About Us
Top Dogs began as Big Walkies back in 2009. It was established by Ruth and run from her home in Muswell Hill but grew to the point where it became necessary to have premises.
In 2016 she took over the Ruff Mutts grooming parlour and Doggie Daycare business. The two packs joined up successfully and became Top Dogs.
Ruth
The owner is Ruth Gillbanks, who has been working with dogs since she owned a boarding kennels in Worcestershire in 1996.
Her own canine companions since then have been a Bullmastiff, a Greyhound, a Jack Russell cross, a Rottweiler and now two small rescue dogs from Romania. Every breed and type of dog has its own special charm!
Barney
Barney has been a Top Dogs Walker since early 2022. He is most often walking in Alexandra Palace or at our premises minding the daycare dogs.
Danielle
Danielle has been a full time walker and driver at Top Dogs since November 2024. She is usually to be found at Coldfall Woods with her pack. The Cockapoos and Dachshunds are devoted to her.
Janet
Janet has been a local dog walker for many years. She ran her own pack in Bounds Green for that time but is now semi-retired and works at our base part time as the daycare manager, caring for dogs on site. Janet has been with Top Dogs since September of 2021. Ethel is her own ever present companion.
Garry
Garry has been a groomer with us since 2021. It was a career change for him, but he is now very proficient and has the experience to achieve great results. He is a favourite for many of the dogs because of his calm and gentle manner.
Rochelle
Rochelle started at Top Dogs doing work experience in 2023, helping to walk dogs and later assist in grooming. From there she decided to make her career with animals and has completed a grooming course, becoming very skilled. After she gained her qualifications in 2025, she joined Garry on the grooming team and has been a great asset.