As a dog owner, it’s important to understand the various methods available for training your furry friend. Two popular approaches are force-free training and adverse training methods. While both may appear to achieve the desired results on the surface, there are significant differences between the two that can affect the overall well-being and behaviour of your dog. Force-free training is a modern, scientifically-based approach to dog training that is centred around positive (added) reinforcement. It emphasizes using added reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and affection, to encourage and therefore make more likely to happen in the future, the behaviours that...
Read More
Blog
Filtered by: All
Dog Jogs is a dog training service based in South Edmonton, Alberta that aims to enhance the lives of our furry friends through expert training and personalized care. Our experienced dog trainer has a passion for dogs and has been working with them for many years. They understand the unique needs and personalities of each breed and use added (positive) reinforcement techniques to bring out the best in your four-legged companion. At Dog Jogs, we offer a range of services to meet the needs of our clients and their dogs. Whether you are looking for basic obedience training, help with...
Read More
Dog training is an essential aspect of owning a pet and ensuring that they are well-behaved, well-adjusted and prepared to handle any situation life may throw at them with confidence and ease. There are two main approaches to dog training: one-on-one training and group classes. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between the two and help you determine which option is best for you and your furry friend. One-on-One Training: One-on-one training is exactly what it sounds like: a private training session between you and your dog and a professional trainer. This type of training is ideal for...
Read More
Training your dog regularly is important for their overall health and well-being. Depending on factors such as age, breed, and health, it’s recommended to train your dog a few times a week for around 15 to 20 minutes per session. To make the training sessions both productive and enjoyable for your furry friend, it’s important to keep them short and fun. If you’re struggling to find the time to train your dog, Dog Jogs is here to help! As a dog walking service, Dog Jogs offers professional dog training as part of their services. With their help, you can ensure...
Read More
As March is pet poison prevention month and human error is the number one reason that leads to pets eating something they shouldn’t, here are three tips to keep your pets safe from harmful toxins: Keep all hazardous substances out of reach: Make sure to store any hazardous substances such as cleaning agents, pesticides, insecticides, and medications in secure cabinets or high shelves that are inaccessible to your pets. This will help prevent accidental ingestion, which can lead to serious illness or even death. Be mindful of common household plants: Some common household plants such as lilies, daffodils, and azaleas...
Read More
If you’re looking to hire a dog trainer in Edmonton, Alberta, you’re likely wondering how much it will cost. The cost of a dog trainer can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including experience, training style, and location. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect to pay for a dog trainer in Edmonton. The average cost of a dog trainer in Edmonton ranges from $50 to $200 per hour. However, some trainers may charge more or less depending on their experience, credentials, and reputation. For example, a highly experienced and reputable trainer...
Read More
Why It’s Important to Start Training Your Puppy As Soon as You Bring Them Home in Edmonton, Alberta!
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time, but it is also a time when training should begin. In Edmonton, Alberta, starting your puppy’s training early is crucial for a number of reasons, including socialization, obedience, and overall behaviour. Here, we’ll discuss why it’s important to start training your puppy as soon as you bring them home, and how an in-home trainer can help you get started. Socialization Socialization is an important aspect of a puppy’s life and it is best to start as soon as possible. A well-socialized puppy is more likely to be confident, friendly, and well-behaved...
Read More
If you are a pet owner in Sherwood Park, Alberta, it is important to understand the importance of licensing your pet. Pet licensing is not only a requirement by law, but it also provides numerous benefits for both pet owners and the community. In this blog post, we will discuss why pet licensing is so important and what it entails. Why License Your Pet? Legal Requirements: In Sherwood Park, all pets must be licensed according to the Animal Licensing Bylaw. This bylaw requires all pet owners to obtain a license for each pet they own and to renew it annually....
