I recently took a virtual Manners 1 class with Kizz and Jess, and cannot recommend it highly enough. The class was small, so each pup got plenty of personal attention, and the class aspect meant that we could all learn from each other as well. Each class is recorded so you can reference them later, and their post-class emails also give you homework for the week and great resources to use if you want to learn more about topics discussed. I really like that the instructors have done tons of research on dog behavior and training and cite their sources--it's both fascinating (from an intellectual standpoint) and comforting (from a nervous dog mom standpoint) to hear the research and science behind their methods. They teach a positive reinforcement only method, which I really appreciate after previous experiences with other trainers who advocate things like prong collars. The emphasis is on building a relationship with your dog through understanding the way their brains work and how best to communicate with them. I look forward to taking our next class with PumpkinPups--they are an incredible source of info for all things dog and we are lucky to have them in Brooklyn! read more

Viviane assisted me with an urgent issue with my dogs. She went above and beyond in helping me quickly, assessing the situation and assisting me in handling a painful situation with the confidence of knowing that we are doing the right thing. She is incredibly knowledgeable, wonderfully compassionate and understands dogs in such a beautiful way. I am so thankful I was referred to her. read more

This review is based on private training and group classes. I found PumpkinPups on APDT while looking for certified trainers in the Brooklyn area that could work with a senior dog I recently adopted. Prior to, I was in touch with dozens of trainers who don't serve our area (we live in South Brooklyn) or match our schedule. A couple of reasons why I chose them: -All of their trainers are certified and teach classes for PumpkinPups but also run their own dog training businesses. -They have glowing reviews -They have videos (on instagram) where you can actually see what classes and training are like -They offer evening classes and the location worked for me -No one ever pushed me to make a purchase, only made helpful suggestions. -They were responsive, warm, and informative when I inquired about services. PRIVATE TRAINING: I didn't think my pooch was ready for a group class and so scheduled a private consultation first with one of their trainers, Alison via her own training business (Dharma Dogs NYC). She specializes in dogs with separation anxiety by the way. An initial consultation costs $200 but you can expect to pay as low as $110-$130 a class depending on which package you purchase. Her rates are on par with what other trainers are charging. I needed someone who could work with my senior dog on basic on and off leash abilities as she's never had formal training. I felt comfortable working with Alison because she took the time to get to know me and my dog as well as address all of my concern. She was super sweet and patient with my pooch. She offered helpful, practical tips on how to work with her to improve her manners. She also explained the science behind training, providing reasoning and introducing concepts so you can better understand your dog. I've been doing practice exercises with my dog ever since and her behavior has improved both indoors and outdoors. They've also been a great way for me to bond with her. After your session, Alison follows up with a recap of the session and helpful resources she selects based on your dogs needs and concerns. GROUP TRAINING: After our private session, I decided to enroll her in PumpkinPups' Manners class. It costs $300 for 6 weeks of classes. They offer evening classes on weekdays and weekends (check website or contact them for accurate rates and schedules). For class you'll need to have a treat pouch, at least two high value treats, your dog needs to have a harness + collar on, and their rabies certification (which you can email in advance). Our first class was with substitutes Kizz and Derek who were welcoming, informative, and gave excellent guidance on our first day. The subsequent classes were taught by Alison and Julie who were so patient and loving with all the dogs. We worked on basic manners like sit, stay, down, name calling, leash walking, polite greetings, and added duration and distractions to level up those skills. Mastering the basic foundations will help your pooch work towards recall and obedience in different settings and situations. The trainers here give great advice based on your dogs needs. There is a set curriculum, but they're not afraid to get creative and recommend different ways you can teach your dog a skill if they're having trouble learning it the traditional way. Overall, I highly recommend Pumpkin Pups for dogs and pet parents of all ages. The classes are a fun, great way for them to socialize, learn critical skills, and bond with you. Most importantly, you'll gain invaluable knowledge on how to continue working with your dog beyond classes. read more

I've been meaning to post for a while about how grateful I am for the PumpkinPups community and their ability to really understand where my pup is coming from. We took their Puppy Essentials class (remote) and it was a fun and engaging way to set Tato up for success. I do wish we were able to practice around distractions/other pups in person, but COVID had other plans. That said, our pup was able to enjoy the safe and educational environment of Puppy Socials to learn how to be a dog around other pups -- now he's a total social butterfly around other dogs. Overall, I think what has really stood out to me is how willing their team is to help us along our puppy raising journey, even if we're no longer actively in a class. I've sent worried emails to Alison, one of their trainers, about a moment of resource guarding, concerning potential compulsive behavior, and just general "why is my puppy doing this thing" and their team, especially Alison, has always been so incredibly receptive in helping me understand my wild bean. I've also very much loved the Facebook group community to help support one another as well, with periodic check-ins from the entire trainer team. All this to say, PumpkinPups is great. Everyone is knowledgeable, even being remote you feel like you're truly learning about your dog and their quirks. After trying a couple other trainers for in-person classes, I am continuously coming back to PumpkinPups (now, for good) because the team just understands pups SO much better and communicates in the most constructive way. Tato loves you all and says thank you for helping his mom! read more

