“We brought a physically and emotionally abused rescue dog to Mr. Konik, one that angrily barked and nipped at other people and tolerated very little physical contact. Mr. Konik trained our family to help our dog and trained our dog to trust others. His approach is grounded in powerful, clear, and simple concepts honed from years of success. His demeanor is kind and gentle, firm and consistent, trustworthy and patient, and most of all warm and welcoming. We return our dog to Mr. Konik’s care whenever we can because he comes home to us calmer, happier, and more confident and playful.  Michael Konik has transformed our whole family.  We can’t imagine a better choice when looking for a dog trainer.” 

— Fern & William C.

“If you’re looking for a dog trainer who’s gifted and capable of working wonders, Michael Konik is the answer. My Tito’s journey from a challenging rescue to a happy and well-behaved dog is a testament to Michael’s expertise, dedication and genuine care for dogs and their owners. To my amazement, after just four training sessions Tito underwent a remarkable transformation. He was a new dog, and my family couldn’t believe the positive changes. Mike’s training made both Tito and our family so much happier.”

– Chatty A.

“My dog Maisy was scared of every other dog trainer we’ve tried. But when she sees Michael she lights up! She’s so excited to go to his home and hang out with his pack. Michael’s training completely transformed her from a shy, not-so-confident dog to a very confident one. Her leash walking is great now, and there’s no more pulling! I’ve recommended his special training to several of my friends, and will continue to refer.”

— Stephanie S.

“I thought leash training our dog Mala was going to be a long, expensive process. After just one lesson there was a huge improvement. I was shocked at how quickly she picked up Michael’s training. His care really improved things for the whole family.”

– Amber N.

“As the owner of a Pitbull, I understand the importance of properly socializing my dog with others. This is what we’ve learned from our training with Michael Konik: to lead with calm energy rather than authority, to trust Gunner in a society inclined to fear and intimidation around his breed, and to trust myself as his leader. The trust and respect Gunner gives me is a direct result of the trust and respect I give him in return. Michael’s methods work!”

– Alycia S.

“I’ve met some talented dog people in my life and Michael Konik is one of the most gifted. I call him ‘the dog whisperer of Hollywood.’ He has amazing communication skills.”

— Jim L.

“I have Michael Konik listed on my phone as ‘Magnificent Mike.’ He is literally a lifesaver! My rescue Jimmy the Chihuahua was so traumatized from horrible abuse that my neighbors were advising me to have him put down before he hurt someone. I could only take him out for walks in the middle of the night when I knew there wouldn’t be anyone for him to attack. After attending MK’s School for Dogs for only a week, Jimmy was completely transformed into a normal, well-behaved companion who I don’t have to be afraid to walk in public. Truly amazing and astonishing! Michael is obviously some kind of genius when it comes to dogs. However, it is his kindness and big heart that blows me away. He really changed our lives and I am so grateful.”

— Lisa L.

“Our family adopted a 7 month-old Shepherd puppy with no prior training. In just a few sessions with Michael, she became fully house-trained and responsive to several key commands. She also mastered leash training with Michael very rapidly. Because he trains his dogs in packs, she was very quickly socialized and we never worry about aggressive behavior from her with other dogs. Anytime we have an issue pop up at home, Michael provides clear and effective instructions that almost always solves the problem. Our transition to becoming a dog family has been smooth and joyful thanks to Michael’s support and expertise. We couldn’t recommend him more.”

– Melissa P. and Joel M.

“Michael really is magic! Since his training, our Lab mix Spud has been more confident, a better walker, and overall more attuned to us. We’re so pleased with his behavioral changes in such a short time. It’s an incredible gift for Spud to dayboard with Michael and his students, when all the lovely energy gets reinforced. The School for Dogs is beautiful, with so much space for dogs to run around outside with their friends. When we get a new dog, the first thing we’ll do is enroll him at Michael’s magical school.”

— Anisa S. and Sam M.

