About Positive Pathways Dog Training

In-home training in Allegan County

Positive Pathways Dog Training is run by Evan Shoemaker from P.O. Box 353, Otsego, MI 49078, phone (269) 225-6971. Training is delivered where the dog lives: "Personalized in-home training programs designed around your unique challenges and goals."

Three age-staged programs

Private training is sold by developmental stage rather than by skill level.

**Puppy Pathway (2–6 months)** targets "Accidents in the house, Constant biting and chewing, Jumping on people, Never seeming to settle down."

**Teenage Trail (6–18 months)** covers adolescence — "Pulling harder on walks, Ignoring commands they know, Distracted by everything outside, Listens on their terms."

**Adult Avenue (18+ months)** addresses established habits: "Reacting or lunging on leash, Managing dog and kids, Jumping on people, When you've had enough."

Why in-home

The site makes the setting the argument: "Dogs don't struggle in perfect training environments. They struggle during real life — On walks, At the front door, During busy routines, In distracting environments. That's why training happens where real life actually takes place." The stated mix is "In-home coaching, Structured real-world practice, Positive reinforcement, Personalized guidance for dogs and humans."

Credential

Shoemaker is listed as "Evan Shoemaker, KPA-CTP #61911", a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, dated 2024. He describes the method as "rewarding desired behaviors with what the learner finds motivating," and names his focus: "I specialize in transforming challenging walks into enjoyable adventures and equipping you with practical, real-world solutions tailored to your dog's personality."

Service area

Allegan County — Otsego, Plainwell, Martin, Allegan, Hopkins, Shelbyville, Wayland, Fennville — plus nearby Kalamazoo, Parchment, Portage, Schoolcraft, Richland, Gobles, Galesburg and Augusta. Virtual training is offered beyond that area. First contact is a free 15-minute Discovery Call.