About Us

  • Who owns/operates AllBreed North?

    Jenny & Jake Schneider (husband-and-wife est. 2006). Currently, it's just the two of us working here; before the pandemic, we had a few part-time assistant trainers helping with group classes and board & train programs.

  • How long have you been training dogs?

    Together about 18 years... Jake has over 25 years, as he's been working with dogs his whole life (his parents are trainers too); he started handling in conformation when he was 10 yrs old. Jenny was introduced to the dog world when she met Jake in 7th grade... she started learning how to train dogs when she was around 20 years old.

  • How long have you been in business?

    In 2023, we are celebrating 15 years... We started AllBreed North in 2008 (during the great recession), then started our online business, OnDog Training Academy, in 2021 (during the pandemic).

  • How have you given back to the community?

    We voluntarily raised and trained Service Dogs for Can Do Canines from around 2007-2012 (they were called, "Hearing and Service Dogs of MN" when we started). We have also served on committees & boards in dog sports, and locally have provided expert consulting to the city.

  • Where is ABN Dog Training?

    We are located in east central mn just an hour North of the Twin Cities, only 3 minutes off I-35 (on your way up to Duluth).

Training Philosophy

  • Does dog training work?

    Yes, if you are able to apply the most appropriate methods for your dog's needs correctly [that's where we come in] and in a consistent manner [your part]... the sky is the limit (unless you have a basset hound;-)

  • What kind of trainers are you?

    We aim to do as much positive reinforcement as we can (and follow LIMA "Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive" principles), but we are educated and trained in using all four quadrants of behavior modification. Some dogs require additional methods, and we are mindful of doing what's best for the dogs and their owners.

  • How are dogs viewed/treated?

    We believe dogs are family, and should be raised and cared for with love and boundaries, much like a good parent would care for their children. We don't spoil them rotten by letting them do whatever they want, but we show them how to make good choices that will keep them safe and happy.

  • What do you use to train the dogs?

    To teach new behaviors through obedience exercises, we primarily use "Treat-Training"... we also rely on body language, verbal commands, and hand signals to communicate with the dogs. Following LIMA, we usually start with a gentle harness and/or buckle collar.

Getting Started

  • What are my options for working with you?

    Our main focus is on Board & Train Programs with long-term support and subsequent Refresher Training stays. Occasionally, we may offer Private Lessons as an alternative, but we are currently limiting those to return clients.

  • How can I learn more about your services?

    The best place to start is our website; browse around the links in the menus or follow the "Next Up:" prompts at the bottom of the pages. Second, you'll want to read through our Board & Train Program Application; you'll learn more details about pricing, availability, policies, and requirements, etc. Third, read through the rest of the FAQ's to find answers to the most common questions we get asked. If you can't find the answer, please email us:-)

  • How do I inquire about possibly getting my dog into a Board & Train Program?

    To start the screening process, please read and complete our Board & Train Program Application... we will guide you through the process step-by-step, and if we're a good fit & your dog passes their overnight trial stay, we will start onboarding you once we receive your deposit to book your dog's program.

  • How soon can we get started?

    Everyone's journey is a little different, but typically, the screening process takes about 2-3 weeks to get to booking a program. Due to high demand (and limited space), we usually book programs about 1-3 months out.

  • How does your dog training work?

    We consider ourselves your dog's training partner, as well as a part of their care team... we want to guide you through your dog's life to make you the best pet parent you can be (and get a really well-behaved dog out of it too!).

Pricing

  • How much does an Overnight cost?

    All pricing is always listed on the corresponding service pages, but our base boarding fee is currently $45+tax ($48.32) per night.

  • How much are your B&T Programs?

    Our 2023 pricing starts at $100/day+tax, so the absolute minimum cost for a short program (only available in certain cases) would be $1446.46.

  • How much does Refresher Training cost?

    This varies depending on the length of stay and amount of training days included, but for 2023, in our 7-day example, the range is between $467.49 - $607.49. This comes from $48.32/night plus $35 per training day. (see requirements on the service page)

  • What other expenses should I prepare for?

    We always try to be upfront and open about what things may cost... You'll be responsible for vetting/testing and feeding your dog entirely. Our deposits are non-refundable, a custom training video is extra if the program is under 4 weeks in length, and Refresher Training is not included. If you want/need more than two private lessons after your program, the current pricing will apply at that time.

Dog Requirements

  • How old should my dog be for the program?

    Puppies should be with their littermates until they are at least 8 weeks of age. We set our minimum age to be 10 weeks old so they have time to get their first round of vaccinations before coming.

