OLK9 Dog Blog

Summer Gear Your Dog Needs (And Doesn’t)
Summer in Montana means more adventures, more sunshine, and more opportunities to explore with your dog. Whether you’re hiking near Missoula, camping in the Bitterroot

How to Train a Dog to Relax at Camp
Camping in Montana is one of the best ways to unplug, recharge, and enjoy the outdoors with your dog. From the breathtaking trails near Missoula

Managing Excitement in New Environments: Helping Your Dog Stay Calm and Focused
Dogs experience the world through excitement, curiosity, and energy. While that enthusiasm can be adorable at home, it can quickly become overwhelming in new environments.

Make Every Trip Enjoyable—for You and Your Dog
There’s nothing quite like loading up the car and heading out for a Montana adventure. Whether you’re driving through the scenic Bitterroot Valley, hiking near

Why Consistency Beats Perfection in Dog Training
When it comes to dog training, many owners put a ton of pressure on themselves to be perfect—flawless timing, never missing a command, always reacting

Resetting Leash Manners for Spring Walks
Spring in Missoula is finally here—longer days, warmer weather, and trails calling your name. But if your dog spent the winter pulling you across icy

How Exercise and Training Work Together to Create a Balanced Dog
If you’ve ever thought, “My dog just needs more exercise,” you’re not alone. In Missoula, we’re surrounded by trails, rivers, and open space—so it’s easy

Lucky to Have Them: A St. Patrick’s Day Reflection for Missoula Dog Owners
Every year around St. Patrick’s Day, we hear a lot about luck—lucky charms, lucky days, and lucky finds. But if you ask any dog owner

Why Dogs “Forget” Training After Winter
Every spring in Missoula, we hear the same thing from dog owners: “My dog used to walk nicely on leash… now they’re pulling like crazy.”“Recall

Spring Cleaning Your Dog’s Routine: Training, Gear & Habits
Spring in Missoula brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and more opportunities to get outside with your dog. After a long Montana winter of shorter walks,

Building Confidence in Shy or Nervous Dogs
Not all dogs burst into a room tail-wagging and ready to meet the world. Some hang back. Some freeze. Some tremble, avoid eye contact, or

Why Dogs Thrive on Routine and Predictability
Dogs don’t wear watches, check calendars, or understand why today feels different from yesterday—but they do notice patterns. And when those patterns disappear, behavior problems