Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

The Best Reactive Dog Trainers in Minneapolis, MN of 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for Reactive dog training in Minneapolis, MN. Based on feedback and votes from our Reactive dog training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the Minneapolis area.

  • Cheryl Gfrerer Photo

    Cheryl Gfrerer

    KPA-CTP, TAGteach level 2

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN and surrounding suburbs; Hudson and western, WI; virtual training

    I founded Giffy dog in 2012 after I had spent the previous twelve years providing foster care for rescue dogs. My passion for working with dogs in the rescue community was well-established by then, but I recognized the need to refine and improve my skills with the most current, well-researched methods. In 2015, I completed the rigorous Karen Pryor Academy program and have pursued regular ongoin...


  • Candace (Candy) Brewer Photo

    Candace (Candy) Brewer

    Canine Good Citizen Evaluator

    Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Northwest Metro Area (Maple Grove and surrounding area)

    I have been teaching classes and working with clients at Cloud Nine Dog Training in Maple Grove, MN and on an individual basis. I love supporting the local dog community. I am dedicated to supporting and educating families on training manners and understanding their dog's behavior so they can live harmoniously together.


  • Holly Weldon-Yahnke Photo

    Holly Weldon-Yahnke

    CPDT-KA and C-FDM

    Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    It includes, but is not limited to: Lakeville, Prior Lake, Burnsville, Savage, Shakopee, Jordan, Belle Plaine, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Victoria.

    Meet Holly - Lead Trainer Owner of Unleashed Behavior and Training ServicesCPDT-KA and Certified Family Dog MediatorHolly is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer as well as a Certified Family Dog Mediator. Her compassion for animals and desire to assist the humans on the other end of the leash are evident. She very muc...


  • Carrie Davis Photo

    Carrie Davis

    LFDM, CPDT- KA

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Minneapolis/St.Paul & Suburbs including Eagan, Inver Grove Heights

    Carrie has been in the dog industry since 2008. She started off in Veterinary Technician school and worked at vet clinics. She quickly turned to the study of canine behavior, and the relationship and connection between people and dogs.
    Experience obtained in those early years also included: intake supervisor for lost and stray dogs inside her county, working at a small boarding facility,...


  • Jen Laskewitz Photo

    Jen Laskewitz

    CPDT-KSA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge and Skills Assessed) FDM (Certified Family Dog Mediator)

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Minneapolis, Eden Prairie, Hopkins, Minnetonka, Bloomington, Edina, St. Louis Park, Chanhassen

    Jen has been lead training for the past 12 years, teaching group classes and private lessons. She also served several years as the Training Director for local dog rescue, A Rotta Love Plus. Jen has spent a lifetime living with and caring for a variety of animals, with almost 2 decades of experience working with animals in an 'official' capacity, volunteering in shelters and with rescues as well...


  • Brit Barnhouse Photo

    Brit Barnhouse

    Family Dog Mediator (FDM), Canine Enrichment Technician (DN-CET)

    Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Duluth, MN

    I'm certified as both a Family Dog Mediator (FDM) and Canine Enrichment Technician (DN-CET), and am working toward earning my CPDT-KA through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

    I share my life with a cattledog mix named Boris (TKI) and a border collie named Winona (CGC, TKA). Some of their favorite activities include: herding, tracking, scentwork, trick training,...


  • Lindsay Kinney Photo

    Lindsay Kinney

    CPDT-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Twin Cities

    I always loved animals as a kid. When I got my first dog Rosie an adolescent Australian Shepherd, in 2013 I quickly fell in love with dog training. We pursued obedience, tricks, and sports. We even did some film and commercial work. In 2015 I became a dog trainer at PetSmart to gain experience teaching group classes and working with a variety of dogs. In 2016 I became a Certified Professional D...


  • Sara Reusche Photo

    Sara Reusche

    CBCC-KA CPDT-KSA CVT

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Sara Reusche, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KSA, CVT, AKC CGC and Trick Evaluator, UKC SPOT Evaluator (she/her) purchased Paws Abilities in 2010 after working for the business since 2004. She has turned her love of animals and teaching into a career and is dual certified as a veterinary technician and professional dog trainer. In addition to training, Sara has worked as a groomer, vet tech, dog daycare attenda...


  • Reiichi Hanson Photo

    Reiichi Hanson

    IAABC-ADT, CCDT

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs

    My name is Rei (pronounced "ray", and my full name is pronounced "ray-ee-chee") and I live just south of the Twin Cities. My animals include: Betelgeuse the Australian Shepherd, who is my Service Dog and my best friend. We do Obedience, Rally, and Treibball! And Tootsie the African Senegal Parrot, who is a rescue from The Parrot's Umbrella. She is learning cooperative care for nail trims and mo...


  • Diana Waserman Photo

    Diana Waserman

    ABC certified, positive reinforcement certified, ABC reactive and aggressive training certified, ABC certified in canine massage.

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Twin Cities Metro, Minnesota or remote anywhere in the continental US.

    I've lived in Eagan for about 3.5 years and have been training since October of 2011 when I graduated from the Animal Behavior College (California). I did my internships with MARS (Midwest Animal Rescue) & Animal Ark. I am additionally certified in training reactive and aggressive dogs focused on getting reactive and aggressive dogs rehomed out of shelters. I am also certified in canine massage...


  • Denise Nord Photo

    Denise Nord

    Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training

    Denise has been training and competing with dogs for over 25 years. She has competed in obedience with multiple dogs. She has been teaching puppy classes for over 20 years. Her obedience and puppy classes are based on proven positive training methods. Denise also trains and competes in agility, nosework, lure coursing, tracking, conformation and rally.


