Finding the right dog trainer can make all the difference when it comes to building a happy, well-behaved companion. Whether you're starting with a new puppy, working through behavior challenges, or simply brushing up on basic manners, the Central Maine area is home to some of the best dog trainers around.

To help you find the perfect fit for your dog’s needs, we've put together a guide to the top-rated trainers in the region — organized by private lessons, group classes, and board-and-train programs. Let’s take a closer look at your options!

Top Dog Trainers in Central Maine: Private Lessons, Group Classes, & Board-and-Train Programs

Central Maine is home to several highly qualified, top-rated dog trainers offering a range of services. Below, we’ve rounded up the best in the region (around Augusta, Waterville, Bangor and beyond), organized by service type. Whether you need one-on-one coaching for a reactive pup, socialization classes for your new puppy, or an immersive board-and-train boot camp, you’ll find a great local option here.

Private Lessons (One-on-One Training)

Tailored sessions focusing on your specific goals – ideal for shy, reactive, or special-needs dogs that need individualized attention.

Bessey’s Positive Paws – Erin Bessey, CPDT-KA (Whitefield, ME)

Website: Bessey’s Positive Paws – Offering in-person and virtual private training

Social: Facebook

Erin Bessey is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) with nearly 20 years of experience. She holds a B.S. in Zoology and spent 14 years as a veterinary technician, bringing a strong scientific and medical background to her training. 

Erin specializes in force-free, family-friendly training that is tailored to each dog. Private lessons take place either virtually or at her 1,100 sq. ft. training facility on a peaceful farm in Whitefield. Her one-on-one programs cover everything from puppy manners to serious behavior modification, all in a “beautiful pastoral setting” as one client described. Erin’s approach emphasizes modern, reward-based methods to help dogs and owners live harmoniously.

Services: Private obedience and behavior lessons (in-person or virtual). Erin can address basic manners, advanced obedience, and behavioral issues (she even raised three puppies for Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Sessions are personalized to each dog’s needs – perfect for dogs who may not thrive in group classes or have specific challenges.

Credentials & Certifications: Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA, since 2011); B.S. in Zoology (University of Maine); extensive veterinary clinic experience. Erin stays up-to-date on canine behavior science and uses only positive-reinforcement techniques.

Client Testimonials:

• “Erin Bessey offers a comprehensive, well-organized puppy/dog training program in a beautiful pastoral setting. Erin is very knowledgeable and works with you through (any issues)….” – 5-star Yelp review (Whitefield, ME)

Notable Accomplishments:

• 20+ years of dog training experience; CPDT-KA certified for over a decade.

• 14-year career as a vet tech, giving her keen insight into canine health and behavior.

• Raised 3 guide-dog puppies for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, demonstrating her dedication and skill in advanced training and socialization.

Best For: Owners seeking one-on-one coaching in a calm setting. Especially great for shy or reactive dogs that need confidence-building without the stress of a class, or any owner wanting science-backed, reward-based training for their pup. Families with children also benefit from Erin’s family-friendly approach.

Pricing: Customized to each case (contact for a quote). Clients note that the quality of training is well worth the investment.

Puppies Pause Training – Jacqueline LaRochelle (Augusta, ME)

Website: Puppies Pause Training – Private & group training in the Augusta area

Social: Facebook (Puppies Pause Training & Daycare)

Jacqueline LaRochelle, owner of Puppies Pause Training, provides flexible in-home and on-site private lessons throughout the Augusta region. She is a certified dog trainer and a member of multiple professional organizations. Jacqueline’s specialty is helping fearful or reactive dogs come out of their shell. 

Private sessions are tailored for dogs who need extra patience: for example, if your dog’s ears flatten or tail tucks in fear around others, Jacqueline will work one-on-one to build confidence. She uses positive reinforcement methods to teach obedience fundamentals and fix problem behaviors without the pressure of a group setting.

Uniquely, Jacqueline is willing to travel to your home (within ~50 miles of Augusta) for private training, making it convenient for busy owners.

