Contact Us & FAQs

Pack walking is when a small, structured group of compatible dogs walk together under the guidance of a professional dog walker and trainer.

Dogs benefit from socialization, mental stimulation, and exercise while learning calm, balanced behavior within a group.

Active Paws focuses on structured pack walks with a training mindset.

Dogs are grouped based on:

• size

• temperament

• energy level

• walking style

This allows dogs to learn calm behavior, social skills, and proper leash manners while getting the exercise they need.

Most pack walks take place at large off-leash parks in South-West Edmonton, including Terwillegar Off-Leash Park and other nearby natural spaces.

These locations provide dogs with safe areas to explore, run, and socialize.

Pack walks typically last about one hour, plus transportation time.

Your dog’s total adventure usually lasts 1.5–4 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Packs are kept small and carefully managed to ensure safety and proper supervision.

Dogs are grouped based on compatibility, not simply availability.

Safety is the highest priority. Active Paws uses:

• professional dog handling experience

• compatible pack groupings

• GPS tracking during walks

• proper equipment and harnesses

• safe vehicle transport

Dogs are always supervised and monitored for stress, fatigue, and behavior.

Yes. Dogs are secured with proper harness attachments or safe crate systems to ensure safe transportation to and from parks.

Dog safety comes first.

Walks may be modified, shortened, or rescheduled during extreme weather such as:

• severe cold

• dangerous heat

• heavy storms

• unsafe park conditions

In the unlikely event of an injury or medical concern:

1. The dog will receive immediate care.

2. The owner will be contacted right away.

3. If necessary, the dog will be taken to the veterinarian listed on the client profile.

A veterinary release form is part of the onboarding process.

The process begins with a Meet & Greet at your home.

After the Meet & Greet, your dog will complete either:

• Pack Prep Program (for dogs new to pack walking), or

• Extended Evaluation (for dogs with previous pack walking experience).

The Meet & Greet is a short visit where we:

• meet you and your dog

• review your dog’s personality and history

• collect keys and paperwork

• answer questions about the service

This visit ensures your dog is a good fit for pack walking.

Pack Prep consists of three individual walks designed to prepare your dog for group walking.

During this time we work on:

• leash skills

• confidence

• listening skills

• introduction to the walking structure

This helps ensure a safe transition into pack walks.

Not every dog is suited for pack walking.

Dogs must be:

• friendly with other dogs

• comfortable in a group environment

• non-aggressive toward people or dogs

If pack walking is not the right fit, alternative options may be discussed.

To create balanced packs, Active Paws assigns pack days based on compatibility.

Clients do not choose specific days. This allows dogs to walk with the most suitable group.

Yes. Dogs must walk at least two times per week to maintain pack consistency and proper exercise.

Active Paws operates on a monthly membership model.

Membership includes:

• reserved pack spots

• consistent scheduling

• ongoing behavior tracking

• priority scheduling

The monthly Membership & Safety Fee covers:

• GPS tracking

• liability insurance

• secure recordkeeping

• scheduling management

• behavior tracking notes

Advance notice is required for cancellations.

Specific cancellation policies are outlined in the client service agreement.

Weekend Warrior is an optional Saturday adventure outing.

These trips may include:

• longer nature walks

• hiking locations outside the city

• extra exploration time

Spots are limited to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Active Paws integrates training principles into every walk, including:

• leash manners

• calm pack behavior

• confidence building

• socialization skills

Additional training services are available if any dog needs more support.

Yes. Clients receive updates and notes about their dog’s behavior, progress, and pack dynamics.

Dogs must have:

• a properly fitted harness

• identification tags

• up-to-date vaccinations

Full equipment requirements are provided during onboarding.

Not at all. Many dogs joining Active Paws are new to structured pack walks.

That’s exactly why every new dog completes the Pack Prep Program, which includes three individual walks designed to build confidence, improve leash skills, and introduce the structure used during group walks.

This preparation helps ensure your dog is comfortable and ready to join a compatible pack.

Possibly. Some shy dogs actually gain confidence from calm pack environments.

During the Meet & Greet and Pack Prep walks, we assess:

• your dog’s comfort level

• body language

• social confidence

If your dog is a good candidate, we introduce them slowly to the right group of dogs so they feel safe and supported.

Yes. Pack walking is especially beneficial for high-energy dogs.

The combination of:

• structured walking

• mental stimulation

• social interaction

• off-leash exploration

helps burn energy in a healthy and balanced way.

Dogs are grouped with others that match their energy level and play style.

Yes, many senior dogs enjoy pack walks.

Older dogs are typically placed in slower paced groups and may walk on different days with dogs that have similar energy levels.

Exercise helps senior dogs maintain:

• mobility

• mental stimulation

• overall well-being

Active Paws currently specializes in medium to large size dog packs.

Because pack walking involves group dynamics and off-leash environments, dogs need to be similar in size, pace, and play style to ensure a safe experience for everyone.

Very small dogs may not be the best fit for the current pack structure.

As Active Paws expands in the future, smaller dog groups may be introduced.

Not necessarily. Many dogs benefit from the structured environment of pack walking.

During Pack Prep we work on:

• leash manners

• calm walking behavior

• responsiveness

Many owners notice improvement in their dog’s leash behavior after regular pack walks.

That’s okay.

Dogs are only allowed off leash when it is safe and appropriate for them. Some dogs may remain on leash while they build confidence and learn pack behavior.

Each dog progresses at their own pace.

This is very common.

The Pack Prep walks allow your dog to gradually become familiar with:

• the walker

• transportation

• walking structure

• outdoor environments

Confidence builds naturally when dogs have consistent routines and leadership.

Pack walking may or may not be the right fit depending on your dog’s behavior.

During the Meet & Greet and evaluation walks we assess how your dog responds to other dogs.

If pack walking is not suitable, we will always prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being.

IteYes. Many owners notice their dogs become:

• calmer at home

• more relaxed in the evening

• less destructive

after regular pack walks.

Dogs benefit from both physical exercise and mental stimulation during group walks.

Your dog’s well-being always comes first.

If during the evaluation we determine pack walking isn’t the right environment for your dog, we will discuss that openly and honestly.

Not every dog enjoys group environments, and that’s okay.

Outdoor adventures sometimes come with a little dirt.

Dogs may be towel dried before returning home, but pack walks are designed to give dogs the freedom to explore nature.

Many owners consider a slightly muddy dog a sign of a great adventure.

Part of pack walking is helping dogs learn calm, structured behavior.

Dogs naturally mirror the behavior of the group, and many improve their focus and responsiveness over time.

Many dogs with mild separation anxiety actually benefit from pack walks.

Exercise and social interaction often help reduce:

• pent-up energy

• boredom

• stress

A tired and fulfilled dog is often a calmer dog at home.

Dogs are carefully grouped based on play style and temperament.

Rough or overwhelming play is redirected to ensure a safe and positive environment for all dogs.