About Kokua Dog Training

Private, force-free training in Keaau

Kokua Dog Training is a private dog training business based in Keaau on the Big Island, with a mission of building a positive relationship between dog and owner through communication, clarity and trust, growing a dog's confidence without punishment. Trainer Debi has been a certified professional trainer since 2008. She holds the CCPDT-KA credential, is an honors graduate and Mentor Instructor of the Animal Behavior College, a Karen Pryor Academy graduate (KPA CTP) and a KPA Puppy Start Right instructor. She is also an authorized instructor and evaluator for AKC programs including Canine Good Citizen, Fit Dog, Trick Dog, Farm Dog, temperament testing and the AKC Fetch and Retrieve tests.

How the programs work

Private training programs are outcome-based rather than a fixed number of lessons: owner and trainer outline the skills needed, review the typical timeline and work for a flat investment until those skills are mastered. Each program includes written handouts by email and on-call support. Foundation skills include polite household manners, loose-leash walking, focus around other dogs and people, a reliable recall, greeting without jumping, a solid stay at open doorways, respecting boundaries around food and calm cooperative care for grooming and vet visits. Behavioral solutions, bite prevention and Rally-O and obedience competition round out the menu.

Area served

Kokua serves Hawaiian Paradise Park, Orchidland, Pahoa, Mountain View, Volcano, Hilo, Puna, Waimea, Kona and the rest of the Big Island.