FREE Online Summit I Summit Starts May 18–22. 2026

👉 Reserve Your Spot Early -

Free Dog Detox Summit (May 18–22)

Foundations of Dog Training: Mastering Microskills

This 3-week live workshop tackles the common frustrations of dog training by teaching you easy, positive reinforcement techniques that actually work.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your dog's behavior, struggled to get them to listen, or felt unsure about the best way to train, this workshop is for you. Led by expert trainer Melissa Viera, you'll gain practical, effective skills to encourage good behavior while building a strong, trusting bond with your dog.

Created by Melissa Viera

Last Updated: 2026

Workshop Schedule:

WEEK 1:  INTRODUCTION TO DOG TRAINING - December 03, 2024 At 8:00 PM Eastern Time (5:00 PM PST)

WEEK 2:  ADVANCING TECHNIQUESDecember 10, 2024 At 8:00 PM Eastern Time (5:00 PM PST)

WEEK 3:  PUTTING SKILLS INTO PRACTICE - December 17, 2024 At 8:00 PM Eastern Time (5:00 PM PST)

Full Lifetime Access

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

This course includes:

  • 3 Weeks Live Session (90 minutes  once a week on-demand dog  training )
  • 3 lessons
  • Assignments
  • Access on mobile
  • Lifetime Access
  • Certificate of Completion

about

Foundations of Dog Training: Mastering Microskills, led by Melissa Viera, is your guide to learning the basics of positive reinforcement training. Over three weeks, you’ll work through essential training steps, like using food and toys as rewards and teaching key action cues.

Struggling with...

Getting your dog to listen consistently?
Feeling frustrated when bad habits, like jumping or pulling on the leash, just won’t stop?
Wanting to train but not knowing where to start or how to make it fun for both of you?

This workshop breaks down dog training into simple, actionable steps that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. From using treats and toys effectively to teaching basic cues, you’ll learn to communicate clearly with your dog and finally see the progress you’ve been hoping for.

What you'll learn

Week One: INTRODUCTION TO DOG TRAINING

  • Introduction to basic dog training and why it works.
  • How to use toys to support their good behavior.
  • HOMEWORK: Practice using three different action cues.
  • Simple ways to motivate your dog with rewards.
  • Clear methods to help your dog understand commands.

Week TWO: ADVANCING TECHNIQUES

  • Helping your dog focus and move while using the‘Follow’ and ‘Target’ technique.
  • Working on key behaviors like ‘‘Touch,’ ‘Step Up,’ and ‘Place.’
  • A fun activity to practice obedience and patience using the ‘The Bowl Game’.

WEEK THREE: PUTTING SKILLS INTO PRACTICE

  • Applying the skills you’ve learned in everyday situations.
  • Setting the foundationfor future skills and advanced training.

Who Should Attend

This workshop is perfect for dog owners who:

  • Are new to training and want a solid start with positive methods.
  • Need help with common behavior problems in a simple and positive way.
  • Want to strengthen their bond with their dog through structured training.
  • Plan to take more advanced training and want to make sure their dog has mastered the basics.

WHAT THEY SAY

LESSONS

Course Content

  • 4:30:00
  • 3 lessons

Welcome + Event Checklist

I: Welcome
II: Pre-Event Checklist

Workshop Agenda

  • Week One: Introduction to Dog Training
    • Discover the foundation of successful dog training with simple, actionable steps. This week is perfect if you’ve struggled with getting your dog to listen or follow through on commands. You’ll learn:
      • How to use motivation effectively: Understand what drives your dog—whether it’s treats, toys, or praise—and use it to encourage good behavior.
      • Reward-based training techniques: Create positive associations with actions, making training feel like a fun game for both you and your dog.
      • Clear communication strategies: Learn how to give commands in a way your dog understands, eliminating frustration for you both.
        Step-by-step "sit" command practice: Master one of the most essential skills using multiple cues to ensure your dog responds in different settings.
  • Week Two: Advancing Techniques
    • Take your training to the next level by building on the basics. This week introduces more challenging skills and techniques to improve your dog's focus, patience, and obedience. You’ll learn:
      • ‘Follow’ and ‘Target’ skills: Keep your dog engaged and attentive, even in distracting environments.
      • ‘The Bowl Game’ for obedience and patience: A fun and practical exercise that teaches impulse control and helps reduce overexcited behaviors.
      • Reinforcing advanced behaviors: Teach your dog essential skills like:
        • ‘Touch’ – Build trust and responsiveness through physical interaction.
          ‘Step Up’ – Prepare your dog for cooperative care, such as vet visits or grooming.
        • ‘Place’ – Train your dog to stay calm and relaxed in a designated area, perfect for mealtime or guests.
  • Week Three: Putting Skills into Practice
    • Turn training into second nature for both you and your dog by applying everything you’ve learned in real-life scenarios. This week helps you move beyond controlled settings, preparing you for advanced training and day-to-day success. You’ll focus on:
      • Real-world applications: Use your skills during walks, greetings, and other daily activities to make life with your dog more enjoyable.
      • Strengthening consistency: Ensure your dog reliably responds to commands, even when distractions are present.
      • Setting the stage for advanced training: Lay the groundwork for future goals like agility, cooperative care, or off-leash reliability.

Bonus Resources

I. $20 Off Discount for Summit Premium Pass

INSTRUCTOR

  • 5+ instructor rating

Melissa Viera

Dog Trainer & Training Demonstrator

Melissa Viera, founder of MJ's Pet Training Academy, LLC, has offered dog training and grooming since 2013. Known for her positive, skill-focused methods and unique Trickovation program, she helps dogs learn everything from manners to scent work through engaging sessions. An active voice in the pet industry, Melissa writes for "Groomer to Groomer Magazine," is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), an AKC evaluator, and a member of APDT.

REVIEWS

Student feedback

Dr Conor Brady's enthusiasm and humour has made learning about canine feeding fun. I especially appreciated Dr Ian Billinghurst's downloadable document detailing the dietary program for raw feeding. I have been searching for a trustworthy guide for some time.

As a Puppy Specialist and Holistic Dog Trainer, I am asked by every client about food nutrition. I see loving pet parents wanting wellness for their dog, yet feeling overwhelmed by the contrasting information and breath of product availability. Although early in my learning journey about raw feeding, I am passionate to give up-to-date, reliable information that contributes to canine health. I appreciate how this information will guide me in helping others.

Well done to all the presenters. You offered the opportunity to dive in for a few minutes and learn something worthwhile, as well as more substantially detailed information for when an individual's time permits.

Thank you. I am so grateful to you all for being part of the Summit that give other individuals the opportunity to create faster, positive change alongside you.

I recommend the Summit to any individual who cares about canine wellness; dog lovers, dog owners and canine professionals. Critical learning for the Worldwide Veterinary industry.

Michele Goy

WOW !!! the information from Dr Katie Woodley was fantastic , so informative. Also good information from the other presenters as well.

All pet owners.

Lynette

Great speakers and so informative. They make me feel as if it is all so simple and common sense. Gives me lots of confidence going forward Thank you N/A
Josephine Gribbin

I thought Dr. Katie was one of the best hosts in this type of event I have ever attended. She asked all the right questions to the guest speakers which made it easy to obtain useful information. I wish she practiced in my area. I would recommend this summit to all dog owners and soon to be owners. Gone are the days of throwing a dog in the back yard and filling up a bowl of who knows what. They deserve better! Knowledge and love will give you a happy and healthy pet.
Teri Miles

Kamal Fernandez! Brilliant. So much good information. Best presentation so far.

Everyone with a dog!

Paula Webber