PUPS Pet Club HomepagePUPS Pet Club

Training

Pups Pups

Dog Training

We offer a variety of obedience training, behavior training, and socialization classes and bootcamps in Chicago & Brooklyn.




Training Options & Types | Workshops | Benefits | Training Levels | Trainers | Rates | FAQs




SCHEDULE A FREE TRAINING CONSULTATION




 


Options for Training

We really encourage you to be actively involved in your dogs training, but we understand that you have a busy schedule and it doesn’t always allow for time. We have a wide variety of training options for you.



Classes

Group Training

A PUPS expert trainer will lead pet parents and their dogs in a group class setting including structured activities, one on one attention and hands-on practice. Class size is kept small, allowing each participant focused attention and assistance.


Learn More



Private Lessons

One on One Training

Meet one on one with a trainer to address specific training challenges that go beyond the class setting. Ideal for dogs that may have social issues and parents who may have scheduling conflicts with the group class offering.


Learn More



Bootcamps

Intensive training

PUPS expert trainers will help build a great foundation or advance already established training skills at an accelerated pace. This intensive program includes written and video diary with custom training plans.


Learn More




PUPS Specializes in 3 Types of Dog Training

Do you want to impress your friends, family, and neighbors with how well your dog is trained? Look no further than PUPS for a training program that fits your needs. Whether you’re a new puppy parent that needs help with everything or you are just looking for something fun and educational to do with your dog, PUPS has a trainer and a program that is right for you.


OBEDIENCE TRAINING


Teaching your dog to respond to certain verbal commands and physical cues

BEHAVIORAL TRAINING


A systematic approach to changing your dog’s reaction to a particular situation

SOCIALIZATION


Expose your dog or puppy to people, places, other animals, etc. in a positive and controlled manner to build confidence and social skills.



ADDITIONAL WORKSHOPS & HOUR-LONG MASTERCLASSES CLASSES



No Events Found







Benefits Training

Benefits of Dog Training With Pups

  • Improved Confidence
  • Humane and Effective
  • Positive reinforcement
  • Robust Class Schedule
  • Proven Methodology
  • Easy to understand and apply
  • Highly communicative and responsive trainers
  • Expert training for obedience, behavior, and socialization




Methodology Training

Methodology

We use treats, toys, and training collars to get the results you desire. We strongly believe in verbal and physical praise, but sometimes your dog needs a little extra. We have also standardized our training methodology which has proven to be effective time and time again.







Master Trainer & Behavior Consultant

Dan Rubenstein, CBCC-KA

Multi-certified Master Trainer and Behavior Consultant, Dan Rubenstein is on a mission to improve the quality of life for pups and their people.

Along with a lifetime of experience training and communicating with dogs, Dan has been active in the dog care business since 1999, and training dogs since 2001. Designated as a Master Trainer, Dan has a a gift for working with behavior issues of all types with an emphasis on modification through positive reinforcement. His effective methods have attracted a high-profile client base including celebrity pup owners like Mariah Carey, Kelly Ripa and Bernadette Peters to name a few, earning him the names ‘Doggie Dan’ and ‘the NYC Dog Whisperer’.

Dan’s careful development of the PUPS program has resulted in a highly-trained staff that provides a consistent, caring, and safe approach. Each expert member of the PUPS training staff works directly with Dan using his effective philosophies and methods to ensure the best outcome for every pup.



The pups training levels




Training Level

Beginner

Rising Star

Dogs at this level are well-socialized who can demonstrate basic obedience commands on a leash but is still quite easily distracted. The bond between you and your dog is still being developed. The training at this level is foundational and will lay the groundwork for a well mannered and obedient dog.



Training Level

Intermediate

Skilled Performer

Your dog demonstrates a very high proficiency of on leash obedience and the beginning stages of off-leash obedience. They are focused on completing tasks and can be counted on to maintain good behavior at all times. The training at this level is focused on developing reliable responses consistently in your dog.



Training Level

Advanced

Star Performer

Your dog is well-adjusted, calm, and confident. You can demonstrate competition level obedience skills with them. Your dog is very strongly connected to you and does not react to distractions. The training at this level mostly focuses on polishing skills to an expert level by working through more challenging tasks.





Training Certification

Certification process

We help you achieve your goals for your pup’s training. A PUPS expert trainer will administer a short (25-35 minute) dog training and behavior test to assess you and your dog’s skill level. Upon completion, the trainer will suggest placement in the appropriate class with other students at the same level and establish goal setting. We may also suggest boot camps or private lessons to ensure the most effective and efficient progression.




PUPS Expert Dog Trainers

We understand that it takes a lot of patience to train your dog, and we are here with you every step of the way. We are focused on communicating effectively to each client and centering the program around your goals and needs. No matter the program we start with the same simple question… “What do you want to achieve with your dog?” Then we go from there.



Trainer Ryan Topf


Ryan Topf, CBCC-KA

Director of Dog Training & Expert Dog Trainer

I have been working exclusively with dogs since 2013. I’ve safely logged thousands of hours socializing and training dogs of all breeds.


