Interview: Bob's Dogs

The Magnificent Man Behind the Stand Bogdan "Bob" Izdebski Interview

Bogdan “Bob” Izdebski is the owner of Bob’s Dogs, a small hot dog stand located on the University of Guelph’s campus. Whether it be the middle of winter or the sweltering hot summer, Guelph students and faculty can always rely on Bob to greet them with a warm smile and a delicious sausage, hot dog, or veggie dog. Born in Warsaw Poland, Bob had a successful career as a child actor appearing in over 15 films. He then moved to Canada at 28 and worked at a factory for a short while before setting up his business on campus 21 years ago. He is now an integral part of the campus community and has made lasting impacts on thousands of students lives with his kindness and charm.

Students are the reason I’m here. I love students as they have open hearts and have welcomed me in greatly. It is a different world on campus, and I would love to stay here for as long as I can.

What do you enjoy about your work?

I love to provide the people who come to me with good quality food. I spend the money for good quality product, and it is worth it because it is supporting good people, and good people are enjoying it. I put all my heart inside these dogs and sausages, and I hope the people like it.

What is one thing that has stood out to you in your time at the University of Guelph?

One year long ago, I was running out of money. Foodservice tried to kick me out as I could not pay the rent. An Ecuadorian engineer student named Carlos Alberto Donoso wrote a letter to the school saying Bob is our guy and we need to keep him here. The school saw the letter and found a spot for me, where I am now. When I first come to my new shop, I saw thousands of people all screaming and chanting Bobs Dogs. I never expected something like that, it was a really nice surprise. I might not be able to make a living off my stand, but this part of my life will stick with me always. I love to talk to them, and they love to talk to me, so it makes us connected. It makes me happy seeing their smiles and the positivity they bring.

Have you been able to reconnect with any students who have graduated?

The people I have connected with are from all over the world. Whenever they come to Guelph, they always come to visit me with their spouces and their kids. Now some of those kids are students at the school too! It is so nice to see them, and they always come to me and say my parents were here and knew you and it is great to see you are still here.