Some are quick and easy, while others are like pulling teeth getting your money over there.I think Eric makes a great point.

Then vet and verify to the teeth.

On one hand, I can understand your tenants concerns if his dogs are in the back yard and he was unaware that you two would be entering the yard with them there.On the other hand, the comment "what the hell are you doing on my property" should set a landlords teeth on edge.While you do not wish to do anything at this point you do have the option (it appears) to consider legal action regarding the second dog that was not approved by being added to your lease.   

The market here is a little challenging to find deals right now, but even with that said, I don't think an out of state deal is the best one to cut your teeth on.Asking a little differently - would you buy the house in MO if you were in CO and looking for a rental?

That being said I would cut your teeth on small manageble deals. 

I threw the sex toys away, along with the gloves I was wearing (nasty) and I kept the teeth on the shelf!

I cut my teeth as a commercial real estate attorney and now I'm changing hats to become an investor. 

I put a strip of that tape over each cart, write on the address with a thick black sharpie, then sprayed a layer of clear enamel over it. 

Other guests, I have been left gnashing my teeth counting the minutes until they leave.

Or cut my teeth on something smaller and get a track record going ?