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DOG TRAINING
THE RETREAT AT THREE DOG RANCH
At the Retreat at Three Dog Ranch, we offer customized training programs rooted in positive reinforcement techniques. Whether it’s basic obedience or advanced skills, our goal is to help your dog become a confident, well-behaved companion while strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
Effective Training Solutions
Building Confidence
In programs like our Puppy Program, we prioritize creating secure, confident dogs who thrive in new situations. Confidence is the foundation for lifelong learning and adaptability.
Encouraging Communication
Our Family Dog Manners program teaches clear, positive communication between you and your dog, fostering respect and understanding that lasts a lifetime.
Personalized Support
Our tailored training addresses unique challenges and behaviors. By understanding your dog’s individual needs, we develop solutions that enhance harmony in your daily life.
Hi, I'm Sam!
MY TRAINING PHILOSOPHY
I’m passionate about helping dogs and their owners build the kind of bond that lasts a lifetime. With years of experience and a certification in dog training, I specialize in positive reinforcement techniques that encourage good behavior while boosting your dog’s confidence and trust. I discovered that I have a deep passion for helping owners understand their dogs more fully. One of the most rewarding moments in training is when a dog “gets it,” that instant when they realize, “Oh, that’s what you wanted!” Working with dogs and their owners to solve problems and enhance their relationships is incredibly fulfilling, as it enriches the lives of both the dog and their owner. In my approach to training, it’s not about correcting unwanted behavior, but rather teaching and reinforcing the behaviors we do want. At no point should training compromise the relationship or the trust between you and your dog. My commitment to understanding how dogs learn and to interpreting their unique language only strengthens my passion. I have used the scientific principles of operant conditioning in my training for years, believing that consistency and patience are the true keys to success. I’m here not just to train your dog but to empower you with the skills and knowledge to continue that training at home, ensuring long-term success. Whether your dog needs basic obedience or just a loving place to stay, I’m committed to making sure both you and your dog have a great experience.
Building Lifelong Behavior
TRAINING TAILORED TO YOUR DOG
Training goes beyond teaching commands—it’s about creating a trusting, cooperative relationship. Using positive reinforcement, we empower your dog to succeed while equipping you with tools to continue progress at home.
No Two Dogs Are Alike
OUR TRAINING PROGRAMS
Every dog is unique, which is why we customize training plans to suit their breed, age, temperament, and goals. From leash manners and recall to impulse control and socialization, our programs ensure effective, enjoyable learning for your dog
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Current Vaccinations RequiredAll guests, whether playcare, overnight, or grooming, must be fully vaccinated. By law, every dog at our facility must be up to date on RABIES. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE REGARDLESS OF AGE OF DOG. By policy, and for the wellbeing of all our guests, we also require proof of current vaccination status for DISTEMPER, HEPATITIS, PARVO, PARAINFLUENZA, and BORDETELLA. You must provide written documentation the vaccines have been administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. If the Bordetella, DHPP, and Rabies vaccine have never been given, or if they have expired, a 7-day waiting period is required after the administration.
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What should I bring when boarding my dog?Please feel free to bring along your dog’s favorite blanket to help your dog feel a little more comfortable. Toys may also be brought, but please limit it to 2 durable and trustworthy toys. We are not responsible for lost or damaged items. Please know that during the intake process, our staff may choose to not take your belonging/s if they feel it is unsafe or easily damaged.
-
Should I bring my own food?We highly recommend that you bring the food that your dog is used to. This helps with any sensitive stomach issues and also helps them feel at home. Please bring their food in sealed containers and enough for their stay. If needed, we can provide our high quality food, Open Farm, for $1.50 per cup.
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Behavior AssessmentWe require all Playcare dogs pass a social evaluation that helps assure a good “fit” with all other play care guests.
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Who is eligible for play care?All dogs are welcome. All dogs must be spayed or neutered if over 1 year in age and females cannot be in heat! All sizes and ages are welcome. We match up play groups by temperament and age. ALL DOGS will be evaluated on 1st visit. All dogs must meet our vaccination requirements. Any dog over 1 year in age that has not been neutered or spayed will not be able to join our daycare program. If your dog is not well socialized or has not been spayed or neutered, our day boarding is an option.
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Do dogs ever get hurt?We do our best to minimize any injury to your dog, however, during normal play a dog may get scratches or nicks and may lose patches of hair. Although rare, it is possible for more serious injuries to occur.
