Hi, I'm John—Owner and Trainer at Dakota Dog Training

I was born and raised in Omaha and spent over 25 years in executive management, leading teams and developing training programs for thousands of people. I retired early and returned to my true passion: helping dogs—and their humans—become their best.

I compete in dog agility yes, the kind you’ve seen on ESPN. My Border Collies run courses at over 6 yards per second (12 MPH), following a precise sequence of obstacles with no mistakes, all based on over 30 verbal cues and subtle body movements. It’s fast, technical, and intense—and only possible through clear communication and consistent, positive reinforcement. We compete in 3 different venues - CPE, AKC, and UKI and my oldest dog Dakota has attained her C-CATCH title (CPE Agility Trial Champion) which is the highest title you can earn in CPE Agility. She competes at the Masters level in AKC & UKI agility. She also holds her Advanced Trick dog title from the AKC.

Dakota Dog Training isn’t a franchise. It’s me: one trainer, one clear process, and a consistent, personalized approach to every dog and household I work with. I also make training your dog FUN!

🐕 Real-World + High-Level Experience

I’ve trained under top handlers and coaches from across the world: the UK, Italy, Slovenia, Russia, Germany, Czech Republic, and Australia. That global perspective influences every session I teach. I am working on getting my CPDT-KA certification with an estimated completion date of October 2025.

🐾 I Read Dogs—and Train Humans Too

I can usually tell you what your dog is about to do before it happens. But more importantly, I’ll teach you how to see it too. Most long-term behavior problems don’t come from the dog—they come from gaps in communication after a class or board-and-train ends. I bridge that gap by training you to train your dog.

I also volunteer as a trainer at local clubs, and I foster behaviorally challenging dogs from NHS and local rescues—many of whom wouldn’t be adoptable without impulse control training and structure.

🏡 One Trainer. One Plan. Real Results.

When you invite someone into your home to work with your dog, consistency matters. With me, you’re getting a competitive, real world trainer—not an hourly employee—with years of experience, global training knowledge, and a personal commitment to helping your dog thrive.

Why Train With Me?

✅Certified professional (CPDT-KA) (Estimated completion September 2025)

✅ Competitive agility experience (Titles in AKC, CPE – Agility Trial Champion)

✅ Consistency of working with one individual

✅ Clear communication – I’ll break the science down into plain english

✅ Seasoned business professional

✅ All-positive reinforcement—no fear, no force

✅ Real-life experience with rescues, fosters, deaf and high-drive dogs

✅ You’ll learn too—not just your dog

✅ Fully insured

If you want to do more with your dog, schedule your free consultation today.