A group of four women and three dogs posing for a photo indoors. Two women are seated in chairs, while the other two women are standing behind them. The dogs include a German Shepherd, a Beagle, a small brown terrier, and a gray and white pit bull mix. The background features framed animal artwork on the wall and a brick wall section.

MEET THE HEART BEHIND SMART DOG

At Smart Dog, we believe every great training journey starts with connection. Behind every leash, every session, and every wagging tail is a team that genuinely cares about helping dogs and their families thrive.

Our trainers and pet care specialists aren’t just experienced professionals, they’re passionate dog lovers dedicated to building trust, teaching skills, and creating lasting harmony between pets and their people. Every dog has a story, and every family has unique goals. That’s why we approach training with patience, consistency, and heart. Whether it’s obedience, off-leash training, or behavior modification, Smart Dog is here to guide you with expertise and genuine care across Metro Detroit.

JOIN THE PACK
A woman kneeling on green grass outside, smiling, with two black and brown dogs beside her. The setting is a yard with trees and grass.
A woman with long dark hair smiling and holding two leashes, one with a German Shepherd and the other with a small, fluffy brown dog, in a living room with framed artwork and a small side table.
A young German Shepherd puppy walking towards the camera on a grassy outdoor area with trees in the background.
A woman with dark hair smiling, standing indoors next to a brick wall and a framed picture on a white wall.

MEET LEA DIBELLA

Lea DiBella has had a lifelong love for animals, especially dogs of all temperaments and challenges. In her early twenties, she immersed herself in animal training — first through riding, training, and competing with horses — before transitioning into dog training about a decade later. Since then, she has combined her natural connection with animals and her passion for helping them become calm, confident companions.

In 2013, she created Smart Dog as a place where training is as much about educating owners as it is about guiding dogs. The name Smart Dog reflects Lea’s vision from the start: simple, clear, and rooted in the belief that with the right structure, consistency, and support, every dog can thrive.

Her specialty is behavior modification, where she helps dogs overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Her favorite moments are when families reunite with their dogs after training, seeing the transformation into attentive, relaxed, and confident companions.

As owner and head trainer, Lea is hands-on in every aspect of Smart Dog, from training and behavior work to daily management. She is relatable, understanding, and kind, working closely with each client to uncover the root of their dog’s needs. Above all, she ensures that every dog in her care feels safe, supported, and understood.

Though Lea loves all breeds, the German Shepherd holds a special place in her heart. She shares her life with two shepherds — Toby, Deuce, and now one on the way, named Dolce — along with a spirited Welsh Terrier named Joey. Outside of training, Lea enjoys time in nature, cooking, yoga, boating, and fishing with her husband Doug. Family dinners on Sundays and outdoor adventures keep her grounded in the very purpose behind Smart Dog: helping every dog feel safe, confident, and understood.

FOUNDER & LEAD TRAINER

SMART DOG TEAM VALUES

TRUST & CONNECTION

Every successful training relationship starts with trust. We focus on building a bond between dogs, owners, and trainers so learning feels positive, safe, and lasting.

EDUCATION & GROWTH

We believe training is about more than commands — it’s about teaching skills that empower both dogs and their families to thrive together for years to come.

CARE WITH PURPOSE

From daily interactions to long-term programs, we treat every dog as our own. Our goal is to create an environment where dogs feel supported, engaged, and understood.

  • A modern house on a green hillside with snow-capped mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.

    MEET FRANCESCA

    TRAINER

    Francesca has been part of Smart Dog since 2018, and her passion for training runs so deep it never feels like just a job. Every day she has the opportunity to advocate for dogs, helping them grow into the best versions of themselves — and she says the work has helped her become the best version of herself, too. The most rewarding part of her role is changing the way dogs experience the world. With a focus on behavior modification, Francesca helps dogs struggling with fear or anxiety build trust, confidence, and safety — transformations that change not only the dogs’ lives but also the lives of their families.