-
What do you do in case of illness or injury?We assess the situation to determine a plan of action. Our primary concern is always what is best for the dog. Depending on the situation, we will either take the dog to a vet, or we will make the effort to take your dog to your own vet. We always try to contact owner to get permission for our chosen course of action.
-
My dog has health issues, can they still come?This depends on the health issues. There are many health issues that we can accommodate, and we are happy to administer basic medications, however if your dog has a serious condition or requires multiple medications then we recommend boarding your dog at a veterinarian facility. To discuss your dogs circumstances, please call.
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It seems like a zoo when I drop my dog off, is it always like that?No. When we have new visitors, such as a new dog or person, the dogs often get very excited and you can usually see and hear this excitement. There is always some playing and barking going on, but the dogs usually settle down quite a bit once the new dog has been introduced.
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Does someone stay with the dogs overnight?Yes. We have a caretaker on site 24/7. However, the caretaker is not available for check in or checkout. They are there for security and safety of our guests.
-
What if my dog doesn’t like coming or is scared?Often, just like the first day of school for children, your dog can get a little nervous being in a new environment. The first few times there is a lot of stimulation, but with repeated exposure, your dog will realize that Three Dog Ranch is a fun and safe environment, and that you will always come and collect them. We recommend bringing your dog for half-day daycare a few times in order for them to get acquainted with the facility.
-
Why is my dog thirsty when they come home?Water is available to the dogs at all times. Playing hard is just as strenuous as working out and often dogs will also be distracted by all their friends and so they will still need to rehydrate at the end of the day.
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Luxury Kennels at the InnFor that special ranch retreat, try one of our Luxury suites at The Inn, located in a cozy home environment with soft lighting, kuranda beds, open floor plan, and luminous windows. This quiet setting offers more one-on-one interaction with staff due to its central location at the ranch. Each suite houses 5 x 6 square feet providing plentiful space for a family. We ask that Luxury suite visitors are quiet, house-broken, friendly and non-chewers. And for your well socialized dog, consider adding Playcare to their stay. If you would prefer your pup to have private time or time spent with human companions, know that your pup will go outside to a private yard at a minimum of six times a day.
-
Small Town at the InnThe perfect environment for smaller guests 35 lbs and under. As Small Town is a crated environment, we are able to customize the right fit for your pup/s! We offer plenty of options for all shapes and sizes and our rule of thumb is to always size up to maximize your pup’s space. Small Town is a comfortable environment with windows throughout the room and a whole closet of blankets and beds for the pups to choose from! For well socialized dogs, consider adding Playcare as they will get time together both inside and outside in their own play yard with other Small Town guests.Dogs in Small Town are crated during mealtime, naps and overnight and if they prefer the quiet of their own space during the day. If you would prefer your pup to have private time or time spent with human companionship, their assigned handler will let them out to a private yard at least six times a day.
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Doggie Den at the InnSeven kennels in a cozy atmosphere located in the lower level of The Inn. Each 4 x 6 suite comes with a kuranda cot and soft lighting. Doggie Den is typically our quietest area offered and perfect for puppies who need a break from stimuli and take a good ole’ dog nap during the day. Doggie Den’s quiet and calm atmosphere supports dog’s who get easily overwhelmed and nervous around new environments. Guests will be let out into a private yard at least six times a day. For the well socialized dog/s, consider adding Playcare. Please note: Doggie Den does have a flight of stairs and is not recommended for senior dogs who struggle with mobility or for dogs who may have never navigated stairs before.
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Deluxe Kennels in the Bunk HouseUnique to The Bunkhouse, it offers indoor and outdoor privacy for our guests to use at their leisure. It tends to be a perfect environment for chill, confident dogs who can appreciate waking up in the morning and taking a step onto their patio for a breath of fresh air. It also tends to be a great environment for working dogs or pups who offer limitless energy but may not be dog friendly. Having the most space offered to spend their reservation, Bunkhouse guests tend to be enthusiastic and colorful dogs! There are three different sizes offered: Regular 4 x 6 indoor suite/ 4 x 10 covered outdoor patio; Large 6 x 6 indoor suite / 6 x 10 covered outdoor patio; and Double 8 x 6 indoor suite / two 4 x 10 outdoor patios. All suites come with a kuranda cot to provide elevated comfort for your pup. For the Large and Double options, we can fit multiple kuranda cots to meet the quantity of your furry family members. All guests go out at least six times a day to a private yard. Please note that Playcare is NOT an add-on option for your reservation.
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Day BoardingGuests enjoy the kennels located in our outside Day Kennels (during warmer weather). Every guest is provided with six play outings a day in addition to individual attention. This is a great option for the non-socialized dog or your unspayed or unneutered dog. Our outdoor day kennels are subject to weather and availability.
