Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

Dog Training Dog Reactivity Dog Enrichment Sniffspot Community Top Dog Trainers City Dog Parks Dog Breeds Dog Names Dog Rescues & Shelters

Home

Blog

Dog Trainers

Minnesota

The Best Dog Trainers in Minnesota of 2024

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

This is a list of the top dog trainers in Minnesota, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

Barbara Godding
KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, AKC-CGC-STAR PUPPY
Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training
Minneapolis, St. Paul and surrounding suburbs
Barbara is a Karen Pryor certified training partner, CPDT-KA knowledge assessed trainer, holds memberships in the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, Pet Professional Guild and she is a Canine Good Citizen evaluator. She is also a trainer for the Pets for Vets Minneapolis Chapter, which provides animals to Veterans who could benefit from having a trained companion pet. Her company also p...

Kari Bastyr
BS and MS in Animal Behavior, CDBC, Certified Pet Nutrition Specialist, VSPDT
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training
Minneapolis and the western suburbs
I have been working as a professional dog trainer for 30 years, and received my Master's Degree in Animal Behavior in 1995. I specialize on dogs who have bite histories or are a bite risk, fearful and shy dogs, leash reactivity, and puppy training.

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
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
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
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
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...

Michelle Stelzig
Certified veterinary technician
In home training, Puppy training
Maple Grove, Coon Rapids, Minneapolis, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Plymouth
I have been a certified veterinary technician for 15 years with a special interest in helping grow the human animal bond. Helping hams and dogs effectively communicate is my passion. I love seeing dogs "click" with their people. I am currently working towards becoming certified with the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, under the guidance of Inga From, CDBC, CPDT-KSA. I am al...

Brian Munro
CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Certified Family Dog Mediator
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Minneapolis-St Paul Area, Washington and Dakota Counties, Western Wisconsin
Brian Munro, owner of Leaps and Hounds Behavior, has spent the last seven years providing professional guidance and support for families and their dogs in the Twin Cities and Western Wisconsin. Prior to becoming the owner of Leaps and Hounds Behavior, he worked in animal shelter leadership positions, taught group classes, and provided behavior consulting services for clients. In 2021 he acquire...

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
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
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
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
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...

Jennifer Wilmes
CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Approved Evaluator for American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen test
SW Metro, MN
Jennifer has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer since 2015 as well as managed her own positive reinforcement training business. She became Certified Behavior Consultant Canine and Fear Free Certified in 2018. She is a Professional Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and a Supporting Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She has a passi...

Ryleigh Mars
A graduate of The Tom Rose School, member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
St.Cloud, MN
From luring her childhood dog over jumps in the backyard, to raising litters of puppies for law enforcement, to competing in Schutzhund (now known as IGP), Ryleigh has been training dogs from the moment she could walk. Having a special interest in learning and behavior led Ryleigh to an endless pursuit of knowledge in the field, and how it applies not just to dogs, but people as well. A graduat...

Ashlee Meyer
CPDT-KA LFDM-T VSA-CDT
In home training
Dakota County Bloomington South Minneapolis
I have been a professional dog trainer for 4 years now and it started the same way everyone gets into dog training - with a dog who needed help. After going through multiple certifications and working with numerous dogs and people, I found my niche in helping families navigate the twists and turns of having a dog and child. From preparing for a child coming into a home to a dog struggling with ...

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
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.

Annelise Allan
Agility training
Annelise has been doing agility over 25 years (since 1990). She has personally trained over 20 dogs in the sport of agility. She has trained Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, Pyrenean Shepherd, French Brittany and Poodles. She has competed and earned Agility Championships in AKC, CPE, NADAC, UKI and USDAA. She has competed in national competitions in AKC, CPE, NAD...

