About Wilos Wish Dog Training Fowler, Lansing, Dewitt, Portland Michigan

Where the name comes from

A sled dog. "Around 20 years ago I was introduced into the world of dog sledding. From the first time I stepped on the wooden runners of a dog sled and was pulled by a big fluffy husky I knew that's where my heart belonged!" The trainer ran the Jr. Iditarod: "My sled dogs carried me to the Jr. Iditarod, in Alaska in 2003. We started at the start chute and traveled 172 miles together as 'one,' to cross the finish line together." The business is named for the lead dog: "the name 'Wilo' was named after my special lead dog that led me the whole 172 miles across the barren Alaskan wilderness."

What that taught the programs

"Through my journey with the sled dogs, I learned a very important lesson and that lesson is every dog learns differently just like humans do. This lesson is so important to me that I based my entire training program off of it."

Method

"At Wilo's Wish Dog Training, we use balanced, relationship-based methods that teach your dog how to listen and stay calm in real-world situations." The group class is unusually open about method choice: "We are one of the very few in Michigan that allow what ever method of training you feel comfortable with. We are well versed in all types of training methods but don't believe in a cookie cutter approach."

Programs

Board and Train: "Your dog stays with us and receives daily, structured training form an experienced professional." Private lessons: "We come to your house or meet you in public." Day Train: "A drop-off training program where your dog works with a professional trainer throughout the day. It's like daycare-but with purpose." Puppy University is age-bracketed: "Perfect for puppies 10 weeks- 5 months," offered as "our elite puppy board & train or our Stay & learn day train program." Also listed: group class, overnight boarding, virtual coaching, and a "Big Foot Wounded Deer Tracking K9 Team."

The hiking program

Day Hikes are a distinct offering: "More than a walk-it's a working adventure. Your dog joins us for structured hikes designed to build focus, confidence and calm energy in natural settings. Choice to have your dog hike with our pack of adventure pups or hike solo."

What it takes on

"Working breeds with high drive and energy," "Dogs with reactivity or aggression toward other dogs," and "Structured pack therapy to build social skills and confidence." Problems listed include "Leash Pulling, Jumping on People, Separation Anxiety, Fearful or Reactive Behavior, Barking or Lunging, Aggression, Hyperactivity & Lack of Focus, Come-When-Called Issues."

Where it works

"Wilos Wish Dog Training is based out of Fowler, Michigan, but proudly serves the Lansing, Grand Rapids and surrounding areas." The full list given is "St. Johns, Fowler, Ionia, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Dewitt, Portland, Greenville and surrounding areas," with group classes noted in St. Johns.

Before you book

Ask the trainer's name, what programs cost and how long they run.