I'm Mike — a lifelong dog person in DC. I offer walking, boarding, and training built around one simple idea: a tired dog is a happy dog.
I'm a Washington, DC-based professional with flexible hours and a genuine love for dogs that goes back over 15 years. Friends and family have long called me a bit of a "dog whisperer" — I've cared for dozens of dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments over the years.
I walk Ollie and Bella roughly 4 miles every day — through the neighborhood, across DC's parks and fields, and into the woods where they can run off-leash. Any dog that stays with me gets the same treatment: long morning walks, couch time, and the kind of attentive, responsive care that keeps owners worry-free while they're away.
I'm currently working toward my CPDT-KA dog training certification and bring a positive reinforcement approach to everything I do.
The two pups behind the name — and the reason I started this whole thing.
Bella is pure energy — curious, playful, and always the first one to investigate anything new. She's the spark of the pack, always game for a long run, a trail adventure, or a vigorous game of tug. She also gives and demands belly rubs in equal measure.
Ollie is the wise elder — steady, gentle, and endlessly patient with new dogs coming into his home. He's been my walking buddy and trail companion for over a decade. He sets the tone: calm, welcoming, and always ready to share his couch spot.
🐾 The name? Simple: Bella + Ollie = Bellie. And we all know every good dog deserves Bellie Rubs. It felt right.
Every service is tailored to your dog's personality, energy level, and needs. I keep my client list small on purpose.
Daily walks through DC's parks, neighborhoods, and trails. Every walk comes with a photo update so you always know how they're doing.
Your dog stays with me, Bella, and Ollie — roaming freely, going on adventures, and cuddling up on the couch after a full day.
Positive reinforcement-based training that builds real skills and a stronger bond between you and your dog.
A few of the good pups I've had the pleasure of walking, boarding, and training.
No hidden fees. No platform surcharges. What you see is what you pay.
| 30-minute walks | ||
| Group Walk | Small group, neighborhood route | $20 |
| Solo Walk | Just your dog, full attention | $35 |
| 60-minute walks | ||
| Group Walk | Longer adventure, small group | $40 |
| Solo Walk | Extended one-on-one | $70 |
| Nightly rates | ||
| 1 dog | Stays with me, Bella & Ollie | $65 /night |
| 2nd dog | Same household only | +$45 /night |
| Long-stay discounts | ||
| 7–13 nights | 5% off | |
| 14+ nights | 7.5% off | |
| Full day | Multiple walks included | $50 /day |
| Private session | Positive reinforcement based | $50 /hr |
"Michael and his dogs took excellent care of our Alex. The dogs went on adventures together and tired each other out every day. He kept us well informed with photos and videos, and did a great job facilitating a relationship between our dog and his. We felt very secure. Highly recommended!"
"Michael was fantastic!! Extremely flexible and responsive. He sent regular updates and photos of daily adventures all week long. My typically aloof dog became fast friends with Michael and Ollie thanks to his patience and TLC. We will definitely use him again!"
"Last minute booking but Michael made me feel super secure. My dog has 'small dog big dog imposter syndrome' but Michael did great constantly giving me updates. Everything was amazing and I'll definitely be reaching out again!"
"Michael took great care of Lettie. I could tell by the photos he sent that she was getting comfortable and feeling at home after the first day. She and Ollie got along fine, each doing their own thing. I'm grateful to Michael for hosting her while I was out of town!"
"Michael was great! Taki seemed to really have a good time with his other dogs and Michael gave us lots of updates, photos, and videos while we were away. Would definitely leave him with Michael again!"
"Michael and Ollie were great with Graham. He appreciated the long walks and couch naps. Would definitely love to book them again. Thank you!"
Select a service below to see available times. First visit? Start with a free Meet & Greet.
See dates that work? Get in touch to confirm your booking.
Contact Me to BookI'm not a platform or a marketplace — I'm one person in DC who loves dogs and keeps my roster small so every animal gets my full attention.
Bella and Ollie set the standard in my home, and every dog I care for gets held to it.
I know the best parks, quiet streets, and water bowl spots across the city.
Fully insured and bonded. Your peace of mind matters as much as your dog's tail wags.
Photos, videos, and check-ins every single visit. You'll never wonder how they're doing.
I limit my client list on purpose. Your dog is never just another booking.
Reviews mean the world to a small, independent operation like Bellie Rubs. If your pup had a great time, leaving a quick note helps other DC dog owners find us.
You can leave a review here directly, or on any of these platforms:
Your review has been received. It means a lot — and we'll share it if you gave consent!
Not ready to book yet? Send me a note and I'll get back to you within 24 hours — happy to answer any questions about your dog, my services, or availability.
I'll be in touch within 24 hours. Can't wait to meet your pup!