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Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan

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Hear From Our Customers

Northerner Too Far South
Aug. 16, 2025 - google
Honestly, no clue about the training, but someone that trains 3 sweet pugs how to ride a Skateboard is AWESOME! Seen you in a WTTW video, and I'll bet you are great at what you do!
Scott Eley
Aug. 10, 2025 - google
Dan is amazing within 1 session we had a well behaved dog. He is available to answer questions and treats your home and dog like its his own. If I could give 6 stars I would.
Cindi Ford
Jul. 22, 2025 - google
We had Dan come to our house! We had e- collar with our 3 year old lab! What a difference!! She is a different dog outside! Dan was great and gave us lots of advice! We highly recommend this dog trainer and service!!!
Alexis Brantley
Jun. 1, 2025 - google
We’ve completed one training session and I am in awe with how well my dog is already behaving. The E collar has made a HUGE difference. Dan is absolutely amazing with my dog, knowledgeable, and very helpful for first time puppy owners. Thank you so much
Kathy W
May. 31, 2025 - google
Dan was extremely knowledgeable and successful in training me and my dog! We enjoyed every session with him- highly recommend.
Eric Smith
May. 31, 2025 - google
Dan is a wonderful trainer. It is great to get training right in our home. We are only 2 sessions in and our 9 month old Bernese Mountain dog has learned so much! Dan is very kind and patient with her. We appreciate his service and would recommend him to anyone.
Elle Scollard
May. 29, 2025 - google
After just one session Dan was able to get my very reactive dog to calm down when a guy came in the house to fix the water filter! As well as when we passed another dog. Very detailed and gives clear instructions!
jessica eisner
May. 28, 2025 - google
Dan was the best! My dog was so aggressive towards other dogs before I met Dan! Then, I brought home an orphaned dog and knew immediately if I didn’t get a trainer there, my dog would kill the new dog! After the initial session I had a new and improved dog already and it just kept getting better as time went on. I would 100% hire Dan again! He is worth his weight in gold!
Deb Schepperly
May. 28, 2025 - google
After just 1 session with Dog Training Elite Holly was walking beside me and watching me for instruction! Amazing!
Skylar Burleson
May. 22, 2025 - google
Oh wow! It’s been a week since our first training session with Dog Training Elite and I am in absolute awe! Within one hour, my dog was listening and obeying commands without hesitation. Our daily walks have always been hectic, overwhelming, anxiety filled and exhausting.. for both of us..for years. Until now! I cannot put into words how just one hour has changed our daily life routine already!!! Our walks are now enjoyable for both of us!! Mogli (my 5 1/2 Belgium Malinois) needed some structure that I didn’t even know I wasn’t giving her. Thank you for this opportunity for my pup and my family! I cannot wait to see what else we will accomplish in this training!
Deborrah Bower
Aug. 24, 2024 - google
Dan helped us with two dogs. One was more willing than the other. He was very careful and handled the dogs well. They took quite a liking to him. His training has made a world of difference!!
Bobby Mey
Jul. 27, 2024 - google
Dan was a magician when it came to Training our new dogs! He works fast and efficiently, making sure to train your pup and to make sure you know how to continue the training. He left the first training session and we already felt as if we had brand new, trained and obedient dogs. His expertise is worth every penny!
Crystal Bailey
Jun. 8, 2024 - google
Dan was great to work with and a huge help in teaching us how to communicate better with our dog Lola. We saw a major difference even after the first training session. We highly recommend Dan and Dog Training Elite!
Caitlyn Walston
Jun. 4, 2024 - google
My rescue rottie, Brix, and I had our first session with Dan & Tyler today and it went remarkably well! Brix is a good boy but also displays some resource aggression so the financial investment is absolutely worth it to me to start him under training right away. Watching Brix and the guys in session this afternoon was confirmation and reassurance that he truly wants to please and do good work for those asking it of him, we both just need some extra guidance so I’m very excited to see what comes of my sessions with DTE! I will leave an updated review upon our training completion but at this time I’m very excited and hopeful!
Mistea Case
Jun. 3, 2024 - google
Did great with our Aussie.
Jordan N. Lindsey, Esq.
May. 30, 2024 - google
This is by far the best dog training company in the northern Michigan area! Dan is a wonderful trainer! He is kind, patient and knowledgable working with all types of dogs. I appreciated his flexibility in scheduling and ability to offer in-home training in my dogs’ usual environment. I have worked with many trainers in the past and have never met someone as nice to work with as Dan is. Totally recommend this company for all your dog training needs - you and your pups will no doubt love him and the results you’ll see after even just one session with Dan at Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan!
Kristi Jo Brubaker
May. 24, 2024 - facebook
Dan IS the man!!!😉 Seriously, he gently and kindly whipped both my dog and me into shape. He is not only wonderful with dogs, he’s great with people, too! He’s not just training your dog, he patiently instructs you as well. He has picked up every phone call to ease me out of whatever situation is going on. That in itself is rare! I was hesitant at first because of the cost, however, it’s been worth every penny. Soon we will participate in the group classes which I’m really looking forward to. Do it! You won’t regret it!
