Manhattan Training Services
Our mission is to provide guardians with the tools they need to understand their dog's behavior and to educate them on actions they can take to limit any fear, stress, or discomfort their dog is experiencing.
As an Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, your pet insurance provider may pay for behavior modification services with Maddie Messina!
-
Puppy Prep
It’s never too early to begin preparing for your new addition. Let us help you learn how to communicate effectively with your new puppy from the start.
-
Basic Manners
Young or old, it’s never too late to start working towards positive behavior change. Through Basic Manners training you will learn how to teach your puppy or dog necessary life skills.
-
Behavior Modification
Dealing with behaviors rooted in fear, anxiety, or aggression can be emotionally and physically exhausting. We can help you get to the root of complex behavior issues.
-
Separation Anxiety
If you feel like a prisoner in your own home, it’s time to reach out for professional help. We can teach you how to get your dog feeling safe and comfortable when left alone.
Meet Your Trainer
Maddie Messina, MA, ACAAB, SAPT, FFCP
Maddie Messina, a certified applied animal behaviorist with over 7 years of experience, empowers families to nurture deep and fulfilling relationships with their canine companions. Inspired by a desire to go beyond basic obedience, she founded Paws for Thought Dog Training in 2021. This practice was built on the principle of providing thoughtful, solution-oriented services that tackle complex behavioral issues often unresolved in traditional group classes.
From teaching puppies to thrive in the city's vibrant atmosphere to helping fearful dogs gain confidence and reduce leash reactivity, Maddie's goal is to empower clients to cultivate happier, more fulfilling relationships with their dogs.
Service Area: Manhattan (below 96th street) and Williamsburg
Review our NYC and BK service areas!
-
![]()
Anneke, Devin, and Hudson Monster
"We have loved working with Maddie at Paws for Thought! She helped Hudson learn all the basics in a way that was motivating and fun for him and gave us great tips and tricks as new dog owners. “
-
![]()
Jessica and Milo Nelson
"It is an absolute pleasure to work with Paws for Thought. They go beyond training and take the time to explain your pup's actions and body language demystifying the reasons behind specific behaviors."
-
![]()
Shelley, Evan, and Charley Gillman
“The best decision we made last year was to hire Maddie from Paws for Thought to train our new toy poodle, Charley. Maddie worked with Charley in our home for several months, and we couldn't be happier with the results. Maddie taught us how to create a bond of trust and comfort with our pup. I highly recommend Maddie to all humans and dogs!”
-
![]()
Sarah, Whit, and Monty Scrudato
“We have loved working with Paws for Thought. Maddie has helped us navigate various behavioral issues with our pup, and seeing him make progress in these areas is a testament to her level of expertise. Maddie also always explains the “why” behind everything she does, which has helped us develop a greater understanding of our pup’s overall mindset and feelings.”
-
![]()
Caroline and Millie Hompe
Maddie has been a literal lifesaver for me and my dog when we moved to NYC. Training sessions with Maddie have really helped improve her behavior with leash walking, and we've learned how to manage her separation anxiety. Maddie is so patient with the dogs she works with and my dog loves her so much!
-
![]()
Rose, Jeff and Barolo Allen
During the first week with our puppy Barolo, we knew we needed to tackle house training and crate training but had no idea where to start. Maddie helped us figure out a plan and teached us essential basics for raising a puppy. Maddie is so patient, extremely knowledgeable, and clearly very passionate about what she does. She explains the science behind why we teach our puppy certain things which helps grow our larger understanding of how to raise a healthy and happy puppy.