I have used Pumpkin Pups for both private training and group classes, and am now a part of their PumpkinPupsPros program - which I can't recommend more. Between this group of trainers you get a vast selection of specialty skills, and they are incredibly generous with their time and knowledge during their free ask the trainer hour on the weekends. I feel like I have learned so much good from these individuals since I brought my dog home in May, and that knowledge that I have gained from them has helped my dog immensely. She is relaxed in new environments, trustworthy around people, children and other animals and thrilled to learn new skills. I would recommend anyone looking to create a safe, kind working environment with their dog reach out to this group. A million stars! read more

Every time I meet someone with a puppy or a training challenge, I recommend PumpkinPups to them. PP has been instrumental in helping us make this brilliant, wild, energetic poodle puppy an enjoyable member of our household and neighborhood. We literally could not have done it without the zoom classes and one on one support from Kizz, Julie, Jess and team. Moose is a teenager now and we're still training but we can see the glimpses of what a wonderful adult dog he will be. Thank you PumpkinPups!! read more

I love the PumpkinPups team because they guided me on how to have a successful walk with my dog through the sensory overloaded city environment. I adopted a frightened schnauzer mix puppy and the team have helped me nurture Ozzy into the confident dog that he is today. The trainers are fantastic in person or on Zoom. Each one of the trainers is insightful, creative, and inspiring in finding ways to support or motivate dogs. I highly recommend people consult PumpkinPups because they will help your dog learn how to relax, be handled, enjoy tricks, scent work and so much more! I keep returning to their weekend Ask the Trainers because it is a joy to hear their advice. Thanks PumpkinPups for making life enriching for Ozzy and I. read more

PumpkinPups Dog Training - Ozzy relaxing on the grass after a off leash chase game. - Pet Training Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Julie at Pumpkin Pups is literally the BEST! If I could give more stars I would. I got my first pup in November and was clueless. Working with Pumpkin Pups (first in the group puppy class then in one on one training) has helped both by having someone to talk to about the stress of having an 8 week old pup and also learning training techniques. I highly highly recommend Julie (and probably everyone) at Pumpkin Pups! read more

Our rescue dog was stalling out on walks and refusing to move. We tried MANY different things before we contacted PumpkinPups and made an appointment with Alison (Dharma Dog NYC). Alison came to our house, listened patiently, gave us some helpful tools, then took a walk with us to reinforce the training techniques. She was absolutely lovely, and since we've implemented her recommendations, we've seen big improvements on our walks! If anything else comes up, Alison will be our first call. read more

I would like to give a shout out to Viviane Aroumanian, wonderful certified professional dog trainer. She has been training dogs (and their families) since 2005. Her web site is : http://www.pumpkinpups.com/ She is starting a new round of puppy and dog classes in a few weeks. For information: http://www.pumpkinpups.com/classes/ She trained our dog, Luna and continues to give me helpful advice. She is kind, professional, organized, knowledgeable and one of the few certified trainers around. She communicates well with the family, as well with the dog. read more

Our goal of this short testimonial is to let you know how paramount working with Viviane was to arriving at a place where we could enjoy the human to dog relationship that is so special. We initially contacted Vivane when our pup was not yet street legal (about 15 weeks old) and he was a monster! Our initial conversation was fraught with tales of our dog growling at us, biting aggressively, and pretty much our puppy was telling us to stay away. We were ashamed that we were thinking this little dog was going to have to be given back. Before we gave private training a go. Upon speaking to us she immediately recognized that we needed to meet with her, and fast. 2 days later Viviane walked into our lives and set us on a course for success. She understood the severity of our dogs behavior, and was able to speak honestly about our options. Working with Viviane and our dog was all about communication. She taught our dog to want to listen and to want our praise . Her humane training methods helped to show our little guy that he was doing good things, and little by little he gave us more and more good things to praise him for and the bad became less and less. Viviane worked with the budget that we had set for obedience work, her pricing is very reasonable and in line with NY trainers. She will arrive at your house and listen and observe your dog. It was miraculous to see our dog take to Viviane and work so hard to please. As I write this, our dog is now 9 months. His demeanor has changed entirely, addressing the root of his behaviors without correction but positive encouragement has made all the difference. He is with us to stay and has shown us that he loves being a part of our family. And our family includes Viviane. She is still a support to us and is always available to answer questions or lay it straight with regards to what is "normal" dog behavior. We recommend using Viviane whole hearted. Good luck with your training needs! read more

