03/06/2026
I have recently seen many posts on social media about incidents involving dog walkers. I have always chosen not to engage in these discussions because, generally speaking, that's the approach many professionals in the industry take. However, I feel that I need to take this opportunity to educate people about the importance of choosing the right person to care for their dog.
Before I continue, I want to make one thing clear: I do not think I am the best dog walker out there, and I certainly don't think I am perfect. Like anyone working with animals, I am always learning and developing my knowledge. What I do strive for, however, is maintaining a high standard of care, safety, and welfare on every walk.
Not everyone who advertises themselves as a dog walker has the knowledge, experience, or skills required to keep dogs safe. As dog owners, we have a responsibility to look beyond social media pages, fancy vans, and attractive pricing and ask important questions before placing our dogs in someone else's care.
When choosing a dog walker, ask yourself:
🐾 Are they insured?
🐾 Do they have relevant qualifications or ongoing education?
🐾 How many dogs do they walk at one time?
🐾 How do they introduce new dogs into existing groups?
🐾 What safety procedures do they have in place?
🐾 How do they manage dog interactions and group dynamics?
These are basic questions that any professional dog walker should be able to answer confidently and transparently. If they can't answer them, avoid the question, or seem unwilling to discuss their processes, then perhaps you should be looking elsewhere.
For me, safety starts long before we even get to the walking field.
I don't cram large numbers of dogs into a van or stuff multiple dogs into the same crate. I try to keep my groups small and manageable so that I can give each dog the attention they deserve and properly monitor their interactions.
When introducing a new dog to a group, I carefully assess how everyone feels about the arrangement. If a dog isn't comfortable, if the group dynamics aren't right, or if I feel it isn't in the best interests of the dogs involved, I will either move them to a different group or be honest with the owner and explain that we may not be the right fit. Not every dog belongs in every group, and that's okay.
I never open the van doors and allow dogs to pile out and run freely around a car park. Every dog starts and ends their walk on a lead. This isn't because I don't trust the dogs; it's because safety comes first. Once we are in a safe and suitable environment, dogs that have appropriate recall and permission from their owners can absolutely enjoy off-lead freedom.
I also avoid intentionally meeting up with other dog walking groups. Even if I know every dog in my care, I don't know the dogs we may encounter. Rather than taking unnecessary risks, I choose to create space, change direction, or move away when needed.
The dogs in my groups love to play, and social interaction is an important part of their experience. However, I don't allow excitement to escalate unchecked. Dogs, like people, can become overstimulated. That's why I regularly implement breaks, encourage calm behaviour, and make sure everyone has the opportunity to relax and reset before continuing the fun.
None of these practices make me perfect. They simply reflect my belief that professional dog walking should be about far more than getting dogs from A to B. It should be about understanding behaviour, managing risk, advocating for welfare, and making thoughtful decisions every single day.
This post isn't aimed at any individual or business. It is simply a reminder to dog owners that who you choose to trust with your dog matters. Ask questions. Do your research. Look beyond the photos and marketing and focus on the standards, knowledge, and safety measures that are in place.
Those who know me know that dogs are my life. Their welfare, safety, and happiness are at the heart of everything I do, both professionally and personally. The purpose of this post is not to criticise or target anyone, but simply to provide information and encourage dog owners to make informed decisions when choosing someone to care for their dogs. If this post helps even one owner ask a few extra questions or think more carefully about who they trust with their dog, then it has served its purpose.
Enjoy the lovely photo of Fast and Curious Dogs Management 🙈🐾🐾🥰
