Top Dog Training

14/12/2025

Fun time with my buddy jinks

14/12/2025

Morning fun with puppies—getting some early socialization in while holding one from Ivan’s litter as we head into the final day of our TWC Trainer Weekend Retreat.
The past few days have been incredible—surrounded by other certified trainers and learning directly from the master himself, Ivan Balabanov.

The way Ivan puts concepts together is truly unmatched. He has an ability to break things down into simple, practical ideas that just work—for the dog, for the handler, and for real life. There’s nothing flashy or trendy about it, just clarity, purpose, and results. No wonder so many people refer to him as the Dog Father.

What really sets the TWC certification apart is the depth behind it. This isn’t a weekend badge or a surface-level course. It’s about understanding why we do what we do, applying it correctly, and holding ourselves to a higher standard as trainers. The bar is set high, and that’s exactly how it should be.

I’m incredibly grateful to be certified under Ivan and to be part of a growing community of like-minded trainers who care deeply about dogs, learning, and doing things the right way. Looking forward to continuing the journey and bringing this knowledge back to the dogs and clients I work with every day.

11/12/2025

27/11/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours! 🧡🐾

I want to take a moment to thank all of my amazing clients for your support throughout the year. It truly means the world to me. Every dog I get to work with, every milestone you and your pups reach — it’s all possible because you trust me with your training journey.

A huge thank you as well to my friends and family for always sharing my business and spreading the word. Your support helps Top Dog Training grow more than you know.

And to the rescue organizations who continue to trust me with their dogs — thank you for the important work you do. I’m grateful to play a small part in helping these dogs get the training they need so they can find loving, permanent homes.

Wishing you all a safe, happy, and restful Thanksgiving.
– Mits & the Top Dog Training family 🐶🧡

17/11/2025

Took Gio out to Hanging Rock State Park today, and it was a perfect day for a hike. We passed so many families, kids, and plenty of other dogs enjoying the trails. It’s always a great socializing experience for Gio, and I love seeing people out with their pups.

Most people were super respectful and asked before approaching or letting their dogs say hello. Others… just let their dogs run right up to us. 😅
Friendly reminder: this isn’t a good idea. You never know how another dog feels, and it’s one of the quickest ways for dogs to have bad experiences. Socializing your dog is important, but asking first is just as important.

Luckily for us, Gio is well-trained, listens, and is prepared for situations like that. That foundation work pays off every single time.

We wrapped it up with those beautiful views at the top. No matter how many times we go, the hike is always worth it. 🌄🐾

14/11/2025

Trying to convince my wife — who is not a dog trainer and has never trained or worked a dog in her life — to start working our 6-year-old German Shepherd, Gio… is this asking for too much? 😂

She already deals with all my dog obsession: training, traveling, tracking, and my constant “babe, just one more session” speeches. And now I’m over here like, “Can you take over Gio so I can start a new dog?” 😅

But here’s the coolest part: even with zero experience, she stepped out there today and Gio knew exactly what to do. That’s the power of good foundation work, clear communication, and putting in the reps. A properly trained dog should be able to perform for any handler once they understand the task.

Moments like this remind me why I emphasize foundation training so much — it builds confident dogs, clear understanding, and reliability no matter who’s holding the leash.

Still… pray for my wife. And maybe pray a little for me and this dream of dog #2. 😂

05/11/2025

My nephew Noah helping me and Gio get ready for our last track before heading up to Spencer for Nationals.

I’m so proud of my boy Gio. It’s such an amazing feeling to have a dog you can take anywhere — one who can be around anyone, from kids to other animals.

Socialization and teaching your dog how to navigate the world calmly is such an important part of the process. Gio’s high energy is balanced because we’ve given him healthy outlets to express himself while teaching him how to live in harmony with us.

It’s a big job, but seeing it all come together like this makes it so worth it. ❤️🐾

04/11/2025

When you’re traveling for big championships or major events, it often means long hours on the road and several stops along the way. Grateful for the amazing friends and family who open their doors to us during the journey. Gio’s been loving meeting new people and dogs along the way — it definitely helps take some of the stress off the competition.

02/11/2025

Me and Gio relaxing before we make our way to German Shepherd national championships