-
Other InformationNo need to bring any bedding as we have beds, blankets, quilts and raised Kuranda cots for your dog's comfort. If your dog has a favorite small blanket or one of your t-shirts, please feel free to bring it along. Toys may also be brought (please limit your toys to two. No toys with squeakies inside will be allowed as they are a choking hazard). Please know that we do reserve the right to refuse belongings if we feel they are not maintainable or safe for your pet. We are not responsible for lost or damaged items. At management's discretion, items may be removed from the kennel suite if it causes potential risk to your dog. We suggest you bring your own dog food. Please bring it in a container for safe keeping. Click Here for Pricing Vaccine requirements
YOUR DOG'S HOME AWAY FROM HOME
A Retreat Designed with Your Dog in Mind
Positive, Science-Based Technique
OUR TRAINING METHODS
We use clicker training to build trust and communication through positive reinforcement. This humane, force-free approach uses a precise marker (a “click”) to signal correct behavior, followed by a reward. It’s an effective method that enhances confidence and enthusiasm while fostering a deeper bond between you and your dog.
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Current Vaccinations RequiredAll guests, whether playcare, overnight, or grooming, must be fully vaccinated. By law, every dog at our facility must be up to date on RABIES. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE REGARDLESS OF AGE OF DOG. By policy, and for the wellbeing of all our guests, we also require proof of current vaccination status for DISTEMPER, HEPATITIS, PARVO, PARAINFLUENZA, and BORDETELLA. You must provide written documentation the vaccines have been administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. If the Bordetella, DHPP, and Rabies vaccine have never been given, or if they have expired, a 7-day waiting period is required after the administration.
-
What should I bring when boarding my dog?Please feel free to bring along your dog’s favorite blanket to help your dog feel a little more comfortable. Toys may also be brought, but please limit it to 2 durable and trustworthy toys. We are not responsible for lost or damaged items. Please know that during the intake process, our staff may choose to not take your belonging/s if they feel it is unsafe or easily damaged.
-
Should I bring my own food?We highly recommend that you bring the food that your dog is used to. This helps with any sensitive stomach issues and also helps them feel at home. Please bring their food in sealed containers and enough for their stay. If needed, we can provide our high quality food, Open Farm, for $1.50 per cup.
-
Behavior AssessmentWe require all Playcare dogs pass a social evaluation that helps assure a good “fit” with all other play care guests.
-
Who is eligible for play care?All dogs are welcome. All dogs must be spayed or neutered if over 1 year in age and females cannot be in heat! All sizes and ages are welcome. We match up play groups by temperament and age. ALL DOGS will be evaluated on 1st visit. All dogs must meet our vaccination requirements. Any dog over 1 year in age that has not been neutered or spayed will not be able to join our daycare program. If your dog is not well socialized or has not been spayed or neutered, our day boarding is an option.
-
Do dogs ever get hurt?We do our best to minimize any injury to your dog, however, during normal play a dog may get scratches or nicks and may lose patches of hair. Although rare, it is possible for more serious injuries to occur.
-
What do you do in case of illness or injury?We assess the situation to determine a plan of action. Our primary concern is always what is best for the dog. Depending on the situation, we will either take the dog to a vet, or we will make the effort to take your dog to your own vet. We always try to contact owner to get permission for our chosen course of action.
-
My dog has health issues, can they still come?This depends on the health issues. There are many health issues that we can accommodate, and we are happy to administer basic medications, however if your dog has a serious condition or requires multiple medications then we recommend boarding your dog at a veterinarian facility. To discuss your dogs circumstances, please call.
-
It seems like a zoo when I drop my dog off, is it always like that?No. When we have new visitors, such as a new dog or person, the dogs often get very excited and you can usually see and hear this excitement. There is always some playing and barking going on, but the dogs usually settle down quite a bit once the new dog has been introduced.
-
Does someone stay with the dogs overnight?Yes. We have a caretaker on site 24/7. However, the caretaker is not available for check in or checkout. They are there for security and safety of our guests.
-
What if my dog doesn’t like coming or is scared?Often, just like the first day of school for children, your dog can get a little nervous being in a new environment. The first few times there is a lot of stimulation, but with repeated exposure, your dog will realize that Three Dog Ranch is a fun and safe environment, and that you will always come and collect them. We recommend bringing your dog for half-day daycare a few times in order for them to get acquainted with the facility.
