Matt McMillan

In 2003, I started a journey "in dogs", with no end in sight. 

MY Mission:

To bring out the best in every dog while providing results for my clientele. 

MY VISION:

To be a continuous student in dogs, learning wherever I go, taking a little piece of knowledge from everyone I meet.

I have loved dogs from the time that I was a toddler. I grew up in a home with two Brittanys (pointing dogs) and worked hard to purchase my own Beagle at ten years old. Upon purchasing my first dog, I joined the county 4-H program in 2003.  In the 4-H program I learned basic care to in-depth health topics through projects and one-on-one training with my dog. I competed in Obedience, Rally, Agility, and Junior Handling, and was also introduced to a number of other dog sports/activities. I grew up watching the "Eukanuba Tournament of Champions" series on Animal Planet and could not wait each year for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show to come on TV.  I knew at a young age I always wanted to be a dog handler. In 2006 I was approached by my 4-H advisor to show her Mastiff. This would become my first client and my gateway to AKC dog shows and handling. Through handling classes I was approached by others to handle their dogs and made many long term clients in my first few years of handling.

In 2009 one of my first clients introduced me to my longtime mentor and friend, Joan Fox of Campaigner German Shepherds. Together we have shown, bred, and owned beautiful German Shepherds over the years. During high school I had the opportunity to work with Bobbi Kinley-Blewett of Adesa Bernese Mountain Dogs and All-Breed Professional handler. While working for Bobbi, I assisted her at shows on weekends and in her kennel throughout the week. In college I was presented with another opportunity to work with Diane P. Steele of Star Country Collies, Seascape Shetland Sheepdogs, and All-Breed Professional handler. Diane and I have worked together closely since 2013. I am thankful for so many great working relationships that I have established and cultivated over the years that have led to my success.

In 2010 I started private obedience lessons and have been meeting with clients by appointment since. I focus on balanced training methods along with being a strong leader for your dog. Along with private obedience lessons and professional handling I have trained pointing dogs for upland game, beagles for rabbit hunting, and retrievers for waterfowl hunting.

I believe cultivating a total dog, mind and body, is the greatest contributor to success.

Proud member of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America, Chattanooga Kennel Club - Vice President, and Purina Pro Club.

In December 2022, I was the recipient of the American Kennel Club’s Outstanding Sportsmanship Award - Presented by Chattanooga Kennel Club.