Services: In-home or on-site private lessons focusing on everything from basic commands to potty training and behavior issues. Common goals include polite greetings, no more jumping or excessive barking, reliable sit/stay/come, and resolving fear-based behaviors. Jacqueline also offers virtual training and outdoor sessions as needed. With a background fostering dogs and working with breeds like rottweilers and pit bulls, she welcomes dogs of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds – including rescues with trauma or older dogs with no prior training.

Credentials & Affiliations: Certified Dog Trainer (formal training course graduate); Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She is an AKC Canine Good

Citizen and S.T.A.R. Puppy evaluator, as well as a C.L.A.S.S. evaluator for the APDT. Jacqueline also serves on the Board of Directors for the Humane Society of the Waterville Area – reflecting her commitment to the local dog community.

Client Testimonials:

• “We were amazed by the patience and professionalism we got from Jacqueline.” – Puppies Pause client (via website) 

Notable Accomplishments:

• APDT & IAABC member: Active in leading professional organizations, ensuring she follows the latest best practices.

• Therapy Dog & AKC Evaluator: Helps evaluate and certify dogs for Canine Good Citizen, S.T.A.R. Puppy, and therapy programs.

• Community Involvement: Board member of the local Humane Society, where she gives back by helping shelter dogs become more adoptable.

Best For: Dogs who are shy, anxious, or reactive and need a patient, tailored touch. Also great for busy owners in the Augusta/Waterville area who want the convenience of a trainer coming to their home. If your dog struggles in a group environment, or you have specific behavioral concerns (like reactivity or fear aggression), Jacqueline’s private lessons are an ideal fit.

Pricing: $75/hour for private lessons (travel within 50 miles included). Group classes (if you choose to join later) are very affordable at ~$150 for a 5-week course. Clients find her rates reasonable and love that she offers a free initial “discovery” call to discuss your goals.

(See “Group Classes” below for Puppies Pause Training’s group class offerings in Augusta.)

Group Classes (Puppy & Obedience Classes)

Structured classes (puppy kindergarten, basic obedience, intermediate/advanced skills) in a social setting. Dogs learn with peers, which is great for socialization and practicing manners around distractions. Classes typically meet once a week and follow a set curriculum, often with 5–6 dogs per class for a friendly, controlled environment.

Green Acres Kennel Shop – Don Hanson, CDBC, CPDT-KA (Bangor, ME)

Website: Green Acres Kennel Shop – Training

Social: Facebook, Podcast (Woof Meow Show by Green Acres)

Green Acres Kennel Shop is an institution in the Bangor area – a one-stop pet care facility that has been voted the region’s “Best Dog Trainer” every year since 2011. Co-owner Don Hanson heads the training and behavior program. Don is one of Maine’s most qualified trainers: a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), among other credentials.

Green Acres offers a full slate of group classes through their ForceFreePets program, from Puppy Kindergarten to Advanced Obedience. They are strictly a “No Pain, No Force, No Fear” training provider, adhering to humane methods endorsed by the Pet Professional Guild and American Animal Hospital Association. Classes are held at their large indoor training facility in Bangor, which is part of their pet store and boarding campus. Owners not only get a top-notch class, but also access to Green Acres’ educational resources (articles, webinars, the Woof Meow Show radio program, etc. run by Don).

Services: 

• Weekly group classes for all levels. 

• Puppy classes focus on socialization, house-training, and basic manners. 

• Basic Obedience covers sit, down, stay, coming when called, leash walking, etc., with a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement. 

• Intermediate and Advanced classes take skills to the next level with distractions and off-leash reliability. 

They even offer specialty classes like Canine Good Citizen prep and Tricks or agility fundamentals (seasonally). Class sizes are kept reasonable to ensure individual attention. In addition, Green Acres provides behavior consultations and one-on-one counseling for issues like aggression or anxiety via their Behavior Counseling program (with Don’s expertise as a behavior consultant).

Credentials & Qualifications: Don Hanson brings over 25 years of experience. He was actually APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers) Chairperson and was recognized as APDT’s Member of the Year in 2014. His certifications include CDBC (IAABC) and CPDT-KA, and he was among the first trainers ever certified by CCPDT in 2001). All Green Acres classes are taught by Don or trainers he has mentored to follow force-free methods. The facility itself is accredited and follows veterinary behavioral guidelines.