Read More
Are you planning a trip but hesitant to leave your beloved feline companion behind? Whether you are leaving Edmonton for the weekend or a longer duration, Don’t worry, hiring a cat sitter can provide both you and your furry friend with peace of mind while you’re away. Here are 5 reasons why you should consider hiring a cat sitter: Familiarity and Consistency: Going away can be stressful for both you and your cat, but a cat sitter can provide your furry companion with the familiarity and consistency of their normal routine to keep them feeling happy and secure. Mental and...
Read More
Where To Get Your Pet’s Holiday Photo In Edmonton and Area? The Holidays are an exciting time of year! For those of you who celebrate Christmas, it’s a great time to get a fun photo of your pets with Santa! Many photo shoots take place in November, but there are still opportunities coming up and intp December to get your pet to sit up on Santa’s lap for an adorable picture! Some Holiday photoshoots are to raise funds for local rescues, charities while others are for profit. Make sure you pick which is better for your family. Either way, it’s...
Read More
It’s that time of the year again! You can’t deny that fall in Edmonton is stunning, but we all know it doesn’t last very long around here. That’s why you and your fur-baby have got to go for a fall adventure as soon as you can! From beautiful walks through gardens and trails, to short trips out of the city, to exploring markets, there is something for literally everyone and their dog to do this season. Here are our favourite pup-friendly fall activities in the Edmonton area! The Edmonton Corn Maze What an iconic fall outing! Located just southwest of...
Read More
It seems that we only really talk about black cats around Halloween, but did you know that August 17th is actually National Black Cat Appreciation Day? It’s a day to cherish the black cats in our community a little extra and to dismantle the stereotypes that they are put up against. Since there is a good deal of superstition and folklore surrounding not just black cats, but our dogs too, we thought we would take a minute to learn more about the origins of these stories! Who Ever Said Cats Were Unlucky? It is not fully known where the bad...
Read More
Did you know that July is National Pet Hydration Month? Don’t get us wrong, hydration is important all year round. Water is the basis for the biological processes and reactions that keep our pets alive, and also aids in the transport of essential nutrients and substances around their bodies! However, during the warm Edmonton summer months, our pets are at a greater risk for heat-related illness and dehydration. This is why we take July as the month to raise awareness about the importance of hydration. What Happens When Your Pet Is Dehydrated? On hot days, our pups lose more water...
Read More
Cats are known to boast about their independence, which has awarded them the reputation of being pretty low-maintenance pets, at least compared to dogs. But is that really the case? Definitely not! Our feline friends require a great deal of mental and physical stimulation, and social interaction. When these needs aren’t fulfilled, our cats become bored and can start to exhibit anxiety, aggression, excessive grooming, and undesirable behaviours like bathroom accidents and furniture scratching. There’s nothing low maintenance about that! Enrichment To The Rescue! Enriching your cat’s environment boosts their mental and physical health by keeping them stimulated, engaged, and active....
Read More
With June being National Pet Preparedness Month, and July 15 being National Pet Fire Safety Day, now is the time to talk about being all things prepared with your pets! Of course, it’s no fun planning for things to go wrong, but as we like to say: we prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Originally, National Pet Preparedness Month was set for June to mark the start of hurricane season as a reminder to families to include their pets in their emergency plans. Lucky for us in Edmonton, we don’t have to particularly worry about hurricanes, but...
Read More
In your pursuit of the greatest job ever, you might have not considered being a Dog Walker or Jogger. If you are an animal lover who enjoys being outside, it would be a mistake not to add Dog Jogger to your job search roster. We may be biased, but we think it’s truly a great position, and here are a few reasons why! The Health Benefits Being a Dog Walker in Edmonton undoubtedly helps promote your mental and physical health. Our Dog Joggers spend multiple hours walking and running each shift, so they have no problem getting ten thousand steps...
Read More
May is Lyme disease awareness month in Canada. Lyme disease is a bacterial illness that affects both humans and pets. It is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected tick, which like to occupy wooded and grassy areas like Edmonton’s River Valley. If the disease spreads through the body it can have devastating effects. The unfortunate thing about Lyme disease in dogs is that it is fairly common and can easily go unnoticed. What does Lyme disease look like in dogs? Lyme disease bacteria tends to localize in a dog’s kidneys and joints. This causes symptoms such as:...
