Gungho Dog Training

Gungho Dog Training offers several structured programs. “The Desired Puppy” is a step-by-step online course with 42 video lessons for 2-5 month old pups, covering systematic potty/crate training, threshold training, location permanence, desensitization, bonding routines, and graduated obedience. It includes modules on getting started, establishing a foundation, beginner obedience cues, addressing impolite behaviors, and finishing touches.

“Potty Training Only” is an online video course focused on eliminating accidents, detailing exact timing, avoiding crate and house accidents, correct verbal cues, and graduation goals.

“The Desired Dog” is their most comprehensive online program for dogs 6 months and older, providing a step-by-step method for consistent obedience. It features 7 main modules covering understanding dog training, building the training relationship, teaching obedience, gentle e-collar introduction (optional), conditioning obedience, maintaining obedience, and stopping unwanted behaviors. It also includes a bonus module on leash walking, real-life training examples, and professional trainer feedback via optional graduation tests.

For local clients, Gungho Dog Training offers a 6-week Day Train program in Ellensburg, WA. This program includes one professional training day per week (6 hours) where the dog stays with a trainer at their home or the Gungho Dogs’ Kennel. Each pickup includes a customized one-on-one training session with homework for the owner. The program also includes access to “The Desired Dog” and “The Desired Puppy” online courses for at-home practice. It is customized for dogs of all ages and covers foundational communication, basic obedience commands (such as “Here,” “Heel,” “Sit,” “Down,” “Kennel,” “Leave It,” “Off,” “Quiet,” “Focus,” “Break!”), and socialization.

Pricing Summary

Online courses range from $97 for Potty Training to $497 for The Desired Puppy, and $1997 for The Desired Dog (or 4 monthly payments of $546). They state these online courses are significantly more affordable than hiring an in-person trainer, which they estimate at $1800-$6000. There’s an opportunity to earn back the course fee by sharing your experience.

Policies

Gungho Dog Training offers a “100% Greatest Guarantee” for “The Desired Puppy” and “The Desired Dog” online courses. For “The Desired Puppy,” they guarantee clients will have the tools, training, and opportunities for a well-trained obedient dog 180 days post-onboarding. If this milestone is not met, their team will provide ongoing mentorship and resources until it is achieved, provided the client completes the training materials within 40 days and provides video proof of practicing. For “The Desired Dog,” the same guarantee applies, but clients must complete both “The Desired Puppy” and “The Desired Dog” materials within 90 days and attempt to pass all graduation tests.

For the “Potty Training Only” course, they offer a “100% Satisfaction Guarantee,” providing a prompt refund within the first thirty days if the client doesn’t see a benefit. For in-person Day Train programs, they state that behavior cannot be guaranteed as “dogs are not robots,” and long-lasting results depend on how well learned behaviors are maintained by the owner. They commit to working with clients until problems are solved, emphasizing that cooperation and consistent practice are key to success.

Gungho Dog Training, owned by Cody Axthelm, provides comprehensive dog training services focusing on building trust and loyalty between owners and their dogs. Cody trains family dogs for obedience and hunting, leveraging his family’s over 38 years of experience breeding AKC Labradors Retrievers. He officially started Gungho Dog Training in the Fall of 2018.

The business offers a variety of training formats, including online video courses, free training guides, and hands-on training programs. Their online courses include “The Desired Puppy” for young pups, “Potty Training Only,” and “The Desired Dog” for older dogs. For local clients, they provide a 6-week Day Train program in Ellensburg, Washington, which includes professional training for the dog and one-on-one sessions for the owner.

Cody employs a balanced, relationship-based approach to training. He teaches behaviors using positive reinforcement, conditions them with a balance of low-level pressure and rewards, and maintains them through appropriate correction and reward. His goal is to achieve “obedience for obedience sake,” where dogs listen without constant reliance on tools or treats.

A unique advantage is Cody’s background, which includes a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, allowing him to integrate psychology and faith into fostering strong dog-owner relationships. Gungho Dog Training offers a “100% Greatest Guarantee” for their online courses, promising ongoing mentorship and resources if clients don’t achieve a well-trained obedient dog within 180 days, provided eligibility terms are met. They also offer dog breeding services through Cody’s family lineage and sell various pet care and training products.

Accomplishments

Cody Axthelm is the owner of Gungho Dogs LLC, established in 2018. His family has been breeding AKC purebred Labrador Retrievers since 1985. Cody has personally trained over 500 board and train clients. He gained experience working under other professional trainers and has trained his own dogs to high levels of obedience and hunting. Cody holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, which informs his psychology-based approach to dog training.

How to Get Started!

To begin with online courses, clients can directly purchase and enroll via the provided links. For in-person Day Train programs or general inquiries, clients are encouraged to schedule a free “Transformation Session” by filling out a form on the website. An online assessment option is available for those living farther away, though in-person meetings are preferred. Clients can also contact Gungho Dog Training by phone to set up a one-on-one consultation to meet staff and see the property.