Reaction Retrievers, LLC

Reaction Retrievers offers comprehensive training programs focused on building confident, high-performing retrievers, including Advanced Competitive Dogs, Finished Gun Dogs, and Obedience Training, along with Private Instruction.

The Advanced Competitive Dogs program, lasting approximately 8-12 months, prepares dogs for Qualifying or Master Hunter levels, with some progressing to All Age Stakes. Handler participation is highly recommended for success in competition, and the program limits competitive dogs to eight.

The Finished Gun Dog Program is a seven-month in-house program (January to August) where dogs learn to proficiently mark birds and perform blind retrieves on land and water, becoming steady to wing and shot in various hunting scenarios. Owners are required to learn how to utilize the dog’s new skills, especially during the final stages of training.

The Obedience Training is a 30-60 day in-house program designed for complete off-lead control, teaching basic commands and ensuring the dog returns on a single command regardless of distractions. This program is open to medium and large breeds weighing 15 lbs and up. Private Instruction is available for one-on-one training sessions by appointment, addressing specific handling skills or training issues.

Pricing Summary

Training is priced at $1000.00 per month, plus applicable taxes. Boarding costs $40.00 per day. Private lessons require a call for details.

Additional costs may occur for handling and flyers in competitive programs. Boarding pick-up/drop-off fees apply based on distance: $100 for the first 50 miles, $175 for 50-150 miles, and $250 for 150-250 miles.

Policies

Clients are required to fill out and sign a Client/Dog information sheet. They must also provide an up-to-date health record for their dog from a licensed DVM.

Clients are responsible for providing monthly flea, tick, and heartworm medication, as well as an annual Lyme booster.

Reaction Retrievers LLC is a dog training facility based in Winona, MN, specializing in building confident, hard-running retrievers capable of competing at any level. Their goal is to provide clients and their dogs with solid fundamental training tailored to individual needs.

They utilize proven techniques stemming from over 30 years of experience, focusing on fair and humane methods. Their program emphasizes attrition and thorough teaching while maintaining high standards, which they believe is key to a dog’s success. The facility also offers dog boarding services.

Accomplishments

Darren Thompson, the owner of Reaction Retrievers, possesses over 30 years of formal training experience and has successfully competed at all levels of competition. Steve Zugg, an owner/handler associated with the business, has achieved significant titles.

These titles include Grand Hunting Retriever Champion (G.H.R.C.H.), Master Hunter (M.H.), Qualified All Age (Q.A.A.), and Super Retriever Series (S.R.S.A.).

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to book an appointment to visit the facility and view the custom training grounds. An intake form is available for download to begin the process.

For private lessons, clients are advised to contact the business directly for specific details and scheduling.