WIND RIVER CANINE PARTNERS

Pet Training | Service Dogs

Off-Leash Training

Kennel-Free Boarding & Daycare

Wind River Canine Partners is a unique DOG TRAINING, BOARDING, AND DAYCARE facility located just 12 miles south of Missoula on a beautiful ranch in the Bitterroot valley.

We offer small, tailored daycare groups that create healthy play habits for dogs; kennel-free boarding with spacious, natural yards for our overnight guests; and a team of highly educated and skilled trainers to create the strongest partnership you’ve ever had with your dog.

Join our pack today!

Daycare & Boarding

Come stay at the Wind River Ranch! For our boarding and daycare clients:

  • Indoor-outdoor access between our heated & air-conditioned barns and our spacious, natural-grass yards.
  • Dogs can participate in small, hand-selected play groups during the day or have their own space, whichever they prefer.
  • Maximum play group size is 8 dogs, so we can match each dog to others of similar play styles and temperaments. 
  • Staff on site 24/7 so your dogs are always protected, even overnight

Dog Training

Real-world training that caters to the Montana lifestyle. Create the “Go Anywhere, Do Anything” dog that can be your adventure partner, whether that takes you into the woods or downtown. We offer:

  • Foundation Partnership Training
  • Off Leash Reliability
  • Behavior Modification
  • Specialty Skills: Nose Work, Pulling Sports, Bite Work, Therapy Dog, and more!

Service Dog Program

A unique owner-training service dog program that helps individuals with disabilities train their own dogs for specifically tailored tasks to help them live more independent lives. Training for mobility assistance, seizure, allergen detection, psychiatric assistance, and more. 

