Julie’s Kanine K-12

Programs are structured in progressive levels: Puppy Kindergarten (6 weeks) introduces socialization and basic commands. Basic Obedience 1 and 2 (each 4 weeks) build on commands like sit, stay, come, heel, and address behaviors like pulling, barking, and jumping. Canine Good Citizenship (4 weeks) prepares dogs for AKC certification using praise or toys instead of treats. Outdoor Adventure offers two weekend sessions focused on real-world skills. Private training is customized for home-based behavior issues. All group classes require prior vaccination proof and appropriate equipment.

Pricing Summary

Puppy Kindergarten: $75 for 6 weeks. Basic Obedience 1 & 2: $85 for 4 weeks each. Canine Good Citizenship: $85 for 4 weeks. Private Training: $100 per hour. Outdoor Adventure: $20 per session. All group classes require proof of DHPP and rabies vaccines. No retractable leashes allowed; buckle collar or harness required.

Policies

Participants must provide proof of DHPP and rabies vaccinations before attending group classes. No retractable leashes are permitted; only buckle collars or harnesses are allowed. Soft treats, waste bags, and a leash are required for class. Private training requires direct contact to schedule. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated.

Julie’s Kanine K-12 is a dog training business in St. Cloud, MN, offering group classes and private training sessions for dog owners. Founded by certified dog trainer Julie Kustermann and certified trainer Jeff Stenberg, the business focuses on positive reinforcement methods to help dogs and families build calm, safe, and happy relationships. Services include Puppy Kindergarten for young dogs, Basic Obedience 1 and 2 for foundational commands and behavior correction, Canine Good Citizenship preparation for therapy dog eligibility, and Outdoor Adventure classes for real-world socialization. Private in-home training is available for issues like anxiety, barking, counter surfing, and bolting. The business also provides downloadable handouts on stress signs, brain games, and training rules. Additional pet services include referrals to local groomers, daycares, and boarding facilities, with one associate offering pet boarding through JKS Pet Service.

Julie holds certifications from Animal Behavior College and is a certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator since 2003, while Jeff holds a bachelor’s in psychology with a focus on behavior analysis and is also certified through Animal Behavior College. Both trainers emphasize kindness, no use of punishment or shock collars, and family-friendly environments. Classes are held at local parks and facilities in the St. Cloud area, with sessions scheduled on weekday evenings and weekend mornings.

The business supports dog owners with clear vaccination requirements, equipment guidelines (no retractable leashes), and structured progression from basic to advanced training. They also offer a pathway to AKC Canine Good Citizenship certification without using treats in the final course, relying instead on praise or toys.

Accomplishments

Julie Kustermann has been a certified dog trainer since 2003 through Animal Behavior College and is a certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She continues her education through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. Jeff Stenberg is a certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a focus on behavior analysis, graduating in 2010. Both trainers have over 15 years of combined experience in dog training.

How to Get Started!

Owners can book group classes directly online through the booking calendar. For private training, they must contact Julie’s Kanine K-12 via phone or email to discuss needs and schedule availability. All group classes require vaccination documentation and proper equipment on the first day.