MEET THE PACK
Sheepdog Brewing isn’t just a brewery, it’s a story of brotherhood, hard work, and a love for great beer. Allan, and Josh first met as firefighters in Canmore, bonding over long shifts, tough calls, and well-earned beers when the job was done. That camaraderie turned into a shared dream: creating a brewery that brings people together, just like their firehall days.
Brewing, pouring, or fixing things that definitely weren’t supposed to break, these two founders are the heart of Sheepdog Brewing.
Allan Russell
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR + GUARDIAN BREWER
Former soldier with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry and an Edmonton police officer, Allan is all about protecting and serving, on the front lines or behind the brew kettles.
What he does: Oversees production and ensures every batch is perfect. When he's not brewing, he’s fixing whatever breaks.
Fun fact: Allan created the Sheepdog Lodge, a retreat for first responders dealing with PTSD.
Signature brew: Every year, Allan brews a special Remembrance Beer, with profits going to veteran charities.
Important note: He has beer, not a beard. Let’s not get that confused.
Josh Forster
BUSINESS GURU, MASTER DISHWASHER FIXER
Started as a basement brewer, turned pro, and now runs the taprooms at both locations. Josh also built the Canmore and Banff spaces with his wife Jen.
What he does: Josh helps operate the Canmore and Banff taproom with Jen, ensuring that the customer experience is high and the staff are happy!
Fun fact: Josh once rode his bike from his house in Canmore to the brewery and had a pint in the sun! What an accomplishment...
Siganture brew: Anything cold and wet... preferably something clear like a Cold IPA.
Important note: Josh isn’t allowed in the brewery much these days - he sticks to taproom & wholesale accounts so he doesn't mess anything up.
two Families - labour of love
Meet the four people behind Sheepdog: Josh and Jen Forster, and Allan and Bonny-Lynn Russell.
Every corner of Sheepdog has been built by hand — literally. Josh and Allan have physically constructed all three of our locations, brick by brick, tap by tap. Jen brings it all to life with merchandise and the finishing touches that make each taproom feel like home, while Bonny-Lynn oversees our marketing and helps grow our wholesale partnerships.
There isn't a single part of this business that doesn't run through one of the four of us. And behind the scenes, our families make it possible — with grandparents and aunties stepping in for babysitting so we can keep building something we're proud of.
It really does take a pack.
ABOUT US
OUR BREWING JOURNEY
Why sheepdog?
The name Sheepdog Brewing isn’t just about a love for dogs (though we definitely love dogs). It’s a tribute to first responders, military, and veterans; the ones who stand watch and protect.
The term comes from an analogy used by a U.S. Army Ranger: society is like a flock of sheep, going about their daily lives. Outside the flock lurk wolves, those who prey on others. And then there’s the sheepdog, always watching, ready to step in and protect when danger comes. That spirit of service, loyalty, and community is what we bring to our brewery every day.