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 Classes and More
- 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.
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.
What’s New?
Ask about our Pumpkin Pie Dog Grooming Special.
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
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.
Dog Training in Acushnet, Massachusetts
Located at 1 Titleist Drive in Acushnet, MA
Join one of our creative, fun, and active dog training classes.
Learn More about classes below.
How to Begin Group Class Dog Training
Puppy Group Classes Up to 5 Months
If your puppy is under 5 months old, you can jump right into any of our Puppy Skills classes. Enrollment is ongoing, and with your class pass you can attend any available session—just be sure to sign in to reserve your spot.
Before attending your first class:
Your puppy should have been home with you for at least 10 days.
Puppies must be up to date on age-appropriate vaccines.
You’ll need to provide simple documentation from your veterinarian (such as a receipt). Breeder or rescue vet records alone are not enough—your puppy must have had a visit with a veterinarian while in your care.
Graduation from Puppy Skills takes an average of 6 classes. For the best results, we encourage cross-training by adding Trickovation® and Scent Training to give your puppy a well-rounded start.
You can purchase a 10-class or 15-class pass, and use it toward any of our classes. No evaluation is needed for puppies—sign up today!
Dog Training Group Classes for All Dogs Over 6 Months
If your puppy is between 5 and 6 months old, please contact us first so we can help you determine the best class placement.
For dogs over 6 months old, begin with our Manners Dog Training classes. All regular classes run on an ongoing enrollment system, so you can start anytime. Simply sign up online to reserve your spot—class sizes are kept small to ensure personal attention.
Dogs new to our academy who want a complete manners training program begin at Level 1 Canine Manners and progress through to Level 3, which is our Obedience League. Along the way, your dog will also develop Canine Good Citizen–level skills.
In addition to our progressive program, we offer drop-in classes that do not require graduating levels, such as Canine Good Citizen Prep and Heelwork classes.
For the best results, we recommend cross-training with Trickovation® and Scent Training, which add variety and strengthen your dog’s overall skills.
Requirements:
Dogs must be current on all vaccines, including a valid rabies certificate.
Dogs must be able to interact safely with other dogs and people.
Aggressive dogs are not permitted in group sessions.
Courses and Workshops
While our regular classes allow for ongoing enrollment, some courses run with a set start and end date. Courses such as Lost Item Training and Clicker Training Introduction are excellent opportunities to strengthen your skills and expand your dog’s training foundation.
For courses, please plan to attend all sessions, as missed classes cannot be applied toward regular class passes.
We also offer a variety of workshops throughout the year, each focusing on specific skills or training challenges.
Requirements:
The same health and safety requirements apply as with all group classes.
You may attend courses alongside your regular classes, or on their own (unless a course specifies additional requirements).
Welcome Call
Not Sure Where to Begin?
Fill out the form below, and one of our dog training specialists will reach out within two business days to answer your questions and help you get started.
Our Number: 855-465-7782
Please double-check that your phone number is entered correctly and add us to your contacts so you don’t miss our call.
Certified Dog Training
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 proudly served the SouthCoast for over a decade.
We’re more than a dog training school—we’re a community resource committed to helping dogs and their people thrive. In a supportive, positive environment, our fun classes strengthen skills, build confidence, and deepen the bond you share with your dog.
Our Commitment to Professionalism
There are many misconceptions about dog training certifications. While there is no single certification in the industry, MJ’s is committed to maintaining the highest professional standards.
Our owner and lead trainer, Melissa Viera, CPDT-KA, is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer—Knowledge Assessed and holds several additional credentials. She is dedicated to ongoing education in animal training, behavior, and cognition, and that commitment extends to the entire team, who regularly attend continuing education programs.
Melissa’s passion for learning also shapes her work with other professionals. She presents on training topics, hosts a dog training podcast, and coaches other trainers through private consultations.
At MJ’s, you can be confident that your dog’s training is guided by evidence-based techniques, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.
What Other Experts Have to Say
“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!”
Kelly Gorman Dunbar
Ready to get started? We have classes available this week.