Client Testimonials:

• “We’ve tried other places, and there’s no question – you all are the best. Even though you’re a bit farther away from us, we’re happy to make the drive… Thanks for everything and taking great care of our dogs.” – Client testimonial (Green Acres)

Notable Accomplishments:

• “Best of…” Winner 10+ Years Running: Voted Best Dog Trainer in the Bangor region every year since 2011 – a testament to consistent customer satisfaction.

• Top 10 in New England: Named one of the Top 10 Dog Trainers in New England (2020) by Best Businesses of America.

• Leadership in the Field: Don Hanson is a past President/Chair of the APDT and has educated pet professionals internationally. He also holds multiple certifications (CDBC, CPDT-KA, Bach Flower Practitioner), which is exceedingly rare.

• Community Engagement: Don served as President of the Bangor Humane Society for 5 years and on Maine’s Animal Welfare Advisory Council, showing a deep commitment to animal welfare in Maine.

Best For: Puppy parents and first-time dog owners seeking a well-structured class with a gentle philosophy. Also ideal for anyone with a family pet who wants solid manners using positive methods – Green Acres excels at everyday obedience. If you value credentials and experience, you can trust this team with even challenging behavioral issues (they can integrate private consults for serious cases). Dogs that need a supportive, low-stress class environment (fearful or sensitive dogs) will do well here thanks to the no-force approach.

Pricing: Group class rates are competitive for the area (exact prices vary by class length; e.g., a typical 6-week course is around $150–$180). Green Acres is known for its value – classes include printed materials and even post-class support via phone/email. (Their unlimited alumni support and access to educational content add to the value, according to clients.) Private behavior consults are available at an hourly rate.

Bear Brook Kennel – Giovanna Tompkins, CPDT-KA (Brewer, ME)

Website: Bear Brook Kennel – Training

Social: Facebook

If you’re near Bangor/Brewer, Bear Brook Kennel is another excellent choice for group training classes. Trainer Giovanna Tompkins (CPDT-KA) heads the training program at this full-service kennel. Bear Brook is actually a comprehensive pet care facility (boarding, daycare, grooming, and training) owned by a veterinarian with 40+ years of experience – so your pup is in very capable hands. 

Training at Bear Brook emphasizes positive reinforcement techniques, helping dogs of all breeds develop good manners and a harmonious relationship with their owners They keep class sizes small and offer a tiered curriculum, ensuring each dog/owner gets personalized attention within the group setting.

Services: 

• Group obedience classes at multiple levels, with sessions starting regularly (they advertise ongoing sign-ups, including new classes in 2025).

• A 5-week Basic Obedience course covers sit, down, stay, leave-it, come when called, and loose-leash walking, plus confidence-building and handling exercises.

• After graduation, you can continue to Intermediate (5 weeks) to proof commands with more distractions and difficulty. 

• They even run a 5-week Advanced course to work toward off-leash reliability and “real world” scenarios.

• For those interested in therapy work, Bear Brook offers a Therapy Dog Prep class introducing dogs to wheelchairs, walkers, and other equipment, and practicing polite behavior in public places. 

All classes are taught at the Brewer facility (right behind Brewer Vet Clinic), providing a safe and controlled indoor space. In addition to classes, Bear Brook offers private lessons ($75/hour) for any behavior or for dogs not ready for group settings. 

Uniquely, they can also arrange “day training” or board-and-train options where the trainer works with your dog during daycare or boarding stays – convenient for busy owners.

Credentials & Qualifications: Giovanna Tompkins is a CPDT-KA certified trainer and an AKC CGC evaluator. She has experience in pet daycare and behavior, and as part of a veterinary-run team, she can tap into additional expertise if needed. The staff at Bear Brook are certified in pet first aid/CPR and focus on safety and individualized care. Their affiliation with a vet clinic means any health or behavior issues can be addressed holistically. Bear Brook is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) and prioritizes continuing education for their trainers.

