Efficient, Holistic, and Results-Oriented Dog Training in Frederick County

Experiencing behavioral issues with your dog? Our compassionate, in-home dog training in Frederick County 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 Frederick County 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 Frederick County, Maryland 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 Frederick County 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 Maxine, Your Local Professional Dog Trainer

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Dog trainer in in Frederick County walking a dog in fall foliage

Home Dog Training in Frederick County!

Welcome! I’m Maxine Medaglia, a Best of the Best (BOB) Readers’ Choice Nominee for Best Animal Training in Frederick County, MD.

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost 20 years since I began training dogs with Bark Busters. In that time, I’ve loved helping dogs and their owners build stronger, happier lives together. Almost every dog owner I meet—whether calling about training or chatting after learning I’m a dog trainer—eventually says something like, "(S)he is a great dog, but…".

That phrase always makes me smile because I used to say the same about my own dogs before becoming a Bark Busters trainer. It’s a reminder that no matter the challenge, I can help people and their dogs find solutions and enjoy life together.

Live a Happier Life Together With Your Dog!

I help dog owners turn their pets into the companions they want, addressing issues like bad manners, barking, aggression, and separation anxiety with the simple, effective Bark Busters techniques. 

When dogs finally relax and understand what’s expected, the whole family benefits—both canine and human. Whether you’re struggling to communicate with your dog or just brought home a new puppy, Bark Busters’ straightforward methods can help you start your dog training journey—without the use of treats of harsh physical devices.

Giving Back

Since becoming a Bark Busters dog trainer, I have been fortunate enough to become involved in Wags for Hope, a local organization that supplies animal visitations for therapy purposes. We help prospective therapy teams get ready for their evaluations with training sessions and Canine Good Citizen testing. 

AKC CGC Evaluator
Dog trainer outside in the snow leash training a dog

Dear Clients and Friends,

It is with great sadness that we share the news that John Trobaugh has passed away. For many years, John had the privilege of helping families throughout Frederick County better understand their dogs and build happier lives together. He truly cared about every dog and family he worked with and was grateful for the relationships he built with so many of you.

Even during his illness, John shared how important it was to him that the work continue and that families in our community would still receive support with their dogs.

Thank you for welcoming John into your homes and allowing him to be part of your journey.

