Choosing a dog walker is an important decision that affects your dog’s well-being and happiness. Not to mention your peace of mind for times you are working or travelling and cannot personally walk your dog. A dog walker is your dogs protector and companion on its daily walk- think of a dog walker as a “step-in” pet owner.
They take your place, so when you choose a dog walker look for a person who shares your views and acts as you would with your dog. A person with a leash in their hand and the dog at the other end is not a dog walker! Read, repeat and re read that statement.
Here are 5 top tips to help you select the best one:
1. Look for Experience and Certifications
Choose a dog walker with experience handling dogs of various breeds and temperaments. Check for relevant certifications, such as pet first aid or dog behavior training. This does not mean that a person without certifications are unsuitable. Practical experience can often be more valuable than certifications. However, if you can find a combination of a certified and experienced dog walker you’ve probably struck gold!
2. Verify References and Reviews
Ask for references from past or current clients. Check online reviews or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor for recommendations.
3. Meet and Observe
Arrange a meet-and-greet to observe how the walker interacts with your dog. Pay attention to their energy, communication, and comfort level around dogs.
4. Assess Their Policies
Confirm the walker’s availability and flexibility with your schedule. Ask about their protocol for emergencies, bad weather, or cancellations.
5. Test Compatibility
Go on a trial walk to see how your dog reacts to the walker. Look for someone who makes your dog feel calm, happy, and engaged. Trust your dog’s instinct more than your own. Is your dog happy when they meet the potential walker? If yes, give the person a try.
Do Men or Women Make Better Dog Walkers?
There’s no universal answer—it depends on the dog and the walker’s individual skills rather than their gender. Dogs may respond differently based on their past experiences with men and women. This is especially true of rescued and abandoned adult dogs. Since we never really know the back story of an abandoned dog, it is worth investing the time to observe their body language and comfort levels with both a male and female dog walker.
What is the ideal time to introduce a dog walker to my puppy?
Introducing a dog walker to your puppy at the right time helps them form a positive bond and ensures your pup is well-socialized and comfortable. Here are some tips to determine the ideal timing:
1. After Basic Vaccinations
Wait until your puppy has completed their first round of vaccinations, typically around 12–16 weeks of age, to ensure they’re protected during walks.
2. Once They’re Comfortable on a Leash
Start leash training early. A puppy that can walk on a leash and follow basic commands will have a smoother transition to walking with someone new.
3. During Socialization Windows
Puppies are most receptive to new experiences between 8–16 weeks old. Introducing a dog walker during this period helps them become comfortable with new people and environments.
4. When You Need Support
If you’re unable to provide enough walks due to a busy schedule or other commitments, it’s time to bring in a walker to maintain your puppy’s routine.
5. Gradual Transition
Start with short, supervised introductions where you and the walker take the puppy out together. Gradually increase the walker’s responsibility as your puppy becomes more confident.
Since your golden puppy is already socializing and learning basic commands, now could be an excellent time to introduce a dog walker if they’ve mastered some leash manners and you’re ready to transition walks.
Shelter dogs may have a history of abuse or abandonment. Take that into consideration when you choose a walker.
I adopted a dog from a shelter.
Should I take the Dog walker to the shelter & introduce them?
Introducing the dog walker to the shelter where you adopted your dog can be beneficial in certain situations, but it’s not always necessary. Let’s help you decide:
When It’s a Good Idea
- If the Dog Has a Traumatized Past
- Shelter staff often know the dog’s background and behavior. They can share insights about the dog’s triggers, preferences, and walking habits with the dog walker.
- If Your Dog is Still Adjusting
- If your dog is shy, anxious, or reactive, involving the shelter staff in the introduction can provide a familiar environment and help ease their transition to meeting someone new. It is important to know if your dog has a difficult past if they are afraid of men or women. This can reduce over time, but can be a trigger in the initial stages of adoption and adjustment.
- If There Are Behavior Notes
- Some shelters provide detailed behavior notes or training recommendations. Sharing this information directly with the dog walker ensures continuity.
When It’s Not Necessary
If Your Dog is Well-Adjusted
If your dog has already acclimated to your home and routine, it’s more valuable for the walker to meet your dog in a familiar setting, like your home or a nearby park.
