Abby Kennels - Dog Training Service - Chelmsford, MA

Member since Nov 2020

Private 1:1 training and 3 week board and train for you program. Dog obedience plush training for separation anxiety, biting/jumping/pulling on leash. Obedience includes. Focus, sit, down, go to place, heel, wait at the door, stay, all with distance, and distractions.

Welcome to Abby Kennels, your trusted destination for canine care, now under new management and featuring recent renovations. At Abby Kennels, we take pride in providing compassionate and expert care for dogs of all breeds and backgrounds. Our dedicated manager, Mary Farren, brings an impressive 30 years of experience to the table, having been certified as a dog trainer by Animal Behavior College and recognized as a Certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator by the AKC. While we are based in Chelmsford, we proudly serve the entire Greater Boston area, the Merrimack Valley, and Southern New Hampshire.

From Lowell to Woburn, you can rely on Abby Kennels for a range of exceptional amenities, including spacious, clean, and comfortable kennel facilities, sprawling five-acre grounds, and customized training programs that cater to all stages of a dog's development, from puppy training to advanced techniques.

Mary Farren's lifelong passion for dogs and her diverse experience in the field led her to pursue her dream of managing her own facility. After working with various kennels, participating in training clubs, teaching obedience and protection techniques, and even leasing space in Melrose, she recognized the growing demand for dog training, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With more people acquiring dogs that required socialization, housebreaking, and behavior modification, Mary saw an opportunity to make a difference.

In her quest for additional kennel space, Mary identified the potential in Abby Kennels, which had long been a well-established facility in the area. In January 2023, Abby Kennels underwent a revitalization, featuring newly renovated kennel spaces, upgraded flooring, enhanced facilities, and expansive indoor and outdoor areas for dog training and play. We offer a comprehensive array of services, including group training, private training, boarding, grooming, and day care, ensuring that all your canine companions' needs are met with expertise and care.

Please contact and book us on Petworks.

  • Licensed
  • Certified
  • Insured
  • BBB Accredited
  • Online Sessions

Pricing Packages

Starting Price
$ 850.00 Per Program

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Dog Trainer

What training tools do you use?

  • Clicker
  • Head Collar
  • Leash
  • Long Line
  • Martingale Collar
  • Muzzle
  • Praise/Affection
  • Prong Collar
  • Slip Lead
  • Toys
  • Treats

Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?

  • Pet Behavior Modification
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Service Dog Training
  • Dog Therapy Training

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Dogs

What licensing do you have?

  • Business License

On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
  • Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
  • PetCPR+ Pet CPR Certification

Do you offer mobile services?

  • Yes

Without pet parents, Petworks wouldn't exist. What discount do you offer our dedicated members? (e.g. 20% off their first session, etc.)

Free evaluation

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

North East

What year did you begin serving pets?

1989

How did you hone your craft?

Since a child I was the one to train the dog!

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Go at their pace and make it fun!

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I love dogs. All dogs big, small, fearful and bold. They all have unique qualities and embrace what they offer.

mary farren

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BASED IN: Chelmsford, MA
SERVICE AREA: Within 100 miles, including North East

Distinction

American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC) Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT) BBB Accredited Business

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Dog Trainer

What training tools do you use?

  • Clicker
  • Head Collar
  • Leash
  • Long Line
  • Martingale Collar
  • Muzzle
  • Praise/Affection
  • Prong Collar
  • Slip Lead
  • Toys
  • Treats

Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?

  • Pet Behavior Modification
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Service Dog Training
  • Dog Therapy Training

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Dogs

What licensing do you have?

  • Business License

On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
  • Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
  • PetCPR+ Pet CPR Certification

Do you offer mobile services?

  • Yes

Without pet parents, Petworks wouldn't exist. What discount do you offer our dedicated members? (e.g. 20% off their first session, etc.)

Free evaluation

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

North East

What year did you begin serving pets?