Read More
Edmonton is home to many great things. Most notably the River Valley, Dog Jogs, and a fantastic collection of pet-friendly patios! We don’t know about you but we are so excited for patio season and even more excited that so many of our favourite local spots welcome our pups. Our goal is to visit as many pet-friendly places on this list as we can. We hope to add our personal reviews and pictures as we do so! We hope that you can find a patio on this list that you love and can enjoy with the whole family. Wherever you...
Read More
At Dog Jogs, we know dog poop. The various shapes, sizes, and colours… we have seen it all. It’s inevitable when you are a Dog Walker in Edmonton! They say dogs are a human’s best friend, but for dog walkers, their best friends are poop bags. Okay, enough with the crappy jokes! Here are 5 things you may not know about dog poop. 1. Dog poop is not a good fertilizer Some people may think that since cow manure is great for vegetation, dog poop is too. This is not the case! Dogs have a very different diet than cows,...
Read More
We get it, going away on trips or spending long days at work can be stressful knowing your dog is home alone! As pet parents we always want what is best for our pups, so here are a few reasons you should consider hiring a dog walker/jogger in Edmonton and area. Maintain Your Pet’s Routine Pets love routine. They know when it’s time for their daily walk and of course when it’s time for a meal. A solid routine can help reduce stress and anxiety for both you and your pets. Dog walkers can help ensure that your pups get...
Read More
Now that March is coming to a close, we can say that (hopefully) spring is about to be sprung in Edmonton. We know that means lots of you will be getting back in the garden! Since we have a new season on the horizon, and March happens to be Pet Poison Awareness Month, we thought it would be the perfect time to share a list of common garden and houseplants that are dangerous to pets! What Makes Plants Poisonous to Pets? There are multiple groups of toxins in plants that pose health risks for our pets, but one common group...
Read More
It’s Tough to Choose! Picking out the gear that works best for your pup is no easy task! There are so many options on the market and so many perspectives on which gear is better, and we know it’s difficult to navigate all those varying opinions and the stacked aisles at the pet store. Here is a short and comprehensive description of the pros and cons of harnesses and collars! Pros of Harnesses The main thing that harnesses do for your dog is distribute pressure away from their neck. Most of the pros of harnesses revolve around this fact. The...
Read More
Just like in humans, dog anxiety comes in many forms. People can talk about their anxiety and what triggers it, and ask for what they need to help navigate their emotions, but we cannot communicate like this with our pups! With dogs, we have to rely on body language to tell us what makes our pup uncomfortable, which can be difficult to do if you don’t know what you are looking for. Here is a quick rundown of two types of dog anxiety, how they can manifest, and what you can do for prevention and treatment. Separation Anxiety This type...
Read More
Ah, the trials and tribulations of trying to keep your pet’s teeth clean. It could be the hardest part of your pet’s daily routine and you might dread the task as much as your pup, but we are here to remind you that it is all worth it! February is Pet Dental Health Month, so it’s a good time to get our facts straight and to amp up your routine. Most cats and dogs develop signs of dental disease by the time they turn three, and the bacteria on their teeth plaque can enter their bloodstream and cause life-threatening damage....
Read More
It’s hard to blame our pups for pulling on the leash sometimes! We know that in our Edmonton river valley there are so many stimuli like other pups, people, and smells that really lure our dogs in every direction. Mastering the art of the loose leash walk will ultimately make your walks more enjoyable and safe for you and your fur-baby, and also lays down a great foundation for learning other skills and behaviours. Doing this takes time and patience, but there are so many resources to help you on your pursuit to a loose leash walk! At Dog Jogs...
