Business Details
26 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training in Sharon, MA
Founded in 2000, Blue Max Dog has established itself as a leader in dog training and behavior modification through gentle, positive reinforcement methods. Our team, led by certified trainer Carol Ahearn, brings decades of experience in diverse environments, from private lessons to large-scale workshops. We specialize in improving the relationship between dogs and their owners by addressing behavioral challenges such as aggression, separation anxiety, and obedience. Our services include personalized in-home lessons, group classes, and AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluations.Carols expertise is further enhanced by her roles as an ITC graduate, Fear Free Certified Trainer, and member of the Center for Shelter Dogs behavior department. We prioritize ongoing education, attending seminars to stay current with the latest training techniques. With a focus on patience and love, weve helped hundreds of dogs and families achieve harmonious coexistence, earning trust and recognition in the community.
Services
In-Home Training
Group Classes
Behavior Consultations
AKC Evaluations
Agility Training
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in dog training and behavior modification.
- Our personalized approach adapts to each dog's unique needs and owner lifestyles.
- Carol Ahearn is an APDT-certified trainer with advanced credentials from ITC.
- We use only positive reinforcement methods for stress-free learning experiences.
- Our team contributes to shelter dog behavior programs and community education.
Associations and certifications
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers
- Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
- Fear Free, LLC
- Animal Behavior College
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
What people say
Positive reinforcement approach
Excellent trainer
Wonderful resource
Loves her work
Effective methods
Services
In-Home Obedience Lessons
Tailored one-on-one sessions address basic commands and behavioral issues in your dog's natural environment. Our certified trainers use positive reinforcement to teach leash walking, sit/down/stay commands, and resolve problems like aggression or separation anxiety. Ideal for dogs overwhelmed by group settings or owners with irregular schedules, these lessons provide focused, practical solutions for long-term success.
Group Classes
Structured group programs in Sharon and Boston, MA, covering puppy kindergarten through advanced obedience. Classes include socialization opportunities, agility training, and AKC Canine Good Citizen preparation. Small class sizes ensure individual attention while fostering peer learning. Sessions run six weeks with flexible scheduling options for puppies and adult dogs at various skill levels.
Behavior Consultations
Specialized assessments and interventions for complex behavioral challenges like phobias, compulsive behaviors, and resource guarding. Our certified trainers develop customized plans using evidence-based techniques. Follow-up sessions track progress and adjust strategies. Services include home environment evaluations to identify triggers and create safer living spaces for dogs and families.
AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluations
Official temperament testing and preparation for the AKC's CGC certification program. We assess dogs' ability to handle real-world situations through 10 practical tests. Training packages include evaluation fees and targeted skill development. Certification demonstrates responsible pet ownership and qualifies dogs for therapy animal programs and housing accommodations.
Agility Training
Fun, physically engaging courses that improve coordination, focus, and handler communication. Classes teach obstacle navigation, weave poles, and timed course completion. Programs available for beginners through advanced competitors. Builds confidence and strengthens the human-dog bond through positive reinforcement techniques in a supportive group environment.
People
Carol Ahearn
Owner/Trainer
Carol Ahearn founded Blue Max Dog in 2000 after a 20-year career in dog handling and training. An APDT-certified professional and ITC graduate, she specializes in behavior modification and shelter dog rehabilitation. Carol holds multiple certifications including AKC CGC Evaluator and Fear Free Certified Trainer.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We exclusively use positive reinforcement techniques that focus on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones. This creates a stress-free learning environment for dogs and owners.
Do you offer in-home training sessions?
Yes, we provide personalized in-home obedience lessons for dogs that need individualized attention or have difficulty focusing in group settings.
What areas do you serve?
We operate in Sharon and Boston, MA, with training locations at the MSPCA-Angell, ARL in Dedham, and local pet facilities.
Are group classes suitable for puppies?
Our Puppy Kindergarten classes accept puppies 8 weeks to 4 months old, focusing on socialization and basic obedience in a controlled environment.
Do you handle aggressive dog behavior?
Yes, we specialize in behavior modification programs for aggression, fear-based reactions, and anxiety-related issues using certified, humane techniques.
Can you help prepare for AKC CGC certification?
We offer both preparation courses and official evaluations for the AKC Canine Good Citizen program, covering all 10 required skills.
Reviews (2)
Dana Pratt
Dec 09, 2020
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Carol is wonderful! She helped us with our anxious dog during transition (we were having kids). I cannot say enough about the experience, which was a few years ago. It came to mind because we were talking about how far we've come with the kids and our dog - and we owe a lot of that to Carol's positive and realistic approach.
Lovedogs
Mar 14, 2020
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Carol is a very caring and knowledgeable trainer. Although I didn't ultimately use her training services, she discussed at length the reality of my unpredictable, animal-aggressive dog, and all my options. Her expertise helped me tremendously.