Client Testimonials:

• “They made sure every pet and owner got the attention they needed.” – Group class participant

Notable Accomplishments:

• Veterinarian-Owned Facility: Provides extra peace of mind – the kennel is owned/operated by Dr. Feher, a vet with 40+ years in practice, meaning high standards of care.

• Comprehensive Services: Many dogs enrolled in training also enjoy daycare or boarding there – Bear Brook was named “Brewer’s Best Boarding, Daycare, Grooming, and Training Facility,” a one-stop shop for pet parents (as their community reputation suggests).

• Certified Professional Trainer: Giovanna’s CPDT-KA and ongoing education ensure up-to-date, humane training methods. Bear Brook’s trainers use strictly positive reinforcement, consistent with modern best practices.

• Therapy Dog Success: Numerous graduates have gone on to pass therapy dog tests or CGC tests after taking classes here (the Therapy Prep class is popular for those goals).

Best For: Dog owners in the Bangor/Brewer area who want structured obedience classes with a positive training philosophy. It’s great for all ages – from rambunctious puppies to older dogs in need of manners. If you like the idea of a class at a facility where you could also board or daycare your dog, Bear Brook offers that convenience. It’s also a top pick for those aiming for Therapy Dog certification or higher-level obedience in a supportive group. Dogs who thrive on routine and clear guidance (and owners who appreciate a professional, slightly more formal class setting) will do well here.

Pricing: 

• Group Classes: $150–$220 per 5-week course (Basic is ~$200) – a good value at roughly $40 per class. 

• Private Lessons: $75 per session for one-on-one help. 

• They also offer day-train add-ons during daycare, and can create board-and-train packages (inquire for pricing). 

Overall, clients find the prices fair for the quality and often mention the convenience of training during boarding/daycare as a huge plus.

Puppies Pause Training – Jacqueline LaRochelle (Augusta, ME)

(See full profile under “Private Lessons” above for credentials.)

In addition to private lessons, Puppies Pause Training offers small-group classes in Augusta – perfect for socializing your puppy or brushing up your dog’s manners in a fun group setting. Classes are held both outdoors (in nice weather) and at Jacqueline’s indoor facility on Patrick Street. 

Basic Manners class runs for 5 weeks and covers all the essentials (sit, down, stay, come, leash walking, etc.), while an Advanced Training class (also 5 weeks) challenges dogs with higher-level skills and reliability. Classes are drop-in style (continuous enrollment) and kept very affordable – $150 for the 5-week series. 

Jacqueline is right there teaching each class, bringing the same patience and positivity as in her private sessions. She limits class size so that even in a group, each dog gets attention and you’ll have time to ask questions. Her background in shelter dog training means she’s seen it all – no puppy is too unruly and no dog is too old to learn in her class!

Services: Group puppy kindergarten and adult dog obedience classes (basic & advanced). Courses typically meet once a week in the early evening (e.g., 5:30pm for Basic). The first week is an orientation (owners come without dogs to learn theory and prepare), then the dogs attend from Week 2 onward to practice skills and socialization in a controlled setting. 

Jacqueline incorporates problem-solving for common issues like jumping up, barking, and house training as part of the curriculum. Because the classes are ongoing, you can often start without a long wait and continue to the advanced level seamlessly. 

For puppies, this is an excellent opportunity to play and learn with others in a safe environment. Graduates receive a certificate and plenty of resources to continue training at home. (Puppies Pause also partners with local vets and pet shops occasionally to host classes or events, expanding learning opportunities for clients.)

Credentials: (See above – Jacqueline is an APDT member and certified trainer with multiple evaluator credentials.) Her group classes follow modern positive training techniques and she is equipped to handle mixed skill levels by giving individual tips during exercises.

Client Testimonials:(See Private Lessons section for a client quote. In group classes, owners frequently comment on how much fun the classes are and how quickly their dogs learn under Jacqueline’s guidance.) One puppy owner noted that even the shy pups come out of their shell by the end of the 5 weeks – a hallmark of Jacqueline’s supportive class environment.

