Ken MacLeod: SNL Set Designer Turned Dog Trainer

From SNL to Dog School — Ken MacLeod’s Unexpected Career Shift

Ken MacLeod, a seasoned set designer at Saturday Night Live (SNL), never imagined that his creative talents would one day lead him into the world of dog training. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and his new puppy Scooter struggled with reactivity and fear, Ken found a new passion—and profession—in helping dogs and their owners communicate better through positive reinforcement.

A Love for Dogs Born Later in Life

Though Ken grew up with cats, it wasn’t until meeting his fiancée Kim—alongside her spirited Parson Russell Terrier, Mac—that he truly discovered the joy of living with dogs. The bond with Mac was profound and transformative, especially after Mac passed away, leaving an emotional void that only another dog could begin to fill.

Building Dreams at SNL and Beyond

Originally a business major in college, Ken quickly realized that his calling lay elsewhere—specifically, in the world of film and television set design. After gaining years of experience in the commercial industry, a job opening at SNL’s film unit (tipped off by Kim, a set decorator there) gave Ken the perfect opportunity to combine speed, creativity, and adaptability.

“We often get the scripts on Wednesday night, and have just days to design, build, paint, and light entire sets before filming. It’s high-pressure but deeply rewarding.”

Enter Scooter—The Dog Who Changed Everything

In January 2017, Ken and Kim welcomed Scooter into their home—a tiny pup with big fears. Unlike Mac, Scooter was reactive and anxious, especially around people and other dogs. Walks became a challenge, and Ken realized he needed a deeper understanding of canine behavior.

Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer

Ken enrolled in the Karen Pryor Academy, one of the most respected schools in the field of force-free training. The six-month program combined theory and hands-on practice, testing both the handler and the dog’s progress.

“We had to demonstrate behaviors like ‘sit,’ ‘spin,’ and ‘target’ off-leash in a final exam. It was intense, but when I said, ‘This is it, buddy,’ Scooter nailed it.”

Building a Business Rooted in Positive Reinforcement

Ken launched his training service, My Positive Pup, helping families with dogs just like Scooter. At first, he coached neighbors and friends, but during the pandemic, demand surged.

In lockdown, pet adoptions soared, and so did Ken’s training appointments—from Vermont to New Jersey. Hoboken, where he lives, saw a boom in new pet parents.

“Positive reinforcement is about rewarding what the dog does right, not punishing mistakes. Like humans, dogs respond better to encouragement than confusion.”

Learn more about positive training methods from PetMD

What Set Design and Dog Training Have in Common

Though seemingly unrelated, both careers share a core philosophy: positive teamwork. Ken recalls mentoring new stagehands with praise and support, building trust and confidence—just as he does with dogs and their people today.

Final Thoughts: A Life Transformed

Ken believes that dog training isn't just about obedience—it's about creating a deeper, more meaningful connection.

“Having a dog is a responsibility, but it’s also one of life’s greatest gifts. Training should be joyful, engaging, and full of mutual respect.”