  • What Vaccinations do you require?

    Bordetella, Distemper combo series, Rabies (16+ weeks old)... we also recommend following your vets' guidance for additional needs.

  • Do you require a Fecal Test?

    Yes, we ask for your dog to get tested for parasites, including the Giardia antigen (you need to ask your vet specifically to ensure the correct test type).

  • When do I need to get a fecal test done?

    The timing of the testing will differ depending on what they are coming for (Overnight Trial Stay, B&T Program, Refresher Training). Please follow the due dates set in your dog's customer portal profile.

  • Do you require other preventatives?

    While we don't require it, we Highly Recommend protecting your dog from Heartworm (passed by mosquito bites), and Fleas & Ticks (our area has lots of ticks, especially in the spring and early summer). We use Heartgard and Nexgard.

  • Can my dog stay if they are intact?

    Dogs are not required to be spayed/neutered, however, we do not allow female dogs to be here while they are in a heat cycle. In order to avoid us having to send them home mid-stay, please be sure to either have them come before the age of 7-8 months and/or spay them beforehand and/or plan according to their known cycle months (and prepare a backup plan).

  • What if my dog has aggressive tendencies?

    We are able to manage quite a bit, so this will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

  • Is my dog eligible if they have anxiety?

    It depends... the severity level and type are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Please Note: We do screen out potential candidates that have separation/crate/confinement anxiety.

  • Does my dog have to be Crate-Trained?

    All dogs must be able to be comfortably crated overnight and throughout the daytime... it's preferred that they come crate-trained and/or are puppies in the process, but we have had success with dogs being trained right before their overnight (and being kept acclimated to it).

Appointments

  • Why is everything By Appointment Only?

    In order to provide the best care and training for the dogs, we need to keep a controlled & predictable environment as much as possible. A major part of our training success depends on the careful management of our schedule.

  • How far in advance do I need to schedule my appointments?

    It depends on the type... discovery call=1+day, dropping something off=1+day, intake meeting=2+days, overnight trial stay=3+days, lessons=4+days, refresher training stay=5+days [recommend 2-3+months out], board & train programs=7+days [recommend 1-3+months out]

  • When should I arrive for my appointment?

    Ideally, you'll pull into the driveway at your set appointment time [no earlier/later than 5-10 minutes]. This ensures we're ready for you! If you're earlier than 10-15 minutes, please wait to pull in (as we may have the dogs outside).

  • Why do you have to make sure the dogs (and cats) are put away before I arrive??

    Most dogs naturally get really excited/stimulated when they experience environmental changes like a person coming over... we need to be sure they are secure in order to keep them safe. Otherwise, they could try to get out, bite someone, or get in a fight with each other from all the commotion.

  • How do I find out my appointment time?

    We utilize an online portal system as well as meeting software, both of which usually send you an email the day beforehand to remind you of your appointment time (for the beginning of your stay). You can also find out by referring to the confirmation email and/or by looking inside your customer portal.

  • What do I do if I'm running early/late?

    If your ETA is less than 5-10 minutes different, just get here safe:-) If you're going to arrive earlier or later than your appointment time by more than 10 minutes, please EMAIL US before you arrive... we both get the message ASAP on our phones. We also try to monitor the phone around that time just in case you can only call, but email is best.

Board & Train Programs

  • What is your availability?

    Availability is subject to a number of factors and therefore fluctuates, but we try to keep our application up to date on the possible program dates we are planning. Once you're a client, you'll be able to get an idea of our possible availability on the calendar in the customer portal.

  • How many dogs do you take at a time?

    We aim to take no more than 3-4 full-program dogs and/or no more than 4-6 refresher dogs, and/or a total of no more than 8-10 dogs here together.

  • How much do your programs cost?

    Current pricing can be found on the service pages and on the B&T Application... while each dog and family has different needs, most new clients spend between $3500-$4500 in the first year, between their program and refresher training stays.

  • How do you break up the payments?

    A deposit will be required to book your program (amount depends on length; starting at $400), then 50% of the total amount is due upfront - when your dog starts their program, then the remaining balance minus the deposit will be due at graduation (last day of program).

  • Why do you require crate training?

    Because we do this in our home (not a kennel with runs), we must have a safe place for dogs to rest overnight and throughout the day. In order to keep a peaceful environment, all dogs must be able to be crate trained to be accepted for training.

  • Can you help me train my own service dog?