Read More
In many dog shows and in pop culture, purebred dogs are revered as the most wonderful pups with exceptional traits and beauty. Not to say that this isn’t true, but mutts are most definitely overlooked in the media. Not in our hearts! We think that Mutts in Edmonton are truly paw-some, and here are four reasons why. 1. Mutts may be Healthier Mutts have increased genetic variation compared to purebred dogs because mutts are the result of mixing two dog breeds with different genetic makeup. Some think that this makes mutts healthier and less likely to have serious conditions like...
Read More
Trust us, at Dog Jogs we know how tricky it can get to snap a cute picture of your pets. The constant zoomies and boundless energy can make the whole photoshoot ordeal a bit difficult, and with the holidays season in full swing there are so many festive photo-ops you do not want to miss out on. Here are a few of our favourite tips for ridiculously cute pet pics! Time of Day The time of day that you attempt to take some stellar photos is crucial. You want to consider at what points of the day your dog is...
Read More
November is National Diabetes Month. Diabetes is a condition that can affect our pets, and ourselves too. When left untreated, diabetes can have some serious effects on your pet’s body, so active prevention and watching for early signs of diabetes are key. Here’s what you need to know! What is Diabetes? The cells in your pet’s body (and yours too) use the compound glucose for energy. Insulin is made by the pancreas and is the hormone that controls glucose levels in the bloodstream. Insulin directs your cells to uptake more glucose from the bloodstream when necessary. This occurs particularly after...
Read More
We are nearing the end of 2021 and you know what that means, it’s just about time for the holidays!! Whether you have pets of your own or not, chances are, someone in your close circle definitely does. The holidays can be a busy and stressful time so figured we’d try to help out you figure out what to gift your loved ones who have pets! We have put together a list of local businesses, along with a couple fellow Canadian ‘out of province’ pet related companies. Let us know who your favourite companies are to support and who else...
Read More
Being a pet parent is no easy task. There are a lot of responsibilities that come with having a pet, and we all know that life can get pretty crazy. It can be difficult to slow down and take a moment to appreciate all of the things that our dogs can teach us. From simple reminders like “drink more water”, to more ubiquitous life lessons like “live in the moment”, our fur-babies embody them all. Here are a few of our favourite life lessons from our pups! 1. Live in The Moment Dogs love life! They don’t worry about what’s...
Read More
October is Adopt-A-Dog Month! Welcoming a new furry-friend into your home is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming for both you and your newest addition to the family. With some patience and preparation, your pup will have no trouble adjusting to their fur-ever home. Here are some tips to take some stress off that process! Get Your House Ready! Having your home set up for your dog’s arrival will help your pup feel safe and comfortable from the get-go. The change in environment is likely going to put your dog under a lot of stress, so setting...
Read More
Halloween is right around the corner! We don’t know about you, but we can’t wait for the big night. A cute dog in a Halloween costume is arguably cuter than a cute baby in a Halloween costume, but that’s a debate for another day. Although most dogs can be comfortable in a costume, they are certainly not for every dog. You know your pup best. Here are a few tips to help your fur-baby feel at ease in their Howl-oween costume! Choosing the Right Costume Your pup is much more likely to embrace their spooky outfit if their costume is...
Read More
It’s finally pumpkin season! With all the delicious pumpkin treats coming back again, you can’t help but feel a little sad that your fur-babies are missing out on all of the flavourful fall fun. So the question today is, can dogs and cats eat pumpkin too? As is turns out, pumpkin is not only totally safe for dogs and cats to consume, but it also packs a punch of beneficial properties for them! Let’s look into a few of pumpkin’s finest qualities. Nutrients galore Pumpkin is a low-calorie gourd which is rich in essential vitamins and nutrients. The most prominent...
Read More
We know many paw-rents that just adore small dog breeds, and what’s not to love? They’re endearing little companions who are perfect for homes with limited space, and these small pooches often make up for their size with huge personalities. Here’s some quick info on 5 dog breeds that stay small fur-ever! 1. Pomeranian Pomeranians are energetic and intelligent pups who generally grow to be 8-11 inches tall at the shoulders and 3-7 pounds. Their average lifespan is 12-16 years. These tiny pooches reach their full size when they are between seven and ten months old and are widely recognizable by...
