Dog training that is kind, fun, and inclusive!
Working to change the world, one dog at a time.
My mission is to help you bring out the best in your dog
I want to help you look at your dog’s behavior differently and to embrace all of your dog’s flaws because they are what makes them truly unique.
Your new dog trainer!
For all of your dog training needs!
I work with you one-on-one in virtual private dog training lessons helping you to create a life you love with your dog. I’ll probably even sneak in some educational stuff too… but it won’t feel like school. I promise!
It will be me teaching you - the dog guardian - to successfully communicate with your dog! YOU will be the most important person in the room to your dog, and I teach YOU how to implement your personalized dog training plans right away.
get to know me!
I’m Emily Fitzpatrick, VSA-CDT (she/her)
Sagittarius
INFJ
Type 4
Neurodivergent
Owner and head trainer of Misunderstood Mutt.
I am a certified dog trainer through the prestigious Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA-CDT) where I graduated with distinction. The Victoria Stilwell Academy prioritizes the use of positive training - training that takes a progressive, science-based approach to solve behavior problems.
The 4 pillars of Positive Training:
Use Positive Reinforcement
Avoid use of intimidation, physical punishment and fear
Understand misconceptions about dominance theory
Learn about the canine experience from the dog’s POV
Before starting on my dog training journey I started out in the animal profession as a certified veterinary assistant.
I take education very seriously to ensure that I am always providing dog guardians with the best dog training plans using the most up-to-date dog training methods.
You can check out my continuing education here!
And when I am not working with dog guardians I can be found doing home DIY projects, lounging in my backyard with my dogs, trying out a new hyperfixation hobby, or checking out local vegan restaurants.
Praise for Dog Training with Em
Meet my Misunderstood Mutts!
Goose
Little shy baby!
Eastern European Village Dog - born in Sicily. Scared of most things but has such a soft soul, the slappiest of paws, and 10/10 best cuddler.
The sensitive lady!
87% American Staffordshire Terrier built like a tank with muscles for days. But don’t let her appearance fool you, she’s very sensitive and loves her emotional support ball.
Remi
Jinya
Trash that became treasure!
The tiny baby chihuahua mutt that was dumped outside of our house and has become the brightest of light in our lives! She’s fun, chaotic, and so incredibly brilliant.
My soul dog!
An angel mutt. The most special dog to ever exist in my life. The one who taught me the most and showed me what it was like to be loved by a broken dog. He inspires me to keep learning about and advocating for dogs like him.
Gus Gus
Training Tools
We will only use dog training tools and methods that empower your dog!
Heck Yes!
Clickers & Verbal Markers
Treats & Treat Pouch
Harness & Leash
Long Lines
Snuffle Mats
And more!
Heck no!
Prong Collar
Shock or E-Collar
Slip Leads
Choke Chains
Verbal or Physical Corrections
Punishment, Fear, & Force
I Have Been In Your Shoes
Not only am I a certified dog trainer, but I am also the proud dog parent of three misunderstood mutts. I have used everything I will teach you to help my own dogs to overcome their fears, anxieties, and reactivity.
Through training with my own dogs - I began to understand that I had just misunderstood my dogs’ feelings all along.