-
Why is my dog thirsty when they come home?Water is available to the dogs at all times. Playing hard is just as strenuous as working out and often dogs will also be distracted by all their friends and so they will still need to rehydrate at the end of the day.
-
Luxury Kennels at the InnFor that special ranch retreat, try one of our Luxury suites at The Inn, located in a cozy home environment with soft lighting, kuranda beds, open floor plan, and luminous windows. This quiet setting offers more one-on-one interaction with staff due to its central location at the ranch. Each suite houses 5 x 6 square feet providing plentiful space for a family. We ask that Luxury suite visitors are quiet, house-broken, friendly and non-chewers. And for your well socialized dog, consider adding Playcare to their stay. If you would prefer your pup to have private time or time spent with human companions, know that your pup will go outside to a private yard at a minimum of six times a day.
-
Small Town at the InnThe perfect environment for smaller guests 35 lbs and under. As Small Town is a crated environment, we are able to customize the right fit for your pup/s! We offer plenty of options for all shapes and sizes and our rule of thumb is to always size up to maximize your pup’s space. Small Town is a comfortable environment with windows throughout the room and a whole closet of blankets and beds for the pups to choose from! For well socialized dogs, consider adding Playcare as they will get time together both inside and outside in their own play yard with other Small Town guests.Dogs in Small Town are crated during mealtime, naps and overnight and if they prefer the quiet of their own space during the day. If you would prefer your pup to have private time or time spent with human companionship, their assigned handler will let them out to a private yard at least six times a day.
-
Doggie Den at the InnSeven kennels in a cozy atmosphere located in the lower level of The Inn. Each 4 x 6 suite comes with a kuranda cot and soft lighting. Doggie Den is typically our quietest area offered and perfect for puppies who need a break from stimuli and take a good ole’ dog nap during the day. Doggie Den’s quiet and calm atmosphere supports dog’s who get easily overwhelmed and nervous around new environments. Guests will be let out into a private yard at least six times a day. For the well socialized dog/s, consider adding Playcare. Please note: Doggie Den does have a flight of stairs and is not recommended for senior dogs who struggle with mobility or for dogs who may have never navigated stairs before.
-
Deluxe Kennels in the Bunk HouseUnique to The Bunkhouse, it offers indoor and outdoor privacy for our guests to use at their leisure. It tends to be a perfect environment for chill, confident dogs who can appreciate waking up in the morning and taking a step onto their patio for a breath of fresh air. It also tends to be a great environment for working dogs or pups who offer limitless energy but may not be dog friendly. Having the most space offered to spend their reservation, Bunkhouse guests tend to be enthusiastic and colorful dogs! There are three different sizes offered: Regular 4 x 6 indoor suite/ 4 x 10 covered outdoor patio; Large 6 x 6 indoor suite / 6 x 10 covered outdoor patio; and Double 8 x 6 indoor suite / two 4 x 10 outdoor patios. All suites come with a kuranda cot to provide elevated comfort for your pup. For the Large and Double options, we can fit multiple kuranda cots to meet the quantity of your furry family members. All guests go out at least six times a day to a private yard. Please note that Playcare is NOT an add-on option for your reservation.
-
Day BoardingGuests enjoy the kennels located in our outside Day Kennels (during warmer weather). Every guest is provided with six play outings a day in addition to individual attention. This is a great option for the non-socialized dog or your unspayed or unneutered dog. Our outdoor day kennels are subject to weather and availability.
-
Other InformationNo need to bring any bedding as we have beds, blankets, quilts and raised Kuranda cots for your dog's comfort. If your dog has a favorite small blanket or one of your t-shirts, please feel free to bring it along. Toys may also be brought (please limit your toys to two. No toys with squeakies inside will be allowed as they are a choking hazard). Please know that we do reserve the right to refuse belongings if we feel they are not maintainable or safe for your pet. We are not responsible for lost or damaged items. At management's discretion, items may be removed from the kennel suite if it causes potential risk to your dog. We suggest you bring your own dog food. Please bring it in a container for safe keeping. Click Here for Pricing Vaccine requirements
Our Board & Train program combines professional training with luxury boarding. During their stay, your dog will receive daily training focused on essential skills, behavior improvement, and confidence building. Between sessions, they’ll enjoy our upscale amenities, including spacious accommodations, supervised playtime, and enriching activities.
At the end of the program, you’ll receive detailed feedback and ongoing support to maintain your dog’s progress at home. It’s a transformative experience designed for your dog’s growth and well-being.
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Contact
(406) 407-1878
Address
301 Cardinal Ln,
Kalispell, MT 59901
Hours
By appointment only.
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