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The Dog Wizard Twin Cities

Lake Elmo, Minnesota

4.9/5· 136 Google reviews

About The Dog Wizard Twin Cities

At The Dog Wizard Twin Cities, we take the guesswork out of dog training by creating clear, proven training plans tailored to each dog and family. We help puppies and adult dogs build safe, reliable obedience through private lessons, group classes, and immersive Board & Train programs. Using positive reinforcement, fair corrections, and preventive structure, we address everything from leash pulling and impulse control to reactivity, fear, and anxiety. Training doesn’t end with the dog, we coach owners through follow-ups and alumni support classes so skills transfer into real life. Our goal is simple: confident dogs, informed owners, and lasting results across the Twin Cities.

Training & services

Training goals

  • Behavior consultation
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  • Crate training
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  • House training
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  • Leash training
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  • Obedience training
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  • Puppy training
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    Raising a puppy in Woodbury is rewarding but demanding. Our program tackles housebreaking, crate training, and biting before they become headaches. We help you establish clear rules early on. Give your new family member the best start possible and avoid future behavioral struggles.

    If you have a new puppy, one of the best things to do to get your relationship off on the right foot is to start puppy training. At The Dog Wizard in Twin Cities, Minnesota , we catch and correct destructive behaviors in puppies before they become an issue.

  • Socialization
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    Socialization is about neutrality, not just play. We provide controlled environments in the Twin Cities for dogs to learn how to exist calmly near others. This is key for fearful or excited pets. We help them navigate the world with composure, making your outings pleasant and safe.

Behavior support

  • Aggression training
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    Reactivity makes walks in St. Paul stressful. We specialize in rehabilitating aggression toward humans or other animals. Our trainers focus on changing the dog's mindset and building your handling skills. We aim to create a manageable companion you can trust in public spaces.

  • Counter surfing
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  • Fear and confidence
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  • Reactivity training
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  • Resource guarding
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    Possessiveness over food or toys is dangerous. We help Maplewood owners modify resource guarding with safe, proven techniques. Our goal is to teach your dog that sharing is positive. We restore safety to your home environment so you can take items away without fear of a reaction.

  • Separation anxiety
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    Stop the destruction and howling when you leave. Our separation anxiety protocols in Minneapolis teach your dog to be independent and calm. We use a structured desensitization process to build confidence. Regain the freedom to leave your house without worrying about your pet's panic.

How training happens

  • Board and train
    Program details

    Dog board and train programs are perfect for individuals with busy schedules. With various lengths of stays to choose from, it's no wonder why so many Twin Cities dog owners have chosen The Dog Wizard to train their dogs.

    Our Board and Train is the gold standard for Minneapolis owners wanting a total behavior reset. Your dog lives with us to learn manners and core commands in a consistent setting. We build a strong foundation of obedience. You get back a polite dog that listens in the real world.

  • Day training
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    Residents of Maplewood can rely on our Day Training to get results without sacrificing their evenings. Your dog spends the day learning obedience from our pros. We handle the repetitions so you don't have to. Pick up a smarter, tired dog ready to relax. It fits your busy life seamlessly.

  • Group classes
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    Group dog training classes can be a powerful and social component to training your dog. Group dog training sessions are a great way to cement the training your dog has learned in a public setting. Meet with other Minneapolis, St. Paul, Eagan, or Maple Grove dog owners to train together.

  • Private training
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Dog age

  • Adult dogs
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  • Puppies
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Training level

  • Beginner training Customer-reported
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Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support Customer-reported
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  • Homework and practice
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Dog sports

  • Conformation handling
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Your dog’s background

  • Rescue dogs
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    Rescue dogs often carry hidden trauma. We assist Woodbury families in navigating the transition period. Our training builds trust and establishes a secure routine for your adopted pet. We help you overcome fear-based issues, creating a strong, lasting bond with your new best friend.

Training approach

  • Positive reinforcement
    Program details

Additional services

  • Boarding
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    Travel with confidence knowing your dog is in good hands. Our boarding service in the Lake Elmo area maintains your dog's training structure. Unlike a typical kennel, we offer mental enrichment and care that feels like home. We prioritize your dog's comfort and safety while you are away.

  • Daycare
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    Our Doggie Day Care offers Maplewood pets a constructive outlet for their energy. We supervise play to keep interactions healthy and balanced. Your dog gets to socialize safely and returns home tired. It is the smart solution for owners who want a happy, exercised pet at day's end.

  • Grooming
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    Keep your pet looking sharp with our professional grooming. We also offer acclimation for Woodbury dogs that fear the process. Our patient approach helps them tolerate baths and nail trims without stress. We make sure your dog leaves feeling clean, comfortable, and happy with the experience.