“Michael has been essential to Ruby’s socialization and development as a new rescue puppy in our family. We know when she spends time with him she’ll be loved and cared for, and her brain will be stimulated by his training and the interaction with his own pups. Michael was incredibly helpful in reinforcing the basics, so Ruby knows how to walk calmly on a leash as well as sit, stay, and come. Having his dogs model behavior for her helped her settle right into their pack and ours. We love knowing that any time we need extra support while we work or travel we can bring Ruby to Michael’s for a day of enjoyable and productive socialization. Thank you, Michael!”

— Austin G. and Danielle B.

“Sharing his special gifts, Michael brings emotional prosperity to dogs and humans alike. His talent is life-changing.”

– Suparna S.

“We’ve learned a dog owner must also train themselves, following through with patience, consistency and love. But I’m not exaggerating when I say that our frightened rescue Shadow’s first day of training with Michael and his pack was transformative. Michael is calm, precise, and clear. He’s an essential resource for us and the whole neighborhood. We’ve had Shadow now for only three months. It’s hard to imagine how far we have come.”

— Mark & Emily Z.

“My nickname for Michael is “Doggie Dudamel.” He literally conducts a pack of dogs like they’re a symphony orchestra. It’s beautiful and inspiring to see your dog play in perfect harmony.”

— Jill G.

“Harry Potter, our loving Havanese poodle, came to us with one significant annoying habit: constant barking – at people passing by, repairmen, delivery people, etc. It took Michael a single two-hour session to teach Harry and me a calm and decisive approach to correcting the problem. Since then, Harry longs for my husband and I to go on vacation so he can board at Michael’s school. Best dog trainer in LA!”

– Helen B.

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“When I adopted my nine-month stray from a shelter, he was so shut down he just froze and wouldn’t even walk. I was overwhelmed and thought it would take several months to desensitize him. I can’t believe how far Buddy has come so quickly. In just a few weeks, with Michael’s expert guidance, Buddy has transformed into a totally different dog: confident, happy, secure. It’s amazing! I’m so grateful to have found Michael. His training works!”

— Paul F.

“Michael is truly amazing! A very special dog person. His calm energy and training philosophy are just perfect, exactly what a concerned dog owner needs. We’re very lucky to have him!”

— Russ A.

“Honey, our human-reactive Frenchie, has come out of MK’s training a changed pup. She would bark and lunge at strangers both inside and outside of our home. Only the owner of a reactive dog knows the sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness it is to have a pup like this. She’s gained so much confidence and calm. Knowing that Honey is able to form new friendships with humans is everything to us. We have so much hope for her future and are eternally grateful to MK and his pack for the life lessons he has taught her and us.”

— Emily & Billy W.

My initial conversation with him had me feeling a tinge of optimism. Could it be? Was his assessment too good to be true?  Could my pie-in-the-sky dream of Lilly safely interacting with other dogs be realized?

Leading up to our first lesson. He had me take videos of Lilly. He gave me homework — which I did diligently. I knew that as much as he needed to help me train Lilly, he also needed to help me get over the fear that I was projecting every time she was on a leash. That first meeting, I felt an incredible weight lifted off me. In one session, Michael accomplished more than all the other trainers in three years. We walked and walked and walked together, and Mike’s evaluation was there was a path forward for Lilly: Do the homework; walk Lilly outside twice a day, every day;  be consistent; project calm and control.

She improved by leaps and bounds. I was astonished that on our second meeting Michael brought the cutest darling service dog Billie. I admittedly was concerned that my dinosaur would eat sweet little Billie. Not only did that not happen, by the end of the session they were hanging out together (supervised) in my backyard.  The smile on my Lilly’s face was undeniable for the rest of the day. 

We did that a few times and I found that her reactions while on a walk went from scary to exuberant — still a lot of energy but way less negative. I also noticed that she was excited to see little dogs like Billie and the other pack members Mike brought to lessons, but she still was hostile towards larger dogs.  I shared this feedback with Mike and he arranged to bring a Pitbull to meet Lilly.  There were moments where I was holding my breath, but Mike had it under control every step of the way. They ended up lying down together, nose to nose.