Notable Accomplishments:

• Group Class Accessibility: One of the few certified trainers offering group classes in the Augusta area – filling a big need for local puppy socialization classes (especially when big-box store classes are limited).

• Therapy Dog & AKC CGC Success: As an AKC evaluator, Jacqueline often incorporates CGC skills into classes. Several of her students have gone on to earn Canine Good Citizen titles or do therapy dog visits after training with her.

• Community Trusted: Puppies Pause Training is a member of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce and has a 5-star reputation locally. Many local vets refer puppy clients to Jacqueline’s classes because of her positive methods and consistent results.

Best For: Puppies and adolescent dogs that need basic training with distractions. Also great for owners who prefer a budget-friendly class in the Augusta area rather than traveling to Portland or Bangor. If your puppy could use playmates or your adult dog needs to practice around others in a controlled setting, these classes are ideal. It’s a friendly, low-pressure atmosphere – perfect for first-time dog owners who might be nervous about training.

Pricing: $150 per 5-week class (one hour session/week) – one of the most affordable training programs in Maine. Despite the low cost, classes are high quality and taught by a pro trainer (not a volunteer or store employee). Graduates often comment that the class is a great deal given the amount of personal attention and the improvement they see in their dogs. If you’re unsure, Puppies Pause allows you to sit in on a class or have a free consult to decide if it’s right for you.

Board-and-Train Programs (Immersive “Boot Camp” Training)

Intensive live-in programs where your dog stays with the trainer for a period of time (from one to several weeks) for concentrated training. Board-and-train can jump-start your dog’s learning in a structured environment – great for busy owners or tackling tough behavior issues. After the stay, trainers transfer the new skills to you during follow-up lessons.

King K9 Academy – Joshua Kingsbury (Richmond, ME)

Website: King K9 Academy – Professional dog training on a farm setting

Social: Instagram (@kingk9academy)

King K9 Academy is a premier board-and-train service that has earned over forty 5-star reviews from dog owners across Maine. Head trainer Joshua Kingsbury brings 20+ years of experience and has been “educated, trained or mentored by some of the best dog trainers in the world,” he notes. 

Located on a peaceful farm in Richmond (midway between Augusta and Portland), King K9 Academy provides an ideal setting for immersive training. When you enroll your dog in their Board & Train program, Josh will be the only one working with your dog from start to finish – he prides himself on a personalized, one-trainer approach. 

This program is geared toward achieving reliable off-leash obedience and addressing behavior problems through a balanced training system. Josh is skilled in using modern reward-based training as well as tools like e-collars when appropriate (he’s an authorized dealer for high-quality Garmin and E-Collar Technologies gear). The result is a dog who listens happily and reliably, even around real-world distractions.

Services: 

• King K9’s signature is the Comprehensive Board & Train – an intensive 2 to 3-week live-in training program. During that time, Josh trains your dog in all standard obedience commands (sit, down, stay, heel, come) to a high level of reliability. He also works on any specific issues or custom behaviors you need, from leash reactivity to off-leash hiking etiquette. Dogs are proofed around various distractions (other dogs, farm animals, public spaces) to ensure they generalize the lessons. Midway and at the end, Josh works with you in private follow-up lessons to transfer the handling skill. He also includes unlimited phone support for a year after, so you’re never on your own. 

• For puppies, King K9 offers a Puppy Primer Board & Train – a gentler “learn to earn” style program that gives young pups a solid foundation in manners using games and food motivation (includes one private lesson and ongoing support until the pup is 6 months old). 

• If you prefer to be more hands-on, Josh can do Private Lessons instead of board/train, crafting a training plan for you to implement (there’s even a free phone consultation to get you started). But for many busy owners or tough cases, the board-and-train yields the fastest results. Josh routinely works with hyperactive young dogs, stubborn breeds, and dogs with behavioral issues (mild aggression, extreme pulling, etc.), often achieving dramatic turnarounds in a few weeks that owners struggled to get on their own.

Credentials & Approach: While Joshua may not advertise formal letters after his name, his qualifications shine through his results and client feedback. He’s a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) and stays current with training innovations. 

