our training partner
Andy Hanellin — Master Dog Trainer, Expert in K-9 Law
With over 40 years of professional dog training experience, Andy Hanellin stands among the most respected and accomplished trainers in the country. A certified Master Dog Trainer, AKC-recognized instructor, and qualified expert witness in K-9 Law, Andy brings unmatched knowledge, integrity, and purpose to every dog he trains.
A Lifetime of Experience
With over 40 years of professional dog training experience, Andy Hanellin stands among the most respected and accomplished trainers in the country. A certified Master Dog Trainer, AKC-recognized instructor, and qualified expert witness in K-9 Law, Andy brings unmatched knowledge, integrity, and purpose to every dog he trains.
He has served in numerous leadership roles, including:
- Training Director, Long Island K-9 Search and Rescue Group (NY)
- K-9 Training Services Director, Catawba County Sheriff’s Department (NC)
- K-9 Training Services Director, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department (NC)
Throughout his career, Andy and his teams have conducted over 3,000 narcotics and explosives searches across schools, prisons, corporate facilities, and major public events — including the Daytime Emmy Awards and ExxonMobil corporate operations along the eastern seaboard.
Specialized Training And Education
Andy’s extensive formal training includes:
- International Canine Narcotics Detection Foundation, Trainer’s Course (St. Augustine, FL)
- National Seminar on Terrorism and Explosives (SEMTEX), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms & TSA
- Detection Training under Kevin Conroy, former National Secretary, U.S. Police Canine Association
- Search and Rescue Course Instructor, New York
- Trainer & Consultant, India’s Military Explosives Detection Dog Program (2006–2008)
- K-9 Protection Seminar Instructor, American Police Canine Association (2008)
Professional Organizations
Andy has been active in numerous respected associations, past and present:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – Certified Evaluator, Canine Good Citizen Program
- American Police Canine Association
- National Police Canine Association
- International Canine Narcotics Detection Foundation
- International Detection Canine Foundation
- International Explosive Detector Dog Association
- National Narcotic Detector Dog Association
- National Drug Beat, Inc.
Credentials ANd Recognition
Andy’s extensive formal training includes:
- Expert Witness in K-9 Law — Court cases involving narcotics, explosives, and K-9 operations (2010 – Present)
- Licensed by the New York State Department of Health for Controlled Substances (2001 – 2005)
- Licensed by the U.S. Department of Justice, DEA (2001 – 2005)
- Evaluator, AKC Canine Good Citizen Program (2002 – Present)
- Founder & Owner, Dogs by Andy (NY, 1985 – 2005) and Andy K-9 Services (NC, 2005 – Present)
- Co-Owner, Paladin Executive Protection Dogs
Shared Mission with K9 Guardian Project
Our partnership with Andy Hanellin and Andy K-9 Services allows K9 Guardian Project to uphold the highest standards in rescue-to-service training. Every dog we bring into the program receives world-class professional instruction under a trainer whose expertise spans law enforcement, protection, and companion training.
Together, we’re proving that rescued dogs can perform at elite levels — not just as companions, but as trusted guardians and lifesavers.
Join the Guardian List
1516-757-2978
Christopher@K9guardianproject.org
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