Zen Dog Training listing logo

Zen Dog Training

Somerville, Massachusetts

4.9/5· 210 Google reviews

About Zen Dog Training

Zen Dog Training has transformed human-canine relationships since 2005. Our clients learn the secrets to successful dog training and our veterinarian approved approach to preventing and solving problem behaviors. Our positive reinforcement approach works on dogs of all ages and breeds. You'll learn how to quickly train your dog or puppy and fear-free ways to gently stop unwanted behaviors too!

Training & services

Training goals

  • Behavior consultation
  • Crate training Customer-reported
  • Leash training
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training
  • Recall training
  • Socialization

Behavior support

  • Aggression training
  • Barking
  • Fear and confidence
  • Reactivity training
  • Resource guarding
  • Separation anxiety

How training happens

  • Group classes
  • In-home training
  • Online or virtual training
  • Owner coaching
  • Private training

Dog age

  • Puppies

Class options

  • Small classes

Support between sessions

  • Homework and practice
  • Personalized training plans

Assistance and working dogs

  • Therapy dog training

Your dog’s background

  • Rescue dogs

Training approach

  • Positive reinforcement

Other listed services

View 23 additional details
  • Animal Rescue
  • Basic Commands
  • Certified Dog Trainer
  • Dog Behavior Challenges
  • Dog Parent
  • Dog Safety
  • Dogs Leash
  • Education Programs
  • Family Dog
  • Helping Dog
  • High School
  • Home Visits
  • House Calls
  • In-Home Consultation
  • Master Dog Trainer
  • New Rescue
  • Personal Trainers
  • Personalized Coaching
  • Personalized Training Session
  • Pet Adoption Counselor
  • Shy Dog
  • Telephone Consultation
  • Vet Services

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Customer reviews

Google listing
4.9
out of 5210 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • Puppy training 50
  • Socialization 32
  • Knowledgeable trainer 18
  • Helpful staff 13
  • Safe environment 12
  • Crate training 7
All 10 topics
  • Obedience training 7
  • Dog socialization 6
  • Behavior correction 4
  • Easy to follow materials 3

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

100 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
alla zibrova
5/5

We are very happy with Zen Dog - puppy school helped our rescue so much!

Margot Ahlquist
5/5

Neil Simmons is an absolute rockstar of a dog trainer. I have two anxious rescue dogs and he has given me tools to calm both of their reactivity on leash, potty train and work on off-leash recall. I see a massive improvement in both of them which is thanks to Neil.

Michelle DeGenova
5/5
Since working with Emily Fleming, our 1.5 y/o Golden Retriever has improved tremendously in all of the classic problem areas - from pulling on walks to recall and obedience. She taught us how to effectively communicate with our dog which has made teaching him new skills so much e…Read full reviewClose full review

Since working with Emily Fleming, our 1.5 y/o Golden Retriever has improved tremendously in all of the classic problem areas - from pulling on walks to recall and obedience. She taught us how to effectively communicate with our dog which has made teaching him new skills so much easier. Emily is super patient, kind, and always reminds us that we are doing a great job even when owning a dog feels super overwhelming. 11/10 recommend!

Maren Oslund
5/5

Neil is an incredible dog trainer. His knowledge of animal behavior is high and he is able to clearly communicate to you as the owner what you need do on a consistent regular basis to train your dog. It is evident that he cares for animals greatly and is able to help you understand your pet's experience.

Laura Fuoco
5/5
I was completely overwhelmed by my husky puppy… I called Zen Dog within the first week and started training right away. Neil Simmons showed me tried and true methods using kindness while setting boundaries. This was invaluable in many ways but also for the sake of my own mental h…Read full reviewClose full review

I was completely overwhelmed by my husky puppy… I called Zen Dog within the first week and started training right away. Neil Simmons showed me tried and true methods using kindness while setting boundaries. This was invaluable in many ways but also for the sake of my own mental health! Rookie is now 5. I believe as a dog owner that with constant vigilance and a dedication to training even the most awesome (insert nuttiest, insane, naughty, hyper, nippy, crazy) puppies can be trained- and it will be unbelievably rewarding if you put the time in and are consistent. I now know and believe training in the early stages helps shape the personality and behavior of your dog for the rest of their life. I can’t emphasize this enough. If you don’t want to deal with behavior issues over and over put the work in now and call Neil. Aside from constant compliments on my dog’s handsome coat and eyes, I hear almost on a daily basis what an amazing calm disposition he has. I can’t recommend Neil enough.

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

Explore nearby & related training