Holzinger Kennels Obedience

The training program is structured into four progressive levels: Kindergarten (basic obedience and socialization), Grade School (foundation skills), Junior High (advanced obedience and field work), and High School (hunting-specific skills and competition prep). Customized training beyond High School is available for advanced hunters. Puppies under six months are guided with puppy tips until ready for Kindergarten. Training includes indoor sessions and outdoor fieldwork on 700 acres of hunting terrain, with emphasis on bird retrieval, pointing, steadiness, and recall. All dogs are housed on-site during training.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed on the website. Clients are encouraged to contact the kennel directly for customized training package information and rates based on program level and duration.

Policies

Proof of required vaccinations (Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, Bordetella, and Heartworm check) must be provided before any on-site training begins. The kennel requires dogs to be up to date on vaccines to protect facility health. No cancellation or rescheduling policies are explicitly stated on the website.

Holzinger Kennels is a professional dog training business founded in 1982 by Terry Holzinger, specializing in hunting and obedience training for gun dogs. They train all breeds, with a focus on Pointers, Flushers, Labs, and Retrievers, using a customized, four-level program: Kindergarten, Grade School, Junior High, and High School, with advanced options available. Training occurs year-round at their 700-acre facility in Prior Lake, Minnesota, featuring indoor heated kennels and extensive outdoor fieldwork. Dogs are housed on-site during board-and-train programs, and vaccinations are required before enrollment. The business also breeds top-quality Labrador Retrievers, offering stud dogs and puppies, with many clients returning for training after purchasing puppies from their line. Their training emphasizes natural instincts, consistency, and reward-based methods, producing dogs that excel both in the field and as family companions.

Terry Holzinger is a Senior and Master AKC judge, founding member of the Lake Country Retriever Club, and has trained dogs that have earned titles in national hunt tests. Clients praise the program for transforming fearful or untrained dogs into confident, high-performing hunting companions, while also ensuring excellent behavior at home.

Holzinger Kennels does not offer grooming, walking, daycare, or pet-sitting services, but provides comprehensive training and breeding services exclusively.

The facility requires proof of current Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, Bordetella, and Heartworm checks before training begins.

Training is conducted on-site only, with no in-home or virtual options.

The business has been operating since 1982, with Terry Holzinger training dogs professionally for over 40 years.

Accomplishments

Terry Holzinger has been a Senior and Master AKC judge since the early days of hunt tests, served as a judging instructor for NSTRA from 1994–1999, and is a founding member of the Lake Country Retriever Club, one of the largest retriever clubs in the U.S. Holzinger Kennels-bred dogs have won multiple titles, including High Point 2012 “Pro Flushing Puppy of the Year” in N.A.T.H.A. and numerous placements in local, state, and national hunt tests.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must contact Holzinger Kennels directly to schedule an evaluation and discuss training needs. Dogs must have current vaccinations before enrollment. Clients are encouraged to review the training levels on the website and reach out via phone or email to begin the process.