Providing peace
OF MIND
At Grateful Pups we know there is not a one size fits all approach to dog training. We tailor our program to meet the individual needs of each dog. We prioritize the dog’s state of mind over obedience. Yes, we teach the basic obedience commands, and our emphasis on state of mind allows the dog to focus even around distractions. And let’s face it, we live in a world full of distractions.
We do this with our real-world dog training. We put dogs in situations they would face at home such as contractors fixing the home, guests coming for dinner, going into a store or restaurant, walking calmly through a farmer’s market with lots of other dogs, etc. Placing your dog in these situations and teaching them how to behave makes the situation familiar when they come home. We can do all of this, because we train in a home environment, not a training facility. Then we train the owners. Training the owners is just as important (if not more so) than training the dogs.
When your dog knows how to behave in many different situations, their world expands. They can experience more freedom. A dog who can focus on you and not react in the face of barking dogs, large crowds, or as a deer crosses their path makes traveling with your dog pleasurable for you without disturbing others.
Serving the the Hudson Valley, Tristate and Capital Region.
Schedule Your Dog’s Evaluation
Before we begin, we’ll meet you and your pup to assess their unique needs. This evaluation helps us understand their behavior and discuss your training goals and expectionations. The evaluation lets us determine the best training program to set everyone up for success. It’s like a first date for you and your dog’s future!
Duration: 60 minutes
From First Steps to Lasting Results
Grateful Pups Training Journey:
Now let's get started!
expertise
FROM EVERY ANGLE
At Grateful Pups, we train Dogs with a wealth of knowledge across disciplines, bringing a unique blend of experience to address your dog’s needs from multiple perspectives.
Meet our Team
LISA BONK
Owner & Pack Leader Grateful Pups
I am the owner of Grateful Pups and a balanced trainer. We help families build strong relationships with their dogs through communication. Communication and respect are key to any healthy relationship (human or canine).
I came from the corporate world where I worked with organizations to solve issues within the company. During my corporate career, I traveled…a lot and I learned the importance of leaving your dog with people you trusted and who really understood dog behavior. It was my dream to one day leave the corporate world and work with dogs. If only I could provide quality care, help others resolve issues, and work with dogs, I would have my dream job. And Grateful Pups was formed.
There is not a one size fits all approach to dog training, which is why we treat each dog as they are…an individual. We have a variety of tools and methods we employ based on the behavior and temperament of the dog. We don’t simply teach obedience to cover the problem. We get to the heart of the issue and train the dogs ways to move past fear, anxiety, reactivity, etc. and become healthier and happier dogs.
KAYLA
I grew up around dogs, and rescued my first one at 17. I trained her myself and really fell in love with working with dogs. A couple years later I started working at a rescue and really got to get my hands on dogs and start learning more about behaviors and dog language. In 2025 I started working with Lisa, she really taught me the stepping stones to fully train dogs. I have really enjoyed learning and training with Lisa.
KAYLA
MARILENA
MARILENA
I like working with dogs as I have always enjoyed being around them.They all have different temperaments and energy levels, and I enjoy learning how to handle and care for each one properly and make apositive difference in their lives.
RIPPLE
Resident Therapy Dog
Ripple is a therapy dog whose calm energy is an asset when working with fearful dogs. He knows when to play, and when to ignore dogs. Just having him in the room when working with anxious dogs often calms them down.
RIPPLE