Over two decades, he has apprenticed with renowned trainers in obedience, behavior modification, and working K9 training. King K9 Academy’s approach is often described as “balanced training with a positive emphasis.” That means your dog will be motivated with rewards and games to learn new behaviors, and will also gently learn boundaries (for example, through proper use of training collars for off-leash reliability). 

Importantly, all training is one-on-one – your dog lives in Josh’s home and gets tons of daily practice in different environments, rather than sitting in a kennel. The Academy also benefits from professional photography (Josh’s wife is a pet photographer), so you’ll often see gorgeous photos of your dog’s training progress!

Client Testimonials:

• “King K9 was hands down one of the best investments that we’ve made for our pups.” – Megan L., 2024

• “[Joshua] is very knowledgeable, calm, and patient and has really helped turn Poppy into a very well-mannered pup.” – Eliza P., 2024

Clients consistently rave about the transformations they see. Many mention that behaviors they thought they’d “just have to live with” vanished after the board-and-train. The word “investment” comes up often – owners feel the program is worth every penny for the peace of mind and freedom they gain (imagine a dog that can hike off-leash and come back every time when called).

Notable Accomplishments:

• 5-Star Rated: Over 40 five-star Google reviews and a perfect satisfaction record to date. King K9 Academy is frequently referred to as “one of the best dog trainers in Maine.”

• Personal Trainer for Each Dog: Unlike some larger facilities, Josh limits how many dogs he takes at once so he can personally train each one (no assistants taking over). This hands-on commitment has led to standout results and word-of-mouth referrals statewide.

• E-Collar Specialist: King K9 is an authorized dealer for Garmin and E-Collar Technologies. Josh has extensive expertise in using these tools humanely. Dogs that “graduate” from his board & train are commonly off-leash reliable, which is a huge accomplishment for owners who never imagined being able to trust their dog off leash.

• Diverse Training Background: From pet obedience to service dog foundations and even some police K9 training experience, Josh’s breadth of knowledge means he can handle anything. He’s worked with breeds of all kinds, from high-drive Malinois to stubborn hounds to sensitive rescue mixes.

Best For: Busy owners who want fast, guaranteed results or anyone with a challenging dog that hasn’t improved with regular classes. If you dream of off-leash adventures with your dog or need to fix serious behavior problems (jumping, lunging, not listening, etc.), King K9’s board-and-train is a superb option. Dogs stay in a home environment and get field trips to various locations, so it’s great for generalizing good behavior everywhere. It’s also ideal for owners who might be overwhelmed – Josh will do the hard work and then teach you how to maintain it. Past clients include professionals with limited time, elderly owners who needed extra help training a strong dog, and families who wanted a solid obedience foundation for their new dog.

Pricing: Premium investment (exact rates provided upon consultation). A typical 2-week board & train can range roughly from $2,000–$3,000+ depending on the duration and goals. Clients overwhelmingly say it’s worth it, as seen in reviews calling it “the best investment.” Payment plans and seasonal discounts are sometimes available. A free phone consultation is offered to discuss your needs upfront. All board & train programs include follow-up lessons and extended support, ensuring you get long-term value.

Peace and Unity Pet Services (PUPS) – Chelsea & Phelan (Unity, ME)

Website: Peace & Unity Pet Services – Training

Social: Facebook (Peace and Unity Pet Services)

Peace and Unity Pet Services – often abbreviated as PUPS – is a highly respected training company known for successfully rehabilitating difficult dogs throughout central Maine. Co-owner and head trainer Chelsea (along with her partner Phelan) has a background as an animal behaviorist and over 20 years of animal care and training experience. 

Established in 2016, PUPS has helped hundreds of clients and gained a reputation as the go-to for dogs with severe behavioral issues (think dogs with aggression, extreme anxiety, or other special needs). Their Board-and-Train programs are aptly named “Give Me Peace” & “Give Me Peace & Unity” – indicating the relief owners feel when their once-unruly dogs come home much calmer and better behaved. 