If the Shelter Isn’t Close By
A simple conversation with the shelter staff or sharing any written behavior notes with the walker can suffice. This can be over come by introducing your walker and dog as soon as possible once your dog is home.
Alternative Steps
- Bring Shelter Notes or Recommendations: Share any training routines or tips the shelter provided with the walker.
- Arrange a Meet-and-Greet in a Familiar Place: Let your dog meet the walker in a low-stress environment where they feel safe, like your home or yard.
Key Focus
The goal is to ensure your dog is comfortable and the walker understands their needs. Tailor the introduction process to your dog’s personality and past experiences.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Afraid of the Dog Walker
Is my dog afraid of my dog walker? What signs should I look for?
It’s essential to observe your dog’s behavior to determine if they are afraid of your dog walker. Dogs communicate discomfort or fear through body language and actions. Here are some key signs to watch for:
Key signs to watch for
- Avoidance Behavior
- Hiding or retreating when the walker arrives. Refusing to approach or avoiding eye contact with the walker.
- Body Language
Tail tucked between their legs. Ears pinned back or flat against the head. Cowering or lowering their body posture. - Stress Indicator
Excessive yawning, licking lips, or panting (when it’s not hot). Trembling or shaking. Drooling more than usual. - Unusual Behavior During or After Walks
Reluctance to leave the house with the walker. Acting withdrawn, anxious, or overexcited when they return from a walk. - Aggressive or Defensive Actions
Growling, barking, or snapping when the walker approaches.
Hair standing up on their back (piloerection).
How to Address It
- Observe Interactions
Watch how the walker approaches your dog. Do they use calm, gentle movements? Ensure they use positive reinforcement, not force or intimidation. - Ask the Walker for Feedback
Check if the walker has noticed any difficulties. A good walker should provide insights into your dog’s behavior on walks. - Try Gradual Introduction
If your dog is new to the walker, try short, supervised visits where you’re present to build trust. - Rule Out Medical Issues
If your dog’s behavior changes suddenly, consult your vet to rule out any underlying health issues. - Consider a Different Walker
Sometimes, it’s a matter of chemistry. If the fear persists, it might be best to find a new walker with whom your dog feels more comfortable.
Key Insight
Your dog should feel excited and happy to see their walker. If fear signs are present, address them promptly to ensure your pup feels safe and cared for during walks. Make sure you observe
Best websites on the internet to search for reputable Dog walkers
When looking for reputable dog walkers, it’s essential to use trusted platforms that vet their service providers, offer reviews, and provide secure ways to connect. Here are some of the best websites to search for reliable dog walkers:
1. Rover
Website: rover.com
Why It’s Great: Extensive network of dog walkers and sitters. Detailed profiles with reviews, certifications, and experience. 24/7 support and insurance for services booked through the platform.
2. Wag!
Website: wagwalking.com
Why It’s Great: Offers dog walking, boarding, and training services. Their walkers go through background checks and training. GPS tracking of walks and instant report cards.
3. Care.com
Website: care.com
Why It’s Great: A broad platform for pet care services, including dog walking. Profiles include ratings, experience, and background checks. Allows you to directly interview candidates.
4. PetBacker
Website: petbacker.com
Why It’s Great: Connects pet owners with local walkers, sitters, and other pet care providers. Detailed reviews and profiles for each service provider. Offers a secure booking system with insurance coverage.
5. TrustedHousesitters
Website: trustedhousesitters.com
Why It’s Great: Primarily for pet sitting but often includes dog walking services. Walkers are pet enthusiasts who may offer services in exchange for accommodations. Reviews and verification process ensure reliability.
Best Practices for Choosing a Walker Online
- Always read reviews and verify credentials. If possible contact pet families who have used their services.
- Arrange a meet-and-greet to assess compatibility. Ideally meet at a neutral place – maybe your neighbourhood park. Take your dog with you and observe their initial reaction to the person.
- Ensure the platform offers insurance or guarantees for services. Whilst this is important, it should not be the only factor which influences your decision.
Disclaimer: Oliver Pet Care does not partner with any of the listed companies, nor do we earn from you using their services. This list is purely informational in nature. Please do your due diligence for any service you engage for your pets.
