K.O. Dog Training

All training is private and one-on-one, with owners and dogs trained together. Programs include 5–6 weekly 1-hour sessions. Basic Obedience and Puppy Training cover commands like Come, Sit, Down, Stay, Focus, Stop, Loose Leash Walking, Leave-It, and address common behaviors like chewing, barking, jumping, and house-training. Behavior Modification addresses aggression, leash pulling, and destructive behavior. Service Dog Training is customized after an assessment and includes intensive public access training. AKC CGC training is a 4-week program ending with an evaluation. A free 30-minute assessment is required before starting any program.

Pricing Summary

Private training programs cost $540 for 5–6 weekly 1-hour sessions (Basic Obedience, Puppy Training, Behavior Modification). AKC Canine Good Citizen training is $160 for group or $280 for private. Additional dogs from the same household cost $270 (SC) or $135 (CA). A 10% discount is offered to Active Military, Veterans, and Senior Citizens. Training at non-facility locations may incur a 10–20% surcharge.

K.O. Dog Training is a husband-and-wife team, Philip and Michelle Kaough, who provide private, in-person dog training services using Positive Reinforcement, Rewards-Based, and Relationship/Leadership methods. They do not hire outside trainers, ensuring they personally work with every dog they train. Their programs focus on teaching owners how to become confident, kind leaders while building trust and communication with their dogs. They offer training for basic obedience, puppy development, behavior modification, and advanced Service Dog training with extensive public access preparation. They also provide AKC Canine Good Citizen training and evaluation. All sessions are one-on-one, with owners and dogs trained together. They offer a free 30-minute assessment to evaluate each dog’s needs before starting any program.

They are Veteran-Owned and Operated, with both trainers certified by the Animal Behavior College (ABCDT). Michelle is also a Certified Police K9 Trainer. Their approach emphasizes understanding dog behavior, timing, body language, and setting dogs up for success without force or harsh methods. They support clients beyond the program with lifelong availability for follow-up questions.

They serve clients in South Carolina and California, with training conducted at their own facilities. Additional fees may apply for training at other locations. They offer a 10% discount for Active Military, Veterans, and Senior Citizens.

Accomplishments

Philip Kaough is a Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT), Pet CPR & First-Aid Certified, and an AKC Endorsed Canine Good Citizen Trainer & Evaluator. Michelle Kaough is a Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT), Certified Police K9 Trainer, and Pet CPR & First-Aid Certified. She is an Honor Graduate of her ABCDT class. Both trainers completed training through the Animal Behavior College. The business is Veteran-Owned and Operated.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a free 30-minute Assessment of the dog and owner’s goals. This no-obligation meeting allows the trainers to observe the dog’s behavior and discuss training needs. After the assessment, clients may choose to proceed with a paid training program.