Paws Abilities Dog Training

Programs include group classes (puppy, obedience, teenage transformations, intermediate obedience), private behavior consultations, board and train with transfer sessions, Canine to Five for skill transfer, puppy and enrichment camps, and professional walks. Classes are structured in multi-week sessions with small sizes, and advanced classes require prerequisites. Events include seminars, tests (CGC, Community Canine), and workshops. Virtual options available for some classes and webinars.

Pricing Summary

Behavior consultations start at $250 per session, with 10% off for 5+ sessions and 15% off for 10+ sessions. Puppy training sessions are $150 each, with same package discounts. Private lessons and group classes are available with pricing tied to specific programs; payment is required at enrollment.

Policies

Class enrollment requires completion of a dog profile and payment. Cancellation and rescheduling policies are outlined on the Class Policies page, but specific details are not provided in the content. Facility rentals via SniffSpot require a trainer to be present due to insurance requirements.

Paws Abilities Dog Training, established in 1999, is a professional dog training business serving Rochester, Southeastern Minnesota, and the Twin Cities metro area. They offer reward-based, scientifically proven training methods aligned with the techniques used by professional animal trainers in zoos and aquariums. Their team of certified trainers provides group classes, private lessons, behavior consultations, board and train programs, puppy camps, enrichment camps, and professional walks. They emphasize family involvement, collaboration with veterinarians and behaviorists, and ongoing education through seminars and workshops. Their facility-based training environments are clean, climate-controlled, and equipped for diverse training needs, including specialized programs for reactive, fearful, or adolescent dogs.

They also offer unique programs like Canine to Five, which ensures training transfers from professionals to owners, and host events such as CGC tests, Treibball demos, and training games. Their trainers are active members of professional organizations and regularly pursue advanced certifications and hands-on experience with their own dogs.

Paws Abilities supports the community through partnerships with shelters, rescues, and breeders, and provides educational resources via articles and newsletters to help dog owners succeed long-term.

Accomplishments

Katie Kelly, lead behavior consultant, is the only Certified Behavior Consultant for Canines in Rochester and one of 11 in Minnesota. She holds a BA in Education and Communication, is certified as CBCC-KA and CPDT-KA, completed Michael Shikashio’s Master Aggression course, and has 15 years of experience working under veterinary behaviorists. Other trainers hold CPDT-KA and CPDT-KSA certifications. The business has been operating since 1999 and partners with veterinary professionals and community organizations.

How to Get Started!

For behavior consultations, clients must fill out a behavior questionnaire and purchase a session package. For classes, clients must fill out a dog profile and enroll via the booking system. Private lessons and other services require direct contact or booking through the website.