5 Key Things to Tell Your New Dog Walker for Safe Care

Many modern dog owners rely on professional dog walkers and sitters to provide essential care when they are out for long periods. A good dog walker ensures your dog gets exercise, mental stimulation, and a mid-day break from being alone, supporting their wellbeing and happiness.

Selecting a reputable dog walker who is experienced, insured and trustworthy is a vital first step. Once chosen, clear, concise communication with your walker will help create a positive experience for your dog and the walker alike.

While it is important to share necessary information about your dog’s temperament and health, overwhelming the walker with excessive or obvious details can be counterproductive. Professional walkers know the right questions to ask and will seek important information like lead location and handling instructions.

Here are five key things you should always tell your new dog walker to help ensure your dog’s walks are safe, enjoyable and stress-free.

If your dog is not well socialised

Most professional dog walkers walk dogs in small, carefully managed groups to provide social benefits along with exercise. If your dog is not used to socialising, becomes anxious or aggressive around other dogs, inform the walker. This allows them to manage the group dynamics safely and potentially offer initial one-on-one trial walks to help your dog adjust.

If your dog has issues with specific local dogs or breeds

Some dogs have had negative experiences with certain dogs or types of dogs and may react unpredictably when encountering them again. Sharing this information helps the walker watch for problem dogs and plan routes or groupings that avoid stress triggers for your dog.

Phobias or specific behavioural issues your dog has

Behavioural challenges like fear of traffic noise, darting off when frightened, or foraging in rubbish can affect safety during walks. If your dog has such issues, tell the walker so they can be alert and use appropriate handling techniques, ensuring your dog and others around stay safe.

How responsive your dog is to commands and recall

Reliable recall and obedience are vital for safe off-lead walking. Discuss with your walker whether your dog can be trusted off lead, where, and under what conditions. If the recall is poor, request that your dog always remains on lead during walks to prevent escapes.

If your dog is possessive or territorial

Territoriality can manifest as guarding the home or certain possessions, and dogs often behave differently when their owner is absent. Let your walker know if your dog is defensive about visitors or possessive of toys and food so the walker can take appropriate precautions. Helping your dog and walker build trust together may include gradual introductions and consistent routines.

Open, honest communication with your dog walker from the start, coupled with choosing a responsible, experienced professional, will ensure your dog’s care is safe and loving when you can’t be there yourself. Clear instructions help the walker understand your dog's needs, making every walk a positive experience.