Royal Oak, MI 48073
Call or Text: (734) 462-2810

About Alternative Canine Training

Since 2000, Alternative Canine Training has served Oakland, Macomb and Wayne County, becoming one of Michigan's most trusted dog training institutions. Founded by certified master trainer Bonny Wainz, our company offers a natural alternative to traditional training methods.

Core Values

  • Providing the best dog training in the United States
  • Delivering amazing results in a short period of time
  • Teaching owners to understand and communicate with their dogs
  • Tailoring each training session to individual dogs and owners
  • Following L.I.M.A. (Cynopraxic) principles using the least invasive method possible

Our Approach

Alternative Canine Training offers a natural alternative to traditional methods. We teach "Doglish" - the natural language of dogs - enabling fast, effective communication between owners and their pets.

Certifications

Our Expert Team

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Bonny Wainz

Master Trainer & Owner
CDTA, PDTI, L.I.M.A certified, Dog CPR and first aid certified

As the owner of Alternative Canine Training, Bonny brings to her clients over 35 years of experience. She feels her best attribute is that she loves seeing dogs and their owners living happy, joyful, and peaceful lives together. 

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Cindi Fleishans

Service dog trainer
20+ years experience, specializing in service dog training and puppy/basic classes

Cindi Fleishans is an accomplished dog trainer with many years of rescue work and deep involvement in the assistance dog field. In addition to tutoring clients of Alternative Canine Training (ACT), Cindi has dedicated hundreds of hours each year to the nonprofit program, Sterling Service Dogs.

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Karen Deren

Office Manager / Scheduler
Coordinating trainer and client schedules since 2007

I started out with Alternative Canine Training as a client 20 years ago. From there they needed someone to answer the phones and do all the scheduling I offered and here I am 18 years later still with them. I truly love talking with all the pet parents and getting pictures is my favorite part of the job. 

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Jen Dafoe

Administrative assistant and bootcamp trainer with Leader Dogs for the Blind experience

Recognition & Achievements

Alternative Canine Training has been:
Featured on Channel 4 as "Best Of" winner
Highlighted in numerous TV and radio appearances
Regular columnist for Eccentric Newspapers
Trusted trainer for notable clients including TV personalities Val Clark, Paula Tutman, and Monica Gayle
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Training Programs

We offer comprehensive training solutions including:
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Community Involvement

We actively support our local dog community by:
Fostering and rehabilitating dogs from local rescues
Providing free evaluations for rescue organizations
Contributing to multiple rescue organizations throughout the year

Service Area & Locations

Alternative Canine Training proudly serves:

  • Oakland County
  • Macomb County
  • Wayne County

Group classes are available at:

  • Royal Oak Pet Supplies Plus
  • Bloomfield Hills Pet Supplies Plus

Contact Information

Phone: (734) 462-2810

Address: 1113 Butternut Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48073

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-10pm, Sat 7:30am-10pm, Sun 8am-10pm

Payment Methods: Cash and Check

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