Who…
Hey, I’m Zack! I’m originally from Mt Pleasant PA, but I’ve been working and living in and around Pittsburgh since 2017. I’ve always had a passion for dogs. According to my mom, I was ‘training’ our family dogs before I even started kindergarten. I adopted my dog Ralf in 2019 from a shelter in Ohio. When I brought him home, he was very introverted, nervous and skeptical about everything. Working with him was what initially sparked my interest in dog training. Watching Ralf (the original “underdog” and our handsome mascot) gain confidence through discipline and structure has given me such pride.
Currently, I live in the North Hills with my wife Ali—and Ralf, well, he goes everywhere with us! From mountain tops to waterfalls to our own wedding, he’s always excited to come along for the ride. Life is more full when we can safely and comfortably enjoy our adventures with our dog. My mission is to help ALL dog owners find this joy.
What…
Prior to starting Underdog Universe, I was working in real estate. I got to experience the satisfaction of helping people achieve a life goal of buying a home—but it wasn’t until I started working in the dog training domain where I confirmed one of my own life goals. For me, nothing is more fulfilling than helping a family connect and communicate with their dog more efficiently, safely and happily. I started Underdog Universe with the idea that every dog should be given the opportunity to thrive in their respective environments—and every dog owner has the potential to enjoy their dog fully without the feelings of guilt, stress or anxiety that often come with owning a pet. From my perspective, training should never be a one-size-fits-all protocol; every dog-human relationship is unique, and this uniqueness should be reflected in an individualized training plan. I am committed to meeting you where you’re at; whether you’re an overwhelmed first-time dog owner, or you’re just looking for some fine-tuning for your already obedient pooch—I am here to be your guide. Dog training only “works” if the dog owner fully believes, understands and implements the strategies that align well with a dog’s personality. You have the potential to be a powerful, impactful leader for your dog; let me help you get there!
Why…
It’s no secret at this point that I love dogs. I love learning about dogs, dog psychology, dog behaviors, and talking to people about their experiences and concerns regarding their dog. I truly believe dogs make our lives better. In early 2024, I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, an incurable but treatable blood cancer, which temporarily forced me to step away from my dog training work. This experience has offered me a new perspective. Early in my training days with Ralf, I had him certified as a therapy dog (something I can now help YOU achieve with your dog as well!)—we visited children’s hospitals and nursing facilities, and I watched face after face light up as he walked through the halls. When I transitioned from the volunteer side of therapy dog visits to the patient side, I was directly reminded once again of the inexplicable comfort one can receive from a friendly furry companion. My health journey has rekindled my passion, deepened my empathy, and strengthened my commitment to using the transformative power of human-canine connections to inspire hope and healing as I return to the work I love.
I can’t wait to work with you!
