Performance Kennels Inc

Performance Kennels offers intensive, structured training programs including a 12-week combined patrol and detection course, 3-week narcotic handler courses, and 4-week explosive detection courses. All programs include hands-on instruction in obedience, tracking, detection, tactical deployment, K-9 first aid, and report writing. Training is conducted in small classes with one-on-one time. Handler training is mandatory for all dogs purchased from them, and graduates receive lifetime free problem-solving support. Advanced seminars, such as 3-day tracking courses, are offered on request and can be held at client locations.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not publicly listed; clients must contact the business directly for current rates. Training courses include 12-week combined patrol & detection, 3-week narcotic, and 4-week explosive detection programs. Starter kits and travel arrangements incur additional costs. Lifetime training support is included at no extra charge for graduates.

Policies

Performance Kennels guarantees dogs are free from debilitating hip and elbow defects for one year and are psychologically/physically suitable for patrol or dual-purpose training. The workability guarantee is voided if training is not conducted by certified professionals or if electronic collars are used. Health issues must be reported immediately; failure to do so voids warranty. The 30-day guarantee applies if training is done by someone other than PK staff. Lifetime support is available only to graduates of PK courses and must be accessed during ongoing training sessions in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area.

Performance Kennels Inc. is a specialized dog training business based in Buffalo, MN, focused on training high-performance working dogs for law enforcement, military, and wildlife detection roles. Founded in 1998 by Steve Pearson, a 22-year veteran of police K-9 work, the company trains patrol dogs, narcotic detector dogs, explosive detector dogs, and wildlife detector dogs using certified former law enforcement and military handlers. They breed and hand-select dogs from Eastern Europe, specializing in German Shepherds, Malinois, and crosses, ensuring psychological and physical suitability for demanding tasks. They offer intensive training programs including 12-week combined patrol and detection courses, 3-week narcotic handler courses, and 4-week explosive detection courses, all designed to meet USPCA and NPCA certification standards. Every handler who completes a course receives lifetime free problem-solving support. They also provide pre-trained dogs with health records, vaccinations, and parasite prevention, and offer a comprehensive guarantee covering genetic health and workability under specific conditions.

While primarily serving professional agencies, their training methods and high standards make them a trusted resource for experienced dog owners seeking elite working dog training. They do not offer general pet training services but focus exclusively on high-drive, high-stakes working dog development.

Performance Kennels also operates as a direct breeder of working dogs and partners with Dogs For Defense Inc. to provide detection services to private sector clients like malls, casinos, and warehouses.

Accomplishments

Owner Steve Pearson has 22 years of experience as a police K-9 handler, supervisor, and trainer. Training staff includes current and former handlers from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, U.S. Secret Service, and ATF. All trainers are certified through USPCA, NPCA, Department of Defense, or ATF. The company has trained dogs for law enforcement and wildlife agencies nationwide since 1998.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must contact Performance Kennels directly to inquire about dog availability, training schedules, and course pricing. Dogs are sold exclusively through direct consultation, with selection based on handler experience and agency needs. Pre-trained dogs require mandatory handler training, and new clients are guided through health documentation, training logistics, and certification preparation.