues, obedience, and socialization
Our Results

Why Choose Steppinstone Dog Training?

With 20+ years of experience in professional dog training, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every dog we work with. Our customized training plans are thoughtfully designed to suit dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments, ensuring that each dog receives the individual attention they deserve. Using proven, reward based training, we help build trust, confidence, and lasting results. From addressing common behavioral challenges to providing specialized service dog training, we are committed to supporting both dogs and their owners every step of the way. Serving Oconomowoc and surrounding areas, we strive to create happy, well-behaved companions that enrich the lives of their families.

Steppinstone Dog Training

Areas Of Expertise

We believe that every dog has the potential to be well-behaved, confident, and a joy to live with. Our training programs focus on building trust, communication, and positive behavior, ensuring that both you and your dog enjoy a happy and fulfilling relationship.

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Serving South East Wisconsin

Locations We Serve

Steppinstone Dog Training proudly serves the communities of Oconomowoc, Merton, Sussex, and Waukesha, along with the surrounding Dodge, Jefferson, Washington, and Ozaukee counties in Wisconsin. Our comprehensive dog training services are available throughout these regions, ensuring that dog owners receive expert training and support close to home. Whether you’re in the heart of Waukesha or the peaceful surroundings of Jefferson County, we are dedicated to helping you and your dog build a successful training experience together.

Why Choose Us

Our 5-Star Reviews From Our Clients Speak For Themselves

Countless happy dog owners have trusted Steppinstone Dog Training to transform their pets with expert guidance and care. Each success story is a testament to our dedication, personalized training methods, and genuine love for dogs. We take pride in delivering exceptional results, and we can’t wait to help you and your dog achieve the same success. Let us make you our next success story!

After a wrist replacement and right reverse shoulder replacement that left me with no feeling and limited movement, I needed help with specific task training to help me get clothes off. Michelle’s knowledge of how to lay the foundational skills was absolutely amazing! She even provided us with video she captured during the session and detailed notes. Rascal now assists me with a variety of tasks due to limited upper body mobility. This would not have been possible without her!!

Verified Google Review

Michelle was great helping with our German shepherd Jax! He was very reactive with dogs while on leash and we can now go on walks and not be worried about passing another dog!

Verified Google Review

We were looking for dog trainers in the area and after our initial consultation with Michelle, we knew she was the one! Highly recommend Michelle if you are looking for a dog trainer that communicates very well and handles your dog like they’re her own. She is thorough, knowledgable and truly cares about her clients.

Verified Google Review

I just started training with Michelle and I couldn’t be happier! In our first meet I learned more than I did at PAC in Cincinnati from the 3 lessons I attended. My dog and my parents dogs loved her as well. I can’t wait to continue this dog training journey with her.

Verified Google Review

Had a 1:1 training with Michelle and my English lab Frannie tonight. Seems like my neighborhood has the entire population of squirrels living in it. After 2 shoulder surgeries and a dog that wants those squirrels in the worst way we needed some help. Michelle had such great ideas that really worked. I feel very motivated to keep consistent with new techniques and can walk my neighborhood without getting dragged down the street. Frannie also enjoyed the mental stimulation. Thanks Michelle for the training and helping me to continue to build the relationship with my dog all while having fun with her. Looking forward to continuing to work with Michelle and join in on the pack walks.

Verified Google Review

Steppinstone is super easy to work with and open to the uniqueness that we, as dog owners, bring to the table. Today during training was the first time we have been able to comfortably walk into a store. Thank you! We really appreciated the meet and greet also when the trainer first met Gideon. Being able to meet and assess him to then build a tailored plan for Gideon was the best.

Verified Google Review

Michelle was a great trainer for my first time training experience. She was prompt in responding to my initial inquiry and was able to meet the same week. She came to my home to help assess and start training my German shepherd puppy. I noticed a difference that same day! I would definitely recommend her to others and continue to use her as needed.

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Michelle is absolutely incredible!!! So friendly and extremely knowledgeable! She came to my house and after less than 2 hours with my dog and I, she helped us both work through leash pulling and I have never seen him so well behaved! I wish I could leave 100 stars!