I have used my experience and my education (B.A. in Philosophy) to successfully train and rehabilitate dogs. I believe that every interaction with a dog is an opportunity to train them. In a society that tends to treat dogs like humans more than ever before, I believe it’s incredibly important to educate pet parents on dog psychology and communication so that both canines and humans feel as if their relationship is fulfilling. I have three dogs: Moo who is a Rat Terrier mix, Annie who is a Dachshund mix, and Tom Cruise, a Labrador Retriever.






Christine Parisi


Christine Parisi, CCPDT-KA

Senior Dog Trainer

I got my first rescue dog in September of 2020 and she inspired me to look into dog training as a possible new career. I had been a high school Art and English teacher for 16 years, and although I was a skilled educator, I’d felt a nagging need for a change growing in my mind for many years.


My new dog, who I adopted, named Rachel was adapting to her new home, learning new things and changing so quickly. I wanted to know where some of her hilarious and seemingly random behaviors were coming from, how her mind was working and most importantly, how she became such a perfect angel dog. I also have another pet: a small bird named Fiver, who is a goofball, but they get along! “How,” I began asking myself, “did I end up with this perfect dog who will allow a bird to land on her head and not even flinch?!” I couldn’t wait to begin my training journey with PUPS Pet Club. Now, I hope to use my extensive experience working with human students and parents to foster many awesome and loving pet parent relationships.

 

 





Maya Caroll


Maya McKnight

Experienced Dog Trainer

Being able to help people create and strengthen the bond with their dogs is what makes training such a joy for me! My love for working with dogs started with my experience adopting, fostering, and working with rescue Shiba Inu’s.


Rescue dogs come with many unique challenges, often dealing with anxiety, trauma, and sometimes physical disabilities. The care and understanding they require can be overwhelming at times, but helping a dog feel safe and happy is incredibly rewarding. Being able to apply that same special care to every dog I train and work with, no matter their background, is such a privilege and a joy.

 








Evan Sievers, CDTK

Senior Dog Trainer

Hi, my name is Evan! My journey with dogs started early—I grew up walking neighborhood dogs, and those walks sparked a love for working with animals. Later, I worked in a dog daycare, where I was inspired by the head trainer to dive deeper into training. Today, I’m a certified dog trainer (CDTK) dedicated to helping you and your dog build a strong, trusting bond through positive reinforcement. I believe each dog has a unique personality, and understanding that individuality is key to effective training. Whether we’re working on obedience, behavior modification, or specialized skills, my goal is to make the process enjoyable, empowering, and rewarding for both dogs and their families.


This gave me the desire to help others who may be in the same position or suffering from other behavioral challenges. It is extremely rewarding for me to help fellow pet parents communicate and reduce the stress that can come with being a dog parent. I have five years of training experience in shelters and in homes.





All Your Pet Care Needs in One Place

PUPS facilities are spacious and comfortable to ensure they’re a place your dog wants to visit! So why not make it your home for all your dog care needs? From obedience training to boarding and grooming, our goal is to know your dog almost as well as you so we can provide the best possible experience for you both.




DaycareDaycare


Puppy Playcare


Grooming


Overnight Boarding


Pet SittingPet Sitting
Dog Walking
TransportTransport



Dog Training Rates

Find a club in Chicago or Brooklyn for rate information


Find Your Club



Dog Training FAQs

How should I decide what training program is right for me and my dog?

The training program you choose should depend on your training goals, your budget, and the time you have to invest in training your dog. There are three different options for training your dog: classes, private lessons, and bootcamp. If you are unsure about which program is right for you, we suggest you meet with one of our dog trainers or behaviorists.

When do you hold classes?

Please visit our training page to see the date, time, and location of the class you are interested in attending.

Do classes have an age requirement?

The only age requirement for any class is the puppy classes. Dogs that participate in any of the puppy classes must be 12 months or less.

How can I figure out what class my dog should take?

Your dog’s class level depends on their experience and proficiency. Just because you and your dog have attended classes at another training center, does not mean they would be qualified to be in intermediate or advanced classes at PUPS.

How do Private Training lessons work?

Private training is typically scheduled on evenings and weekends. Sessions are scheduled at the member’s convenience. Training lessons are typically 1 hour in duration but are more goals based than anything else. Sessions are typically held at a club unless there is a specific concern that needs to be addressed outside the club – like separation anxiety in the member’s home.

 

Have more questions about PUPS dog training?


See FAQs


WHAT OUR TRAINING CLIENTS ARE SAYING

“Our dog Copper loves PUPs!!! His trainer Chrissy is knowledgeable, effective, and gives him all the love he needs when he’s away from home for the day. Introducing a young puppy to daycare was nerve-wracking, but Chrissy took the time to acclimate Copper to 1 dog, then a few, and finally got him to a place where he was comfortable and confident with the whole crowd. Hands down, Chrissy is the best dog trainer we have had the privilege to work with”.“
– John, South Loop Member

 


 

 

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION