Jared Smearman

Owner/Trainer

Hi, I'm Jared! I grew up in North Carolina and have always had a passion for dogs. I attended the United States Naval Academy and served on active duty for eight years before my wife, Elizabeth, and I decided we wanted to grow our family in South Carolina. We have had, and will always have canine companions because of the unconditional love and joy that fills our home. Prior to becoming a professional dog trainer, I was a project manager in industrial automation and I have grown most fond of building and maintaining interpersonal relationships with clients and ensuring the experience is a positive and memorable one. I look forward to discussing your needs and seeing your relationship with your dog(s) go to new heights!

Elizabeth Smearman

Office Manager/Trainer

I love kids, animals, organization, connecting with people, exercise, the outdoors, and learning! I started my career as an educator in inner-city Washington, DC, after graduating from Wake Forest University. As a former educator and mother of six (four children and two dogs), I have been immersed in the psychology of learning at all stages. Dogs process information, too, and I am eager to help you and your dog(s) connect in new, fulfilling ways, with a mutual appreciation for each other!

Mackenzie

Trainer

Hi everyone! I’m Mackenzie and I absolutely love dogs! I’m a 90’s kid with a vintage heart and I live for the love of animals! While I currently live in Spartanburg, I am actually from a small town just over the state line in North Carolina. I was practically born in a barn and raised with a dog leash in each hand. Thanks to my mother, who instilled the love of animals in me at the very start, I have had the privilege of experiencing unconditional love through a dogs’ eyes and their unspoken devotion. I grew up at my mother’s side following her to every pet sitting or barn job she had and I always begged for more responsibility with her tasks. I also have a background in rescue and have a soft spot for all of the misunderstood animals. I believe nothing is impossible and I feel I can thrive with a challenge! I can’t wait to show you and your fur baby the endless possibilities of what they’re capable of!

Sydney

Trainer

Hi I’m Sydney! I grew up in beautiful Southern New Hampshire and moved to South Carolina the fall of 2019. After graduating with a degree in Psychology, I found my passion to be in Behavioral Psychology. Previously, I was gifted the opportunity to work as a Registered Behavioral Technician with kids diagnosed with autism doing Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy. As I worked with training my dog, Indu, I became eager to work with other dogs so that they can learn and understand all the potential they have in themselves and continue to grow beyond. When I’m not hanging out with pups, I teach and practice yoga, love spending time outside, and exploring all that South Carolina has to offer. I can’t wait to meet your wonderful canine kiddo!

Danny

Trainer

Hi everyone! I’m Danny. I grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania and moved to South Carolina in 2019 with my husband Brandon. Growing up my mom loved dogs and that love for dogs was passed onto me. We never had any less than four dogs at a time. A house full of dogs is a house full of love!

As an adult I’ve been working as a paramedic for the past 12 years, a total of 14 years in Emergency Medical Services, and know first hand how much dogs can change one’s life. I suffer from anxiety and my dog Denver, an AKC Golden Retriever and 100% the goodest boy, who is a trained therapy dog, has saved my life in many ways.

Last June I contacted DTE and wanted to have a therapy dog for First Responders and ER staff. Having been through DTE’s obedience and Therapy program, I knew that working with dogs and helping train future Therapy Dogs was something I wanted to do. It’s another way of helping people who need dog love! I am so thankful to move from client to dog trainer!

Casey Watkins

Trainer

Hello! My name is Casey and I grew up here in South Carolina! I've always had a love of all animals, dogs always being my favorite. Growing up, we always had dogs and animals within our home, and I've always had a passion for animals and seeing that bond between dog and owner. I wanted to pursue veterinary care, but dog training took over that passion as I grew older. I have done work in customer service care for years, and began my journey working at a dog daycare. I've handled all different types of dogs, from toy to giant breeds for nearly five years, and did training for 2 years before coming to Dog Training Elite. I love learning about dog behavior and unlocking the potential each dog has in order for the owner and the dog to live the best life they can. Dogs are only apart for our lives; but to them, we are their whole life and I'd love nothing more than to help you strengthen that bond!