Free Online SUMMIT Encore I June 16 - 19, 2026

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 June 16 - 19, 2026

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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 TECHNIQUES - December 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)

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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

What a great line up and mix of approaches to this subject, yet all in agreement that gut health is key to good health. I particularly enjoyed both the presentation and Q&A with Odette, how amazing is she at taking a tricky and difficult subject matter and explaining it simply and beautifully. I never before appreciated how important and valuable chiropractic care is in gut health. I also really enjoyed, and took a lot away from the discussion with Dr Susan Bohrer that I am going to share with people. Thank you Katie for organising this summit and bringing together all these wonderful people, and congratulations on making it such an easy to access and successful event. Everyone!
Jo Arbon

I can’t say I enjoyed one talk more than another. What I can say is the content of this senior summit was amazing all the way around! I learned so much about keeping senior dogs healthier from nervous system to toenails. Great speakers. Amazing content. Thank you to each and everyone of your speakers and your support staff who made this happen. Absolutely anyone with a senior dog and really, anyone with a mid aged dog that wants to keep them as healthy and happy as possible
Becky Kelber

Fantastic summit! Much appreciated the variety of approaches and speakers. Great information for anyone wanting to help dogs. First step to learning more. Thank you!

Anyone who works with dogs of all breeds and personalities.

Andra Yanchenko

The practical advice and videos of training methods were great. The emphasis on fun versus work was valuable. I liked the variety of dogs & subjects covered. Anyone who wants a better relationship with their dog & a calmer, more fun way to be with their dog in both their worlds should watch it.
Laura Hebenstreit

The knowledge that is now available to help humans and dogs work together. Everyone who is having issues with their dogs and everyone bringing a new dog into their home. Plus trainers to make them better.
Judith Whitemarsh
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