Thanksgiving Travel with Dogs: How to Prep for a Road Trip or House Visit

Thanksgiving Travel with Dogs: How to Prep for a Road Trip or House Visit

Planning to hit the road this Thanksgiving with your dog in tow? Whether you’re heading down to Hamilton for a family gathering or making the trek across Montana to visit relatives, traveling with your dog doesn’t have to be stressful—as long as you prepare them ahead of time. As professional dog trainers here in Missoula,…

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Dog Owners in Montana: Foods to Avoid, Door Manners, and More

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Dog Owners in Montana: Foods to Avoid, Door Manners, and More

Thanksgiving in Missoula means good food, great company, and cozy gatherings—but for your dog, it can be an overwhelming mix of smells, guests, and chaos. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner in the Bitterroot Valley or attending a Friendsgiving across town, it’s important to know how to keep your dog safe, calm, and under…

Montana Winter Is Coming: How to Prep Your Dog Now for Snow, Ice, and Cabin Fever

Montana Winter Is Coming: How to Prep Your Dog Now for Snow, Ice, and Cabin Fever

As the crisp fall air rolls into Missoula and snow starts dusting the Bitterroot Mountains, your dog’s routine is about to change—whether they’re ready for it or not. Shorter days, icy sidewalks, and cold snaps can throw even well-trained dogs off their game. But with a little prep now, you can help your dog stay…

How to Help Your Dog Stay Calm During Halloween Chaos

How to Help Your Dog Stay Calm During Halloween Chaos

Halloween is full of fun, frights, and festivities — but for our dogs, it can sometimes feel like sensory overload. From the endless doorbell rings to flashing lights, loud parties, and people in strange costumes, it’s no wonder some pups get anxious during spooky season. But don’t worry — with the right approach, you can…

Fall Foods and Your Dog: What’s Safe and What to Avoid

Fall Foods and Your Dog: What’s Safe and What to Avoid

It’s officially fall in Missoula — the air is crisp, the leaves are turning gold, and pumpkin spice is everywhere. 🎃 From lattes to baked goods, it’s the season of cozy treats… and for many of us, that means extra temptation to share a bite (or two) with our furry friends. But before you slip…

Why Is My Dog Acting Different This Fall? Understanding Seasonal Behavior Shifts

Why Is My Dog Acting Different This Fall? Understanding Seasonal Behavior Shifts

As the leaves change in Missoula and daylight hours shorten, many dog owners notice their pets acting a little… off. Maybe your normally calm dog is pacing more, barking at the window, or acting clingy. Or maybe you’re seeing an increase in stubbornness, restlessness, or even mild reactivity. It’s not your imagination—dogs can absolutely be…

Pumpkin Spice & Place Command: Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Fall Gatherings

Pumpkin Spice & Place Command: Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Fall Gatherings

Whether it’s a Friendsgiving feast in the Bitterroot Valley or a backyard bonfire with neighbors in Missoula, fall brings a season full of social gatherings—and lots of opportunities for your dog to either shine or… well, stress you out. Jumping on guests, begging at the table, barking at the door, or pacing through the kitchen…

Fall Enrichment Games for Rainy Days (and Cabin Fever Dogs)

Fall Enrichment Games for Rainy Days (and Cabin Fever Dogs)

The crisp air and golden leaves of autumn in Missoula are perfect for trail adventures and training field trips—but we all know the weather doesn’t always cooperate. Whether it’s a rainy day, early snow, or just muddy trails, being cooped up inside doesn’t mean your dog’s training (or energy) has to take a break. In…

Dog Costumes: Fun or Stressful? How to Tell If Your Pup is Comfortable

Dog Costumes: Fun or Stressful? How to Tell If Your Pup is Comfortable

As Halloween approaches in Missoula, you may be tempted to dress your dog up for photos, parades, or trick-or-treating. Whether it’s a taco suit, dinosaur hoodie, or pumpkin bandana, dog costumes can be adorable—but not every dog thinks so. Some pups love the attention. Others freeze, stress, or panic the moment fabric touches their fur….

How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Trick-or-Treat Night in Missoula

How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Trick-or-Treat Night in Missoula

Halloween in Missoula is full of excitement—costumes, candy, flashing lights, and a parade of doorbell rings from eager trick-or-treaters. But for your dog? It can feel like a night-long panic attack. Whether your pup is scared of masks, reactive to the doorbell, or a little too interested in that bowl of Snickers, Halloween poses serious…