Efficient, Holistic, and Results-Oriented Dog Training in Newton, Waltham, Lexington & Surrounding Areas

Experiencing behavioral issues with your dog? Our compassionate, in-home dog training in Newton, Waltham, Lexington & Surrounding Areas empowers you to overcome challenges fast. 

We teach in your home, where your dog feels the most secure. Through our focused, results-driven approach, you’ll learn how to lead and communicate clearly with your dog, so you can enjoy a calmer, happier life together.

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Personalized Dog & Puppy Training

Every dog is different. That’s why we work with you to create a tailored training plan and bring our experienced trainers to your home on your schedule. Whether you’re looking for puppy training in Newton, Waltham, Lexington & Surrounding Areas or help with an older dog, we’ve got you covered!

Nurturing, Dog-Friendly Approach

We don’t rely on bribes or punishment. Our proven methods are based on respect, leadership, and trust, the core values that build lasting changes and better behavior.

A Lifetime of Support

With our Gold Service, your Bark Busters Boston Northwest trainer is a single call away and ready to help at any point in your dog’s life at no additional cost.

Common Dog Behavioral Issues We Address

Our expert puppy training, dog training, and dog behavior services in Newton, Waltham, Lexington & Surrounding Areas resolve the most challenging dog behavior issues including:

  • Aggression
  • Adjusting to New Home
  • Barking
  • Biting
  • Chewing
  • Destruction
  • Digging
  • Focus & Listening
  • Housebreaking
  • Improving Confidence
  • Jumping
  • Leash Pulling
  • Marking/Peeing
  • New Baby Preparation
  • Obsessiveness
  • Respecting Other Pets
  • Running Away
  • Separation Anxiety
  • Sibling Rivalry – in House Tensions/ Fights


Not sure where your dog could use improvement? Take our free behavioral quiz today.

Meet Bonnie, Your Local Professional Dog Trainer

Dog Trainer Bonnie Ober and Dog

Expert In-Home Dog Training Across Newton, Lexington, Waltham, Concord & Nearby Communities

Welcome! I’m Bonnie Ober, your Bark Busters Dog Trainer and Dog Behavioral Therapist serving Newton, Lexington, Waltham, Concord, and the surrounding Boston Northwest area. My lifelong passion has always been animals, and I’ve had the joy of living and working with dogs throughout my life. I began with Bark Busters over five years ago, inspired while training my own dog with my cousin, a Bark Busters trainer in Northern California. I was amazed at the quick, life-changing results she achieved with her clients—and their dogs! That experience set me on my career path: helping dogs and their owners enjoy calmer, happier relationships at home.

I continually attend advanced training and collaborate with our international network of more than 300 Bark Busters dog trainers and behavioral therapists across the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. I’ve rescued, fostered, and adopted several dogs (Husky, Beagle mix, Cocker Spaniel, Poodle mix, Terrier mix, and Lab/Newfoundland mix), giving me firsthand experience with common behavioral challenges and practical solutions that work in real homes.

Bark Busters’ natural, dog-friendly training methods deliver fast, lasting results. Many dogs who once struggled with behaviors like jumping, door charging, or poor leash manners are calm, obedient, and well-mannered by the end of the first session. Puppies can be especially challenging, so I’ll guide you through toilet training, nipping, and other common puppy behaviors to set your pup up for lifelong success.

We never use physically or mentally harsh methods, and treats are never the primary motivator. Instead, I focus on training your dog’s mind, helping them respond to calm leadership, consistency, and clear communication. I call it “training the brain, not the belly.” With our Life of Dog Support Guarantee, you get ongoing peace of mind as you apply these strategies at home.

Using techniques dogs naturally use with each other, I’ll teach you how to become the leader your dog loves, respects, and obeys. My goal is simple: make your household happy, balanced, and stress-free for both you and your dog. Whether you’ve adopted a new dog or need help with existing behaviors, I ensure every dog thrives in their home environment.

Contact me today to start your dog’s transformation in Newton, Lexington, Waltham, Concord, or the nearby Boston Northwest communities!