Posted on Google Google
Carey Snow profile picture
Carey Snow
October 3, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Clarify and redirecting my use of verbal, hand and e collar corrections makes an immediate improvement in our pup’s behavior. No more pulling against the leash, or rushing guests at the door or little kids wanting to pet him. Ally is a straight forward communicator and understands how important consistency is to see the best results when working on improving dog behaviors by teaching us owners.
Posted on Google Google
Sara Williams profile picture
Sara Williams
March 28, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Updated review March 2023: Our Ellie (from earlier review below) continued to go to the ranch through her life and had so much fun there. After she passed away, we adopted a new puppy, Robbie. Robbie and his littermate (Jackie who we were also fostering) attended the Puppy Jump Start program in early March and worked with their trainer Kevin. We were honestly blown away at how much they learned and the big changes we saw in their puppy manners. The transfer and follow-up lessons were also very helpful. We were well set up with the tools we needed to keep going with their practice and make sure their new commands and behaviors stuck. And we had the opportunity to have our implementation of these tools polished during the follow up. We are incredibly excited with the progress that Robbie and Jackie made while they were in the program - Kevin is an amazing trainer and Wind River Canine Partners is a top notch facility! ________________________________________________________ Review from 9 years ago: I have never felt more comfortable leaving my dog for daycare or boarding as I have leaving her at Wind River. Ellie has certain characteristics that make her a bit more of a challenge than some more easy going dogs. I have come to learn that all of the employees at Wind River are completely in tune with each dog that stays there, and work hard to ensure that every detail of any special requirements are handled perfectly. Ellie has stayed there for short visits as well as several weeks at a time, and she is always excited to go. If she hears "Do you want to go to the ranch?", Ellie immediately starts wagging her tail and is eager to get to the car. Leaving your dog behind while you have to travel can be really difficult, but knowing that they will be extremely well taken care of and happy makes a huge difference. You will most certainly get that if you leave you pet here.
Posted on Google Google
Ellis Juhlin profile picture
Ellis Juhlin
February 13, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We LOVE Wind River, I cannot say enough good things about the kennels and especially Elena. She has helped us learn how to communicate with and support our herding breed rescues and helped both our pups overcome tremendous hurdles! We tried several other types of training at other places but nothing seemed to work for Zayda to feel less reactive and just comfortable in new situations. Then we found Wind River. The dog Zayda is today is a complete 180 from the skittish pup we rescued, and we have Elena to thank!! She is the only person Zayda will choose to run to instead of me. Her care, commitment and ability to adapt to meet a dog where they’re at is inspiring.
Posted on Google Google
Kate Haire profile picture
Kate Haire
May 13, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Many thanks to Kevin Alford for working with me and my English Cocker Spaniel puppy Percy - we are making real progress and I couldn't be more pleased. Kevin is extremely knowledgeable, experienced, and professional - as well as kind, patient, and able to explain not only what to do, but why, and the short-term and long-term outcomes to look for. Looking forward to more training in the future!
Posted on Google Google
Jen Premselaar profile picture
Jen Premselaar
August 6, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I have been seeing Caleaha for private lessons for my dog Bodhi. I've worked with tons of trainers in the past with my rescue dogs and their various behaviors and Caleaha is the best I've ever worked with. She is very clear, explains things in a very articulate manner and the difference she has made with Bodhi has been amazing. Most importantly, she has trained me beyond the skills I had so I can continue to work with Bodhi in between lessons. I highly recommend her and Wind River for boarding as well.
Posted on Google Google
Casey Smith profile picture
Casey Smith
April 10, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great staff and facility! Thank you for training our new pup so well, we will recommend you to everyone we know! :)
Posted on Google Google
Terri Phillips profile picture
Terri Phillips
March 31, 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Dogs seemed well taken care of and were ready to go when we got there. No kennel cough
Posted on Google Google
Taylor Dowell profile picture
Taylor Dowell
February 25, 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Amazing trainers, they work miracles! Best boarding facility in the area, my dogs always get all the exercise and attention they need and are EXHAUSTED from playing so much when I pick them up!
Posted on Google Google
Loren Mostad profile picture
Loren Mostad
September 4, 2016
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The dog trainers are awesome!
Posted on Google Google
Naomi Williams profile picture
Naomi Williams
February 21, 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Had the privilege of working with Alle for service dog training and it was a wonderful experience during the process but the helpfulness after my dog Rocket graduated was beyond what was required.
Posted on Google Google
Shannon Kimmell profile picture
Shannon Kimmell
August 14, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
To say I'm satisfied with my experience with Wind River Canine Partners would be a major understatement! Words can't completely describe how blown-away and ecstatic I am with the support and training I recieved. I brought my dog, Casserole, to Elena for private lessons to address Cassie's reactivity to dogs (and my anxiety surrounding it!). Elena is extremely knowledgeable, professional, and her experience really shines through. She was very up-beat and receptive to my questions and concerns, and her confidence and clear planning for my dog really set us up for success. I really appreciate how her training prepares us for real life situations. I seriously couldn't be happier! The group hikes are fantastic and easy to sign- up for, and I love them as an opportunity to continue reinforcing our training in a safe environment; I go as often as I can! Finding help for you and your dog that you can trust can be very scary and stressful, but if you need help with your dog, don't hesitate to contact Wind River Canine Partners!
Posted on Google Google
Ben Deeble profile picture
Ben Deeble
January 21, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Boarded our dogs really well during 10 days of Montana winter cold.
Posted on Google Google
Joseph Galarza profile picture
Joseph Galarza
August 21, 2021
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
They took care of our furry ,kids they were very professional and affordable if you need someone to watch your little furry kids during the day while you go out and enjoy certain things and you don't want to leave your dogs in a hot car just go to them highly recommend it.
Posted on Google Google
Gina Sanford profile picture
Gina Sanford
February 22, 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
There aren't enough words to describe how amazing Ally & Kelsey are! Ally at Wind River Canine Partners helped train my husband's service dog Cadence and my Daughter's service dog Jazmine. During Cadence and Jazzy's board and stay portion of training, they stayed at Wind River and received the absolute best care. Cadence is now a working service dog for PTSD anxiety and migraine detection. Jazzy is now a working service dog for allergy detection (peanuts) medical alert and anxiety. There aren't words to describe how our life has changed for the better, because of the work Cadence and Jazzy are able to do for my husband and child. This is the absolute best facility around for training and boarding! Thank you Wind River for all that you do.
