5. Go for a test walk
You should have a test walk with the dog walker accompanying your dog before you leave them alone with the walker. Let them ‘take control’ by holding the dog’s leash, directing their attention, etc.
What they do when they meet your dog is a good indicator of whether or not they will be able to walk your dog, especially if your dog is dominant on the leash, anxious, or violent.
You should have a test walk with the dog walker accompanying your dog before you leave them alone with the walker. Let them ‘take control’ by holding the dog’s leash, directing their attention, etc.
What they do when they meet your dog is a good indicator of whether or not they will be able to walk your dog, especially if your dog is dominant on the leash, anxious, or violent.
6. Ask the right questions
You need to make sure your dog walker is competent and informed by asking them a series of questions. You should be aware of:
- What times of the day they will take your dog out?
- Where do they plan on walking your dog?
- Whether they are comfortable handling medical needs?
- What would they do in an emergency?
- How long will the walks be?
- Who will be walking the dog?
- How long have they been walking dogs?
- What are their training methods?
- What types of dogs will your dog be walked with, and how many at a time?
- How do they manage conflict between dogs when out on a walk?
- Do they check all dogs are up to date with vaccinations and flea and worming treatments?
- Do they wipe down your dog after a walk before letting them back into the home?
Information You Should Provide to Your Dog Walker
- Dog age, name, breed, approximate weight, and home address
- History of health problems and contact information of your veterinarian
- Current medication list and dosage instructions if you ask them to administer.
- Foods you allow your pup to eat (people, dog, and treat quantity)
- Any behavioral clues that are helpful for the walker, such as he tends to chase cars, does not like kids, or is aggressive towards poodles
