About
Signature K9 

Meet the Founder

Daniel De La Pena | Founder/Head Trainer

Daniel De La Pena—known by many as Dan the Dog Man—is a certified dog trainer and behavior specialist with over eight years of professional experience. He specializes in behavior modification and works extensively with dogs dealing with aggression, reactivity, and bite histories.

Dan’s unique approach is grounded in the three pillars of any strong relationship: trust, respect, and clarity. This philosophy, combined with a deep foundation in canine psychology and a strong commitment to educating dog owners, is what sets Signature K9 Training Academy apart.

Dan’s passion for dogs began early in life, but it was his service as a Military Police Officer that truly shaped his path. While deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn, he worked alongside explosive detection Military Working Dogs and trained with local Iraqi Police to carry out security operations. Later, at the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point, he assisted in narcotics and explosives detection missions with K9 teams, Daniel was also selected for high-level security details led by the United States Secret Service. He played a key role in operations providing protection for former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama and various foreign dignitaries during their visits to the academy.

After completing his military service, Dan spent three years apprenticing under an experienced dog trainer, gaining hands-on mentorship that helped refine his skills and shape his training philosophy. He is also deeply committed to continuing education, regularly attending seminars, webinars, and professional development opportunities to stay current with the latest techniques and advancements in canine behavior and training.

In addition to his hands-on experience, Dan draws on a unique skill set developed during his time as a military police officer that includes interpersonal communication, investigative techniques, conflict resolution, and a background in cognitive, social, clinical, and forensic psychology.

Today, Dan is proud to help dog owners build lasting, respectful relationships with their canine companions—transforming challenges into progress and confusion into clarity, one dog at a time.

About Signature K9

Signature K9 Training Academy was born from a deep love for dogs and an unwavering desire to truly understand them. What began as a personal passion quickly evolved into a greater purpose: to help struggling dog owners build better relationships with their dogs through effective communication, education, and boundaries.

Over time, it became clear that dog training isn’t just about obedience—it’s about relationships. In a world full of one-size-fits-all methods and quick fixes, we set out to be different. At Signature K9, we believe that every dog is an individual, and every human-dog relationship deserves a tailored approach rooted in Trust, Respect, and Clarity.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to enrich the lives of dogs & owners through education & a balanced lifestyle—while providing expert, results-driven training for the dog in front of us. We don’t just train dogs; we teach people. And in doing so, we create lasting change that goes far beyond the leash.

Our facility in Elgin, Texas, isn’t just a place for training—it’s an environment intentionally crafted for growth, learning, and transformation. When you walk through our doors, you’re not just starting a training program—you’re stepping into a community committed to helping you and your dog succeed.

Welcome to Signature K9 Training Academy. Let us help you Unleash YOUR Signature K9.

Our Affiliations

Proudly Serving Elgin & Central Texas