K9 Learning Academy
Transform Your Dog'sBehavior & Life
Professional, science-based dog training tailored to your family's goals. Root-cause behavior work for reactive, fearful and bite-history dogs.
4.9 on Google from Conway dog owners
Why Choose K9 Learning Academy
Day Residency Programs
Owner transfer included
Professional Trainers
Certified experts
Location
Conway, SC
Readers' Choice
Best Dog Trainer
Veterinarian Recommended
Certified Behaviorist on Staff
Conway, SC
Serving Horry & Georgetown County
Rated 4.9 by Local Dog Families
Real reviews from real owners across Conway, Myrtle Beach, and the Grand Strand.
“Matt is very knowledgeable of behavior as well as nutrition and has an extensive "tool box" of staff as well as connections with other professionals. Matt continues to train at home with us once a week until our dog has overcome his fears. We highly recommend Matt and his staff.”
Judy Kulick
Behavior Change Program
“Our Diesel was almost 1 year old when he went to be trained with Matt. We had not been able to walk him in over a month! Diesel is now able to be walked with no issues. Everyone is amazed at how much calmer and obedient he is now!”
Kate
Canine Residency Program
“He is much more than a dog trainer. He understands dog behavior, how to help them overcome their issues, and he works with owners to help them learn what their pet needs. Our dog was a rescue, and she suffered from fear aggression.”
Sue Weber
Behavior Change Program
"Every dog that walks through our gate deserves to be understood — not just managed."
— Matt Dellaira, Founder
We Don't Just Train Dogs.We Care About Them.
Getting a dog to comply is not the same as understanding why the dog is struggling in the first place. We start with understanding — and help them feel safe enough to change. That difference is everything.
We See Your Dog as an Individual
No two dogs are the same. We take the time to understand your dog's history, personality, and emotional state before we ever start training.
We Change Emotions, Not Just Behavior
Suppressing a behavior doesn't solve the cause. We work to change how your dog feels underneath, so the good behavior lasts because your dog actually feels different.
We Read What Your Dog Is Telling Us
Dogs communicate through body language, stress signals, and tiny shifts in posture. Our trainers are trained to see what most people miss.
We Never Use Fear or Pain
Trust is the foundation of everything we do. We use humane, science-based methods that build confidence — never intimidation or force.
Customized Training forEvery Dog & Family
Every program is tailored to your specific goals. We don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions—your dog deserves personalized attention.
Complimentary Evaluation
Not sure which program is right? Start with a complimentary in-person evaluation at our training center.
Schedule NowThree Simple Steps to aBetter-Behaved Dog
Getting started is easy. Here's exactly what happens from your first call to a transformed dog.
Book Your Free Evaluation
Meet us in person at our Conway training center. We observe your dog, discuss their history, and assess their behavior — all at no cost to you.
Get Your Custom Training Plan
Based on the evaluation, we design a program tailored to your dog's temperament and your family's goals. No cookie-cutter plans, ever.
See the Transformation
Watch your dog develop confidence, calm, and lasting good behavior. We train you alongside your dog so the results stick at home.
Training That TransformsLives
We're not just dog trainers—we're behavior specialists dedicated to creating lasting change. Our approach combines years of experience with cutting-edge science to deliver results that improve the quality of life for both you and your dog.
No Breed Discrimination
We welcome all breeds and believe every dog deserves quality training regardless of their background.
Customized Approach
No cookie-cutter programs here. Every training plan is tailored to your specific goals and your dog's needs.
Science-Based Methods
We use proven, humane training techniques backed by animal behavior science—no aversive methods.
Long-Term Results
Our training is designed for lasting behavior change, not quick patches. We focus on building strong foundations.
Family Involvement
We train you alongside your dog so you can maintain and build upon the training throughout their life.
Lifetime Support
Our relationship doesn't end with the program. We offer ongoing support and follow-up sessions.
The Difference Is Permanent Change
Managing the behavior in front of you is not the same as changing the cause behind it. We change the cause — and we stay involved until it holds at home with your family.
A Common Approach
K9 Learning Academy
Treat the symptom
Solve the root cause
Puts an e-collar on a reactive dog
Solves the cause of the reaction
One-size-fits-all programs
Custom plan for every dog
Sessions end at pickup
Follow-up transfer sessions included
Obedience training only
Certified Behaviorist on staff
High-volume class settings
Limited enrollment — individual attention
Manage the behavior
Permanent behavior change
Hi, I'm Matt DellairaYour Dog's Trainer & Advocate
"I got into this because I love dogs — plain and simple. That hasn't changed. What has changed is how I think about training. It's not about control or commands. It's about understanding what's going on with the dog in front of me and helping them figure it out."
Matt trained under Joel Silverman before starting K9 Learning Academy. He's worked with everything from new puppies to serious behavior cases, and he takes the time to understand what is actually driving the behavior. The academy has been recognized locally with Readers' Choice Awards, but what matters more to Matt is the dogs and families he gets to help.
What Our Clients Say
Real stories from real families who have transformed their relationships with their dogs.
"We adopted a dog from a shelter in February 2025 and quickly realized he was demonstrating anxiety and fear. After some extensive research, we found Matt at K9 Learning Academy LLC. Matt is very knowledgeable of behavior as well as nutrition and has an extensive "tool box" of staff as well as connections with other professionals. Matt continues to train at home with us once a week and will continue to do so until our dog has overcome his fears. We highly recommend Matt and his staff at K9 Learning Academy."
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our training programs.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Contact us for personalized answers about your dog's training needs.
Contact UsReady to Transform YourDog's Behavior?
Take the first step towards a better relationship with your dog. Our complimentary in-person evaluation at our training center is the perfect way to get started with a personalized training plan.
