Dharma Dog NYC

Training programs include one-time consultations, ongoing weekly coaching, and intensive 4- or 8-week separation anxiety packages. The intensive packages include customized daily training plans, weekly Zoom reassessments, shared progress spreadsheets, video reviews, and continuous support. Clients receive step-by-step instructions tailored to their dog’s pace, with no rushing of progress. Group classes and day training are also offered for general manners and behavior. Coaching is available for clients following self-paced programs or using apps.

Pricing Summary

4-week separation anxiety package: $1000 ($250/week); 8-week package: $1600 ($200/week); coaching sessions: $275 for 60 minutes or $140 for 30 minutes. Follow-up months after initial package: $800. Initial consultation for separation anxiety is not included in package pricing. Other services include private sessions, day training, day hikes, and group classes with pricing available on their packages page.

Policies

Rescheduling requires 24 hours’ notice; failure to do so may result in a fee up to the cost of one session. Exceptions may be made for emergencies such as illness or inclement weather at the trainer’s discretion.

Dharma Dog NYC is a force-free, positive reinforcement dog training business led by Alison Buehler, a certified separation anxiety trainer (CSAT) and certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA). She specializes in helping dogs with separation anxiety, fear, reactivity, and aggression using science-based, compassionate methods that focus on the dog’s emotional well-being. Alison offers private sessions, day training, day hikes, group classes, and intensive 4- or 8-week separation anxiety programs conducted via Zoom for clients worldwide. She also provides ongoing coaching, weekly reassessments, custom data tracking, and video reviews to support clients through their dog’s behavioral journey. Her approach emphasizes understanding the whole dog—including environment, history, and emotional state—rather than just correcting symptoms. Alison is also a Family Dog Mediator, Fear Free Certified Professional, and AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, bringing deep expertise in applied ethology and ethical training. She works with all dog ages and types, and offers free weekly “Ask the Trainer” Q&A sessions with colleagues to support the community.

In addition to training, Alison provides educational resources, blogs, tools, and testimonials to help dog owners understand and manage behavioral issues. She has experience as a behavior counselor for the ASPCA and has taught positive reinforcement training to inmates on Rikers Island. Her training philosophy centers on building strong, trusting bonds between dogs and their humans through patience, consistency, and empathy.

Alison’s services are available in most of Brooklyn and parts of lower Manhattan, with virtual support available globally for separation anxiety clients. She also offers day training and day hikes as part of her holistic approach to canine behavior.

Her certifications and recognition as one of Brooklyn’s best dog trainers in 2023 by Sniffspot reflect her commitment to excellence and ethical training practices.

Accomplishments

Alison Buehler is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT) through Malena DeMartini’s program, one of only a few hundred worldwide. She is also a CPDT-KA, Family Dog Mediator (FDM), Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP), and AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. Voted one of the best dog trainers in Brooklyn in 2023 by Sniffspot. She has worked as a behavior counselor for the ASPCA and taught positive reinforcement training on Rikers Island. She is a Faculty Advisor for the Victoria Stilwell Academy and has been quoted in national publications including The Spruce Pets and People magazine.

How to Get Started!

Begin with an initial consultation via Zoom to assess needs and determine program suitability. For separation anxiety, book the initial consultation through the dedicated link. For other behavioral issues, book a general consultation. Due to limited availability, clients may be placed on a waitlist if slots are full, or referred to another CSAT trainer.