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Client Reviews

See what our clients in Boston Northwest have to say

...[Bonnie] took the time to explain reasons behind behaviors and training options. She was readily available for consult, advice and support. Her input and training are the reasons why I now have a dog who is manageable, pleasant to be around, stays off the counter and table, and finds the cat downright boring. I highly recommend reaching out to Bonnie if you and your canine buddy need some help getting everyone to a more comfortable place.
Such an amazing service. In the first session I learned the skills needed to get my dog on the right track with her behavior and interactions with others.
I cannot recommend Bonnie Ober highly enough, I love her! I wish I had called Bark Busters a LONG time ago. I had Blue for well over a year and went through a couple of trainers and was still not making any headway. I was told and understood all the "rules" but it was way too overwhelming and exhausting and just didn't work for me and Blue. Bonnie spent just a short time with us and quickly got to the root of what was happening and what needed to be done. She broke it down very easily and we had a quick and simple routine we could manage. When I contacted her with updates, she would cheer us on and help us fine tune areas we were still having trouble with. I will be forever grateful to her for all of her help. She explained the entire process and was extremely patient. I am SOOOO GLAD I did this; it is the best money you'll ever spend! She was born for this job and we are all so lucky to have found her!!!!
About 6 months ago, I adopted a dog from our local rescue. He was 4-years-old, so I figured we would have NONE of the normal puppy behaviors. Boy was I wrong! I watched every video, read every article on how to overcome separation anxiety, peeing when a new guest came over, and aggression. And nothing I did worked. I mean nothing. I hired one trainer who believes in treat training. The only problem was, I didn't always have a treat with me. I was ready to give up, but had fallen in love with Patches, so failure was not an option.

Then I met Bonnie and our whole world changed. Our relationship changed. I stopped screaming "No" at every bad behavior. And I learned to communicate with Patches in a way he understood. Almost overnight, he started listening. At first I thought it was too good to be true. But by practicing the exercises she gave us for about 10 minutes each day, he was no longer afraid. Of guests, other dogs or my leaving.

My only regret? I didn't call her sooner. I could have saved myself from 6 months of stress!
I rescued a dog who was aggressive to other dogs whenever he was on leash. It was very hard to pull him back as he is a large German Shepherd. It got to the point that I would only walk him at night when other dogs weren't around. Enter Bonnie who gave us the methods to help him. We can now walk on a loose leash, and pass other dogs without growling, snapping or attempting to bite. The change in my dog's behavior was amazing. Bark Busters is one of the few trainers that can tackle the difficult behaviors.
Bonnie was very clear in her explanations of how to establish better boundaries with our pups. So far, the pups are doing really well with their homework. We are excited to see how they continue to progress.
Bonnie was very clear in her explanations of how to establish better boundaries with our pups. So far, the pups are doing really well with their homework. We are excited to see how they continue to progress.
Amazing program! My dog’s nervous and anxious behavior was changed literally immediately! Bonnie listened very carefully to our story and drastically changed the life of my dog! Forever grateful
Bonnie really helped us to see that although we are clearly the leaders of the house, our dog did not see us that way. It's remarkable how a few simple changes and some practice led to our dog understanding that she is not in charge of security and she can calm down and be quiet. Bonnie had great insight and recommendations. Our pup had seen several trainers and she was still having issues. The wisdom and understanding that Bonnie provided really helped us to get our dog back on track. Thank you Bonnie!
I recently adopted an older Labrador Retriever who is sweet as the day is long, but initially a bit of a challenge. I can impart basic manners, but this dog liked my elderly cat for all the wrong reasons, and he quickly developed a taste for counter-surfing. His inclination outdoors, was to put his nose down and follow it. I felt pretty overwhelmed and wondered for a while if I would even keep the dog. Then I connected with Bonnie and everything turned around. She assessed our situation quickly and accurately, and she gave intuitive, positive, and non-coercive methods that worked VERY well for us. She took the time to explain reasons behind behaviors and training options. She was readily available for consult, advice and support. Her input and training are the reasons why I now have a dog who is manageable, pleasant to be around, stays off the counter and table, and finds the cat downright boring. I highly recommend reaching out to Bonnie if you and your canine buddy need some help getting everyone to a more comfortable place.


