Mike Calinoff's journey from the fast-paced world of NASCAR to becoming an award-winning dog trainer might seem like an unusual one, but the parallels between the two roles are unmistakable. As the Championship Spotter for NASCAR Hall of Fame driver, Matt Kenseth, who won the NASCAR title in 2003, along with two Daytona 500's and countless other races. 

 

Mike played an integral role in guiding Matt from a promising rookie to a champion on the track. His job was more than just helping him navigate the race at 200 MPH —it was about clear communication, strategic thinking, and building confidence under pressure.

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Calinoff also worked with NASCAR's Ricky Stenhouse, Jr as a Rookie and helped guide him to two Championships (2011 & 2012)

 

These same skills now fuel his success in dog training -- both for his highly popular Puppy Training programs or for his transformative work with dogs experiencing severe reactivity, anxiety, and aggression.

 

His keen sense of observation, problem-solving in the moment, and deep understanding of behavior make him a trusted resource for owners facing difficult challenges. Whether calming an anxious dog or redirecting an aggressive one, Mike applies the same focus and determination he used in the NASCAR world to achieve extraordinary results.

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When working with Matt Kenseth as a rookie, Mike honed his ability to deliver calm, precise guidance in high-stakes situations, helping a young driver navigate challenges and achieve greatness.

 

This experience directly translates into his dog training business, where Mike provides owners with the tools and confidence to guide their dogs through every stage of the training. Just as Matt needed direction to harness his potential, so do puppies—and Mike is there every step of the way.

 

Mike Calinoff is proof that greatness on the racetrack and in the dog training arena both require dedication, communication, and a steady hand. His unique background equips him with the skills to teach, train, and empower dog owners, ensuring their pets achieve their full potential—just as he once did with a young NASCAR champion.

Mike is a two-time (2023 & 2024)  Normy Winner of the "Best Dog Trainer" on Lake Norman Award

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He is regularly referred by Lake Norman Veterinarians for his prowess at crafting training plans for dogs who are highly reactive or have high-level compulsive behaviors. 

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Doglogics has one of the most family-friendly programs and are proud of their five-star Google Reviews.

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Mike has served on the Board of the Humane Society of Iredell County from 2010 - 2016 and is a lifelong pet welfare and rescue advocate. 

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Mike lives by a passionate statement: "I used to do this to make a living. Now, I do it to make a difference."​

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In an earlier life, Mike was a stand-up comic where he appeared at such venues like Catch a Rising Star in New York and The Comedy Store in West Hollywood, California. He makes the training fun, too. ​

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When Mike starts his SUV in the morning, it runs until he gets home at night. His two Goldendoodle "co-trainers", Wyatt (5 years), Larry (3 years) and Lainee his Cockapoo puppy, hang with him all day -- and often participate in the training as dog distractions. 

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