The Pawsitive Dog

Training begins with a free pre-enrollment phone consultation and a day school evaluation to assess the dog’s needs and owner’s goals. Based on this, a customized start-up strategy is created, combining options like day school, accelerated overnight training, home visits, group classes, or Camp Pawsitive Dog. Programs are structured around a building-block approach, with ongoing reassessment of progress. Clients may choose ongoing weekly sessions, intensive programs, or one-time consultations. Extracurricular activities include field trips, observation/participation, and events. Training covers obedience, manners, relaxation, patience, and behavior modification tailored to each dog’s temperament and owner’s lifestyle.

Pricing Summary

Initial evaluation requires a $125 credit card deposit, which is applied to the dog’s evaluation day. Cancellations with less than 48-hour notice are non-refundable. Training programs are customized based on individual needs, with pricing determined after consultation and evaluation. No standardized pricing is listed publicly; clients receive personalized quotes based on selected programs such as day school, overnight training, home visits, or group classes.

Policies

A $125 credit card deposit is required to schedule an evaluation and consultation. This deposit is applied to the evaluation day. If a client cancels with more than 48 hours’ notice, the deposit is reimbursed. If a client misses the appointment or cancels with less than 48 hours’ notice, the deposit is non-refundable. Training programs are customized and re-assessed throughout the process based on progress and changing needs.

The Pawsitive Dog is a small, personalized, full-time dog training facility in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to helping dog owners build enjoyable, lifelong partnerships with their dogs since 1998. They specialize in customized, in-depth training that is proactive, motivational, balanced, challenging, and fun for both dogs and owners, regardless of breed, age, or temperament. They do not offer kennel, grooming, walking, pet sitting, or daycare services—focusing exclusively on training and education. Their approach emphasizes complete dog and owner education, with programs designed around individual lifestyles and goals. They provide a variety of training options including accelerated overnight training, home visits, phone consults, day school, and group classes, all rooted in a building-block approach that prioritizes long-term results over quick fixes.

They offer evaluations and free pre-enrollment phone consultations to tailor training plans to each dog-owner team. Their team of trainers, including Jenifer, Francis, Aileen, and Rebecca, are highly experienced and praised for their expertise, patience, and dedication. They work with dogs of all ages and behavioral needs, from puppies to seniors, and address issues like separation anxiety, reactivity, leash pulling, and fearfulness. Their training philosophy is balanced, combining positive reinforcement with structured guidance to build confidence and good manners.

The business has trained over 10,000 dog-owner teams and is recognized as Boston’s premier dog training center. They also offer specialized programs like Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog training, and Camp Pawsitive Dog for overnight stays. Their commitment to ethical, client-centered training and ongoing support sets them apart from typical training facilities.

Accomplishments

Founded in 1998, The Pawsitive Dog has trained over 10,000 dog-owner teams. They are recognized as Boston’s premier dog training facility. They offer specialized programs including Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog training. Their team has been featured in press and community events, and they maintain a Dog Team of the Year and Dog Team of the Month recognition program.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must first schedule an evaluation and a free pre-enrollment phone consultation. The evaluation allows trainers to observe the dog’s behavior in a facility setting, and the consultation helps determine the best training path based on the owner’s lifestyle, schedule, and goals. A $125 deposit is required to book the evaluation, which is applied toward the cost of services if the client proceeds.