
Mike grew up surrounded by the traditions of dog shows and field trials, and by fourteen he had found his direction in the field trial arena, where his ability became evident quickly. He began assisting his uncle at Chickasaw Goldens, an AKC historic kennel known for high standards and championship bloodlines, and there he played a key role in training golden retrievers to Master Hunter titles and to consistent passes at Senior Hunt Tests. Achieving that as a teenager speaks to genuine skill, patience and an early depth of understanding of canine behaviour. In his early twenties he moved into working dogs, developing a strong interest in training military working dogs, patrol dogs and personal protection dogs. That shift into high drive, high stakes environments demonstrated his versatility, because the demands of protection work and the demands of a field trial retriever have very little in common beyond the need for absolute precision. Mike has succeeded across both.

Mike is a certified decoy for the American Protection and Patrol Dog Association, and the combination of technical skill and extensive hands on experience has made him a respected figure within the working dog community. He continues to refine his craft today, spending his free time training and competing with personal protection dogs, which means his skills remain sharp rather than resting on past achievement. His background is unusually well rounded, running from family dogs through to elite working canines, and it reflects a lifetime spent developing dogs that are reliable and genuinely purpose driven. For owners, the relevant point is that a trainer who can produce a titled hunting retriever and a certified protection dog has a command of motivation, timing and structure that applies just as effectively to a family pet with a behavioural problem.
We work to consistently innovate and improve upon the way that dogs are trained. Dogwise Academy aims to simplify the training process for busy families.See all

Adolescent Obedience Program | Dogs 6–18 Months. Transform your pup’s rebellious phase into calm confidence with practical, home-based training. No more jumping, leash pulling, or counter-surfing—just a happier home. Connect with a Pet Consultant today!
program

Advanced Obedience Program | Take Your Dog’s Skills Further. Unlock off-leash freedom and real-world reliability, from busy parks to bustling cafes. Give your dog confidence around everyday distractions. Speak with a Pet Consultant today!
program

Anxiety & Confidence Program | Helping Anxious Dogs Thrive. Calm your dog’s fears during storms, car rides, or alone time with personalized training and lasting support. Connect with a Pet Consultant today!
program

Reactivity & Confidence Program | Support for Sensitive Dogs. Help your reactive dog feel calm and in control with personalized training that builds focus, reduces stress, and makes walks easier for both of you.
program
We know your dog is unique. Before making any recommendations, we need to evaluate your dog's needs.
Connect with a team member for more information