Meet Your Trainer
Meet Michaela — Your Dog’s Adventure Guide
Hi, I’m Michaela, the trainer behind Summit Homestead. Dogs have shaped my life in more ways than I can count! I grew up in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where my mom and I raised and raced over 30 Alaskan Huskies. Between winter dog sledding, summers on horseback, and competing in dog shows, I learned how to care for, train, and deeply understand dogs from an early age.
Though I stepped away from that lifestyle for a while—pursuing fieldwork, traveling the country, and exploring other careers—I always came back to dogs. Training and adventuring with my own pups became the constant in my life. Eventually, I realized that what came naturally to me could change other people’s lives with their dogs, too.
After working in veterinary care and seeing firsthand how many behavior issues stem from a lack of structure or communication, I knew it was time to step in. In 2022, I launched Summit Homestead in Terrebonne, Oregon, where I now live with my fiancé, Phil, and our pack of dogs, horses, and one very confident adventure cat.
My goal is to help dog owners build calm, confident, fulfilling lives with their dogs. Whether it’s bike-joring, patio dining, or simply coexisting peacefully at home, it all starts incorporating training as a lifestyle.
My Favorite Kind of Weekend:
My favorite days off include hooking up the dogs to the sled in winter, riding trails on horseback in the summer, and camping under the stars with my dogs curled up by the fire. It’s all about freedom, time outdoors, and good company — and yes, that includes my dogs every time!
My Training Philosophy
I approach dog training by looking at the full picture—not just your dog’s behavior, but the relationship behind it. That includes your lifestyle, your routines, your goals, and what daily life actually looks like for both of you.
Every dog is different, and so is every household. My approach adapts to the unique dog in front of me and the life you want to live together. A solid relationship with your dog is built on structure, trust, and consistency—and when those pieces are out of balance, behavior issues usually follow.
That’s where I come in! I’m here to help you identify what’s missing, understand your dog’s needs more clearly, and take meaningful steps to reduce stress and confusion—for both of you. Together, we’ll create a rhythm where your dog knows what’s expected, you feel confident in leading them, and your life with your dog becomes more fulfilling and more fun!
Who I Work With
I love working with active dog owners who want more freedom with their dogs! If you dream of trail adventures, calm public outings, or just an easier life together, you’re my people. You care about your dog’s mental and physical needs, and you’re ready to show up for them. Let’s find what works best for you and your dog, and build a life you’re both excited to wake up to.