Welcome to Dirty Herd Dogs
. . . where muddy paws, naps on the porch, and compassionate communication
make for a (dog's) life fulfilled.
Our Story
I’m janelle—your "dirty herder"! I am a longtime educator, nonprofit consultant, and writer/editor happily rooted with my family here in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, with a deep love for this community.
We have been living with, loving on, and learning from dogs for decades.
We’ve raised rescues, high-energy herders, sensitive souls, and stubborn cuddlers.
We've worked with many brilliant trainers, behaviorists, and veterinarians over the years—what sticks with us is that good care is built on presence, patience, and play.
We’re excited to get to know your dog, just as they are.
Our Philosophy
We’re a small, heart-forward canine care and communication business nestled in the Adirondack woods, offering care for your dog in their home or at ours.
We’re not trainers, and we’re not a commercial doggie daycare. We’re simply lifelong animal lovers creating a peaceful space for your dog to be loved, understood, and enriched when you can’t be with them.
Our philosophy is simple: every dog is a full personality—a complex, curious, emotional being—and we do our best to meet them on their terms. Whether that means romping through our trails, watching the birds from the porch, or curling up for a nap on the couch, your dog is welcome to be themselves . . . and maybe learn a few new skills together, too!
Our Dog
Say hello to Bim!
Bim is our full-size Australian Shepherd and the official Dirty Herd Dogs greeter.
He’s playful, intuitive, and respectful of boundaries—if you’re a dog!
He’ll be your dog’s host, mentor, chase pal, or mellow companion—whatever the moment calls for.
Our Commitment
We love all creatures, great and small. We especially love dogs.
We’re devoted to helping our own pups live their best lives, honoring their needs and their nature. Every day with them is a conversation—shared through movement, scent, sound, posture, and play.
We bring this same spirit to every dog we care for. Your pup deserves patience, respect, and curiosity. They deserve people willing to listen. And they’ll always get the best of us, because dogs always give the best of themselves.
