Ladd K9

Programs include Puppy Head Start (1 private lesson + virtual visit + 2 socials), Puppy Group Class (4 in-person sessions), and intensive 1–3 week board-and-train programs. All programs include access to online videos and a private Facebook group. Lifelong group class access is included with obedience packages. Polishing and adventure classes are offered for continued skill reinforcement in real-world settings. Training focuses on house training, leash manners, biting, socialization, and basic obedience.

Pricing Summary

Puppy Group Class: $150 (4 classes + online videos). Puppy Head Start: $200 (1 private lesson, 1 virtual visit, 2 socials, online videos). Boarding: $35/day per dog, $50/day for two dogs in same kennel, $65/day for three dogs in same kennel. Additional polishing and adventure classes available. Pricing for private training sessions not listed but offered as part of customized packages.

Policies

Boarding requires current vaccination records (Rabies, DHLPP, Bordatella) or titers. Food storage is limited; refrigeration available for raw diets. Drop-off/pick-up hours are Monday–Saturday 8–9am and 3–5pm, Sunday 3–5pm. Morning drop-off counts as full day; afternoon drop-off as half-day. No charge for pick-up before 9am Monday–Saturday. No Sunday pick-up charges. No cancellation policy specified for training sessions.

Ladd K9 is a dog training business based in Preston, Minnesota, led by Carla Ladd, a certified dog trainer with over 25 years of hands-on experience. They offer personalized, one-on-one training sessions, group classes, and board-and-train programs designed to fit the unique needs of each dog and owner. Services include puppy training, obedience, behavior modification, and socialization support, with a balanced approach that emphasizes clear communication and fair leadership. Clients also have access to lifelong group class options to reinforce skills. The business operates from a rural facility featuring climate-controlled kennels, fenced outdoor yards, and on-site boarding with daily exercise and socialization. Additional resources include free downloadable guides on house training, socialization, and leadership, as well as online video content and a private Facebook group for ongoing support.

Carla’s training philosophy integrates positive reinforcement with structured leadership techniques, helping dogs become calm, confident, and well-mannered in real-life situations—from walking on leash to interacting with guests. The facility is designed for comfort and safety, with in-floor heating, air conditioning, and 24/7 music. Boarding clients receive four daily exercise sessions, and the business accepts titers in place of some vaccines. Ladd K9 serves Southeast Minnesota communities including Preston, Harmony, Chatfield, Spring Valley, Lanesboro, Fountain, and LeRoy.

The business also offers a free initial consultation to assess each dog’s needs and create a customized training plan. Clients can choose from private lessons, puppy head start packages, group classes, and intensive board-and-train programs lasting 1–3 weeks. Follow-up “polishing” and adventure classes are available to maintain progress in distracting environments.

Accomplishments

Carla Ladd has been training dogs since 1998, certified through National K9 School (1998), No Limitations Dog Training School (2006), and Robin MacFarlane’s E-Cademy (2015). She has over 25 years of experience in dog training and behavior, beginning with 4H and FFA projects as a child. She has successfully trained thousands of dogs in Southeast Minnesota and operates a modern, purpose-built training facility opened in 2021.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a free consultation via an online form to provide details about the dog’s behavior, health, and needs. After submission, clients receive a response within 48 business hours to schedule the next step with Carla. The consultation helps tailor a training plan specific to the dog and owner’s goals.