1851

<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/survey-78-pet-owners-acquired-pets-during-pandemic/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-great-franchisee-bob-wiegand-dog-training-elite-nebraska-2718781" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">78% of pet owners</a> acquired their new companions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/02/01/roughly-47-million-people-quit-their-job-last-year.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-great-franchisee-bob-wiegand-dog-training-elite-nebraska-2718781" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">roughly 78 million</a> people decided to make a career change between 2020 and 2021.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-wiegand-279a605?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-great-franchisee-bob-wiegand-dog-training-elite-nebraska-2718781" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bob Wiegand</a> did both. Taking the leap after leaving his sales job, Wiegand purchased his very own&nbsp;<a href="https://dogtrainingelite.com/franchise?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-great-franchisee-bob-wiegand-dog-training-elite-nebraska-2718781" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dog Training Elite*</a> franchise to help new and old pet owners alike connect with and train their precious companions. He also purchased a Golden Doodle named Millie.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/raintree/a-partnership-between-dog-training-elite-and-raintree-led-to-six-signed-franchise-agreements-in-6-weeks-2713250#brand-latest-stories">Dog Training Elite</a> has grown an astounding 293% in the last three years, as franchises across the U.S. work with dogs and owners to meet their needs — some of which include PTSD support,&nbsp;psychiatric support, autism support and diabetic alert training.Wiegand talks to 1851 about how his sales career came to an abrupt ending at just the right time.&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us.&nbsp;What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Bob Wiegand: I spent 20 years in the car industry, where I managed staff and sold vehicles.&nbsp; I was a salesperson for the last 18 years, selling billboard advertising. About a year and a half ago, I was trying to work through the pandemic, but the outdoor ads hit a slow spot — a real downturn. No one was driving, so no one was buying advertising, which makes sense.&nbsp;At this time, I really wanted to try and get into my own business, so I spoke with a friend of mine in a networking group who had a relative who was a franchise broker. Now, a year and a half later, here I am with a franchise. In the beginning, I wanted to maintain my full-time position and be a somewhat absentee owner, but hanging out with the fun-loving dogs hit home for me. Ultimately, I ended up quitting my full-time job because I knew I wanted to focus on this 24/7. I wanted to be available. I couldn’t afford to work the business this way.&nbsp;1851: What do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Wiegand:&nbsp;I think you have to do your homework and your due diligence. Not everyone is a dog lover, so this might not be it for you. But make sure you are comfortable with the franchise concept and make sure they have a great support system. It doesn’t matter what time it is — I can contact DTE corporate, and within a small amount of time, I can get the information I need. Watching zoom calls with current franchise operators was helpful too.&nbsp;1851: What makes you stand out as a business owner in your local community?Wiegand:&nbsp;Having my vehicle wrapped really shows the professionalism of the company and how we want to present ourselves. My sales background and their training program make me stand out. Being very professional and joining a professional organization with all these new franchises around the country gives me credibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;1851:&nbsp;What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Wiegand:&nbsp;The brand itself was presented to me through my franchise broker. He considered purchasing a DTE franchise three years ago, but never pulled the trigger, and it made me think, “If this guy is considering this, I should look into it too.” DTE checked all the boxes, and everything in my body told me to move forward with it.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Wiegand: I’d like one more territory, which is available in Omaha. Then I’d possibly move into Lincoln, 50 miles down the road on Route 80 in Nebraska. I hope to achieve some financial growth within the next few years and open a training facility within the next three to five years. DTE doesn't require it, but I can see myself wanting to get a facility and increase the product I offer down the road.1851:&nbsp;What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?Wiegand:&nbsp;I’m currently living my dream of being self-employed and owning my own company. I love working with animals.&nbsp;The connection between owners and their dogs can be rekindled. A lot of dog owners love their pets, but they need a relationship that is working for both of them. Once they do, it takes them both back to the puppy stage. My dog has only had four weeks of training, and she is walking leash-free already. With that, I have felt that rekindled relationship and become a customer myself.&nbsp;&nbsp;1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming a franchise owner?Wiegand:&nbsp;Do your homework, take your time and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You need to know as much as you can about any franchise you choose to go with. It’s a big decision, and it’s typical to be scared and nervous.What were the reasons that officially pushed you over the edge and made you decide to buy a franchise?Wiegand: After many visits with my franchise broker and with DTE's Kyle Christie, their franchise person, it just made sense for me to move forward. I loved how they explained everything so I could make an informed decision.To learn more about Raintree brands and Dog Training Elite go to <a href="https://1851franchise.com/raintree">1851franchise</a>.&nbsp; ABOUT DOG TRAINING ELITEWith more than four decades of experience in dog training, Dog Training Elite is one of the country’s leading obedience and specialized training franchises. Offering a comprehensive suite of customizable training programs, Dog Training Elite works with dogs and owners to meet any and all training needs, including therapy dog training and advanced service dog training for PTSD support, psychiatric support, mobility support, autism support, diabetic alert training and an array of other services. In addition to the wide breadth of services offered, Dog Training Elite differentiates itself from competitors through a uniquely human-focused approach to dog training, which focuses on helping owners and their families learn to effectively and consistently support their dog’s training needs. To learn more about franchising with Dog Training Elite, visit<a href="https://dogtrainingelite.com/franchise.?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-great-franchisee-bob-wiegand-dog-training-elite-nebraska-2718781" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">&nbsp;https://dogtrainingelite.com/franchise.</a>

The Great Franchisee: Bob Wiegand, Dog Training Elite, Nebraska  

1851 Franchise

Omaha Man Launches Dog Training Elite Business After His “Great Resignation,” Transforming Relationships Between Local Owners and Their Dogs


the-great-franchisee-bob-wiegand-dog-training-elite-nebraska

Sylvan Learning

Sylvan Learning - Empowering Women in Education - Susan Valverde - Denise Tompkins - Jessica Rollins

Empowering Women in Education: How Sylvan Learning’s Female Leaders Are Making an Impact

sylvan-learning-empowering-women-in-education

Shuckin' Shack

Photo of Shuckin' Shack team gathered in a room for the brand's State of the Union

Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar Franchise Partners Unite for Annual Conference Focused on Innovation, Growth, and Giving Back

shuckin-shack-franchisees-unite-for-annual-conference

Integrity Franchise Group

Why Attending Franchise Conferences is Crucial for Your Business Success

why-attending-franchise-conferences-is-crucial-for-your-business-success

Pool Scouts

Women Entrepreneurs Thriving With Pool Scouts: Celebrating Women’s History Month

women-entrepreneurs-thriving-with-pool-scouts-celebrating-womens-history-month

Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Elite - Chris Bergman - Dog Training Tips - National Dog Training Education Month

2News Nevada: Dog Training Expert Provides Tips for National Dog Training Education Month

dog-training-elite-chris-bergman-expert-tips

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Resources

What ALEC-Laffer's Report Means for Franchising

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

Login

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

NRA: Restaurants Focus On Enhancing In-Store Experiences To Attract Diners in 2025

nra-restaurants-focus-on-enhancing-in-store-experiences-to-attract-diners-in-2025

The Joint Chiropractic - Dr. Anthony Tran - IFA Franchisee of the Year - 1851 Franchise

The Joint Chiropractic’s Dr. Anthony Tran Named Franchisee of the Year by the IFA

joint-chiropractic-dr-anthony-tran-ifa

TruGolf - Hybrid Golf Franchise - Nexus Golf - 1851 Franchise

TruGolf Links Unveils Revolutionary Hybrid Golf Franchise Concept

trugolf-links-unveils-revolutionary-hybrid-golf-franchise-concept

Photo of a basket of chicken wings with dipping sauce and celery

RestaurantNews: Franchisees File Comprehensive Legal Complaint Against Hurricane AMT

restaurantnews-franchisees-file-comprehensive-legal-complaint-against-hurricane-amt

Hooters - Bankruptcy Chapter 11 - 1851 Franchise

Hooters Prepares for Bankruptcy Amid Financial Struggles

hooters-prepares-for-bankruptcy-amid-financial-struggles

Franchise Customer Engagement | Spectrio — Emerging Leaders in Franchise Support

franchise-customer-engagement-spectrio-emerging-leaders-in-franchise-support

Call Center Solutions for Franchisors: How To Improve Lead Management and Customer Service

call-center-solutions-for-franchisors-how-to-improve-lead-management-and-customer-service

AC Inc. - Field Coach Experts - Franchise Consulting - Emerging Leaders in Franchise Support - 1851

Franchise Consulting | AC Inc. — Emerging Leaders in Franchise Support

franchise-consulting-ac-inc-emerging-leaders-in-franchise-support

Meet the Supplier graphic with 1851 Franchise and LoyaltyLoop logos

LoyaltyLoop: Customer Experience Management To Boost Loyalty and Reputation

loyaltyloop-franchise-customer-experience-supplier

Paris Baguette Ranks Among Top Franchises on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Paris Baguette Ranks Among Top Franchises on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for 2025

paris-baguette-ranks-among-top-franchises-on-entrepreneurs-franchise-500-for-2025

Domonique Downing - Big Frog Franchise - Fayetteville, GA - 1851 Franchise

Coca-Cola Scientist Finds Path to Autonomy with Big Frog Franchise in Fayetteville, Georgia

big-frog-franchise-fayetteville-georgia

Franchisee spotlight featuring Ian and Dick Rydholm with gradient blue background and Sylvan logo

Ian and Dick Rydholm Celebrate 30 Years of Transforming Lives Through Sylvan Learning in El Paso, Texas

ian-and-dick-rydholm-celebrate-30-years-of-transforming-lives-through-sylvan

Florida Franchisee Reflects on Success and Growth with Sylvan Learning

florida-franchisee-reflects-on-success-and-growth-with-sylvan-learning

Franchisee spotlight image with Randy and Sandy Craft, Children's Lighthouse logo on blue background

The Crafts’ Successful Journey from New Parents to Children’s Lighthouse Franchisees

the-crafts-successful-journey-from-new-parents-to-childrens-lighthouse-franchisees

DOJ FTC Antitrust Guidelines - Franchise News - 1851 Franchise

The Great Franchisee: Bob Wiegand, Dog Training Elite, Nebraska

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS