WELCOME
I am thrilled to welcome you to Port City Dog Training LLC, where I believe that every dog deserves to be well-behaved and happy! Using positive reinforcement techniques can help your furry friend become the best version of themselves. Every stage of a dog's life can present different challenges. From the puppy who chews on everything, to the adolescent who doesn't want to listen, or the newly adopted adult dog wo pulls so much on the leash that walks are torture. Are you a first-time dog owner or did you rescue a dog that's a little more than you expected? I can help! Get ready to see your pup's tail wag with joy!
Stephen Dube
Owner/Trainer
About Me
Greetings! My name is Stephen Dube, and I am a professional dog trainer dedicated to enhancing the relationship between dogs and their owners. At the age of 46, I have traversed various professional fields before finding my true calling in dog training.
For 12 years, I honed my skills in the service industry, bartending and managing restaurants. I also engaged in diverse roles, from labor-intensive jobs to rideshare services. This diversified experience provided me with invaluable interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic. However, it was during the Covid-19 pandemic that I decided to follow a different path. As someone who has adored dogs for as long as I can remember, I thought, "Why not turn my passion into a profession?"
I embarked on this journey by enrolling at the Animal Behavior College. There, I received comprehensive training that prepared me for a career in dog training. Upon completion, I was fortunate to be connected with the West Michigan Humane Society in 2022. This opportunity allowed me to work with many of our more stressed dogs during the day and teach canine obedience in group classes for the public.
My role at the West Michigan Humane Society has been incredibly fulfilling and educational. Working closely with hundreds of dogs, I have deepened my understanding of canine body language, breed differences, and temperament variations. My commitment to continuous learning is unwavering, and I am proud to be Fear Free Certified and a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed). Additionally, I am a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, a testament to my dedication to promoting good behavior in dogs.
My approach to dog training is rooted in the principles of positive reinforcement and the L.I.M.A. (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) method. I firmly believe that these methods are the most humane and effective ways to train our canine companions. By focusing on rewarding good behavior and minimizing stress, I aim to create a positive and enriching experience for both dogs and their owners.
To stay at the forefront of the science of dog training, I am constantly learning through books, podcasts, and seminars. This commitment to ongoing education ensures that I can provide the best possible training for the dogs I work with and their owners.
In summary, my diverse background and unwavering passion for dogs have led me to a rewarding career in dog training. I am dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build strong, positive relationships, and I am excited to continue this journey for many years to come.