Michelle Shadwick
Michelle Shadwick, CCAS, AKC Fit Dog Level III Instructor, is a certified canine athlete specialist and trainer passionate about helping sport dog handlers and active pet owners improve canine performance and overall well-being through evidence-based conditioning. Involved in the dog sports world since 2016, Michelle has competed in scentwork, agility, rally, obedience, and FastCAT, giving her a deep understanding of the physical demands placed on dogs across a variety of disciplines.
Her approach to canine conditioning was shaped through hands-on experience with her own obedience dog, who became Michelle’s first case study while completing her canine athlete certification. Through careful evaluation, Michelle identified that performance challenges were rooted in conditioning rather than training technique. After veterinary clearance, she designed a targeted fitness program to address strength deficits, leading to measurable improvements in performance, stamina, and movement quality.
Michelle specializes in developing customized fitness and injury-prevention programs by assessing each dog’s structure, strengths, and areas for improvement. As an AKC Fit Dog Level III Instructor, her foundations classes count toward AKC Fit Dog titles, providing added value for handlers pursuing formal recognition. Through Paragon Pups, Michelle combines sports science, functional training, and a thoughtful, individualized approach to help dogs perform at their best while reducing the risk of injury.
• Colorado State University Pueblo
• Missouri State University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to collaboration within my community. Working alongside supportive trainers, handlers, and professionals has strengthened my knowledge, expanded opportunities, and allowed me to deliver better outcomes for both dogs and their owners.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be authentic. Staying true to who I am builds trust, fosters meaningful connections, and allows my work to have a genuine and lasting impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this industry to be mindful about giving advice on social media. Prioritize learning, gaining hands-on experience, and building credibility before sharing guidance publicly.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is securing my own dedicated space. Having a consistent, well-equipped environment would create greater opportunities to expand services, better support clients, and continue growing in a sustainable way.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life center on client success. I take pride in seeing my clients follow through with the plans we develop together and achieve meaningful results. Supporting their growth and celebrating their progress is what drives my work every day.