Every class feels fresh because we teach dogs real-life skills, problem-solving tricks, and distraction work through creative training, not just routines. Learn to communicate with your dog and start seeing the difference.
Dog Training that Works
- Trusted by families since 2013
- Lead trainer is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer
- Positive, reward-based training
At MJ’s Pet Training Academy® in Acushnet, we help you train your dog with positive, reward-based methods. Every program is designed to build real-life skills and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Choose from a variety of in-person classes in Acushnet or train with us virtually.
Dog Training & Behavior Support
We offer in-person dog training classes at our Acushnet, Massachusetts facility. From playful puppies to dogs facing complex behavior challenges, our positive methods help every dog learn to thrive both at home and out in the community. Discover how working with a professional trainer can transform your dog’s skills.
Right now, try our limited time 4-Week Clicker Training Course for only $60. This fun, hands-on program is a great way to jumpstart your dog’s training and strengthen the bond between you.
Dog Grooming
Our professional dog groomers focus on comfort and coat care for dogs of all breeds. We offer full grooming services, bath packages, and nail trims by appointment. Every full groom and bath package includes nail trimming and shaping, ear cleaning, and fluff drying, so your dog leaves looking and feeling their best.
New clients receive 15% off their first grooming appointment. Returning clients can explore our current specials and savings to keep their dog’s coat in top condition year-round.
Train From Home with Virtual Classes
Not local to Acushnet? No problem. Our virtual dog training sessions let you work with a certified trainer from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re starting with the basics or tackling behavior challenges, online training makes it easy to get the same proven results.
Learn About Our Training Services
Flexible enrollment. Start now.
Puppy training is an important step in raising a well-behaved dog. Our puppy classes run year-round, so you can get started right away, even this week. Classes are designed to build confidence, social skills, and good habits from the start.
Puppies must be up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations and have had a veterinary visit since arriving home.
Flexible enrollment. Start now.
Our classes are not your average obedience program. Since 2013, dogs and their owners have been learning with MJ’s proven training methods that go beyond simple routines. We focus on micro-skills, teaching dogs to understand concepts and truly learn, rather than just repeat. Every class is built on positive, reward-based methods that strengthen communication and results.
Behavior Support and Private Training
Book Now
Private sessions at our Acushnet training facility give you and your dog the one-on-one support you need to succeed. We offer customized options including family training, private obedience lessons, scent training, behavior support, and more — all designed to meet your dog’s individual needs.
Duration: 6 Weeks
Find the next start date here.
Train your dog to use scent to find missing items. In this fun course, your dog will learn how to search for belongings of both you and others. No prior experience is required — just a willingness to work for food and a natural love of sniffing! This class is a great way to build your dog’s focus, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
Flexible enrollment. Start Now
Our Scent League is designed for both fun and challenge — for dogs and their people! Two levels train side by side in the same league sessions, giving everyone a chance to learn and grow together. Teams compete for points while practicing how to find target odors. We recommend attending an Introduction Workshop before your first league class, or contacting us to learn how to get started.
For a Limited Time: Introduction to Clicker Training Course
Duration: Four weeks
Price $60
There are many misconceptions about clicker training, but this course will show you how it really works. You’ll learn to use the clicker as a marker and also practice other marker options such as the word “yes.” We’ll cover shaping, luring, and capturing so you can teach your dog both obedience skills and fun tricks. Along the way, you’ll discover the pros and cons of clicker training and build confidence using marker-based methods in everyday training.
Expert Advice You Can Trust
From training tips to behavior insights, the MJ’s blog is packed with professional advice to inspire your training journey.
Visit the BlogMore Than Dog Training
At MJ’s Pet Training Academy®, we don’t just teach obedience — we help you and your dog become a team. Our programs are designed with purpose and a deep respect for the human-animal bond.
Evidence-Based Methods
We use proven training principles that support learning and reduce stress — for both dogs and humans.
Customized Coaching
No two dogs are alike. We tailor training to match your dog’s needs and your real-world goals.
Community Impact
We’re passionate about helping dogs succeed with their families, and thrive in everyday life.
Daily Dog Training Tips
Simple, insightful, and actionable tips to help you build better habits with your dog. Updated daily — and always rooted in MJ’s expert approach.
Read Today’s Tip
Certified
Expert Dog Trainers
MJ’s trainers are certified and experienced across multiple areas of dog training. Learn more about our certifications here.
10+
Years Serving the community
MJ’s has been serving SouthCoast MA for 10 years, providing pet grooming, puppy classes, dog training, and workshops.
Welcome Call
Not sure where to begin?
Schedule a time to discuss training options with an MJ’s Pet Training Academy team member. For in person and distance clients, a welcome call is a great way to learn more about all of our services. Contact us to learn more.
Classes
Puppy Skills and Puppy Gym
Puppy classes at MJ’s Pet Training Academy are designed to offer flexibility and support to new puppy owners. Whether you want to take your puppy through all of the topics to earn the Puppy Skills Achievement or drop in for some extra training practice in combination with other programs, we invite you to join our classes and gym sessions designed exclusively for puppies. Practice important skills such as leash walking, coming when called, greeting without jumping, stay, toy search and more.
In addition to our regular Puppy Skills classes, MJ’s also offers private training for puppies in Acushnet as well as puppy training workshops.
If your puppy is 5 months or under, you can get started right away without the need for an evaluation.
Canine Manners Certificate
Our comprehensive obedience and manners track will take you from the foundational basics all the way to advanced techniques, including off-leash obedience. Begin with our Training Foundations program and steadily progress through the various levels towards achieving Real-World Obedience. Are you ready to join the exciting Manners Quest adventure?
Learn more about the Canine Manners Certificate here.
Scent Detection
Scent detection is for every dog! When dogs are provided with opportunities to problem solve using their strongest sense, it gives them an outlet like no other. If your dog loves to sniff, the class will provide your dog with an opportunity to. Scent League is for all dogs. Your dog does not have to have any prior training, nor do you have to be a competitor. In Scent League, dogs learn to search for target odors and alert their handlers. A variety of challenges are offered, and teams can earn points for prizes. Your dog can play too!
The prerequisite for this class is attending our Intro to Scent Detection Workshop.
What Other Experts Have to Say
Kelly Gorman Dunbar
“I’ve been lucky enough to collaborate with MJ several times over the past few years and I am so glad we met. MJ has the perfect blend of technical training skills, enthusiasm, creativity, and compassion. She’s one of my very favorite trainers to follow, the joy she brings to both dogs and handlers is such a pleasure to behold, she really knows how to make dog training fun! I’ve been a dog trainer for 30 years and I still learn new tips and tricks by watching her train!”
Private Dog Training
The possibilities are endless with personalized private training.
Book Private Dog Training with Melissa “MJ” Viera, CPDT-KA
Dog Grooming at MJ’s Pet Training Academy
MJ’s Pet Training Academy offers grooming services for all breeds. Bath packages include a nail trim and nail shaping, ear cleaning, a bath with a premium shampoo, and fluff drying and brushing. Add trimming, clipping, and styling with a Full Grooming Package. Our expert groomers will provide your dog with well-deserved pampering. In addition to our regular grooming packages, specialty add-ons are available. Treat your very good dog to luxury grooming and coat & skin care.
Training and Enrichment
MJ’s is proud to offer enriching activities that keep your dog engaged and happy as well as obedience training, behavioral modification as well as professional consultations for professional trainers. In addition, Melissa “MJ” Viera, CPDT-KA also presents on a number of dog training and behavior topics. If the service you are interested in is not listed on our website, please don’t hesitate to contact us.