Verified Google Review

I recently introduced an 8 month old pup into the home. 3 yr old dog wanted nothing to do with it, even though there were previously 2 other dogs. Constant fights and growling. Michelle came in and suggested several things to try. I was at my wits end, because rehoming wasn't an option. After 2 sessions with her, I woke one morning to find they were best buddies and haven't looked back. She also trained my 3 yr old dragger to walk nicely on leash, so that I'm not being dragged. I highly recommend Michelle

Verified Google Review

I bought a English Lab from Michelle and it was the best thing I have done in my life at 75 years old. This is my fifth lab and I named him Shiloh. I have never had one this gentle and easy to train. He was trained in two days for going outside for potty with a doggy door and a 13 year old Lab. I have him that he likes to go for a ride and sits in the passenger seat and watches everything and never bothers me. He is 7 months old and will go after geese and ducks on the pond and listens very well. If you are looking for a Lab I would never hesitate to getting one from Michelle who is the nicest person to work with and very willing to help you and answer any questions.

Verified Google Review

Michelle has the best interests of us as pet owners, but more importantly, the best interests of her dogs is front and center. Michelle has a caring, no nonsense approach to the business of acclimating and training your pet/family member to your lifestyle and social disciplines as well as train and educate you in how to work with and learn about your new family member. Our dog Colt is a wonderful dog thanks to Michelle's breeding expertise and the training and coaching we have received from her. Always willing to chat or meet with us when he have questions or need help with our Colt.👍

Verified Google Review

You will not find another trainer or breeder that puts their entire heart and soul into their art. From the prenatal care of the mothers, to the long nights of whelping, Michelle is there. The early stages of training puppies to ensure a smooth transition into their forever homes, the crate training and sleepless nights. You will not find more well rounded and social puppies! Michelle is worth her weight in gold. The patience she obtains to troubleshoot any training or behavioral issue is unmatched. I will continue to recommend Steppinstone Dog Training and Labradors to everyone! I have one of the best dogs I have ever had from Michelle.

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I have had help training my dogs by Michelle for almost 20 years! She is amazing!

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Michelle has been an asset to dogs for many years through training, rescue, and breeding. She has a great personality and works well with people as well as dogs.

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This is the best lady to see for all your dog needs! We have been lucky enough to work with Michelle two times, for started hunting dogs, who have been the best of the best! She knows what she is doing and I wouldn't ever go with anyone else. She has always been available for brainstorming ideas or for advice when needed. Highly recommended, without a doubt! Wish I could give her 10 stars!

Verified Google Review

Michelle worked wonders with our Border Collie while he was with her during a board and train. He would chase cars, run off like a bullet when something caught his attention, etc. Basically did his own thing. Since he has returned from Michelle's training we can go for walks on our land off leash and his recall is outstanding. Thanks to Michelle our time with our pup is a pleasure. You won't be disappointed!

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Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

Certified

At Steppinstone Dog Training, we are proud to be certified in Canine Good Citizen (CGC) training, including CGC, CGCA (Advanced), and CGCU (Urban). While we do not provide official certification, we offer expert training to prepare your dog to successfully pass CGC evaluations with confidence. Our structured approach focuses on obedience, socialization, and behavior in real-world settings, ensuring your dog meets the high standards required for the AKC’s CGC certification. Whether you’re aiming for better manners at home or preparing for therapy or service work, we can guide you and your dog through the skills needed to excel.

 

Our Blog & Tips

News & Blog

Our Training Philosophy

Explained

At Steppinstone Dog Training, we focus on Reward based training methods, meaning we reward dogs for good behavior rather than using harsh corrections. This approach ensures that dogs enjoy training, remain engaged, and develop a lifelong love for learning. Our philosophy is built on trust, respect, and clear communication between you and your furry companion. We believe that a happy dog is a well-trained dog, and our methods help strengthen the bond you share while fostering confidence and obedience. By creating a supportive environment, we empower dogs to thrive and owners to feel confident in their training journey.

 

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