Meet Manuela
Trainer. Dog Lover. Advocate.
Hi, I’m Manuela!
I’m a certified, professional dog trainer offering positive reinforcement dog training in Knoxville, TN, and the surrounding areas.
In 2012, I founded The Canine Clubhaus with one goal in mind: to help dog owners raise well-behaved, confident, and loyal companions using kind, proven methods that truly work. With the right guidance, every dog can thrive, and every dog’s fur-ever home can experience more peace, clarity, and connection.
I was born and raised in Heidelberg, Germany, and moved to the United States in 1998 after marrying my husband, a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant. Like many people chasing the American Dream, I arrived with a vision and a deep determination to build something meaningful.
My path to becoming a professional dog trainer began at Animal Behavior College in California. I graduated with honors in 2008 and started working with dogs shortly after. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of supporting families and their dogs in Germany, Mexico, California, North Carolina, and now here in East Tennessee, where we’ve made our home.
Why Positive Reinforcement Works
(And Why I Won’t Train Any Other Way)
Let’s be clear: I do not use shock collars (e-collars), fear tactics, or outdated “dominance” training models.
I use evidence-based, force-free methods that are rooted in respect, empathy, and trust. Because your dog isn’t giving you a hard time, they’re having a hard time. And it’s my job to teach you both a better way to communicate.
This approach doesn’t just change your dog’s behavior. It strengthens your relationship, lowers your stress, and gives you tools you’ll use for years to come.
Trusted by Local Organizations Across East Tennessee
Over the years, I’ve worked alongside shelters, rescues, and pet professionals to support dogs in all kinds of situations. These trusted partnerships are part of why people continue to refer others to me and The Canine Clubhaus.
I am also a certified dog trainer and behavior specialist with
Petco & PetSmart
Absolute Dogs
Pro Dog, Geek Program, and the Genius Program
With more on the way!
My Areas of Expertise
Over the years, I’ve developed a wide range of skills and certifications that support both dogs and their people:
General & Advanced Dog Training
Dog Behavior & Behavior Modification
Concept Dog Training
Service Dog Training through TADSAW (Train A Dog, Save A Warrior)
American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Programs
Games, Tricks & Enrichment
Public Speaking & Dog Advocacy
Whole Dog Health Approaches
What I Love About Dogs
Dogs are family. They’re loyal companions who stay by our side no matter what life brings. They teach us patience, joy, resilience, and unconditional love.
When we take the time to understand them and learn how to communicate in ways they understand, the transformation is incredible.
That’s why my training is always rooted in positive reinforcement. I never use shock collars, fear-based methods, or outdated dominance techniques. I meet your dog where they are and help both of you feel more confident and connected, at home, in public, and everywhere in between.
As a local expert in dog behavior modification in Knoxville and East Tennessee, I specialize in helping dogs overcome fear, anxiety, and reactivity with kind, effective training.
Who I Work With
I work with dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages, and behavior levels, from jumpy puppies to anxious rescues to dogs struggling with leash reactivity or aggression.
But I also work with you. The human behind the leash. My job isn’t just to train your dog, it’s to coach you with compassion, without judgment, and with tools that make sense in your everyday life.
Whether you need a structured training plan, behavior modification support, or just someone who finally gets it, I’m here to help. As someone who specializes in behavior and relationship-based training, I work with:
First-time dog parents
Rescue and shelter dogs
Families dealing with reactivity, barking, or aggression
Dogs preparing for CGC certification
Veterans and service dog handlers
Anyone ready to build a better relationship with their dog
Whether you need basic obedience or full dog behavior modification, I’m here to help with patience, structure, and encouragement.
Why Humans & Dogs Trust Me
Dog training is personal, especially when you’re dealing with real challenges like reactivity, fear, or aggression. That’s why trust matters. When you work with me, you’re working with a true, certified professional who:
Has over two decades of hands-on experience in dog behavior modification
Graduated with honors from Animal Behavior College (2008)
Trained dogs in Germany, Mexico, California, North Carolina, and now East Tennessee
Has Service Dog training experience through the TADSAW program
Is certified to teach and test all AKC Canine Good Citizen programs
Has strong partnerships with local shelters, rescues, and community events
Loves what I do and especially loves dogs!
I even worked with Clinton Middle School in East Tennessee to help train the school’s guidance counselors’ therapy dog to help students transition back from summer to the first day of school.
Hear From Past Clients
If you are looking for a trainer who not only trains dogs but also strengthens your relationship with your dog, this is the place. I learned so much during my training session.
I love that no shock collars or negative reinforcement are used; this training is about building trust and a relationship. Plus Ozzy loves Manuela!
- Amanda H & Ozzy
My big pup was uncontrollable and dangerously strong. WE were in need of quality training. Manuela’s Canine Clubhaus was highly recommended by so many of my friends. She’s certified, she’s tough and no-nonsense, which was just what we needed.
We trained weekly for six weeks and learned about two dozen commands, not little parlor tricks, but skills that are related to safety, his and mine. The difference was night and day. He graduated, and he’s officially a VGB (very good boy). I can finally take him on walks without fear of being dragged to the pavement as before.
I HIGHLY recommend! I should also mention that she has a dedicated facility built on her property for their training.
- Janet W
Manuela has a wealth of knowledge about dog behavior. Why he does what he does? She showed me how to train him in a positive, fun way. When she met Atticus, he would not come when I called, messed in the house, and I had to chase him around the house to get a leash on.
No more! We are happy with him, and he is happier too. Highly recommend
- Greg M & Atticus
Ready To Start Training?
If you’ve been searching for a trainer who sees the full picture of your dog’s behavior, your lifestyle, and your goals, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re looking for a calm walking partner, a polite greeter, or a more confident dog, I’ll help you get there with positive reinforcement dog training in Knoxville, TN, and East Tennessee, and a custom plan that works for you and your best friend.
If you’re ready to stop guessing, stop yelling, and stop stressing… I’d love to work with you.
Because you deserve a dog who listens, a home that feels peaceful, and a trainer who understands that real transformation starts with trust.