Posted on Google Google
Elizabeth profile picture
Elizabeth
January 20, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We love Wind River Canine Partners for several reasons. 1) We feel confident and safe leaving our dogs in their care. I have 3 dogs. 2 of our dogs need medication and they are able to administer it to them. Our border collie, bull dog is scared of gun shots, and fireworks. They make sure she feels safe and confident. Our chihuahua can be grumpy but he is so happy when we come here. Our American Bully gets plenty of outside time, play and socialization. 2) Their training results speak to their dedication and hard work. We did a two week board and train last April with several follow up sessions for our American Bully. She was 4 months at the time. Lydia did such a great job with her. Our dog is now 1 and is still very motivated to do all of the training Lydia helped her with. The training we learned from Lydia also transferred to our other 2 dogs and helped us form new habits creating a more peaceful home environment. Also, our dog loves Lydia! 3) They are continuing to work with us as we prepare our American Bully to start training to become a service dog. We highly recommend their services.
Posted on Google Google
Ken Marshall profile picture
Ken Marshall
February 22, 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Much wow!
Posted on Google Google
Thomas Kostelnik profile picture
Thomas Kostelnik
July 14, 2021
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Ally is a great trainer and has been a great resource for us. All the staff is friendly and really willing to help. You can definitely tell everyone's heart is all in on the animals they get to interact with. Highly recommend!
Posted on Google Google
Chris Patterson profile picture
Chris Patterson
September 16, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Wind River and Kevin Alford did an amazing job with my 1 yr old GSD/Lab mix. He's a completely different puppy. Money well spent!
Posted on Google Google
Rebecca Aliff profile picture
Rebecca Aliff
November 10, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Our 7mo lab Yarrow was rehomed to us, with no training. When Yarrow turned 1yo, we contacted Kevin Alford at Wind River. Kevin provided excellent insight & instruction to make Yarrow successful in a wide range of venues. Kevin is kind, funny & a clear communicator. We have enjoyed our training sessions, and watching Yarrow being successful. We recommend Wind River and trainer Kevin Alford!
Posted on Google Google
Steven Goodsell profile picture
Steven Goodsell
August 24, 2021
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My 4 obnoxious pups absolutely love coming here for the weekends. When we pull on to the road they start hopping around and whining because they know where they are. That they get to get out and play with the staff, and other pups.
Posted on Google Google
Ruth Blacketer profile picture
Ruth Blacketer
July 24, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
This is our favorite place to board our 7 yr old active GSD. Dogs can be boarded with similar size/personality or boarded separately. Pens are large and grassy. The staff is fabulous, and everyone I've met loves animals. After boarding there for 5+ years, I have to say we won't go anywhere else!
Posted on Google Google
Steven Carlston profile picture
Steven Carlston
June 16, 2023
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Very knowledgeable trainers We have had several rescue pups come out of there with skillz!
Posted on Google Google
Michelle Navarro profile picture
Michelle Navarro
October 29, 2022
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Kevin is a phenomenal dog trainer! He's knowledgeable, patient, and thorough. I appreciate the extra time he took to educate my family in dog behaviors and how those behaviors relate to training. Every session, he made sure we were comfortable with the training exercises and continuing those exercises beyond the lessons. His teaching style is the reason we were able to gain the success we have and I will continue to use him for future training needs. Thank you, Kevin!
Posted on Google Google
Gabbie Cummings profile picture
Gabbie Cummings
June 24, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I traveled with my friend and her dog to Montana for her daughter's wedding. We heard of this place from a friend of a friend. We went to check it out and have a meet & greet. What kind and friendly staff. Initial meet & greet was for 2 hours. He LOVED it!!! My friend, on the other hand, was like leaving her kindergartener on the first day of school. 🤣 We brought Teddy back for a 2 day stay. They allowed him to sleep inside with the overnight staff. He made a lot of new friends. Hannah was WONDERFUL!!!! If we are ever back in Victor or Hamilton and need a place to leave our pup, I will definitely come here. Thank you Hannah for being so wonderful to my friend and her dog, Teddy.
Posted on Google Google
Jeff profile picture
Jeff
January 25, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I felt extremely comfortable recommending wind Rivers services during the time I managed a competing facility, unleashed. I received exclusively positive feedback about wind River from clients and acquaintances. Recently I had two of my dogs in for a temperament assessment at wind River. I was very impressed with the smooth and professional operation I found. I received a detailed behavior report on both my dogs, compiled by one of the wind River trainers Hannah. I've had the pleasure of working with Hannah in the past at another facility and I trust her implicitly. The owner was kind enough to come out and go through my dog's assessments with me personally and in depth. It was the end of the day, there was only one dog left, but The owner still took the time to give me the very best one-on-one service. Boarding is hard. It's hard on the dogs and it's hard on the people. Knowing there's a place I can trust to care for my dogs when I'm away is literally priceless! Thank you so much
Posted on Google Google
Sean Means profile picture
Sean Means
February 22, 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The only place I trust with my dog aggressive pit bull! Great staff and great facilities.
Posted on Google Google
Jennifer Wagoner profile picture
Jennifer Wagoner
July 1, 2022
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My dogs love it here! The staff is really nice and helpful. :)
Posted on Google Google
Rilee Zilkey profile picture
Rilee Zilkey
February 12, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I cannot say enough good things about Wind River. We’ve been bringing our two dogs there for four years now and every single time I turn down their dirt road, they both perk up and get excited to see their friends. The staff are the absolute best and make sure your dogs know that they are loved. Our smaller dog did the two week board and train and came back better than we could’ve expected. Our older guy is definitely a little grumpy and not as mobile, but they take care of him just as good as we do at home. Thank you, Wind River!
Posted on Google Google
Silly Kristiena profile picture
Silly Kristiena
March 13, 2024
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I always feel relaxed, relieved and grateful when Wind River has my dog. I can travel without worry!
Posted on Google Google
Alex Epping profile picture
Alex Epping
February 22, 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I took my Catahoula mix to Wind River for aggression training, and they have completely changed our lives! The one on one care they provide while training is amazing, and I love knowing that when I’m out of town, Beau is treated as one of their own. I can’t recommend this place enough!

CALL, TEXT, OR EMAIL!

(406) 272-2140

staff@windriverkennels.com

HOURS

Drop off & Pick Up Hours:
Open 7 Days Per Week
7AM-7PM

We are CLOSED from 12:30-2:30PM every day for ranch chores!

Training by appointment only!

ADDRESS

5353 E. CARLTON CREEK RD
FLORENCE, MT 59833

Want to chat? Send us a message!

I'm interested in...

1 + 11 =

GIVE A GIFT

The perfect option for your dog-loving friends and family. Give them a gift card redeemable for boarding, daycare, or training!