    Yes... there are no legally-mandated standards or certifications for service dog trainers, but we are not liable for any damages done by your dog in public settings (or otherwise).

Screening Process

  • Why do you screen potential candidates?

    Because the dogs stay in our home with us (and we are limited in space), we need to be sure they will accept our lifestyle so we can maintain an ideal learning environment for everyone.

  • What would disqualify a dog from a being accepted in for a program?

    The main thing we cannot treat in-house is separation/crate anxiety. The behaviors exhibited in these cases make for a very stressful situation (excessive vocalizing, trying to escape the crate, panting and pacing, etc.), which hampers our ability to work with all of the other dogs and owners.

  • Can I hold my desired dates ASAP?

    To keep things fair for everyone, we do not book a dog's program until after they pass an Overnight Trial Stay. We go through the steps as quickly as we can but have to do our due diligence before agreeing to take new clients on.

  • If my dog doesn't get accepted, can I be refunded my overnight stay fee?

    No, the overnight trial stay fee pays for that night of boarding/care. Regardless of it they pass/fail, we still put in the work to take care of them, get to know them, try to make them feel welcome and comfortable, and take the time to evaluate their behavior for fit and for gaging their potential training needs.

ABN University

  • What is "ABN U"?

    It's our name for our new way of doing board & train programs; where we include an integrated online course and alumni community to help educate and support dog owners over the long term. Our online learning platform is unique in this space, so we felt it deserved its own name:-)

  • Does it cost extra to enroll in ABN U?

    No, enrollment is included in the Board & Train Program price, and participation is an important part of your success. To our knowledge, no other trainers have created a program like ours.

  • If my dog isn't accepted, can I still enroll?

    Even though there is a lot of value in the course & community on their own, we believe that the real change happens when combined with our working closely with your dog and helping you work through their unique trouble spots.

  • Is there an alternative online program?

    If we are not able to accept your dog for a program, we highly recommend our other business (OnDog Training Academy)... the flagship program called, "Welcome Home!" is a comprehensive self-guided course with a connected community.

  • Why do you include a dog training course?

    Ask any trainer; dog training is just as much about teaching the humans as the dogs! In order to provide long-lasting changes, we need to be sure the people know what to do (and what NOT to do) when their dog returns home.

Refresher Training

  • What is Refresher Training?

    It is like a Board & Train "Lite", or 'Boarding with a side of Training'... Because we are never not training the dogs in our care, we require a minimum amount to be included during all of their stays.

  • How can we qualify for RT?

    Each dog must complete a full Board & Train Program before they can take advantage of refresher training stays.

  • What is the minimum requirement for RT?

    Each stay must include at least 3 days of training and/or at least 50% of their stay, whichever is greater. For example, dogs who come for a 14-night stay must include at least 7 training days during that time. Our availability and workload dictate the maximum amount allowed, so booking early is the best way to ensure you can take full advantage of their entire stay.

  • Do we get a lesson at the end of every stay?

    Each full board & train program includes two separate private lessons (1-2 hours in length each)... most often, it is recommended to do the second lesson at the end of your dog's first RT stay. Any additional lessons will be charged the full price in effect at that time.

  • Why is continuous dog training important?

    Because they can unlearn things just as fast as they learn them... much like people, their behaviors can be habitual and can require intervention in order to change their response.

  • Are dog training classes worth it?

    Yes, it's just as important that you learn good handling skills as it is that we help you put the reps in while they're here. We believe in teamwork, and what better way to apply what you learn here than to keep practicing it?

  • How do I schedule a stay?

    Once you've booked a Board & Train Program, you'll be set up in our Customer Portal where you'll be able to Request a Reservation... copy-paste this URL to find our instructional video = https://www.allbreednorth.com/pages/request-a-reservation

Billing

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    All main types: cash, checks, Paypal, and major credit cards (you can put up to one card on file, at a time with us).

  • How can I get an estimate?

    Once you're registered in our online Customer Portal (and your dog has passed their overnight trial stay), you'll be able to create your own estimates before you submit a reservation request for refresher training. For full B&T Programs, we must provide one to you from our end, but you can get an idea from our pricing listed in multiple places.

  • How do the deposits work?

    Deposit amounts vary for each service type and length of stay, and are required to book a reservation; they are all non-refundable, but if you cancel a refresher training or boarding-only reservation at least 4 weeks before the first day, we will credit your account for future use.

  • When are invoices due?

    Most services require a deposit to book, then full payment upfront (when the dogs arrive)... we allow board & train programs to be split up since it's a bigger investment.