K9 Learning Academy SC

We’re growing and looking to add another dog trainer to our team here in Conway 🐕

We were just voted Reader’s Choice #1 Best Business, and as demand keeps increasing, we need another solid trainer to help us keep up and continue delivering high-level results.

This is not replacing anyone — our current team is staying exactly as is. We’re adding another position because we’re busy and want to keep raising the standard.

We focus heavily on real behavior modification, not just surface-level obedience, so this is a great opportunity for someone who wants to actually develop as a trainer and work hands-on with dogs every day.

If you (or someone you know) has experience and wants to be part of a serious, growing training program, apply here:

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Obedience training and behavior training are not the same — and understanding the difference matters.

Obedience training focuses on teaching skills like sit, down, heel, and recall. It builds communication, structure, and control. This is important for every dog.

Behavior training goes deeper. It addresses why a dog is reacting a certain way — whether that’s fear, anxiety, or reactivity — and works to change the dog’s emotional response, not just the outward behavior.

The problem is, some approaches focus only on stopping what you see. A dog may appear “better” because the behavior is suppressed, but internally the stress or fear is still there. In many cases, this can actually make reactivity worse over time.

That’s why it’s important to carefully choose who you trust with your dog.

Ask questions. Understand their approach. Make sure they are not just applying pressure to stop behavior, but are working to create clarity, stability, and better decision-making in the dog.

True training isn’t just about control — it’s about building a dog that understands, responds, and improves long-term.

Call or message us today to schedule a complimentary evaluation with our behaviorist!

843-400-8025
2057 Highway 90
Conway, SC 29526

Our Training Programs

At K9 Learning Academy, dogs are placed into programs based on behavioral need, emotional state, and safety—not convenience or preference.

Every dog begins with a complimentary in-person evaluation at our facility to determine the most effective and appropriate training path.

We offer three structured training programs, each with a specific purpose.

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1️⃣ Behavior Change Programme

4-Week Board & Train with Guided Owner Integration

The Behavior Change Programme is an immersive, 4-week board and train designed for dogs with serious behavioral challenges. This program focuses on true behavior change, not behavior management or temporary suppression.

Best suited for dogs experiencing:
• Reactivity toward people or dogs
• Fear-based behaviors or chronic anxiety
• Aggression or bite risk
• Extreme over-arousal or inability to self-regulate
• Sensitivity to handling, vet visits, or grooming

How this program works

Your dog stays with us for four weeks and receives daily, structured behavior work in a controlled environment. This allows our team to address the emotional drivers behind behavior and teach new, functional responses safely and consistently.

This program is led by our behavior specialists, not obedience trainers.

Owner involvement (while your dog is with us)

Behavior change lasts only when owners understand how to support it.
That’s why this program includes weekly owner lessons during your dog’s stay.

These sessions take place:
• Primarily at our facility, and
• In the home environment when appropriate, based on the dog’s needs

This ensures owners learn alongside their dog, not after the fact.

Program focus:
• Changing emotional responses, not just outward behavior
• Teaching stress regulation and decision-making
• Controlled exposure under safe thresholds
• Building confidence, predictability, and safety

Due to the intensity and responsibility involved, this program is strictly limited to two dogs per month.

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2️⃣ Board & Train – Basic & Advanced Obedience

On-Leash Structure to Off-Leash Reliability

This program is designed for dogs who need clear structure, reliable obedience, and increased freedom through control. Training progresses from foundational on-leash skills to advanced off-leash reliability.

Best suited for dogs who:
• Pull on leash or struggle with impulse control
• Are inconsistent with commands around distractions
• Need improved recall and engagement
• Are ready to progress from on-leash to off-leash reliability

How this program works

Your dog stays with us for a structured board & train focused on:
• Clear communication and expectations
• Reliable on-leash obedience
• Gradual transition to off-leash reliability
• Calm behavior around real-world distractions
• Confidence through structure, not intimidation

Training is handled by our obedience trainers, whose role is to teach skills, consistency, and control—not to treat behavioral pathology.

Most training takes place at our facility, followed by private transition sessions at our location so owners can learn how to maintain results safely.

This program allows for higher monthly capacity while maintaining quality and consistency.

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3️⃣ Private Behavior Coaching

Owner Education, Skill Transfer & Real-World Application

Private Behavior Coaching supports owners through education, handling skills, and follow-through once a training foundation has been established.

Most commonly recommended for:
• Follow-up after a board & train program
• Coaching owners through behavior-change protocols
• Refining timing, leash handling, and communication
• Addressing specific scenarios with professional guidance

Where sessions take place
• Most sessions are conducted at our facility, allowing us to work in a controlled, low-stress environment
• In-home sessions are offered selectively for clients who want to work directly within their home environment when it adds value

Home sessions are purposeful and strategic, not routine.

Private Behavior Coaching is not a starting point for dogs with serious behavior issues. It is used to support and maintain long-term success.

Availability is limited and determined during the evaluation.

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How We Determine the Right Program

During your complimentary in-person evaluation, we assess:
• Emotional state and stress tolerance
• Behavioral triggers and thresholds
• Learning style and engagement
• Safety and handling considerations

From there, we recommend the program that gives your dog the best chance at meaningful, long-term success.

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The K9 Learning Academy Difference
• We change behavior, not just manage it
• Behavior cases are handled by behavior specialists
• Obedience is taught by dedicated trainers
• On-leash reliability is built before off-leash freedom
• Training occurs in a controlled, professional environment
• Programs are capacity-based, not volume-driven

Very interesting! Always hard when we lose a loved one, but happy to see this.

🥹🐶❤️

Meet Barrett, our newest graduate from service dog training! We just received an uplifting message from Will, a combat veteran who benefits from Barrett's companionship. Barrett excelled during their recent travels through the airport, on flights, and while using shuttles. We couldn't be more thrilled with the progress both Will and Barrett have made together. If you're considering a service dog, please reach out to us via call, text, or message. We proudly offer special discounts for all veterans!

843-400-8025
[email protected]

Meet Bella! She has just completed our four-week hybrid program, and we are excited to continue her training alongside her owner. Together, we are visiting public spaces and nursing homes, focusing on teaching her how to greet people with kindness and respect. If you're interested in having a therapy dog, we invite you to contact us for a complimentary consultation. You can reach us via email, text, or phone at 843-400-8025 or [email protected].

We would like to welcome Maverick to our hybrid program! Maverick will be working with us on and off leash. Learning basic obedience, impulse control and leash manners! If you’re interested in training, reach out to us via messenger, text/call ir email us!

843-400-8025
[email protected]

This pup has the life!

SOUND ON 🔊This is probably our favorite spawday!! I booked a natural spawday 😇☘️ it was calming and amazing. I really got some flower power 🌸🌹 And hey! Go check out @heyspawday it’s my own brand that will be launching soon 😍 #dogs #dogsofinstagram #labrador #massage #cute #labsofinsta #spa #spawday