I never expected for the training to actually work, and I never expected the results to be so quick!  Lilly is doing great. I can walk her now daily without paralyzing anxiety and worry. I’m so proud of her and so grateful to Michael Konik for giving back to me such precious time with my dog.”

–Kerry A.

“Michael is such an amazing addition to our dear Strummer’s routine. After one lesson we immediately saw a shift in her behavior and energy. She has been able to maintain pack-walking practices everyday. Michael’s love and attention to each dog and their behavioral needs is truly a gift, and we are so happy to have him for daycare and boarding! Our sweet Strummer is even more perfect with Michael’s help. Thank you, MK!” 

— Hasina P. and Jake S.

“We’re so glad that we were introduced to Michael as our growing family benefited immensely from the improvements in our dog’s behavior. Our 3-year-old GoldenDoodle started to show a greater level of obedience and calmer vibe from day one — and has continued to do so since post-training.”

— Harsh & Payal P.

“Michael worked wonders with our four-year-old Maltipoo. Our experience was nothing short of amazing! In just a few days, we noticed significant improvements in Luna. She become much more social, her listening skills enhanced, and her daily walks took on a more relaxed and steady pace. These positive changes are a direct result of the time she spent with Mike and her fellow dog companions. It’s evident that he possesses a remarkable gift for his work, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the progress Luna has made. The daily photos he took of her were adorable, adding to the overall experience. We highly recommend Michael and his exceptional services!”

— Meca and Carol L.

“Raising a puppy, even an almost perfect one, takes a village. I met Michael when Maisie was 4-months old. She didn’t have any immediate issues; the problem was my inexperience. Michael saw potential in both of us and bonded with Maisie instantly. 

Joining the pack helped Maisie learn proper leash behavior, socialize, and mirror older dogs.  Michael also taught me skills and encouraged me to continue Maisie’s training in between daycare visits at his home. The fact that Maisie gets excited every time she approaches Michael’s door and is exhausted from exercise and play when I pick her up just proves how Michael works hard all day to make sure my pup gets the most out of her experience.     

At 13-months, everyone compliments Maisie’s mature and well-behaved nature, as well as her social skills that put dog owners at ease and bring a smile to anyone who meets her.  While she has an innate ability to lovingly approach any dog, Michael’s guidance and passion for his work has been crucial in her development.  Meeting Michael will benefit both you and your pup immensely.”

— Scott W.

“Michael indeed is magical with dogs. In just one-and-a-half days I saw a huge difference in my Milo’s behavior: less reactive, listens better, and calmer overall.  Each week it just gets better and better!”   

— Jacquelyn H.

“We could not be happier with the training our dog has received from MK Dog Magic. In a short period Michael taught our sweet Sophie all the good habits she needed to walk and socialize better. Michael has a comprehensive approach which included teaching us and our young children how to continue the training at home. The transformation is nothing short of magic and it’s done in a nurturing and supportive way.”

— Parima P. and John T.

“We enrolled our 5-month-old puppy, Sadie, in Michael’s pack training class and immediately saw results. As first-time puppy owners, we weren’t sure what constituted normal puppy behavior — versus problematic — and didn’t feel fully equipped to train her on our own, especially with all the mixed information out there. Furthermore, due to her breed, she’s very active and athletic and requires a lot of exercise, which can be challenging.

We live in the same neighborhood as Michael, so we often see him walking with his dogs. His joy for the job, calm demeanor, and well-behaved pupils gave us the confidence we needed to enroll Sadie in his class.

He teaches with kindness, using a reward system that works and a correction approach that speaks to dogs without ever being harsh or reprimanding. He remains calm and composed, and you get the sense that he’s seen every kind of dog and knows exactly what each one needs to be successfully guided.

In less than a week, Sadie learned proper etiquette around walks (no leash pulling), people (no jumping), and other dogs (picking up cues from the pack). She now stops at every crosswalk and looks to us for the go-ahead before crossing. Most impressively, Michael taught her how to “stay”—something we had been trying to instill for a long time, which he achieved in a single day.

Overall, Sadie has matured by leaps and bounds in just one week, and we look forward to continuing under Michael’s guidance.”