tyler daniels
May. 20, 2024 - google
Dan is a terrific trainer!
Julia Nicholas
May. 19, 2024 - google
Dan was great will our two lab puppies. He was super patient and we are very happy with their progress!
kristi jorns
May. 16, 2024 - google
I recently had the pleasure of working with Dan at Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan to train my dog. I couldn't be more satisfied with the results. From the very first session, it was clear that Dan had a deep understanding of dog behavior and a genuine passion for helping dogs and their owners. They are incredibly patient and used positive reinforcement techniques that made the training sessions enjoyable for both my dog and me. They tailored the training program to address specific issues we were facing. One of the things I appreciated most was Dan’s ability to explain the reasons behind each technique and provide practical advice that I could easily implement at home. This not only helped improve my dog’s behavior but also strengthened our bond. In a few short weeks, I saw remarkable improvements. My dog is now more obedient, confident, and well-behaved, both at home and in public. I am truly amazed at the progress we've made and grateful for the support and guidance provided by Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate dog trainer. They truly did wonders for my dog, and I’m confident they can do the same for yours. Thank you, Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan for your outstanding work!
Brianne Geetings
May. 16, 2024 - facebook
Our sweet little shihpoo Sophie has had a serious issue with stranger aggression due to lack of socialization during Covid. We grew tired of her barking, growling and nipping at people all the time, so we decided to call Dog Training Elite. I'm so glad we did! After just a few sessions with Dan, Sophie's whole demeanor has changed. She is learning and responding to commands, and we can easily quiet her when people come to the door. We can't wait to see how she progresses!
Brianne Geetings
May. 16, 2024 - google
Our sweet little shihpoo Sophie has had a serious issue with stranger aggression due to lack of socialization during Covid. We grew tired of her barking, growling and nipping at people all the time, so we decided to call Dog Training Elite. I'm so glad we did! After just a few sessions with Dan, Sophie's whole demeanor has changed. She is learning and responding to commands, and we can easily quiet her when people come to the door. We can't wait to see how she progresses!
Michael Broodo
May. 14, 2024 - google
I can't recommend Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan enough! We've been working with Dan for the past four months to train our dog Milo, and the experience has been nothing short of fantastic. Dan is not only supportive and flexible but also extremely knowledgeable. No matter what the training challenge, he's always available and ready to help with practical solutions and encouragement. It's clear he cares deeply about the progress and happiness of the pets and the peace of mind of their owners. If you're looking for a dog trainer, look no further than Dan at Dog Training Elite!
David Chauvette
May. 3, 2024 - google
Best dog training business hands down! Our trainer Dan is absolutely amazing and so good with our puppy! Would highly recommend!!
Elizabeth Teklinski
May. 3, 2024 - google
Dan is a wonderful human trainer and he’s great with dogs too! My Bernadoodle service dog is getting weekly trainings from him, and he’s doing a wonderful job. I highly recommend Dan!
Rachel Bezile
May. 3, 2024 - google
Dan Luchko trained my adopted Staffordshire terrier, which I could not take walking because she dragged me so hard. Dan trained her not only to heel and walk with slack in the leash, but how to come, stay, stay in "place". He came right to my house and was a super nice man, and spent real valuable time training my dog. I can not say enough good things about his service.
Daniel Nelson
Apr. 15, 2024 - facebook
I had a fantastic experience working with Dan. His devotion to his work is readily apparent. I knew from the moment he arrived that my dog was in good hands. I highly recommend working with Dan.
Daniel Nelson
Apr. 15, 2024 - google
I had a fantastic experience working with Dan. His devotion to his work is readily apparent. I knew from the moment he arrived that my dog was in good hands. I highly recommend working with Dan. The training sessions are quick and easy, and I saw results after the first session. I would give 6 stars if I could! Amazing experience and immediate results, from a trainer who cares about his clients!
Ruth Zehnder
Apr. 10, 2024 - google
I wish I had video footage to share comparing Dan’s first visit with Miss Large-and-in-charge and the second visit! Matilda is a rescue and is very protective of her new family and home. She growled at, barked fiercely, and tried to push Dan out of her space the first time he met her. I was mortified and very concerned about whether she could be trained by someone with whom she had such difficulty. (Definitely her problem, not his!) Dan brought the E-collar the second time he came over (first training session) and taught us how it works. He proceeded to work with Matilda for the hour and by the time he left she was a new dog! She followed him, looked to him for praise, and rolled on her back for belly scratches! Our walks are no longer stress-filled and I am AMAZED! I am so thankful that Dan was not put-off by her terrifying behavior at her assessment, and that he had the ability to teach this big girl how to behave! Many thanks from Matilda and her mom in Manistee!!!
William Meade
Apr. 7, 2024 - google