Bonnie came to the house on Friday, she was the third trainer we have worked with. I wish she had been the first because she would have been the last. For the almost two years that we have had Princesa we have thought she was a reactive dog. What Bonnie made us realize was that the issue was with us not her! Knowing what we were doing wrong, and what Princesa needs from us has made this process all make sense. Princesa was barking at everything, and everybody, peeing in the house, not listening, and generally acting out. It has been three days and I am definitely noticing a difference. Took her for a walk yesterday, Easter, lots of people out walking and she was quiet. She did not bark when I came home today and normally that would set her off. It has been, and will continue to be a lot of work, but I am definitely seeing progress, and I can see Princesa is much calmer knowing she doesn’t have to be in charge anymore!


Bonnie was fantastic with our two dogs. She understood our concerns and explained how she would address them. Two weeks later, and we have seen a huge improvement in the behavior of Lucy and Arya. Looking forward to our next visit from Bonnie!
Bonnie is patient, kind, and non judgmental. We have a challenging Boston Terrier and she has had many excellent ideas for adjusting his negative behavior. Doing the training in the home where the dog lives we thought was most advantageous. We would highly recommend Bonnie, and knowing she will be available for the life of the dog is really comforting.
Bonnie was awesome! Super responsive to our needs and the needs of our dogs AND took the time to get to know us. Looking forward to our next appointment.
Just with one visit, we are already seeing signs of improvement in our household! We can't wait to see the whole process complete. Bonnie is very knowledgeable and explains the training process so well and made sure all of our concerns and questions were answered before she left with a clear plan and lots of background information.
We have two beloved Havanese, who ruled the roost, barking at anything that moved (or didn’t) and constantly insisting on going out and then coming in, wash and repeat. Driving us crazy. After Bonnie’s first visit, they’ve become wonderful little citizens, quieting when told and basically only asking to go out when needed. We still have work to do, but the change is absolutely astounding. Bonnie is wonderful to work with. Money very well spent.
Moose and I had our first training session with Bonnie she was wonderful! Moose still needs a lot of work, but I am hopeful that the more work we do with Bonnie, and the more comfortable he becomes with our new home that he will be much calmer and happier. Thank you Bonnie!
I had a wonderful experience with Bonnie today. My Murphy is a rescue and he has trouble with every new person he meets. By the end of our time together, he was completely at ease. My family and I look forward to working the program to help Murphy be all he can be. Thank you, Bonnie
I am so happy I found Bonnie and Bark Busters. My patience was challenged and I needed expert training for my psychiatric service dog. Bonnie was able to step in and help. She was cheerful, easy, and bonded with my dog instantly. Now, my dog has qualified as a service dog through the help of Bark Busters Boston. THANK YOU Bonnie.
We've only had once session so far but I already know that Bonnie is a game changer! Her tips were so helpful. Honestly, just her perspective and encouragement were precisely what I (and my family) needed. We were really doubting our abilities as a dog family. I'm so grateful I stumbled upon the website which lead me to working with Bonnie. She is a wealth of knowledge. Her warmth and support have given us so much more confidence and motivation to push ahead and get our puppy back on track.
Bonnie is the very best, it has been a pleasure working with her.
Bonnie is wonderful! She certainly knows how to handle dogs. My husband and I learned so much today and look forward to working with our standard poodle a little each day. I’m glad Bark Busters was highly recommended to me by the groomer from which I made the right decision. Thank you again Bonnie for spending quality time with us. We look forward to working with you.
Cheryl
Bonnie was very helpful in teaching my family and I how to train our two new English Terrier Dogs. She showed us what we needed to do, products to buy and how to apply the products for potty training, so we could start enjoying our new dogs. I highly recommend Bonnie.
5 stars... a big thank you to Bonnie and Bark Busters! Incredible insight into what makes our little guy tick. Top shelf program for both pets and pet parents.
Working with Bonnie was an absolute pleasure: She was prompt, professional, and expert in describing and helping us implement effective training strategies! We felt empowered to practice and make progress after just one lesson, and we feel great about the prospect of her ongoing support.
After just one week working with Bonnie, my dog Sherman understands that I am the leader of our pack. He walks next to me beautifully. He stops barking when commanded. He follows me vs. being unruly and underfoot. He is far more relaxed overall. The concept is brilliant and very easy to administer for fast results!
Bonnie has been so helpful with training my stubborn Rottie. The techniques she has taught me have improved me and my dogs life. Bonnie is clear with communication and is quick to come by when we need a follow up. We tried other trainings before Bonnie with no results. I get instant results with the things she has taught me.

