Knallhart Kennels & Training Academy

Programs begin with a required phone consultation to assess the dog’s needs. Board-and-train programs last 4–8 weeks and include daily training, socialization in a natural environment, and simulated home scenarios. Clients receive weekly updates, photos, and videos. Upon completion, owners attend hands-on lessons to learn how to maintain progress. Ongoing group classes and public pack walks are offered for continued training. Lifetime support includes free refresher classes and direct access to Chelsey for questions.

Pricing Summary

Training programs are priced as intensive packages: Jump Start Puppy Program is $4,800 for 4 weeks; Older Puppy Obedience Program is $6,000 for 4 weeks. Flexible financing is available through Affirm with zero hidden fees. Lifetime support and refresher classes are included at no additional cost. Pricing for other services like behavior modification or service dog certification is customized based on individual needs.

Policies

Refund policy is available on their website. Clients must sign a waiver for puppy programs due to early training risks. Health and vaccination requirements must be met for boarding. No specific cancellation policy is stated, but clients are encouraged to contact directly for scheduling changes.

Knallhart Kennels & Training Academy is a premier dog training and boarding facility in Central Iowa, led by owner and head trainer Chelsey Montgomery-Gusta, who has over 11 years of experience in the dog industry. They offer personalized, psychology-based training programs that blend balanced methods—combining positive reinforcement with fair corrections and clear communication—to build reliable, confident dogs. Their services include puppy training, basic and advanced obedience, behavior modification, and full certification for service and therapy dogs. Clients can choose from board-and-train programs, group classes, and in-person follow-up sessions. The facility is located on five peaceful acres with a simulated home environment for real-life training, and dogs are exposed to a variety of animals and settings to build confidence. Knallhart also runs an ethical Newfoundland breeding program focused on health, temperament, and AKC standards. They provide lifetime support to graduates, including refresher classes and ongoing guidance. The team includes Chelsey and her family, who live on-site and integrate dog training into their daily lives, creating a nurturing, hands-on environment.

They offer flexible financing through Affirm, transparent communication via weekly updates and videos during boarding, and encourage client involvement through homework and hands-on lessons. Their training is designed to transfer seamlessly into the home, ensuring long-term success for both dog and owner.

Accomplishments

Chelsey Montgomery-Gusta has over 11 years of experience training dogs and has successfully certified service and therapy dogs. Knallhart’s Newfoundland breeding program aligns with AKC standards and competes in AKC events. The facility is recognized as Iowa’s premier training academy, with numerous client testimonials highlighting exceptional results with reactive, deaf, and complex-behavior dogs.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must first text Chelsey at (319) 573-2133 to schedule a required phone consultation. This consultation ensures the dog’s goals and history are matched with the appropriate program. A waiver and health documentation are required for puppy programs before enrollment.