Absolutely unbelievable! I highly recommend having Dan train anyone's dog! I have had great results after the first session!
Donna Allers
Mar. 24, 2024 - google
If I could leave 100 stars - I would! I took custody of a fragile foster. The dog would not leave my vehicle when I arrived home. I called Dan after hours - on a Sunday ---- he rushed over to help me. Dan coaxed the dog out of my truck, helped me set up a proper decompression area, and will be returning to help me with the dog. My foster is in an extremely sensitive state after surrender. Dan has already worked a few miracles today. I recommend calling Dan!!!!!! I look forward to our work together by my foster Belgian Malinois.
Dane Vermeulen
Jul. 2, 2023 - google
Dan is a fantastic trainer, I can’t believe how quickly he’s training our families dogs!
Patricia Racine Barch
May. 5, 2023 - facebook
Dan is enthusiastic and professional. He loves what he is doing and it is shows. We have just begun training our 4 month old puppies. He has taught us many things so far and we are very happy with the progress in our sessions and Dan and his dog training talent.
Ashley Leach
Apr. 23, 2023 - google
Highly recommend! Dan has been nothing but patient and understanding with our 1 yr old Rottweiler! We are only a handful of sessions in and we already see a major difference. He’s very helpful even on days we aren’t training. Just a phone call away to help answer any questions or give advice if needed, he’s very accommodating to all our needs/wants. It’s nice not only having my dog being trained but me and my household as well! Happy to say my big headed, stubborn boy loves Dan! (Sometimes even more than me I think). It’s been great working with him and cannot wait to see the end results!
Mary Elizabeth
Apr. 21, 2023 - facebook
Dan is an incredible dog trainer and person. He is very patient and accommodating. He's been working with our French Bulldog for a while now and his reactive behavior and anxieties have diminished significantly. It's such a joy to watch him interact with his own dogs as well. They are incredibly well behaved and a testament to his training abilities!
Gary Gardner
Apr. 21, 2023 - google
Want to make life with your dog more enjoyable for you, for him/her and for your family? Have challenges with your dog (excessive barking, fear of bicycles, anxiety)? Call Dan at Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan. His guidance trained us, to train Milo, and help him through those challenges. Highly recommended!!
Mary Olen
Apr. 21, 2023 - google
Dan is an amazing dog trainer and human being! His advice and recommendations are very helpful. He is extremely patient with our scheduling. Watch him with his own pups, it's incredible to observe!
Emily Wilkinson
Apr. 19, 2023 - google
Dan was the best! We loved working with him and he made our anxious dog feel safe, calm and helped to get us better boundaries in our house. Highly recommend. His dog Pickles is the best for socializing dogs.
Michelle Loeffler-Rohraff
Apr. 19, 2023 - google
Dan is doing great work with my Certified Therapy Dog in Training. Dan has a passion for dogs and my dog definitely loves him too!
Samantha Schropp
Apr. 19, 2023 - google
Dog training elite helped me save my relationship with my dog 🐕 ❤. Dan is great its obvious that he really cares about people and dogs.
Lauren
Apr. 19, 2023 - google
Super convenient, “fixed” my dog literally the first day. I thought he was untrainable. 10/10
Nancy Craig
Apr. 19, 2023 - google
Dan loves this work! Dogs are his passion and helping owners enjoy their much loved pets is why he chose this career. He is great at what he does, and is also a very nice guy. Highly recommend!!
Dec. 20, 2022 - facebook
Highly recommend! Dan is outstanding with our dogs and beyond fabulous to work with. We have a pack of 4 and he has helped us with everything from severe anxiety to major manner issues and everything in between. We can now walk all 4 dogs at one time with zero issues, our whole pack can now go on off-leash adventures with us (and have flawless recall), and they now all have the very best of manners! We love how enthusiastic and positive Dan is with our dogs and we are so thankful for the positive changes he’s helped create in our household! ❤️🐾👏🏽
Austin Goble
Oct. 11, 2022 - google
Dan is awesome, he truly cares about every dog, and it shows in his training! His dog Pickles is a legend!!!
parker fillmore
Sep. 28, 2022 - google
Dan is a great dog trainer! Really cares about what he does!
Michaela Macchia
Sep. 28, 2022 - google
Dan is an incredible business owner who has a true passion for dog training. I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite.
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About Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan

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Dan Lutchko - Owner & Trainer
Dan Lutchko
Owner & Trainer

My name is Dan Lutchko. My fiancé Samantha and I have 4 beautiful children, 12, 8, 6, and 3. We enjoy hiking, bike riding, kayaking, swimming and taking in all the beauty that Northern Michigan has to offer with our three dogs, Pickles (French Bulldog), Luna (Puggle) and Spike (Frug). I have spent the last 11 years in food manufacturing where I held various positions during my tenure with the company. During the last couple of crazy years, I began to think about how I could make a difference, both in my immediate community and beyond! The moment I discovered Dog Training Elite and saw the impact it can have on people, and the vital and important relationships they have with their animals, was the moment I found my new passion. Pickles, Luna, Spike and I look forward to meeting you and we hope you will join us on this amazing journey!

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