Bringing distressed dog owners hope.
We understand what it means to have and love a dog with behavioral concerns. We also know that getting started can be scary, and maintaining training at home is more successful with support.
Our Philosophy
Clear Expectations & Boundaries
Healthy boundaries and well-kept routines hold the keys to success. Learn how to tell your dog what you expect, helping them master impulse control and regulate anxiety and aggression in the process.
Common Language
Dogs don’t speak English, and their instincts don’t include the skills it takes to be safe and happy in a pack of humans. Teach them the skills and mindset they need to thrive, using their own language.
Lowest-Force Possible
A lot of dog owners are reluctant to use tools (like prong collars), but dogs understand physical communication. Used correctly, the right tool can lead you to mutual understanding and respect.
Happy Clients
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“Cooper did not get along with other dogs until we trained with Meaghen. Now he does so well that we were able to adopt another dog. We couldn’t have gotten here without her help.”
— Nick and Kristin, dog parents to Luna & Cooper
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“Meaghen trained my young dog years ago. He comes when he’s called and is so loving with my two young children. Charlie even listens to the kids!”
— Kara, mom of two and dog mom to Charlie
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“My dog is able to greet other dogs, play with dogs and he comes when called. Working with Meaghen has changed the way I live with my dog and we are much happier now.”
— Cristin and Brian, dog parents to Steve
Meet our founder.
Meaghen MacDonald founded Well-Balanced Dog Training in 2021 to empower humans and reassure dogs by giving everyone a common language. An AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator with a decade of dog training experience, Meaghen leads with empathy—having first experienced the hope and agency that balanced training provides when she sought training for her own dog, Thunder.
She has experience working with dogs from all backgrounds, from puppies to adult dogs with severe behavioral issues. She works closely with each client to build a program that incorporates proven techniques, realistic expectations, flexibility and feedback.
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Meaghen rescued Thunder as a puppy and immediately enrolled in puppy training. He showed signs of resource guarding early on, but was eager to work and learn. He quickly became Meaghen’s spunky, obedient sidekick.
Then life happened. After a big move, Thunder grew anxious and insecure. He began to guard his food when other animals were around, and progressed to guarding his water, toys, space, and Meaghen. He was aggressive on leash, at the dog park, and around new people. It became difficult to manage his unpredictable behavior.
After a lot of research, Meaghen hired a Balanced Trainer. It took a lot of hard work, commitment, and adherence to the program, but Meaghen saw Thunder return to himself and become a happy, well-balanced boy.
Inspired by Thunder’s transformation and their ongoing work together, Meaghen set down the path of becoming a professional trainer.
Armed with nearly a decade of hands-on industry experience, Meaghen opened Well-Balanced Dog Training to create a space where the best aspects of balanced training could be leveraged alongside empathy, care and understanding.