1989

How did you hone your craft?

Since a child I was the one to train the dog!

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Go at their pace and make it fun!

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I love dogs. All dogs big, small, fearful and bold. They all have unique qualities and embrace what they offer.

🐶 About Mary Farren — Certified Dog Trainer in Chelmsford, Massachusetts


Mary Farren is a certified dog trainer serving Chelmsford and the surrounding Middlesex County area, including nearby communities such as Lowell, Lawrence, Nashua, Haverhill, Methuen, Billerica, Dracut, Tewksbury, Andover, Wilmington. They specialize in helping dogs and their people build calm, trusting, and lasting relationships through positive, science-based training. Whether you're working through leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or simply want a well-mannered companion, Mary tailors each session to your dog’s personality, history, and learning style—so progress feels natural and sustainable, not forced.


❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.


Mary works closely with you as the owner, helping you understand your dog’s behavior, build clear communication, and create routines that lead to real-world success at home and in public.


Training Support for Real-Life Challenges


From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, Mary provides practical, results-driven support with:


  • Obedience and focus for home and public settings

  • Leash training and more relaxed, enjoyable walks

  • Reducing anxiety, fear, and reactivity

  • Puppy and new dog foundations for long-term success

Each session is designed to be encouraging, easy to apply, and tailored to your daily routine.


Recommended Certifications for Dog Trainers


When choosing a dog trainer, professional certifications are a strong indicator of expertise, experience, and commitment to ethical, science-based methods. Widely recognized credentials include the CPDT-KA or CPDT-KSA from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which demonstrate mastery of modern training techniques, canine behavior, and learning theory. The KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner) highlights trainers skilled in positive reinforcement and clicker training, while the IAABC Certified Dog Trainer credential, recognized internationally, signals advanced knowledge in behavior modification and problem-solving. Membership or certification through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) further reflects ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards. Many trainers also pursue specialty certifications in areas such as aggression management, behavior modification, or puppy development to address specific challenges.


For pet parents, choosing a certified trainer like Mary Farren, ensures that your dog’s training is grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about a trainer’s credentials is one of the best ways to make a confident, informed choice.


Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks


Booking through PetWorks gives you more than access to a qualified trainer — it gives you confidence in your choice.


Mary is a verified professional who uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents value the supportive, judgment-free approach, along with the ability to read verified reviews and book securely through a trusted platform.


🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Chelmsford, MA on PetWorks Works


Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On PetWorks, you can explore Mary’s profile, read real feedback from pet parents across Middlesex County, and either initiate a booking offer by clicking the "Book Now" button, or start with a conversation by clicking 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Send Message'.


Training works best when you begin at the right time. For puppies and newly adopted dogs, early training builds strong habits from the start. For older dogs, challenges like leash pulling, anxiety, or reactivity can absolutely improve with consistent, professional guidance — with many pet parents noticing meaningful progress within just a few sessions.


In Chelmsford and throughout Massachusetts, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers can increase during the spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit in advance can help you secure the schedule that works best for you.


Most dog training sessions across the U.S. typically range from $75–$150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and training type. On PetWorks, you can review available services and choose the option that aligns with your goals.


All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, giving you access to a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you’ll coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with Mary to get the most out of your sessions.


Dog Training FAQs


How many dog training sessions will I need? Every dog is different, but many pet parents begin to see progress within 2–4 sessions. More complex behavior issues like reactivity or anxiety may require ongoing training and consistency at home.


Do you offer in-home dog training in Chelmsford, MA? Many trainers on PetWorks, including Mary, offer flexible options such as in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services listed above or use Request Quote to confirm what works best for your situation.


Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective in addressing reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. Early guidance from a certified professional helps ensure safe, lasting progress.


🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog


Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness — and your peace of mind.


Explore Mary’s profile, read verified reviews from local pet parents across Middlesex County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog today. Availability can vary week to week, so booking ahead is recommended.