Hello! I'm Jen. I'm a writer, photographer, dog mom, and outdoor enthusiast. When I'm not writing about awesome ways to get outside with your dog, I'm probably out for a long trail run. I also fancy myself a pretty decent vegan cook, and am always happy to whip up a batch of cookies for friends. I am based in the Pacific Northwest and I never leave home without my dogs.
This post contains affiliate links. Like many, I once believed that e-collar training was cruel. I thought positive reinforcement was the only right way to train a dog, until I had Laila. As much as I learned and worked with her, she just wasn’t as responsive to the training as I needed[...]
This post contains affiliate links. A coffee review? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Grounds & Hounds isn’t just any coffee, it’s coffee for dogs. Um. Coffee is poisonous for dogs, Jen. I know, I know. Stick with me. Grounds & Hounds is an online coffee retailer that[...]
The first day you bring home a new dog is exciting, especially if this is your first dog. I’ve learned so much about dogs since Sora and have completely changed how I behave around my dogs, especially during those first few weeks. As exciting as the new family addition is, remember that[...]
I don’t know how I ever lived with a dog before I knew the Place Command. Today, it is among my most important commands for my dogs and was the first thing I taught Sitka after I adopted him. The Place Command is a magical cue that can be used in a number of situations. It is the command[...]
This post contains affiliate links. Figuring out what food to pack for yourself for a backpacking or camping trip can be a struggle. At least I know it is for me! But it doesn’t need to be for your dog. Fortunately, there are a ton of great, high quality, freeze-dried and dehydrated dog[...]
Laila, the dog I never wanted, the dog that I struggled to love, the dog I wanted nothing to do with, led me to learn more about dogs and dog training than I ever imagined I would. Her outbursts, disappearing acts in the woods, propensity to chase after large animals, and inability[...]
This post contains affiliate links. While I prefer to run with my dog off leash when possible, there are times when you need a leash. I use and prefer to wear a hands-free dog leash when I hit the trails with my pup. I have been running with my dogs for many, many years. It is one of my[...]
If you’ve ever had a dog that has pulled during walks (and let’s face it, that’s probably most of us), then you know full well just how unpleasant the outings can be. I have been dragged down hills by dogs, tripped over dogs, and have hurt my back at sudden lunges. After[...]
This post contains affiliate links. Dogs count as children when it comes to Mother’s Day, right? In my book, absolutely. In fact, Dog Mom’s Day is even now a national holiday, celebrated the second Saturday in May. Luckily for all those dog moms out there, Etsy is full of[...]
Over the many years I’ve run with a four-legged friend by my side, I have tested several hands-free running leashes and certainly have my favorites. Iron Doggy is a small company based out of Austin, Texas that makes dog running leashes specifically with the runner in mind, and has[...]
Many people don’t realize that bloggers, such as myself, are small businesses. Since I am a part of that world, I do what I can to recommend products from small, sustainable businesses that I believe in and that are doing good work for this world. This is just one reason that I love going[...]
This post contains affiliate links. Stuck inside due to an injury, bad weather, or social isolation? During Coronavirus stay at home orders, I found myself at the crossroads of several factors that kept me from running: an annoying hamstring injury (mine), training (Sitka), and inability[...]
Long days on the road mean that you may not always have the opportunity to make sure that your dog gets the physical exercise they need. Mental stimulation is just as, if not more tiring than physical activity. Brain games prevent boredom, strengthen your bond, and teach you both to work[...]
This post contains affiliate links. Sometimes, the most challenging part about camping is putting together all the gear you need and making sure you don’t forget anything important for a night outside. To help you head outdoors, I’ve put together a list of the car camping essentials[...]
This post contains affiliate links. Flying with a dog as cargo is a stressful experience for both the dog and their human. While the media report tragic incidents as a result of flying, the truth is nearly half a million pets fly annually, most arriving safely to their destination. The[...]
This post contains affiliate links. Harsh weather conditions like snow and ice, heat, or rough surfaces like sand can burn, tear, or cut your dog’s paws. Dog paw wax provides a barrier between your dog’s paw and the surface, protecting them from damage. Musher’s Secret[...]