— David G. and Lilly C.

“Before working with Michael, walks with our dog were chaotic. It would be a constant tug-of-war. But now, after just a few sessions, Lola walks calmly by our side without much distraction. We’re genuinely amazed at the patience, skill, and deep understanding Michael brings to his work. Our walks have gone from stressful to peaceful, and we finally feel proud (and relaxed!) when we’re out together. We can’t recommend him enough.”

— Hitomi N. and Sam A.

“Michael is truly a dog whisperer. We came to him with a highly reactive Jack Russell puppy. When I say reactive, I mean it—even our vet mentioned the possibility of having to do the unthinkable. After just one day with Michael, she was a completely different dog. We couldn’t help laughing at pick-up because it was so surreal. We’ve tried other training programs before, but she’s never been this happy, confident, or responsive. Michael’s calm energy and “loving leader” approach is unlike anything we’ve seen. After just four days of training, peace and happiness have been restored to our home. Michael is far and away the most effective trainer we’ve ever worked with—truly a blessing.”

“I adopted a large dog who was much stronger and more reactive to other dogs than I expected. I was nervous when walking her because I didn’t know how to handle her or bring her attention to me. Michael completely changed my relationship with my dog. After just a few sessions, I felt comfortable walking her and handling her reactions — and her reactivity noticeably reduced day-to-day. She improved with each session, giving both of us more and more confidence. Now my dog listens to me, takes my corrections, and is also just a happier dog! Michael is so loving and gentle while also being firm and commanding. She loves and respects him so much and is overjoyed when he comes to work with her. I couldn’t recommend him more to train your dog.”

— Liz H.

“Michael made a wonderful connection with my dog Binx, who was struggling with anxiety while on a leash. Michael was able to make house calls and work with Binx in an environment that was comforting to him, building trust and authority with Binx and getting him comfortable walking on a leash. I’m so grateful for Michael’s partnership in helping me and Binx. I recommend him.”

— Jake P.

“Michael brings a calm, grounded presence that immediately makes both dogs and their people feel safe. His energy creates a sense of security that allows dogs to trust him as a steady leader. Since working with Michael, my dog has become noticeably calmer, more confident, and more friendly overall. From the very beginning, Michael was patient, attuned, and able to read my dog with ease. I feel an incredible sense of peace leaving my dog in his care. My boy is continuing to grow his ability to stay regulated and engage with the world confidently and with excitement.”

— Tal G.

“Working with Michael has been such a wonderful experience for both me and my 6-pound Maltipoo, Whisky. Michael’s patience and genuinely nurturing approach immediately put us at ease, and it’s clear how much he truly cares about every dog he works with. He took the time to understand Whisky’s personality and gave me practical, easy-to-follow tools for leash training and helping her feel more confident and social around other dogs on our walks. One of the things we’re most excited about is becoming part of his ‘Vista Pack.’ It feels like such a warm, vibrant community, and I love the idea of Whisky learning and growing alongside other dogs in such a positive environment. I’m so grateful for Michael’s guidance and support — we’ve already seen such a difference, and I can’t recommend him highly enough.”

— Rachel F.

“I am so happy with how Michael trained and supported my dog Parcel. He helped her confidence massively and taught us both how to be in better communication with each other. Watching Michael with the pack is truly watching a master at work. It’s amazing to see, and ‘magic’ is truly the right word for it.”

— Tabitha B.

“My wife and I adopted a 4-month-old puppy named Clover—part pit, part shepherd, and part devil. She had major puppy energy and impulsiveness, and would ‘herd’ and nip at our legs. At our wits’ end, a close friend recommended Michael and promised us he was a miracle worker. We listened, and we could not be more pleased. Clover has learned all the basic commands and now responds to clear ‘stop’ signals when she engages in inappropriate behavior. His methods and techniques are simple, intuitive, and extremely effective. Clover is a new dog and only getting better with each day all thanks to him. We could not recommend a trainer more highly than Michael.”

— Greg M.

