Well Balanced Dog Training

Well Balanced Dog Training offers four main programs: 1) One-on-One Puppy Training (3–18 months) focusing on basics like leash walking, potty training, and recall; 2) Behavior Modification for adult dogs with mild issues like barking or leash reactivity; 3) Advanced Behavior Rehabilitation requiring 3–6 weeks of board and train for severe aggression or anxiety; and 4) Group classes including Reactive Dog Classes and Learn and Playgroup. Board and train involves daily training at their facility with evening reinforcement at home, weekly progress reports, and a final in-person session for owners. All programs emphasize building a calm mindset and teaching dogs through a balanced, low-force approach.

Pricing Summary

One-hour private sessions cost $150 at the facility or $200 in-home. A puppy training pack of five sessions is $650. Board and train programs range from 2–6 weeks with pricing available upon request. Reactive dog group classes are $45 per session. Learn and Playgroup starts at $50 per day. Tools are not included in pricing.

Well Balanced Dog Training is a dog training business based in Maynard, MA, that helps dog owners build a calm, respectful, and communicative relationship with their dogs using a balanced training approach. They specialize in working with puppies, seniors, reactive dogs, dogs with aggression, separation anxiety, resource guarding, and other behavioral challenges. Their philosophy centers on teaching dogs in their own language—using clear boundaries, low-force techniques, and mutual understanding—rather than relying solely on punishment or reward. They offer private in-home and facility-based sessions, group classes, and intensive board-and-train programs where dogs stay with their head trainer for 2–6 weeks. Clients receive detailed progress reports and follow-up training to ensure success at home. They emphasize that no dog is too difficult and proudly rehabilitate dogs others consider untrainable. They also provide ongoing support to help humans develop consistent routines that strengthen the bond with their dogs.

They serve communities in and around Maynard, Acton, Concord, Stow, Sudbury, and Hudson, MA, and offer a free behavioral evaluation to help owners determine the right program for their dog.

Their founder, Meaghen MacDonald, has a decade of experience and was inspired by transforming her own reactive dog, Thunder, into a well-balanced companion. She is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and leads with empathy, professionalism, and hands-on expertise.

Accomplishments

Founder Meaghen MacDonald is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator with nearly a decade of hands-on dog training experience. She transformed her own reactive dog, Thunder, from severe resource guarding and aggression into a well-behaved companion, which inspired her to start the business in 2021.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients begin with a free behavioral evaluation, which includes a consultation to assess the dog’s needs and recommend the most suitable training program. A short quiz is available online to help determine the best fit before scheduling.