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About

Michael Long, owner and trainer.

Michael Long working a sit with a chocolate Labrador during an outdoor session
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Michael Long is an experienced in-home dog trainer with five years of hands-on work helping dogs and their owners build a lasting relationship based on trust, communication, and consistency.

Originally from Ohio, he moved to Florida to work with people and their dogs. He trains with the family on behavior, obedience, and off-leash reliability, in the home and the places the dog actually goes.

Proper Dog is not a board-and-train and not a group class. You are in the session. The dog has to listen to you, not only to Michael.

Our mission

At Proper Dog, our mission is to educate and support owners while developing calm, obedient, and well-balanced dogs. Through balanced training methods we provide clear guidance, consistent structure, and tools that help owners build trust, confidence, and a strong bond with their dogs.

Helping owners

Training isn’t just about teaching dogs. It’s about supporting the people who live with them. Michael helps owners understand the dog, handle everyday problems, and feel confident in real situations. The goal is a calmer, easier life with the dog.

How he trains

Clear and consistent. Positive reinforcement builds trust and motivation. Healthy boundaries tell the dog what to do and what not to do. Dogs settle when the rules are fair and the same every day.

Chocolate Labrador in a sit on a long line at sunset, palm trees and water behind
Dog holding a down-stay in a field while the handler stands at a distance
Trainer working a chocolate Labrador on leash in an open Florida field
Dog lying calmly on the floor beside their owner during in-home training
Chocolate Labrador engaged and moving toward the handler at sunset
Chocolate Labrador sitting calmly on a dock at sunset during Proper Dog training in the Florida Panhandle

Whether you have off-leash aspirations or are simply struggling with your dog’s obedience, give us a call for a free phone consultation.

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