PUPS operates across central Maine. Training is done in a home setting and out in real-world environments. Chelsea’s methodology is rooted in positive reinforcement and science-based behavior modification, but she’s also skilled at managing more serious issues that sometimes require creative solutions. For instance, she has experience with large powerful breeds (Great Danes, shepherds, bully breeds) and has even worked with wolfdog hybrids and shelter rescues in her past wildlife conservation work. This depth of experience allows PUPS to tackle cases that others might turn away.

Services: 

• Board-and-Train packages ranging from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the level of training needed. 

  • The “Give Me Peace” Board & Train focuses on creating a calm, obedient companion – it covers obedience commands and resolves common problems, ideal for dogs with moderate issues. 

  • The extended “Peace & Unity” program is geared toward more severe behavior rehab (e.g., dogs with anxiety or reactivity issues), providing extra time and behavior adjustment. 

  • There’s also a “Save My Dog” Board & Train for critical cases (for dogs at risk of rehoming/euthanasia due to behavior) – a truly comprehensive rehabilitation service.

During any board & train, the dog lives with the PUPS team and goes through daily training exercises, field trips for socialization, and behavior modification routines. Owners receive regular updates. Once the board & train is done, multiple follow-up lessons are included to ensure the owner can maintain the training.

PUPS also offers Private Lessons (either standalone or as follow-ups) and Open Group Classes for graduates or local clients working on skills in a group (these classes are “open” in that they meet periodically for practiced scenarios, rather than a set 6-week course). Additionally, PUPS provides in-home pet sitting and daycare services for those who have gone through training with them – they can combine pet care with training refreshers, which is a unique perk.

Credentials & Specializations: Chelsea holds a B.S. in Wildlife Conservation and has significant experience in animal behavior research. While not a CPDT, she is effectively an animal behavior consultant, adept in reading canine body language and employing desensitization/counterconditioning for behavior issues. 

Her wide-ranging work (from rehabilitating wildlife to working with rescue dogs) gives her a perspective “unique among trainers,” especially in making nervous pets comfortable. PUPS emphasizes safety: all initial consultations assess the dog thoroughly, and they only take on cases they are confident they can help. The team is also Fear Free Certified (in handling pets with minimal stress) and they partner with local veterinarians and rescues for a holistic approach. PUPS has a strong network – if your dog needs a medical workup or a specific type of expert, they will coordinate that as part of the training plan.

Client Testimonials:

• “I am so thankful we met Chelsea! She has made such a difference with our Great Dane, George. He went from always anxiously ‘protecting’ me on walks (intense barking, lunging, etc.) to having a calm and relaxed demeanor… It is such a great feeling knowing I can take George for a walk and not worry… Chelsea is so patient and gentle with George… I HIGHLY recommend her to anyone!” – Traci K. (Waterville, ME)

Many clients come to PUPS as a last resort – and leave as true believers. Testimonials frequently mention previously aggressive or unmanageable dogs who, after training, can be walked in public and live peacefully at home. Words like “patient,” “miracle,” and “life-changing” show up in reviews. The Waterville owner above illustrates how even extreme lunging/barking can be turned around. Another common theme is PUPS giving owners confidence: “I now have peace of mind taking my dog out, whereas before I was filled with anxiety,” said one client. This reflects the company name – bringing peace and unity back to households with dogs.

Notable Accomplishments:

• Hundreds of Dogs Helped: Since 2016, PUPS has worked with hundreds of dogs, including many labeled “hopeless.” Their success rate in rehabbing difficult dogs has made them highly sought-after in central Maine.

• Veterinary & Rescue References: Local vets (in Waterville and surrounding towns) often refer clients with tough cases to PUPS. Additionally, rescues such as Almost Home Rescue of New England collaborate with PUPS; Chelsea fosters and trains foster dogs to increase their adoptability.

• Special Needs Expertise: PUPS has a niche in behavioral rehabilitation. For example, Chelsea’s experience with wolf hybrids and high-anxiety wildlife gives her an edge in understanding fear aggression in domestic dogs. They have saved dogs that otherwise might have been euthanized for behavior – a priceless achievement for those families.