    At Smart Dog, Francesca works alongside Lea to train dogs of all ages and needs, while also supporting the team with administrative work and client communication. She is known for being hardworking, approachable, and dedicated, always going above and beyond to make sure each dog feels supported. At home, she shares her life with her “soul dog,” Cheech, a beagle/dachshund mix she adopted as a puppy in 2019. Together they enjoy adventures and scent work, building an unbreakable bond. Outside of Smart Dog, Francesca loves camping, hiking, collecting rocks, running a local car show, and exploring her love for classic cars.

  • Modern wooden building with large glass window, situated in a mountainous landscape, surrounded by yellowish-green plants.

    MEET SKYLER

    ASSISTANT TRAINER | DOG CARE SPECIALIST

    Skyler has been with Smart Dog since 2021 and has become a trusted part of the team. Her favorite part of working here is making meaningful connections with the dogs and watching their personalities shine as they gain confidence. She loves taking the time to get to know each dog individually, ensuring they feel safe, comfortable, and cared for during their stay. Known for her hard work, reliability, and loving nature, Skyler treats every dog as if they were her own and takes pride in being a true team player.

    As a Dog Care Specialist, Skyler plays a vital role in kennel operations, handling daily feeding, enrichment, playtime, and exercise while also supporting training when needed. She is fun, approachable, and full of positive energy, making her a true asset to the Smart Dog family. Skyler shares her life with her pets Molli and Copper, who keep her grounded and inspired. Outside of Smart Dog, she enjoys spending time outdoors, riding dirt bikes, and making memories with her boyfriend. A fun fact many don’t know: she used to be a cheerleader, and her spirited personality shines through in her work with dogs. She looks forward to continuing to grow with Smart Dog and being part of each dog’s journey.

  • A young woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a black long-sleeve top, seated on a wooden chair in front of a dark wooden wall, smiling softly at the camera.

    MEET JAMIE

    DOG CARE SPECIALIST

    Jamie is committed to helping every dog feel safe, supported, and confident as they grow through training and daily care. Her favorite part of the job is getting to know each dog’s unique personality and forming bonds that make them feel secure. She finds it rewarding to see shy or anxious dogs gradually blossom into relaxed, confident companions, knowing she played a role in their progress. Her approach is patient and thoughtful, and she always treats the dogs in her care with the same love and respect she gives her own.

    As a Dog Care Specialist, of almost 3 years—Jamie supports Smart Dog through kennel care, daily feeding, exercise, enrichment play, and hands-on support with the dogs. She is detail-oriented, dependable, and caring, always ensuring the dogs’ routines are consistent and their needs are fully met. Jamie's passion for animals began early, inspired by her Shih Tzu, who was her best friend for 14 years and taught her the meaning of unconditional love. Outside of Smart Dog, she enjoys hiking, spending time in nature, and tending to her 20+ houseplants. She also values time with family and friends, finding joy in creating balance between work, animals, and the simple things that make life meaningful.

OUR FACILITIES

Storefront with black dog silhouette above the door, flower boxes with red and white flowers beneath large windows, and sign for SMART DOG obedience training on the right.
Beagle dog sitting on a black mat indoors, looking upwards, with a brick and wooden wall in the background.

DOWNTOWN METAMORA TRAINING CENTER

Our downtown Metamora location is the heart of our structured training program. Here, we host beginner and intermediate obedience programs, Smart Dog graduate events and classes, formal evaluations, as well as day training and consultations. The facility is designed to provide a welcoming, supportive space where dogs and their owners can build a strong foundation in training. With dedicated areas for learning, practicing, and bonding, this location allows us to focus on developing obedience, confidence, and trust. It is a place where both new students and returning graduates can continue to grow in skill and connection.

Interior of a dog obedience training facility with a sign reading 'Smart Dog Obedience Training,' wooden wall, window, whiteboard with sketches, shelves with training supplies, and equipment.
A woman training a large brown and white German Shorthaired Pointer dog in a wooded park.