Warm regards,

Bark Busters Frederick County

Client Reviews

See what our clients in Frederick County have to say

We are very happy we got several lessons with John and Maxine. Our two 6 months mixed labs needed some behavioral training: not pulling when on leash, don't get excited when people come in the house and be more gentle and have better manners when meeting and playing with other dogs. Also, learn to be more independent from each other. They are now a year and a half, and they are doing great. We'll continue to work with the things we learn to make them even better doggies. I highly recommend John and Maxine.
Lorena Skelton
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Our Australian Shepherd was just shy of one year. We were experiencing multiple behavioral issues with him. Our vet recommended Bark Busters to us. I made the call and set up our first appointment. Maxine came to our home. She is so experienced and knowledgeable. In just a few lessons, we were starting to see results. We can't wait to see what the future lessons bring. We are so pleased with Maxine and the service she provides. We highly recommend Bark Busters.
Crystal Cox
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We were so close to rehoming Samson because of possession aggression. I thought Moses was the “normal” one of the two..Maxine determined right away that Moses had issues of his own. Moses is coming along, but the amazing transformation has been Samson. I am so glad that I found Bark Busters and especially Maxine, who came faithfully to help us with our furry family. I am happy to say Samson will not need to be rehomed and it would not have turned out that way without Maxine and the Bark Buster training. I know I was probably a bigger challenge for her than the pugs, but she is a
treasure for sure.
Linda
Woodbine, MD
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Maxine has been awesome! Our dog went to her immediately and continues to be excited when he sees her. She’s patient, knowledgeable, clever and works with all kinds of temperaments. Our pet did not have bad habits, we just wanted to make sure he was well behaved and followed commands. She worked with him where he was at (energetic but not well socialized) to guide him
Into good habits. We’re thrilled with the results and give her the highest recommendation possible. We will continue working with her as long as necessary
Darryl G.
Frederick, MD
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Maxine is absolutely wonderful and amazing! She has and continues to help support us in becoming successful dog parents. Our family is eternally grateful and so glad we found her!
Katie S.
Walkersville, MD
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Our Australian Shepherd was just shy of one year. We were experiencing multiple behavioral issues with him. Our vet recommended Bark Busters to us. I made the call and set up our first appointment. Maxine came to our home. She is so experienced and knowledgeable. In just a few lessons, we were starting to see results. We can't wait to see what the future lessons bring. We are so pleased with Maxine and the service she provides. We highly recommend Bark Busters.
Crystal C.
Boonsboro, MD
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John has been an amazing teacher of how to communicate with not only our new puppy but our two older dogs. He has answered all of our questions and even provided pointers for things we didn’t even notice. The change in our three dogs behavior after just one visit has been tremendous.
Danielle C.
Frederick, MD
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John and Maxine are great this is our second dog we have signed up for. The training works from day 1 highly recommend them
Diane B.
Frederick, MD
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John and Maxine are excellent trainers. First off, I love this program because it is tailored to fit my dog. I checked into other programs and they were group lessons. One of the big dog training programs uses a shock collar to train your dog. I wanted personal lessons tailored to our specific dog and I wanted to be the one doing the training. This is the program for that! John and Maxine are patient and encourage you each step of the way. They will take as much time as you need to get your dog trained. My dog is 65 pounds and would just about pull me over when he saw another dog while we were on a walk. Now we are walking together and I am not afraid I am going to be dragged to the ground if encountering another dog! I would recommend this training program to anyone who wants a well behaved dog.
Barbara S.
Walkersville, MD
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For the most part, my Whippet puppy of 7 months was a good dog. A bit high strung and completely nuts at times. Reading through the Whippet boards on line, I thought, oh no, I'm doomed. Until Bark Busters came to the house. John spent 3 hours with us. By the time he left, Blu was definitely a calmer dog. I first sought out John and Maxine because I couldn't stop the pulling on the leash. I listened to everyone on line and nothing. I talked to trainers and nothing. Then John comes to the house and no more pulling. But the most amazing thing is that the commands are simple to follow and the dog listens when the "HUMAN" is consistent. Yes, that's the hard part. But, I want my dog to succeed and she is definitely succeeding. She's learning well and "WE" are learning too! Thank You Bark Busters, you guys ROCK!
John I.
Charles Town, WV
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Maxine has really helped us learn how to communicate in a way that our dog understands! We adopted a rescue dog who was 11 months old at the time, but we were having difficulty getting our son to be comfortable around him because the dog was trying to be the alpha. Once Maxine showed us how to establish otherwise, the dog's behavior fell in line and our 6 year old son has a best friend now! We loved that Maxine came to our house to see our dog in his own environment, and coached us in authentic situations. Furthermore, whenever we have emailed her, she has gotten back to us right away. It was worth the money to have a happy family and a happy dog! Thank you, Bark Busters!
Amy B.
Emmitsburg, MD
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Maxine has been a true pleasure to work with. She provide my fiancé and I with the tools necessary to be the leaders of our home and reducing stress in JarJar's life. JarJar has separation anxiety and toilets in the house which has been a struggle for us but things are improving dramatically in our house. Maxine is always available for a call or email if something has happened and I don't know what to do about it. I highly recommend them!
Jessica C.
Monrovia, MD
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We couldn't be happier with the results that have shown after the very first session! John was great and so helpful through the whole process. We would highly recommend John and Maxine for training.
Chanda & Daniel T.
Williamsport, MD
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I had my first visit with Maxine today and she was absolutely amazing! In one 3 hour training session I already notice my dogs temperment change. They both responded immediately to the teaching techniques that require no treats or physical teaching. I am 100% pleased and cannot wait for more visits! Well worth the money and I’d recommend her to anyone who has a pup giving them any problems!
Maleia A.
Bunker Hill, WV
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I interviewed several trainers. My dogs selected Maxine! They responded to her immediatly! The initial training is thorough. The follow up necessary. Just did our 2 year followup! Satisfied!!
Niki C.
Frederick, MD
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I am really impressed with how my dog and I have learned from this training experience. Maxine was wonderful with helping me learn what to do to help train Destiny. It was a great bonding experience for both Destiny and I. I am very impressed with how well she is doing. She has turned out to be the perfect dog and to think it can all be done without being physical with your dog like I was taught growing up by other trainers. The leash and collar that we received from this training are great. I would not have thought about having a collar like the one we have. I always used a choker but this one is better. I HIGHLY recommend them if you are looking for a great dog trainer. I have even told a couple coworkers and friends about this trainer as well.
Mary K.
Thurmont, MD
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I decided to search for dog trainers who would train at my home. I couldn't believe that I could find only one in my area, Maxine and John. But after researching what Block Busters was and reading reviews on Maxine and John, I decided to give it a try.

When Maxine came to my home, she described why using dog language made sense. Still, I never thought I would see results almost immediately. Remy is about 4 yo and I feared that he was already set in his ways, but if you communicate in their own language, any dog can learn. And Remy just loves the praises he gets when he correctly does what is asked of him. No bribing with food or using negative reinforcement.

Maxine is the best. She is friendly and patient with both dog and owner. She's also is very good at helping an owner understand what he/she needs to do to accomplish his/her goal.

They even charge a one time fee. If you ever need them, even months later, one of them will be there in no time, no extra charge.

I can't recommend Maxine and John enough. Give them a try. You will be happy you did. I certainly think it's one of the best decisions I ever made.
Ellen B.
Knoxville, MD
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I decided to search for dog trainers who would train at my home. I couldn't believe that I could find only one in my area, Maxine and John. But after researching what Block Busters was and reading reviews on Maxine and John, I decided to give it a try.

When Maxine came to my home, she described why using dog language made sense. Still, I never thought I would see results almost immediately. Remy is about 4 yo and I feared that he was already set in his ways, but if you communicate in their own language, any dog can learn. And Remy just loves the praises he gets when he correctly does what is asked of him. No bribing with food or using negative reinforcement.