“Thank goodness for Michael! My daughter’s dog — we’ll call him “Q”– was running us ragged. The most adorable and sweet Bordoodle puppy: so bouncy and energetic and cute . . then he got bigger and decided he was the King of Everything. My daughter’s boss. My boss. The boss of the sidewalk. If another dog or human walked near us he pulled, jumped, lurched, and constantly defended his turf. He bit the Amazon man. He nipped family members and friends.

My daughter first met a trainer that put a prong collar on him. We didn’t like his negative methods, so we looked for someone positive.

Then we met Michael on a typically disastrous walk with Q. He was so reassuring and I loved his calm approach. I immediately signed-up for training.

When I pulled up in the car on Day One, Q was jumping all over the car, on me, doing the “dolphin spin and twirl” vertical jump and barking like the Tasmanian devil at every dog or person walking by. We met Michael and his training pack on the sidewalk. They were all perfectly calm. Following Michael’s instructions, within ten minutes a MIRACLE occurred: All of us — my dog, his pack, and myself — were all whisper calm. Seriously. This happened. All these dogs were in close proximity together and being well-mannered and chill. It was like doggie “Woofstock,” Love and Peace Day. The Doggie Code of Honor. Magic.

Now Q joins Michael and the Pack every week. After graduating training school, he now gets to hike Runyon Canyon off-leash, meet up with his doggie crew, learn new manners, and relax. Michael reinforces Q’s training and reminds him how to stay in tip-top form. If something new comes up, we discuss it with Michael and address it. Now we have tools and methods so Q can live his best life. And thanks to Michael the sidewalks are safe again. He’s the best!”

— Karen C.

“Michael is a true miracle worker. I rescued Lily, part Chihuahua and part Poodle, a little over a year ago when she was 4 years old. Barking is in her DNA, and it was incessant; she’d bark at the air, at nothing at all. On top of that, she pulled like crazy on every walk.

Michael’s week-long program was nothing short of a miracle. Did he give her a lobotomy? Genuinely, after just one 8-hour day, she was walking calmly by my side. More importantly, I was trained on how to correct her myself. Michael taught me the value of consistency, calm energy, and non-verbal communication.

After 5 days (three of which were only half days), my house is so, so quiet. If Lily barks at all, it’s once, and then she stops and listens. Michael helped me understand that I needed to change the leadership dynamic with Lily and teach her to focus on me instead of every distraction around her.

The improvement has been amazing. I cannot recommend Michael highly enough. I love him and wish I had found him a year ago!”

— Rita C.

“My husband and I have two six-year-old litter-mate dogs who have had issues with reactivity since we adopted them in 2021. We worked with a couple of different trainers who did their best but ultimately seemed perplexed by our dogs and what triggered them. We figured that this is just how our dogs are and we would love them no matter what, but that meant having to always be on guard and ready for explosive reactions either at home or on walks. We serendipitously met Michael, and after talking to him about our situation, it became clear that he knew exactly how to handle our dogs and he would do so in the most loving and empathetic way.

Michael has such a magical way with dogs that within the first hour of training, we almost didn’t recognize our two girls. Michael managed to transform our dogs from lunging and snapping to calmly and happily walking with a pack of six new dogs in just one day. It’s been thrilling for us to see our dogs gain more confidence and find companionship in Michael’s pack. 

Michael’s commitment to his work is truly inspiring. He makes a huge effort to update all of his clients on the progress that’s being made, and he always gives his clients (humans and dogs) his undivided attention so that he can make sure every concern is addressed. I’d also like to note that while walking our dogs with Michael around the neighborhood, we met several dogs who had graduated from Michael’s training program. They were all perfectly behaved and, of course, happy to see him. Michael is a gem and I would recommend him highly to anyone who wants to improve their dog’s quality of life!”

— Hillary S.

“Michael is an AMAZING trainer with skills I’ve never seen before. He was able to accomplish incredible changes with my little poodle that I didn’t think possible. He has special powers. He’s also a beautiful Human Being. My dog and I absolutely adore him and recommend him to anyone who wants a better dog and a better life.”

— Joanne L.