I would highly recommend Pumpkin Pups Dog Training. The Puppy Essentials classes me and my pup participated in was extremely helpful, in spite of the class being on zoom I felt connected to the instructors and participants. I was able to practice the skills and get specific feedback from the instructors. I love how caring and gentle they were. The techniques taught are all based on positive, loving interactions with my puppy. I learned skills that I carried out with her in patience and love. Puppy learning especially potty training can be a challenge, but I got really good tips and was reminded consistently that she is a puppy and that she is learning. it helped ease my sense of impatience with the process. over all 5 stars!! The trainers also provide at no cost, a Zoom Ask The Trainer session on Saturday morning at 11am. It is so helpful, all are welcome (FREE) no strings attached to ask any dog related questions. I am so happy to be part of the Pumpkin Pups community. read more

The PumpkinPups team is amazing - they know their stuff and they care deeply about the improving relationships between people and dogs. Highly recommended for any behavior or training issue. read more

We just started the Manners 1 class after taking a puppy kindergarten class elsewhere, and we are blown away with PumpkinPups (and couldn't wait to share this review). If you want caring and experienced instructors who are prepared to teach and patient with pups, check them out! read more

Terrific experience! Vivian is honest and doesn't draw things out. She also gave us a handy dandy binder with tips and reminders for training. We were pleased as punch as was our dog, Daisy. read more

Viviane worked with my 85-lb VERY CRAZY but highly intelligent (reactive yet fearful) German shepherd mix several years ago. I am very experienced with dogs - I've been a professional dog walker for 13 years -- and yet I still learned quite a bit about how *I* as his human could improve with his handling. I've since recommended PumpkinPups to several of my customers, and all of them have been very pleased. Highly recommend, including with virtual training that is going on now with covid-19 read more

Viviane is incredible-- she really helped me understand and work with my rescued dog when I adopted her. She didn't just teach the basics; she introduced concepts around trust/fear issues that neglected dogs have, what body language they use to communicate them, and how positive reinforcement training can help "rewire" their brains. It's two years later, and my dog is happy and well-adjusted. Viviane continues to be a great resource for us when questions arise. read more

The trainers at PumpkinPups are amazing! We did two courses with our new puppy over Zoom as well as two private Zoom sessions. All were so helpful for transforming our wild, nippy, growly puppy into a beloved member of our family and the neighborhood mascot. The Zoom classes were a great way for the trainers to see how our dog acted in his natural habitat and point out things about our home that we hadn't noticed were getting in the way of effective training. The trainers were also SUPER responsive to questions in-between sessions, including coaching us through the tough times when our puppy decided he wanted to wake up at 4am. Working from home, it is such a pleasure to have a dog who sleeps peacefully by my side when I am busy. I am so grateful PumpkinPups gave us that. Most importantly, PumpkinPups taught us how to understand and communicate with our dog gently - without force. This was especially important for making sure that in our busy part of Brooklyn we had a dog that is gentle with everyone and trusts us. PumpkinPups was recommended to us by a friend who has a very large rescue with very different issues than our new puppy and loved them. PumpkinPups are educated professionals who work with and love all kinds of dogs, and are always learning and teaching new things. read more

Viviane and all the trainers are wonderful. They are highly experienced, patient, friendly, and helpful and accommodating. The classes are flexible to your dog's needs. I definitely recommend. read more

Viviane was incredibly helpful when I adopted Teddy a rather terrified 5 year old ( and fear biting) 10 lb. dog from Sean Casey Animal Rescue. Teddy didn't even know how to walk down the steps, nor how to jump off the couch. He was very, very shy and bit when frightened. Viviane guided me on how to teach Teddy how to walk down steps, how to handle his fears and how to slowly build trust. She taught me how to use clicker training with Teddy and was very creative in figuring out how to solve problems. Viviane remains available and I have consulted with her as problems cropped up. She is very patient , extremely skilled and talented as a trainer. Viviane has a wealth of resources and information ( recommendations for veterinary care, best foods , soothing music etc.) that she generously will share with you. I gladly refer dog owners folks to Viviane !. read more