Our Story
Built from Rescue
Bolder K9 started with Theo (our puppy/shark) who chewed clean through his brand-new BioThane leash in record time.
Instead of replacing it, we decided to build something that could outlast him.
What began as a practical solution quickly turned into a craft. We learned how to make our own leashes: stronger, simpler, and built for real life with real dogs.
At the time, we were deeply involved with True North GSD Rescue, the Pacific Northwest–based German Shepherd rescue we’ve volunteered with, fostered for, and adopted all of our dogs from. We began making leashes exclusively for the rescue, as thank-you gifts for fosters and volunteers, and parting gifts for adopters bringing their dogs home.
Then their friends and family wanted their own.
Since Bolder K9 was born out of rescue, giving back isn’t an afterthought — it’s foundational. A portion of our profits goes directly back to the rescue, and we continue to support our community through gear donations and fundraising partnerships.
Every piece of gear we make carries those roots with it: built to last, built with purpose.
Meet Our Team
Introducing the Bolder K9 team (human and furry team members)! Check out how we got started and why we love what we do, below
Jake + Catherine
OWNERS
We’re college sweethearts who moved to Washington after attending school in New York City. Over the last decade, we’ve volunteered, fostered, and worked in rescue — experiences that shaped how we think about dogs, gear, and responsibility.
Bolder K9 grew out of that hands-on experience. We design and build products we trust with our own dogs — gear that holds up to daily training, hiking, and the unpredictability of strong, working breeds.
When we’re not building leashes, collars, and tugs, we’re out with our dogs — hiking local trails, training, or visiting dog-friendly spots around town.
Quality Assurance Manager
Theobold the Brave
Theo is the reason Bolder K9 exists. After chewing through his very expensive BioThane leash, he accidentally launched a company.
As QA Manager, every order gets an approval sniff and every new product must survive a reasonable amount of chaos. He’s bold, brave, and still keeps our durability standards honest.
Quality Assurance Consultant
Asher (the Dasher)
Asher is our tug specialist and resident critic. If it can be pulled, whipped, or tested dramatically — he’s on it.
He knows every tug like the back of his paw and clears each one with a proper nose-boop before it ships. Equal parts athlete and auditor.
Spicy Quality Assurance Consultant
Archer Spicy Boi
Archer is our durability tester and idea generator — usually in that order.
He pushes gear to its limits (beach sprints, zoomies, sudden “I saw something” moments) and helped inspire Tug Chucks. If it survives Archer, it’s ready for the real world.
