Heather Bennett, Head Trainer
Gnawty Dog Academy is a dog-first, client-forward, science-informed dog training academy founded by Heather Bennett, a Family Dog Mediator (FDM) specializing in reactive, fearful, aggressive, and high-drive dogs. Built from lived experience and behavior science, Gnawty Dog Academy exists to support overwhelmed dog owners who have tried everything and still feel stuck. Heather’s journey began with her own reactive pit bull, Zeek, and a realization that true change doesn’t come from obedience-at-all-costs or one-size-fits-all programs—it comes from understanding behavior, improving communication, and meeting each dog exactly where they are.
Serving Mid-Michigan and beyond, Gnawty Dog Academy offers ethical, balanced dog training rooted in functional analysis, the L.E.G.S.™ Model (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self), and L.I.M.A. (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles. This approach focuses on why dogs behave the way they do and provides realistic, real-world solutions that work outside controlled environments. Training plans are customized to both the dog and the human, with trauma-informed coaching, clear guidance, and practical steps designed to fit real lives—not professional trainer schedules.
At its core, Gnawty Dog Academy believes in “training the dog in front of you and honoring the human holding the leash.” Clients can expect transparent methods, honest feedback, and compassionate support without shame or judgment. From complex behavior cases to rebuilding trust and confidence, Gnawty Dog Academy is committed to helping misunderstood dogs feel safe and helping owners feel empowered, capable, and supported—because this isn’t just dog training, it’s lasting transformation.
Melissa Sasser, Business Operations
We’re excited to officially introduce Melissa Sasser, who works behind the scenes helping keep everything running smoothly at Gnawty Dog Academy.
Melissa supports our operations, systems, and client communication so our trainers can stay focused on what matters most, helping dogs and their owners succeed together.
Before moving into business operations, Melissa was an elementary school teacher, so she brings plenty of patience, organization, and a natural ability to explain things clearly.
Melissa also has a very important assistant at home, her Shih Tzu, Maisie. Maisie’s favorite thing in the world is being wherever Melissa is, preferably supervising the workday. Her least favorite thing is realizing she may not actually be in charge of everything.
What Melissa loves most about the dog training world is seeing the moment when communication finally clicks between a dog and its owner. That mutual confidence grows on both sides, which makes the work so meaningful.
When she’s not working, Melissa is usually reading a good lawyer mystery, watching British crime dramas, or spending time with the four best friends she’s had since college. And if you ever need to know Melissa’s life philosophy, it’s simple: “Cheese, Chocolate, and Chardonnay make everything taste better.”
We’re glad to have her as part of the Gnawty Dog Academy team! 🐾
Ready to Make a Difference in Your Dog’s Life?
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to help your dog, Gnawty Dog Academy is here to support you. Our dog-first, client-forward, science-informed approach focuses on understanding behavior, improving communication, and meeting both ends of the leash exactly where they are. Through ethical, transparent training and practical guidance designed for real life, we help create meaningful, sustainable change. Reach out to Gnawty Dog Academy to begin building clarity, confidence, and a safer, more connected relationship with your dog—because lasting transformation starts with the first conversation. Click the button below to get started.
Let’s Make It Happen
Our training sessions are meticulously planned by our Lead Trainer/Owner and are designed to maximize efficiency. Your time is valuable! Our goal is to efficiently prepare you and your dog for success. Get the training you need to live the lifestyle you want with your dog, not the training you don’t!
Your training will be conducted by our trainers through Tutoring (private lessons) that will last 60 minutes at weekly scheduled times or In-school Suspension (Board and Train) for 7, 14, or 21 days. All private training sessions will be comprised of both handouts and lectures…
