In 1991 I had a problem. I'd recently gotten out of the Army where I served from 1987 to 1990 as a combat engineer in an Airborne unit and left with an Honorable discharge and several awards for achievement.

The problem though, was that I had a dog who felt an overwhelming desire to bite anyone who he felt was a threat to me. This began an odyssey for me into a new career.

I spent several years training with Laurie Fass in Newington Connecticut. Eventually though, I felt the need to spread my wings. Over time I'd read several books on dog training philosophy by a wonderful woman named Vicki Hearns. I decided I wanted to learn from her. Unfortunately Vicki was unable at the time to accept me as an apprentice. Fortunately though, her husband, Robert Tragessor was and for a time I trained with him.

Later, feeling a need to delve even further into the methodology I felt was best suited to providing dog owners with a well rounded, obedient and responsible dog, I moved to Easton Maryland where I began an apprenticeship with Margot Wood. She was and is an amazing trainer. She was in fact the first person to ever put utility titles on a Chow-Chow. To this day putting any obedience title on a Chow-Chow is an amazing feat.

Having acquired the skills I beleived necessary to pursue this path, I launched my own enterprise, Dan's Elite Dog Training. I have been fortunate to be able to help many people and their dogs improve their relationships with each other. I've been lucky enough to have been associated with several wonderful dogs who have won national obedience titles.

It is my hope that you will find my approach to helping you train your dog as enjoyable and educational as I find each and every day I am working with you and your canine friend.