What makes us different
Training is what we do.
In the same way that you wouldn’t go to a doctor that was a full time chef who did surgery on the side for extra cash, we believe you shouldn’t trust your dogs development and training to anyone who treats training as an “add on” to a larger business. At Heavenly Hounds our passion and purpose is to provide excellent services that will help you to train your dog effectively using positive methods that will improve your relationship and be fun for everyone involved. Our goal is for your dog to develop good habits, strong self esteem, and grow into a confident, well mannered dog both at home and in public.
We are experienced.
All of our trainers carry years of experience and have attended seminars, conferences and training camps – many are even pursuing or already have national certifications for training! We are always trying to better ourselves by constantly engaging in continuing education so we can stay on top of our game and provide you with the very best service, backed by the newest scientific behavior research.
Personalized Training Approach. We do not carry a “one-size-fits-all” mentality. Even in our group classes, our instructors will find ways to make learning easier for both you and your dog. Every dog and family are different and we strive to make a training program that is right for YOU.
We teach your whole family. We believe in teaching YOU how to teach your dog. After all, when you are at home, our trainers won’t be there with you if something comes up. Kids are welcome to join in and switch off with the adult handlers so that everyone gets a chance to see how it is all done.
Training is FUN and EFFECTIVE.
Our training methods keep your dog excited about training and make it fun for both you and your dog. You will find that when a dog enjoys training, you both will reap the benefits of it both from the training itself and the bond it creates between you.
Our training methods keep your dog excited about training and make it fun for both you and your dog. You will find that when a dog enjoys training, you both will reap the benefits of it both from the training itself and the bond it creates between you.
Our Trainers
Stephanie and her Portugese Water Dogs, Daisy and CJ, the much beloved dogs who started it all but are, sadly, no longer with us. Lost but not forgotten.
Stephanie Kowalewski
M.Div., CPDT-KA
Owner/Director of Training and Behavior
Hi! My name is Stephanie Offerdahl-Kowalewksi, and I have been professionally training dogs for almost two decades. Upon earning my Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, I felt that my true “calling” was working professionally with dogs and made made my passion into my profession. I trained under some of the top trainers in New Jersey, and I was an instructor at the nationally recognized St. Hubert’s Dog Training School in Madison, NJ. After my first child was born, I opened my own business, which I have been succefully running for 14 years.
I believe that positive training strengthens the bond between dogs and their humans, and that is the only true way to achieve behavior modification. I regularly attend training and behavior seminars in order to increase my knowledge and skill set. I also believe strongly in networking and am in constant communication with other trainers in order to share thoughts, ideas and methodologies.
I understand the demands of family life and busy households. I currently feel like an unpaid Uber driver for my children with sports, activities, etc. I know you don't have hours upon hours to train your dog. Guess what? You don't have to! Yes, you must put in some work, but my goal is to make it as doable and easy for you. I will help your dog thrive in your home and community through practical, fun and effective training strategies.
I currently reside in Lawrenceville, New Jersey with my husband, two children. We have three super mutts, Mr. Bug, Hiccup, Marvin (latest foster-fail), and Archibald, our German short-haired Pointer.
I look forward to working with you!
Melinda with Edison and Franklin
Melinda Berger
CPDT-KA, CDBC, VSPDT
Melinda is a long- time practitioner of force-free, positive reinforcement dog training with 20 years professional experience. She is a Nationally Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Donna and Luke
Donna Greco
CPDT-KA
Donna started her dog training career the moment she brought her German Shepherd, Luke, home. She just didn’t know it yet. After attending puppy class at Heavenly Hounds, she knew she had her work cut our for her with her spirited new dog and she set out to learn as much as she could about dog training and behavior.
Janet with Muskii