Help! Beable dominance problems

Question
Hello. 4 months ago I took 6 year old male beagle, Chester, from a breedery, where he lived all his life. Chester was a sport show dog, twice the country champion. He is very well trained, and knows all commands i can think of. We, however, got obedience problems with him from day one. Our family is very loving and gentle, he most probably was never treated like that, and he does not respect our authority. He has a 'game' of stealing my shoes and not giving them back. Last week this game went too far. He was sitting on my shoese, barking, I was walking around (not trying to take shoese away) and he has bitten me - just once, but so badly, that I was in a hospital for 5 days. Now he is back to breedery, and everyone is telling me that I should never take the dog back home. I would like to try and work with trainer, but am not sure that things can be improved after what has happened. What would be your advice? Shall I get rid of him or there is hope?  

Answer
It sounds like Chester doesn't know his place in the pack. He needs to know that ALL of your family members are above him in the pack order.
I think it sounds great that you are considering working with a trainer. I believe that would be the best thing. The trainer can help you re-train Chester. I believe with help from a trainer hope is possible for you and Chester.
As for the shoe problem, most dogs like shoes because it smells like their owners. You should keep shoes out of Chesters reach until he is re-trained and understands what it means when his owner says "NO" and can respect that.
So, I believe there is hope but, if you have children you are right to be cautious. Consult with a professional trainer. They will be better able to assist you and advice you on your decision.