Maxine is the best. She is friendly and patient with both dog and owner. She's also is very good at helping an owner understand what he/she needs to do to accomplish his/her goal.

They even charge a one time fee. If you ever need them, even months later, one of them will be there in no time, no extra charge.

I can't recommend Maxine and John enough. Give them a try. You will be happy you did. I certainly think it's one of the best decisions I ever made.
Ellen B.
Knoxville, MD
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5 stars- amazing. She covered distance training, walking in the leash, barking at the door, chewing on clothing. Everything was very detailed and easy to understand. I walked her on the leash this morning, and everything is going really well!

Thanks again <3
Madeleine B.
Frederick, MD
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I been doing lessons with Maxine and the training is great. Gizmo has made so much progress with just 2 lesson and its amazing. I love what Bark Busters does.
Samantha R.
Middletown, MD
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John Trobaugh came out to our house. We have a unique situation. We have 6 dogs of our own, 3 of which are in a tight pack. 2 are older and could careless, and one is just a puppy. We also foster coon hounds.
We have a hound that has some medical issues, and the "pack" would pick up on this, and have ganged up and hurt the foster dog. We called "Bark Busters" John IMMEDIATELY had things under a better sense of control. after two meetings at our house, I firmly believe that we have a control over the dogs that was non existent prior. We must continue our training, but I feel like I am back in control when I need to be. Dogs will be dogs, and that's why we love them. Having control of your dogs in a bad or unsafe situation is PRICLESS! Thank you John!!!!
Karl C.
Clear Spring, MD
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Loved the training! We were able to address concerns with our dogs individually vs. in a group setting. This is exactly what we needed ! John was super friendly and really knew his stuff. The training was really different but effective.
Kelly M.
Sabillasville, MD
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Maxine has a wonderful, calm way about her. Levi responded immediately to her training techniques but still lacked calmness when visitors come. Maxine came back and worked with us as needed until he and I finally got it! I whole-heartedly recommend Maxine and Bark Busters. No clicker to carry or lose, no gadgets or treats, just praise and positive reinforcement! And you always have those with you! It was an awesome experience!
SUSAN S.
Frederick, MD
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I highly recommend Bark Busters to anyone that owns a dog. Maxine is AMAZING! She accessed the craziness of our lives (Autism, PTSD, and 6 months worth of previous training that was not a fit) and has begun to give us light at the end of what we thought was a very dark tunnel. Using techniques that are very gentle, humane, and extremely effective we are already seeing very positive results 3 months in. I will continue to use Maxine and Bark Busters for as long as I own dogs.
Mindy N.
Frederick, MD
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We appreciate all the great tips Maxine provided; our dogs have been responding well to the training and we are very happy! We would highly recommend Maxine and John.
Kim B.
Martinsburg, WV
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We have seen a big difference in the behavior of our dog. The training has
helped him be more calm and behave better (stop jumping on people,
stop chewing on children's toys, less aggressive, etc).
Cathy R.
Sharpsburg, MD
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What Makes Bark Busters Frederick County Unique

Bark Busters is a global leader in home-based training, with more than 30 years of experience helping families create better relationships with their dogs. We focus on the root cause of behavior problems by improving communication between you and your dog.

Dogs learn best in a safe, familiar setting, which is why we come to you. Your trainer works with you where behavior matters most, then helps you build skills that hold up around everyday distractions.

We teach you how to communicate through body language, tone of voice, timing, and calm leadership so your dog can follow your guidance with confidence.

Any breed. Any age. Any issue. We are here to help you move forward with clarity, support, and results.

Home Dog Training

Our Services

Bark Busters 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. Once you and your dog are ready, your Frederick County dog trainer, Maxine, will work with you outside and around real distractions — in your neighborhood, on your streets, where it matters most.

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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.

For families seeking in-home dog training in Frederick County our Life of Dog Support Guarantee means Maxine will always be just a call away — ready to help at no additional cost.

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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 including guidance tailored to dog owners in Frederick County.

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Professional Dog Training Near You!

Servicing: Adamstown, Berkeley Springs, Big Pool, Blue Ridge Summit, Boonsboro, Braddock Heights, Brownsville, Brunswick, Buckeystown, Bunker Hill, Burkittsville, Cascade, Cavetown, Chambersburg, Charles Town, Chewsville, Clear Spring, Emmitsburg, Fairplay, Falling Waters, Frederick, Funkstown, Gerrardstown, Hagerstown, Harpers Ferry, Hedgesville, Ijamsville, Inwood, Jefferson, Kearneysville, Keedysville, Keymar, Knoxville, Ladiesburg, Libertytown, Lisbon, Martinsburg, Maugansville, Middletown, Millville, Monrovia, Mount Airy, Myersville, New Market, New Midway, New Windsor, Point Of Rocks, Ranson, Rocky Ridge, Rohrersville, Sabillasville, Saint James, Sharpsburg, Shenandoah Junction, Shepherdstown, Shippensburg, Smithsburg, Summit Point, Thurmont, Tuscarora, Union Bridge, Unionville, Walkersville, Waynesboro, Williamsport, Woodbine, Woodsboro

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