22/07/2025
Did you know? In Scotland, dog grooming, dog sitting/boarding and dog walking aren’t regulated industries.
That means anyone can offer these services without formal training, insurance, or safety checks. For owners who see their dogs as family (like most of us do!), that’s quite a scary thought.
So, how do you know who to trust?
Here’s what to look for when choosing a groomer, sitter/boarder or dog walker:
🐾 Qualifications and Experience
Are they trained? Do they hold recognised grooming qualifications like iPET, or have canine first aid knowledge?
🐾 Insurance and Safety Practices
Are they fully insured? Are safety procedures clear? Will they be caged? Will they be focused on your pet’s welfare at every step.
🐾 For Dog Walkers – Know the Limits!
Did you know professional dog walkers in Scotland should follow recommended best practice guidelines? The standard advice is:
✔️ No more than 6 dogs walked at once
✔️ Proper control and supervision at all times
✔️Pet first aid trained and understanding different breeds and canine behaviours
✔️ Fully insured and able to handle emergencies
Ask potential walkers how many dogs they walk together – and whether they’re trained to help in case of an emergency. Also there's a big difference in trying to control 6 German shepherds and 6 shihtzus.
🐾 Behaviour / Breed
Is the person trained and have good knowledge of breed traits, body language, the ability to recognise telling signs?
🐾 Pet-First Approach
Whether it’s grooming, walking, or sitting, your dog should always come first. No harsh handling, no rushing – just care, patience, and understanding.
🐾 Local Reputation
Check reviews, speak to other owners, and trust your instincts. Trusted, qualified businesses build their reputations through word of mouth and happy, waggy clients.