Consultations

  • Free consultation
    Program details

Other listed services

View 16 additional details
  • Dog training
    Program details

    At The Dog Wizard Twin Cities, we offer a variety of dog training programs to the greater Minneapolis, St. Paul, Eagan, and Maple Grove areas of Minnesota. With years of experience, our trainers take a unique approach to fixed behavior issues in your dog - all while having fun while they do it!

  • Basic Commands
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  • Day Program
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  • Day School
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  • Dog Handling
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  • Dog Impulse Control
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  • Dog Park
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  • Home Lessons
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  • Jump Start
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  • Lifetime Support
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    We believe in results that stand the test of time. Our Lifetime Support guarantee means St. Paul clients are never alone after graduation. If your dog regresses or needs a tune-up years later, we are here. We are committed to your success for the entire life of your canine companion.

  • Personal Dog Trainer
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  • Problem Solving
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    Chaos in the home is exhausting. We help Twin Cities families identify the drivers of bad behaviors like jumping or counter-surfing. Our problem-solving sessions provide actionable strategies to stop the madness. Reclaim your peace and enjoy a dog that respects your household rules.

  • Rescue Rehab
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  • Retail & Pet Products
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    Visit us for high-quality training tools and treats. We stock durable leashes, collars, and enrichment toys approved by our Twin Cities trainers. Our staff can guide you to the right products for your specific goals. Get the gear that helps you succeed with your dog every single day.

  • Summer Camp
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  • Vet Assistant
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Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Customer reviews

Google listing
4.9
out of 5136 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • obedience training 10
  • leash pulling 7
  • behavior modification 5
  • calm dogs 5
  • rescue dog training 4
  • 14 day jumpstart 2
All 10 topics
  • anxiety training 2
  • dog wizard 2
  • impulse control training 2
  • puppy jumpstart program 2

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

100 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Brad Kempf
5/5

I cannot recommend Michael and the rest of Dog wizard team enough. We rescued a 5 yr old Maltese who lived his entire life in a kennel. Michael was able to transform him into a dog again by building his confidence. He now walks on a leash, knows how to play, and is a happy dog. Thank you Michael, you did amazing work and we couldn’t be happier with the results.

Bethany Ward
5/5
Our 5 month old puppy trained with Michael for three weeks, and it was absolutely worth it. He has mastered his basic commands and is noticeably calmer and more obedient. The progress we’ve seen in such a short time has been incredible. Throughout the training we received regular…Read full reviewClose full review

Our 5 month old puppy trained with Michael for three weeks, and it was absolutely worth it. He has mastered his basic commands and is noticeably calmer and more obedient. The progress we’ve seen in such a short time has been incredible. Throughout the training we received regular updates that included photos and videos which we really appreciated. It’s reassuring to know that we still have ongoing support from Dog Wizard even after graduation. We couldn’t be happier with the experience and highly recommend it.

Michael Hagen
5/5

I brought my newly adopted dog here and worked with Michael on training. Night and day difference in the dog after only a few sessions. Michael is very professional and very easy to work with. He knows how to approach a new dog and new dog owner. Thankful for him and the staff getting us off on the right foot.

Johnny Holliday
5/5
Since rescuing Zeus a little over a year and a half ago, I’ve been training him almost every day based on research I’ve done and conversations with various K9 handlers. But as someone who’s not a professional dog trainer, I realized there was still so much more to learn. After l…Read full reviewClose full review

Since rescuing Zeus a little over a year and a half ago, I’ve been training him almost every day based on research I’ve done and conversations with various K9 handlers. But as someone who’s not a professional dog trainer, I realized there was still so much more to learn. After looking into several training programs and organizations, I decided to reach out to The Dog Wizard, and let me tell you — that was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Their skill level, professionalism, and communication are outstanding. They take the time to explain what they’re doing and why, and the trainer and evaluator clearly demonstrated deep knowledge and consistency in their approach. When I spoke with the other trainers there, it was obvious they all share the same high level of expertise and passion for what they do. Because of what I do for a living, I’m extremely selective about who I support — and The Dog Wizard Twin Cities is one dog training organization I can recommend without hesitation. They’re the best, bar none.

C Velas
5/5
Our pup went for 21 days. He is a mix of a few high energy working class breeds. He learned (and we learned) the importance of learning how to be calm. Obedience tricks and fast things are a breeze, but stopping to focus and learn to manage impulse control were another story! It’…Read full reviewClose full review

Our pup went for 21 days. He is a mix of a few high energy working class breeds. He learned (and we learned) the importance of learning how to be calm. Obedience tricks and fast things are a breeze, but stopping to focus and learn to manage impulse control were another story! It’s been over a month since he has returned home and he has maintained what he learned and we’ve continued to work daily to learn new things. Mica and Michael have helped lay out a solid foundation for us moving forward and I am so thankful for that!

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

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