See More Trainers In Minnesota

The Best Minneapolis, MN Dog Trainers In 2024

Cheryl Gfrerer
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...
View profile
Candace (Candy) Brewer
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.
View profile
Holly Weldon-Yahnke
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...
View profile

Welcome to Minnesota’s list of top dog trainers. The Minnesota list is based on 700 votes from the Sniffspot community. Only the Minnesota dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Barbara Godding at the top of this list with 172 votes.

Our rankings include trainers certified by CPDT-KA and CPDT-KA. They also specialize in Puppy training, In home training amongst other training programs.

Minnesota dog trainer services include:

Puppy training
In home training
Agility training
Reactive dog training
Aggressive dog training
Off leash training
Board and train
Deaf dog training
Service dog training
Protection/guard dog training

Dog trainers in Minnesota selflessly set pets up for success. Barbara Godding shares why they chose this path: I have always had a deep connection to dogs. I love the science behind how they learn and it came naturally to me. It never gets old watching a dog learning something for the first time!. All 55 trainers on this Minnesota list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Minnesota trainer, Kari Bastyr, uses the following methods: .

Explore the top dog trainers in Minnesota as voted by our community:

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

See The Best Dog Trainers By City In Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN

FAQ: Top Puppy dog training Dog Trainers in Minnesota

How did Sniffspot determine the best dog trainers in Minnesota?

After collecting 700 votes, we compiled a list of the top trainers in Minnesota. These experts have proven their skills in Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, and more with Barbara Godding leading the pack.

What sets Barbara Godding apart in Minnesota?

With certifications like KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, AKC-CGC-STAR PUPPY, Barbara Godding offers a well-rounded approach to Deaf dog training and Reactive dog training. They focus on Deaf dog training, ensuring that each training session addresses specific behavior challenges.

What motivates Minnesota dog trainers?

Barbara Godding began their journey into dog training because I have always had a deep connection to dogs. I love the science behind how they learn and it came naturally to me. It never gets old watching a dog learning something for the first time!.

What’s the top training advice from Barbara Godding?

According to Barbara Godding, the key to successful Deaf dog training training is Reinforce what you want your dog to do!.

What do other trainers recommend in Minnesota?

Kari Bastyr suggests focusing on Focus on what you want your dog to do rather than what you don't want them to do., Cheryl Gfrerer emphasizes Choose simple ways to add enrichment, such as interacting with environmental features on walks..

What qualifications do these Minnesota trainers have?

All of the trainers on our list hold certifications like Deaf dog training, reflecting their expertise and commitment to professional development. Many also volunteer with Minnesota rescue organizations.

Why are these qualifications important?

These certifications ensure that the trainers are well-versed in the latest Deaf dog training and Reactive dog training training techniques, providing your Minnesota dog with the best possible care.

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

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

Explore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners

Most recent articles

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

Explore the Siberian Husky: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

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

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

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

Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

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

Explore the Siberian Husky: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

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

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

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

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Signs, Causes, and How to Handle It
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Dog Reactivity Chart: Understand and Fix Dog Reactivity
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
How to Socialize Your Reactive Dog
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

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

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Dog Trainers in Minnesota of 2024

Barbara Godding

Kari Bastyr

Cheryl Gfrerer

Candace (Candy) Brewer

Holly Weldon-Yahnke

Carrie Davis

Jen Laskewitz

Michelle Stelzig

Brian Munro

Brit Barnhouse

Lindsay Kinney

Sara Reusche

Reiichi Hanson

Diana Waserman

Jennifer Wilmes

Ryleigh Mars

Ashlee Meyer

Denise Nord

Jane Fallander

Annelise Allan

See More Trainers In Minnesota

See The Best Dog Trainers By City In Minnesota

FAQ: Top Puppy dog training Dog Trainers in Minnesota

How did Sniffspot determine the best dog trainers in Minnesota?

What sets Barbara Godding apart in Minnesota?

What motivates Minnesota dog trainers?

What’s the top training advice from Barbara Godding?

What do other trainers recommend in Minnesota?

What qualifications do these Minnesota trainers have?

Why are these qualifications important?

David Adams

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states

Alabama