About Us

About the Founder

Daniel Kissing, Founder and Lead Trainer of Family First K-9, LLC, brings over two decades of hands-on expertise in K-9 training, law enforcement operations, and canine behavior modification. Beginning his career in 1993 as a Corrections Officer with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Daniel steadily advanced to become the department’s Lead K-9 Trainer — responsible for supervising and training more than a dozen working dogs and their handlers.

​

Daniel is widely recognized across Ohio and beyond for his leadership in K-9 explosives detection, tracking, and apprehension. As a certified expert in multiple canine disciplines — including patrol, narcotics, tracking, and explosive detection — he has not only trained dogs for local and state agencies but has also mentored new handlers, shaped training programs, and judged national K-9 competitions.

 

He holds certifications in:

• Advanced K-9 Instructor: Narcotics, Patrol, and Tracking

• Basic & Advanced Odor Imprintation

• National Odor Recognition Testing (NORT)

• Explosive Detection K-9 Team Handler

• FBI WIMD First Responder Program

• Ohio Special Purpose Evaluator & Canine Evaluator

Daniel’s awards include:

• Animal Hero Award – USPCA (2009)

• Overall Explosive Detection – Ohio Police & Fire USPCA (2014)

• Top Rankings in Vehicle, Residential, and Building Searches – Vohne Liche Kennels (2007)

• Ohio House of Representatives Commendation for Explosives Detection (2003)

• ​

He’s a proud supporter of K-9-related causes such as the Haverkamp Foundation and Angel Paws, and has volunteered at numerous fundraisers and events. Daniel has also worked closely with Jason Stanze of Houston K-9 Academy and served as a judge at the K-9 Olympics in 2009, 2010, and 2018.

​

Daniel’s commitment to excellence, safety, and ethical training forms the foundation of Family First K-9 — where working dogs and family companions alike are trained with discipline, care, and purpose.