COUNTRYSIDE BOARD & TRAIN

Our countryside Metamora location provides a safe and immersive setting for our board-and-train enrollees. Dogs live on-site for six weeks with 24-hour monitoring, daily play, frequent interaction, and structured socialization. Each day includes hands-on obedience training, outdoor time, enrichment activities, and individualized care. This facility allows us to offer a higher level of attention and consistency, helping dogs feel safe, confident, and supported while they learn. It is a place where lasting transformations take place, and where every dog receives the care and structure they need to thrive.

READY FOR A SMART DOG?
A smiling woman and a smiling man with two dogs outdoors in a grassy park during daytime.

Our Partners, Recognitions & the Muscle Behind Smart Dog

SMART DOG FOUNDATIONS

MEET DOUG:

Every strong vision needs someone steady behind it—and for Smart Dog, that person has always been Doug. From the very first days when the idea of Smart Dog was only a dream, he was there helping Lea bring it to life. Whether it was building, fixing, or simply encouraging, Doug has been the quiet constant that helped shape Smart Dog into what it is today.

Now, you’ll often see him around the facility—our trusted handyman, problem solver, and all-around support system. Beyond the behind-the-scenes work, Doug is an animal lover himself, caring for the family’s pack with the same heart he brings to Smart Dog. His role may not always be in the spotlight, but Smart Dog wouldn’t be the same without him.

A black banner with white text announcing a pet award. It says 'Vote 4th Best Pets! Edition 2022 1st Place Winner! Best of Detroit: Dog Trainer.' The banner also shows the logo of Wallside Windows with the slogan 'We Aim To Thank You And The Factory.'

TRUSTED PARTNERS & HONORS

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"Smart Dog gave us the tools to better manage him and his alpha behaviors; we can't thank these ladies enough for their time and dedication to our dog" -Julie, Smart Dog Client

"Smart Dog gave us the tools to better manage him and his alpha behaviors; we can't thank these ladies enough for their time and dedication to our dog" -Julie, Smart Dog Client

"If you’re looking for a place that combines expertise, care, and results, this is hands down the best option." - Zelda's Mom

"If you’re looking for a place that combines expertise, care, and results, this is hands down the best option." - Zelda's Mom

" If you’re on the fence about investing in a board and train, do it! It was absolutely worth it. I finally feel like I have the tools and understanding to communicate with my dog, and we’re both happier because of it." - Pack Member

" If you’re on the fence about investing in a board and train, do it! It was absolutely worth it. I finally feel like I have the tools and understanding to communicate with my dog, and we’re both happier because of it." - Pack Member

  • Three people wearing black hoodies and pants inside a room with wooden walls, standing near a window. One person is writing on a whiteboard with a dog diagram, another is working at a table, and the third is looking at shelves with supplies.

  • A woman taking a selfie with her dog in the back seat of a vehicle. The woman is wearing a gray beanie and a gray jacket, smiling. The dog is a black and brown Australian Shepherd with its tongue out, sitting behind the woman.

  • A group of people wearing red jackets and Santa hats participating in a parade, holding a banner that reads 'SMART DOG OBEDIENCE TRAINING'. Some people are walking dogs on leashes, and the setting appears to be a small town street during winter.

  • Two women in an office, one standing and smiling, the other sitting and writing on a clipboard, with a forest and wolf artwork on the wall behind them.

  • Four women smiling and talking in a room with paintings on the wall.

  • A girl with braided hair, wearing a black hoodie, black leggings, white sneakers, and a black cap, stands on a grassy lawn holding a blue and white toy or treat, looking down at a gray dog sitting in front of her, surrounded by trees and a wooden fence.

  • Pet leashes hanging on hooks on a metal grid wall.

  • Two women hugging and smiling in front of a black door, with flower planters filled with red and white flowers on each side.

  • Group of people walking on a grassy trail in a wooded area, with one person wearing a jacket labeled 'Smart Dog' and appearing to be excited or playful.

  • A young woman walking a small brown and black fluffy dog on a leash outdoors near a storefront with patriotic flags and a tent in the background.

  • A woman with dark hair smiling while holding a leash, standing next to two dogs in a room with framed artwork and a potted plant.

  • A woman in outdoor clothing holding a rake and a snow shovel standing in a grassy backyard with trees and a wooden fence.