Kozies’s Training Kennel

Kozie’s offers two primary training formats: in-kennel (board and train) and private/group lessons at the facility. In-kennel programs include obedience, agility, tracking, behavior modification, and positive imprinting, with dogs staying for a customized duration based on individual needs. Each program ends with a private transition session for the owner to learn how to maintain skills at home. Private lessons are one-on-one and tailored to specific issues like aggression, barking, or anxiety. Group lessons are available for small or large groups and customized to the group’s needs. All training is based on positive imprinting and reinforcement, with an emphasis on owner education and consistency.

Pricing Summary

Puppy purchase price is $2000 with a $300 non-refundable deposit. Training programs are customized; in-kennel training duration and cost depend on the dog’s age, temperament, and chosen program. Private and group training sessions are available but specific pricing not listed. Replacement puppy warranty applies only for OFA hip/elbow issues, not temperament.

Policies

Puppy deposits are non-refundable and applied to the purchase price. The hip/elbow warranty expires at 26 months and requires OFA certification before replacement. The warranty is for a replacement puppy only, not a refund. Owners are responsible for return shipping and x-ray costs. Temperament is not warranted. Training programs require commitment; no cancellation policies are specified for training services.

Kozie’s Training Kennel is a small, personal facility in south central Minnesota, founded by Mark Kozitza in 1990, specializing in German Shepherd breeding and professional dog training. Mark offers customized training programs including obedience, agility, tracking, behavior modification, and positive imprinting for all dog breeds, available both in-kennel (board and train) and through private or group lessons at his facility near Mankato. His training philosophy emphasizes positive reinforcement and personalized programs tailored to each dog’s age, temperament, and specific needs. In-kennel training includes daily structured training, exercise, play, and a private transition session upon completion, with ongoing support provided. Mark also breeds 100% European working-line German Shepherds with OFA-certified hips and elbows, temperament-tested for stability and suitability as family companions. His dogs are known for strong drives, sound structure, and excellent working ability, with many placed in police and service roles. Training is designed to improve both the dog’s behavior and the owner’s ability to communicate effectively.

Kozie’s provides in-kennel boarding and training, private one-on-one sessions, and group classes—all conducted at their facility. They do not offer in-home training or video consultations. Mark’s deep experience in breeding and training German Shepherds gives clients access to a trainer who understands genetics, temperament, and working drives at a high level. Clients benefit from his decades-long reputation and hands-on involvement in every aspect of training and breeding.

The facility also offers puppy warranty, health records, and registration papers with each purchase, and maintains extensive photo galleries and resources for German Shepherd owners.

Accomplishments

Mark Kozitza has been breeding and training German Shepherds since 1990. His dogs have been placed as patrol and detection dogs for LeSueur County, MN, and have earned top honors at the Minneapolis Police Academy. He consistently breeds from European working lines with OFA certification and temperament testing. His dogs are known for stability with children, strong drives, and structural soundness.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients should contact Mark via phone or email to discuss training needs. For in-kennel training, dogs are evaluated to determine program length and structure. For private or group lessons, owners schedule sessions based on availability. Puppy buyers must place a $300 deposit to reserve a puppy from an upcoming litter.