  • Jane Fallander Photo

    Jane Fallander

    KPA-CTP, ANWI

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Twin cities metro

    I have been a professional dog trainer for 15 years and a hobby trainer for 40. In my 20s I worked at an animal shelter for 9 years and love rescue dogs. My formal education includes a BS in Animal Science and Technical Communication. I'm also a Karen Prior Certified Dog Trainer and have been teaching K9 nosework for 13 years.


  • Kelsey Smedley Photo

    Kelsey Smedley

    Certified Advanced Canine Training Professional (CACTP) Certified Canine Training and Behavior Specialist (CCTBS)

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Minneapolis Apple Valley Lakeville Minnetonka Burnsville St. Paul Savage Shakopee Bloomington Eagan Edina Eden Prairie

    My name is Kelsey and I own The Good Dog Co.
    My goal is to educate other pet parents and give them the tools and knowledge that they need to live a happy, calm life with their dogs. Whatever your behavioral issue is, there is a solution for it as long as you are willing to do the work.
    I have a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Missouri and certifications CACTP and CCT...


Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for Reactive dog training in Minneapolis, MN is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Reactive dog training, we received 348 total votes, resulting in 13 dog trainers who focus on Reactive dog training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Reactive dog training listed first.

Dog trainers for Reactive dog training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Cheryl Gfrerer, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Reactive dog training in Minneapolis, MN. Cheryl Gfrerer’s favorite part of their job is: I love seeing dogs develop confidence and families learn how satisfying it can be to help their dogs thrive..

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Cheryl Gfrerer, as well as the other dog trainers on this Reactive dog training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog. Cheryl Gfrerer encourages owners with this dog training tip: Choose simple ways to add enrichment, such as interacting with environmental features on walks..

Sniffspot Dog running on field

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See the Best Trainers For Reactive Dog Training in Other Cities Near Minneapolis


See the Best Dog Trainers by Type in Minneapolis


Frequently Asked Questions About Reactive Dog Training in Minneapolis, Minnesota

How were the leading Reactive dog training trainers in Minneapolis determined?

The best Reactive dog training trainers in Minneapolis were identified based on 348 from local residents, highlighting those who excel in their field and are highly rated by dog owners in the area.

What are the key services offered by top Reactive dog trainers in Minneapolis?

In Minneapolis, prominent trainers like Cheryl Gfrerer offer a variety of specialized services tailored to address specific behavioral issues. Their services are designed to meet the diverse needs of dogs in the region.

What qualifications do top Reactive dog trainers in Minneapolis possess?

Leading trainers in Minneapolis for Reactive dog training hold certifications such as CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC-ADT, CCDT, CBCC-KA CPDT-KSA CVT, showcasing their dedication to maintaining high standards in professional dog training.

What is the most valuable training advice from Cheryl Gfrerer for Minneapolis dogs?

Cheryl Gfrerer emphasizes that the most crucial advice for Reactive dog training training is Choose simple ways to add enrichment, such as interacting with environmental features on walks..This insight is vital for improving your dog’s behavior in Minneapolis.

How do trainers in Minneapolis keep their skills current?

Minneapolis trainers stay updated by participating in ongoing education and certification programs, such as CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC-ADT, CCDT, CBCC-KA CPDT-KSA CVT. They also engage with local shelters and community events to refine their skills.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool
David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Most recent articles

Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnailExplore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners
Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Explore the Miniature Poodle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnailExplore the Miniature Poodle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners
Explore the Miniature Poodle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

Explore the Miniature Poodle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

American Airlines Dog Policy: Complete Guide (Fees, Sizes, Rules) thumbnailAmerican Airlines Dog Policy: Complete Guide (Fees, Sizes, Rules)
American Airlines Dog Policy: Complete Guide (Fees, Sizes, Rules) thumbnail

American Airlines Dog Policy: Complete Guide (Fees, Sizes, Rules)

The Ultimate Guide To Flying With Large Dogs: Airline Policies and Tricks thumbnailThe Ultimate Guide To Flying With Large Dogs: Airline Policies and Tricks
The Ultimate Guide To Flying With Large Dogs: Airline Policies and Tricks thumbnail

The Ultimate Guide To Flying With Large Dogs: Airline Policies and Tricks

Comprehensive Guide to Skijoring With Dogs thumbnailComprehensive Guide to Skijoring With Dogs
Comprehensive Guide to Skijoring With Dogs thumbnail

Comprehensive Guide to Skijoring With Dogs

How To Enable a Reactive Dog To Live A Full Life thumbnailHow To Enable a Reactive Dog To Live A Full Life
How To Enable a Reactive Dog To Live A Full Life thumbnail

How To Enable a Reactive Dog To Live A Full Life

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

  • How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.

  • Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.

  • How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog? thumbnail

    How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?

    More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.

  • What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression thumbnail

    What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression

    You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?

  • Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop? thumbnail

    Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?

    Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

  • The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States

    Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.

  • Best Toys for Herding Dogs thumbnail

    Best Toys for Herding Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

  • The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?

  • Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? thumbnail

    Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?

    You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.

  • Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs thumbnail

    Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

  • The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States thumbnail

    The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States

    From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.

  • How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs thumbnail

    How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs

    Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.” 

  • Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me thumbnail

    Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me

    Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.

  • How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs thumbnail

    How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs

    Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.  

  • Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot thumbnail

    Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot

    Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

  • The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.

  • The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.

  • The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.

  • The Best United States Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best United States Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!

  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.

  • Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US