About Us & Our Philosophy
Meet Mark Tobin
Hi, I’m Mark!
I’m the owner and lead trainer here at K9 Camp Dog Obedience School. Since 2010, we have trained over 6,000 dogs in our basic and advance obedience programs.
My passion for training started when I was the Commander and later the Master Corporal of the New Castle County Police K9 Unit and the founder of a K9 Police Academy through a partnership with the Del Tech Community College where I supervised over 36 units in the Mid-Atlantic area.
After leaving the NCCPD, I wanted to make our K9 training methods available to others.
I saw how well the police canines did with the training in the field. I was able to use the training methods at home to help my police dogs, Nike and Chaos, acclimate to being in a home with my wife and children. The methods allowed my family to communicate clearly and consistently with the dogs, creating a bond that stood the test of time.
My Work in Animal Services and Advocacy
I am the Chief of Delaware Animal Services and make critical decisions to ensure laws are upheld and enforced for the thousands of animal-related cases in Delaware each year.
In this role, I advocate for the well-being and humane treatment of animals throughout the state. This includes working to create legislation that helps to establish more rights and protective measures for animals, so they do not remain voiceless while working to prosecute perpetrators of animal neglect, abuse, and cruelty crimes.
I’ve also developed the 2nd Chance program with Faithful Friends and the Division of Youth Rehabilitation Services to provide shelter dogs with training and youth offenders with life skills so they will be ready to acclimate back into society upon their release.
I’m actively involved in other ways, too!
Nationally Certified K9 Instructor
Certified Instructor through the Delaware Police Council
ATF K9 Explosives Instructor
Northeast Director of the National Police Canine Association
National Police Decoy
Mentor for dog trainers with Penn Foster College
Mentor for students with the American Behavior College
Instructor with the Constable Program through the Wilmington University Criminal Justice Institute
Nike and Chaos, my police canines were recognized by the Delaware State Senate for being outstanding police and family dogs
Recipient of the 2010 American Kennel Club K9 Handler of the Year Award - recognized as the best in the country
Recipient of the 2010 American Kennel Club Humane Fund Canine Excellence Award for Nike, my police canine
Brandywine Valley SPCA Everyday Hero Award
2018-2019: Delaware Coach of the Year for Upstate Delaware
Awards & Press
K-9 Camp Philosophy
Patience, Practice & Praise
These are the 3 core tenets of our method. Using this simple groundwork to guide you, you and your family will learn to connect with your dog in a way that promotes positive behaviors while reinforcing your friendship and connection.
If you consider your dog family, but haven’t achieved the relationship you want, consistent application of the 3 P’s will get you there!
What we are about
Positive reinforcement
Hand signals: site, stay, come, down
Connection: hugging, petting, voice pitches to enhance positive reinforcement
Family
What we are NOT about
Fear
Negativity and aggression
We don’t believe in grabbing, spraying, or hitting a dog, or anything that would manipulate the dog in a negative way.
Wondering whether we’re the right fit for your dog?
View a helpful list of the the breeds and canine behavioral issues our method addresses.
Ready to Learn More?
Class Locations (DE & PA)
Follow our Facebook Page for the latest updates
Or contact us! We’re happy to answer any questions you have!
