01/23/2026
ADOPTABLE DOG:
I don't usually post dogs for rehoming on this page, but there are exceptions and Mikko is one. He's a special guy that did private training and group classes with me (he's amazing). If his human's life circumstances hadn't changed so dramatically (specifically an upcoming move to the busy city) she'd keep him forever like she planned - but Mikko is not a city guy, so she's doing a hard thing for the sake of his quality of life.
Please share and help Mikko find his perfect home. If anyone is interested they can contact me and I'll put them in touch.
From his person:
Mikko is a 2-year-old, high-energy, intelligent, playful, and sassy dog with a big personality. He is also a very sensitive dog with big feelings. Once Mikko has time to warm up to someone, he becomes very people-oriented and forms strong bonds, preferring to be close, included, and involved in daily life. He thrives with structure, routine, and shared activities such as walks, training, play, and outdoor time with his person.
Mikko is a loyal, affectionate, and expressive companion who loves cuddles, playing fetch, and being part of everything his person is doing. He especially loves hiking, training, off-leash adventures in the forest, car rides, and spending time in the snow. He loves to partake in weekly group dog walks with Kootenay Canines and doggy daycare at Gracie's Kennels. He does best when included in everyday life rather than left to entertain himself.
Mikko has been trained using positive reinforcement methods and has participated in nosework classes. He enjoys learning new tricks and commands and knows sit, stay, wait, down, mat, off, come, heel, look (check-ins), touch, up, and sit pretty.
Mikko has lived successfully and lovingly with a cat and enjoys having an animal companion. He engages in appropriate play such as chasing, wrestling, grooming, and resting together, and would do well in a home with a feline companion.
With other dogs, Mikko’s behaviour is context-dependent. He has enjoyed social interaction in off-leash group walks and doggy daycare, and loves participating in these activities weekly. He requires slow, structured introductions to new dogs, and not all introductions are successful. He can come on strong and be overexcited or protective at first, but does well with parallel walking, neutral meeting spaces, and time to observe before engaging. He seems less protective and more relaxed with smaller dogs and puppies and is continuing to work on calm, polite greetings with other dogs in the community.
On leash, Mikko can be reactive around unfamiliar dogs, particularly when close to his handler, and may bark or lunge if introductions are rushed or if he feels protective. This behaviour became more noticeable after an on-leash dog attack at approximately 9 months old. With distance, redirection, and consistent training, he can often settle quickly and has made tremendous progress.
With visitors and new people, Mikko will bark and may rush toward the door when someone arrives. He does best with calm, structured introductions and benefits from being directed to his “mat,” where he can settle with guidance and food reinforcement. He may take some time to fully relax, particularly with men or unfamiliar visitors, as he can be cautious or unsure at first. Once comfortable, he is affectionate and playful.
Mikko previously experienced separation anxiety. With routine, consistency, and support, he has made significant improvements and can now be left alone during the workday in a familiar environment. During transitions or in new environments, he may need patience and gradual alone-time as he adjusts. He currently takes a daily medication that has been helpful in supporting this progress.
Mikko is neutered and up to date on his vaccinations.
Mikko would be best suited to an experienced, active adopter who understands sensitive dogs, has patience for his big feelings, and is comfortable continuing training while providing structure, consistency, reassurance, and inclusion.