• Holistic Pet Care: Being a combined training and pet-sitting service, PUPS ensures continuity of care. If you’re away, you can board your dog with them and know not only will your dog be cared for, but they’ll also keep up the training. This approach earned them rave reviews from clients who used training + pet sitting packages.

• Educational Outreach: Chelsea and Phelan frequently educate the public about dog behavior. They’ve held free Q&A sessions online, contribute training tips on social media, and even tackle myths about “aggressive breeds” – helping to promote understanding and keeping dogs in homes.

Best For: Owners at their wits’ end with behavior issues – if your dog’s aggression, reactivity, or anxiety is limiting your life, PUPS will likely be your best ally. Their board-and-train is also great for busy households who need a jump-start on training, knowing a professional is laying the groundwork. If you have a rescue dog with a troubled past, or a dog who failed to improve with basic training elsewhere, PUPS excels at giving such dogs a second chance. They’re also a top choice for multi-dog households with dynamics problems, as they can take in and work with multiple dogs at once (and even incorporate their own stable dogs to help socialize). Additionally, if you prefer a whole-home approach – training plus care – PUPS provides that unified service.

Pricing: Board-and-Train Programs are customized and priced based on the duration/intensity (expect a few thousand dollars for a multi-week intensive program). They start with a required 30-minute consultation ($50), which is then applied toward the training cost if you move forward. This consult ensures it’s the right fit and sets a training plan. Clients report the cost is justified by the drastic improvements, especially compared to spending money on multiple classes or ineffective methods previously. Private lesson rates are around industry standard ($100/hour range). PUPS is very transparent and will provide a detailed quote and even progress updates during the board & train so you feel it’s money well spent. Payment plans can often be arranged.

Sources: We’ve verified all trainer credentials, services, and client feedback via official websites, trainer profiles, and reputable reviews. Each trainer listed comes highly recommended and has a proven track record in Central Maine. When choosing a dog trainer, always consider your dog’s personality and your own goals – hopefully this roundup gives you a head start in finding the perfect match for you and your furry friend!

Why Working With a Professional Dog Trainer Matters

Dog training is about more than just obedience. It's about building communication, trust, and confidence between you and your dog. Professional trainers bring proven techniques, hands-on experience, and the ability to adjust to your dog’s unique personality.

Certified trainers also stay updated on positive, science-backed methods that prioritize your dog’s well-being. Whether you’re dealing with typical puppy challenges or serious behavior concerns, a great trainer provides the tools and support you need for success.

How to Choose the Right Training Program for Your Dog

Different dogs — and different lifestyles — call for different types of training. Here's a quick breakdown to help you choose:

• Private lessons are perfect for shy, reactive, or special-needs dogs who need a quieter, personalized environment.

• Group classes offer socialization and structured skill-building, great for puppies and dogs ready to learn around distractions.

• Board-and-train programs give your dog intensive, daily training while living with a professional — ideal for busy owners or dogs needing more consistent guidance.

Think about your dog’s temperament, your training goals, and your schedule when deciding which option fits best.

What to Expect During Dog Training

A professional training program should set clear expectations from the start. You can typically expect:

• A consultation or assessment to understand your dog's needs.

• Tailored lessons based on your goals, whether it's basic manners, leash skills, or behavior modification.

• Homework and follow-up support to keep progress going at home.

• Positive reinforcement methods that teach your dog through motivation, not fear or punishment.

Many trainers also offer progress updates, resources, and advice long after formal lessons are done — giving you a long-term partner in your dog’s success.

Start Your Dog's Journey to Success — and Treat Them to a Stay at The Pet Motel & Spa

Ready to build better communication and confidence with your dog? Check out the top dog trainers we’ve listed to find the right partner for your training journey. And when you need a place your dog can feel safe, loved, and cared for while you’re away, we’ve got you covered!

At The Pet Motel & Spa, we offer trusted dog boarding and professional grooming services right here in Central Maine. Whether your pup needs a cozy place to stay while you’re busy or a spa day to look and feel their best, our experienced team is here to help.

Book your pet’s stay or grooming appointment today!