Palmetto Dog Club

Classes are offered two to three times per year in six-week sessions held once weekly, typically on Saturdays. Programs include Puppy Basics (for dogs 16+ weeks with three rounds of shots), Basic Obedience (heeling, sit, down, stay, recall), Rally (advanced obedience course following signs), and Beginner Agility (for dogs with obedience foundation). The AKC Canine Good Citizen test is offered throughout the year. Classes may be split, combined, or canceled based on attendance. Dogs must be evaluated at registration for collar fitting and suitability.

Pricing Summary

Class fees are $120.00 per dog for a six-week session. Payment is accepted only in cash or check made out to Palmetto Dog Club. No credit cards are accepted. Registration occurs on a specific date each session cycle, and spots are limited.

Policies

Registration requires a current rabies certificate and completed forms. Puppies must show proof of kennel cough vaccine. Dogs must be brought to registration for evaluation. Classes may be canceled or adjusted based on attendance. Fees are non-refundable. Weather may affect outdoor sessions.

Palmetto Dog Club is a community-based dog training organization in Aiken, South Carolina, offering group classes in Puppy Basics, Obedience, Rally, Tricks, and Agility. Founded over 15 years ago by dog enthusiasts, the club provides affordable, positive training in a supportive environment led by volunteer trainers who are experienced club members, some with competition titles in their disciplines. Classes are held once a week for six weeks, with sessions typically on Saturdays. The club emphasizes building strong owner-dog relationships and fostering friendships among dog lovers. They also support the community through obedience and agility demonstrations. All trainers are members who donate their time, and the club encourages responsible dog ownership through education and public engagement.

Classes require proof of vaccinations, including rabies and kennel cough, and dogs must be evaluated at registration for proper collar fitting. The club does not offer private, in-home, or board-and-train services. Training is group-based and follows a structured curriculum with a focus on foundational skills and AKC Canine Good Citizen preparation.

The club’s leadership includes certified and experienced trainers with decades of combined experience in obedience, rally, and agility, including AKC titles and involvement in other dog clubs. Their methods are rooted in positive reinforcement, with some use of corrections as needed, and they tailor instruction to a range of breeds and temperaments, though reviews suggest limited individualized support for dogs with anxiety or behavioral issues.

Accomplishments

Trainers have earned AKC titles in Obedience, Rally, and Agility. President Karen De Camp trained with National K9 Dog Training School. Training Coordinator Brad Stauffer has attained titles in Tracking, Rally, Obedience, and Agility on four dogs. Treasurer Katie Roth has earned CGC titles and excelled in obedience and agility with multiple Giant Schnauzers. Secretary Leslie Biddinger earned a CD title 50 years ago and recently earned CGC with her Australian Shepherd.

How to Get Started!

Register on the designated date (e.g., Sunday, February 8, 2026, 1:00–3:00 pm) at the facility on Prosperity Lane. Bring your dog, current rabies certificate, completed registration form, and proof of kennel cough vaccine for puppies. Trainers will evaluate your dog and fit a training collar on-site.