Read More
What is International Cat Day? International Cat Day could very well be the greatest holiday of the year, so we aren’t kitten around when it comes to celebrating. Every cat owner pretty much celebrates their cats every day, but this is a real holiday for us feline-fanatics! The day was first celebrated by the International Fund for Animal Welfare or IFAW, which is a Canadian-based and one of the world’s largest animal welfare organizations. On a broad scope, the day aims to raise awareness on how to properly care for your cats, and to promote feline adoption! For all you...
Read More
Get out of the doghouse! Camping has always been an iconic summer activity, and now as we are coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic it’s a wonderful activity that allows for social distancing and safe outdoor gatherings! After many long months of isolation, it’s time to hit the parks! From hiking to delicious camp meals to nights by the fire, the memories you make camping are unforgettable, so why not let your pooch in on all the summer fun? Here are some ways to prepare for a doggone fun camping trip in Alberta. What to pack for your pup Camping...
Read More
Heat Exhaustion – It’s Ruff! Summer is not only about outdoor adventures with our fur babies but also hot temperatures. The truth is—we all get hot, even our dogs. But how do you know your pet is overheating, and why are our furbabies so sensitive to hot temperatures? Why are dogs more sensitive to heat than humans? Dogs generally have a more difficult time regulating their body temperature because they cannot sweat in the same way humans do. Although dogs have sweat glands that function similarly to humans, the only place where these glands work is in a pup’s paw...
Read More
Keeping your pups happy and healthy should always be a top priority, not just for their sake, but for your own too! Happy, healthy dogs mean less destruction in your home (does shoe chewing sound familiar?), less money spent on medication and vet visits, and more time for you and your dog to enjoy each other’s company! Vet Visits Regular vet visits not only help to ensure your pet is the proper weight but also aid in the screening of potential diseases your pet may or may not be displaying symptoms of. One of the most significant steps in achieving...
Read More
Getting a new dog (or puppy!) is an exciting time! No matter the age of your furriest new friend, many costs come with getting a dog. The financial commitment can be draining if you are not prepared. Realizing that you cannot afford ongoing care for your pet after getting a dog can lead to stress. There are many aspects of being a responsible pet owner. Financially providing for your pet is one. Here are 10 costs to be aware of before getting a pet: Adoption or Breeders Costs– Adoption fees usually range anywhere from $150–$500. These fees often include some...
Read More
So you’ve decided to hire a dog walker in Edmonton to help you care for your dog when you need a hand. But how do you decide who to hire?! While budget is part of the factor when searching for a dog walker in Edmonton (which you can read more about here), there are many variables to consider when picking a dog walker that’s right for you and your dog. 1. Know the Difference between a Hobbyist and a Professional A Hobby Sitter Hobby Sitters are typically people who love pets but offer pet sitting or dog walking on the...
Read More
Being a pet parent is a rewarding adventure but can also leave you feeling guilty. Especially when you struggle taking your dog out every day or even certain days of the week. Dogs need daily exercise to stay fit physically and mentally, and sometimes getting them out for a walk is the last thing on your list because life gets busy. While there are a few things to consider when searching for a dog walker in Edmonton, your budget is part of the factor. You may have found yourself asking a few of the following questions about how much a...
Read More
This month, we hope to bring awareness and help pet owners recognize the signs and symptoms of cancer in pets. Pet health is important every month of the year but, May is a great time to remind pet owners to book those checkups! Unfortunately, pets of all ages, breeds, and sizes can develop cancer. However, some dog breeds and older pets have a higher chance of developing cancer than others. Breeds like German Shepards, Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Rottweilers are all considered more likely to develop cancer. Early detection of cancer increases the chance of cancer going into...