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Connect with us Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

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Struggling With Your Dog's Behavior? We Can Help.

Young girl training a Husky puppy

Does Your New Puppy Need Training?

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting—but it also comes with big responsibilities. Just like toddlers, puppies need consistent guidance to learn good behavior, build confidence, and grow into well-mannered adult dogs.

At Bark Busters Boston Northwest, we’re here to help you start off on the right paw. Our in-home puppy training is tailored to your puppy’s age, personality, and your specific goals. We work with you in your home environment, where your puppy learns best, and pace the sessions based on their development and your progress. Common puppy issues we help with: 

  • Potty and crate training 
  • Playful biting and chewing 
  • Barking and stealing food 
  • Digging and leash training 
  • Separation anxiety and more 

You don’t have to wait—puppy training can begin just days after your pup settles in. The earlier you start, the easier it is to build trust, set boundaries, and prevent unwanted behaviors before they begin. Ready to give your puppy the best start? Let’s get started!

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An example of Bark Busters Home Dog Training for aggressive dogs.

Is Your Dog Showing Signs of Aggression?

Dog aggression—whether directed at people, other dogs, or animals—is not a personality trait, but a learned behavior. In most cases, aggression stems from fear, insecurity, or confusion. When mixed with adrenaline and a lack of clear guidance, it can quickly escalate into dangerous situations.

At Bark Busters Boston Northwest, we believe no dog is beyond help. If your dog is showing signs of aggression, it’s critical to get support from a professional trainer. We’ll work with you in your home to identify what’s triggering your dog’s behavior and create a personalized training plan to reduce tension, build trust, and restore safety. Common forms of aggression we address:

  • Aggression toward other dogs or animals 
  • Human-directed aggression 
  • Food and toy guarding 
  • Possessive and territorial aggression 
  • Resource guarding 

Resource guarding—where dogs become defensive over food, toys, or space—is one of the most common issues we see, but it’s also one of the most fixable with the right approach.

Take the First Step Toward a Safer, Calmer Home

The most important thing you can do right now is prevent risky situations and seek help. Bark Busters Boston Northwest has successfully helped families resolve aggression issues. If you’re ready to feel confident and in control again, let’s get started.

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Dog with Behavior Issues Destroyed Wall

Noticing Separation Anxiety in Your Dog?

If your dog barks, howls, becomes destructive, or has accidents when you leave, they may be struggling with separation anxiety. This common issue occurs when dogs feel distressed or insecure when left alone—and it can take a serious toll on both your dog and your household.

Common Signs of Separation Anxiety Include:

  • Excessive barking or howling 
  • Chewing, digging, or destroying furniture 
  • Accidents in the house 
  • Drooling, pacing, or panting 
  • Clingy behavior before you leave 

What You Can Do

While professional help is the most effective solution, here are three quick tips to try in the meantime: 

  • Create a predictable routine for meals, walks, and quiet time 
  • Set gentle boundaries to encourage independence
  • Avoid dramatic exits and greetings 

Find a Solution with Bark Busters Home Dog Training

We specialize in treating separation anxiety right where it starts—at home. Our proven methods are personalized to your dog’s behavior, temperament, and environment. If your dog struggles when you’re away, we’re here to help you restore calm and confidence. Call us today to get started.

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A dog barking upward

Put a Stop to Unwanted Barking

Barking is one of the most frequent concerns we hear from dog owners in the Boston Northwest area. While barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, excessive or nuisance barking often signals stress, insecurity, or a lack of clear boundaries—and it can quickly become a major frustration for you and your neighbors.

Why Do Dogs Bark Excessively?

Understanding why your dog barks is the first step to solving the problem. Common triggers include:

  • Separation anxiety when you leave 
  • Visitors, delivery drivers, or passersby 
  • Other dogs barking nearby
  • Excitement, frustration, or boredom 
  • Attention seeking or demanding behavior
  • Startle or fear responses
  • Territorial instincts

At Bark Busters Boston Northwest, we don’t just teach your dog to stop barking—we help you understand why they’re barking in the first place. Then we guide you in using calm, consistent communication your dog naturally understands to change the behavior at its root.

Get Lasting Results with Dog Behavior Training

It’s never too late to address excessive barking. Our in-home training helps you set boundaries and build trust, turning loud, chaotic moments into peaceful, manageable ones. Ready to restore calm in your home? Let’s get started.

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What Makes Bark Busters Newton, Waltham, Lexington & Surrounding Areas Unique

Bark Busters is the worldwide leader of in-home dog training, helping over 1 million families and their dogs around the globe since 1989. We wholeheartedly believe in our methods and 30+ years of results. At Bark Busters Newton, Waltham, Lexington & Surrounding Areas, we clear up the miscommunication between dogs and humans at the root of many behavioral issues by teaching everyone to speak the same language – dog!

Our nurturing, dog-friendly approach teaches you, the pet parent, the same natural communication methods that dogs understand instinctively. Our efficient, results-oriented, training program prioritizes clear communication and leadership while addressing issues in the locations they occur.

This means faster, longer-lasting solutions for you and your dog.

Dogs learn best in a familiar, safe environment, free of outside distractions and disruptions. That is why we come directly to your home, on your schedule to build an effective foundation for better behavior. We work first to build an effective foundation for better behavior. We teach you how to communicate with your dog. Dogs naturally live in families and look to their family leaders for guidance, safety, and love. Most people don't know how to appeal to a dog's natural sense of leadership or communication. We teach you how to use friendly, canine leadership and to "speak dog" using your body language, voice tones, and timing so you and your dog communicate better! You will see results. You want to see a change in your dog’s behavior, preferably sooner rather than later.

Any Breed. Any Age. Any Issue. Get Started Today!

We customize our training sessions to achieve your specific goals and meet your dog’s unique needs. When you learn to "speak dog" the Bark Busters way, you get real results – and nurture positive relationships and lasting emotional bonds with your canine family member.

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Home Dog Training

Our Services

Bark Buster trainers conduct the one-on-one training in your home, without the distraction of other dogs or the stress of being sent away for dog obedience training at a kennel. After learning in your home, our behavioral therapist and trainer will work with you as needed outside and around real distractions, once you and your dog are ready.

Life of Dog Support Guarantee

Life of Dog Support Guarantee

Bark Busters Home Dog Training provides a Life of Dog Support Guarantee that is unique in the industry. It is designed to help owners resolve their dog's behavior and obedience problems and to provide customers with the satisfaction of ongoing support and peace of mind.

Dog Behavior Issues

Tips & Advice

We're here to help. From general dog training tips, to puppy toilet training best practices, to learning about various dog breeds we've worked with, Bark Busters offers our free tips and advice on common dog behavior problems and more.

Professional Dog Training Near You!

Servicing: Acton, Auburndale, Ayer, Bedford, Billerica, Bolton, Boxborough, Burlington, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Concord, Devens, Dracut, Dunstable, Groton, Hanscom Afb, Harvard, Lancaster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lowell, Lunenburg, Maynard, Newton, Newton Center, Newton Highlands, Newton Lower Falls, Newton Upper Falls, Newtonville, Nonantum, North Billerica, North Chelmsford, Nutting Lake, Pepperell, Pinehurst, Shirley, Stow, Sudbury, Tewksbury, Townsend, Tyngsboro, Village Of Nagog Woods, Waban, Waltham, Wayland, West Newton, Westford, Weston, Wilmington, Winchester, Woburn

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