Alison loves working closely with private clients and teaching group classes with her colleagues through PumpkinPups Dog Training. She works on any and all behavioral issues in dogs and loves that each dog has a unique story to be heard. Her certifications show both broad and deep knowledge on the most current evidence-based techniques in training. She is committed to using the most ethical force-free means to train. Her CSAT certification is a specialty designation for working with dogs who are anxious when left alone. Additionally, she is a Family Dog Mediator, which shows further study in applied ethology, and an online Faculty Advisor for Victoria Stilwell Academy, helping new trainers learn all about science-based training. She is an approved Evaluator for the Canine Good Citizen Title through the AKC, and a Fear Free Certified Professional.

Alison is grateful to have studied under many amazing trainers while she was learning. She has worked as a per Diem Behavior Counselor for the ASPCA, and in 2015 she gave her time to a program on Rikers Island, teaching the residents there about positive reinforcement dog training. She continues to do special presentations there with her colleagues. Her previous work experience includes being a dog groomer, veterinary technician, kennel and daycare employee, dog walker and pet sitter.

Her fascination with dog and animal behavior was inspired by her first greyhound rescue, Bella. Having learned through that guardianship, she now has both personal and professional knowledge on separation and isolation training. She brings that knowledge, compassion and warmth to her training style.

Alison strives to continue learning and teaching how we can best reside and thrive with these amazing and devoted friends. She loves seeing people understand and bond with their dogs. When Alison is not in NYC she is probably either diving in the ocean or hiking upstate. She lives in Brooklyn with her Galgo rescue, River.

Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)

Family Dog Mediator (FDM)

Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
Canine Good Citizen Evaluator - AKC #105328

As mentioned in…

Voted one of the best dog trainers in Brooklyn for 2023!

— Sniffspot, The Best Dog Trainers in Brooklyn, NY of 2023

“The core of all really good dog training is having a beautiful bond with your dog.”

— The Spruce Pets, The 7 Best Dog Training Collars of 2023

“According to Alison Buehler, owner of Dharma Dog Training in New York City, the most important things to consider when buying a harness are the size and fit.”

— People, The 12 Best Dog Harnesses of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

“Pet cameras are absolutely essential for gathering information on what your pet is doing when left alone and to identify separation anxiety in a dog.”

— The Spruce Pets, The 7 Best Pet Cameras of 2023, Tested in Our Lab