Read More
Have you jumped on the air fryer train?? Honestly, if you haven’t yet, you may want to soon. We got ours about a year ago and initially were pretty skeptical but now have fully converted. And actually recommend an air fryer for practically any food! (Totally unsponsored haha!) Even for tasty snacks/treats for your pup! Recently, we ordered the dehydration rack to try out for our Ninja Foodi Grill. The first thing on the list, of course, beef stripes for our pup Layla! Who we have recently adopted from Companion Animal Welfare Society in Edmonton. CAWS provides help to pets in the Edmonton and...
Read More
Our next feature in our Edmonton Entrepreneur Spotlight is very special to our hearts! Teann Dhariwal from Mutt Love Photography, who barely needs an introduction, started her business ten years ago! She is not only incredibly talented in her craft, but she is also one of our oldest friends in the pet industry. Teann really knows how to capture your pets (and you) just as you envision and takes the time to get to know you to understand how to capture your fur family members. We can’t wait for you to get to know her to see just how amazing...
Read More
Ever wonder what it is like to be a dog walker in Edmonton? Here is your chance as Shannon shares some of her, and the team’s, experiences being a Dog Walker in Edmonton with Dog Jogs! Sometimes I feel like Mary Poppins as a dog walker in Edmonton. I carry a bag that has ALL of the things in it, and everyone I get to meet with is so excited to see me! (Of course, I use a car and not a magic umbrella to get around.) Preparation is key to a successful day as a dog walker, as with...
Read More
Here’s a fun way to include your dog in your Valentine’s Day celebrations. Since we humans can enjoy chocolates, cookies, and other delectables, why not have your dog join in on the fun? These Valentine heart beet treats are easy, fast, and fun to make! Like many of our other treat recipes, you only need a handful of ingredients. Ready to get started?!? Here is what you need! Equipment Measuring cup Measuring spoon Baking Sheet Mixing Bowls Food Processor Cooling Rack Fork or spatula Cookie Cutter Small Pot Rolling Pin Ingredients 2 Cups of Whole Wheat Flour (can substitute with...
Read More
Valentine’s Day is a day to spend with those you love the most and show them how much you love them. Typically, February 14th has been geared and marketed towards humans, but more pet owners are celebrating with their pets. But what can you do to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your pet in Edmonton? Here are some ideas: Get Active As you know, getting out and being active has many physical and mental benefits to you and your pet. Especially since many of us are home more often than usual. Why not grab a coffee from your favourite local coffee...
Read More
Who likes to spoil their pets with delicious treats? If you followed the Dog Jogs 12 days of Pet Giveaways back in December, you might recognize our next spotlight guest. They have been in the pet industry for a while and is one of Dog Jogs’ longest-running friends in the pet business. We know that Mutt Munch is one of Edmonton’s favourite dog and cat treat companies! We are so excited to hang out with the owner, and operator, Skye Klappstein. Let’s see what Skye has been up to and what she’s currently working on. DJ: Tell us a little...
Read More
For New Year’s Eve, we typically make a bunch of appetizers for dinner as a tradition. We like to indulge in it all, from cocktail shrimp, deep-fried pickles to wings and pretzels. As an Edmonton pet parent, we often include our pets in our celebrations where we can! This New Year’s Eve, we’re making doggy style pretzels for our pup to enjoy. Put a hold on the beer cheese for your dog’s pretzels, of course! Here’s what you’ll need to get started! Equipment Measuring cups Measuring spoons Baking Sheet Mixing Bowls or Machine Mixer Cooling Rack Ingredients 2 Cups of...
Read More
As an Edmontonian, you are definitely familiar with the harsh winters we can face. And as a dog owner, you also know how challenging it can be to ensure your dog gets their daily exercise in while keeping them safe from the elements. In extreme cases, if exposed to the elements too long, your dog could suffer from frostbite and even hypothermia. As a dog walking and jogging company in Edmonton, we can tell you that it is possible to walk your dog in the winter, but there are some things you can do to ensure their safety. What...
Read More