Finding the best dog walkers for your precious furry family members is essential for their well-being. As fur parents, we want nothing but the best for our dogs.
However, with so many dog walking services around, it can be challenging to determine which one is the right fit for your dog’s needs. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered! Here, we’ll help you make the right choice by sharing some tips on how to pick the right individuals to look after your beloved pets.
8 Qualities to Look for in Professional Dog Walkers
Not all professional dog walkers are the same. To ensure that you’re leaving your dogs in capable hands, here are some qualities to look for when vetting potential candidates.
1. Certified
The best dog walkers are certified by accredited organisations or have completed relevant training. This certification is a testament to their knowledge and expertise in handling and caring for dogs, as well as shows their commitment to the job and their professionalism.
Certified dog walkers know how to handle different breeds, temperaments, and behaviours, ensuring the safety of your furry friends while on walks. They also have first aid training in case of any emergencies.
2. Insured
So, do these professionals need to have insurance? Absolutely, yes! Dog walking insurance protects your pooch in case of accidents or injuries during walks. It also covers any damage to property caused by your dog. Therefore, always check if the walker you’re considering is insured.
At a minimum, top-rated dog walking services carry a general liability policy, which covers any damage to property or individual, and a bonding policy, which protects against theft or loss of your pet in their care.
3. Experienced
Experience is invaluable when it comes to professional dog walkers. They have encountered different situations and are better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during walks. With experience, they have developed skills in managing various dog behaviours and know how to keep your dog calm and happy on walks.
Before hiring a dog walker, ask about the number of years they’ve been in the business and the type of dogs they have walked. Don’t be afraid to ask for references or read reviews from their previous clients.
Experienced dog walkers can also offer valuable advice on your dog’s behaviour or any health concerns, helping improve your furry friend’s overall well-being.
4. Excellent Communication Skills
When you use the services of dog walking experts, you want regular updates on your dog’s activities, whether they’re eating correctly or how their behaviour is. That’s why excellent communication skills are essential in a dog walker.
The best dog walkers will always keep you informed about how your pooch is doing while you’re away. They’ll provide real-time updates on walks and let you know if there are any issues to be aware of. They’ll also be responsive to your inquiries and address any concerns you may have.
5. Responsible
You’ll know how responsible a person is during the interview and first meeting with your pooch. Reliable dog walking providers will have an organised schedule, show up on time, and have a plan in place for emergencies. They’ll also respect your dog’s needs and ensure they stick to any dietary or medical requirements.
Moreover, they won’t just let your dog wander off—they’ll be attentive to their surroundings at all times and ensure the safety of your furry friend.
6. Respectful
A respectful dog walker is one who understands that each dog is unique and has different needs. They’ll respect your dog’s individuality, whether they’re shy or outgoing, energetic or mellow. They’ll also take note of any behavioural issues your dog may have and handle them with care. A respectful professional will always treat dogs with love and kindness while in their care.
7. Flexible
There are times when you may need to make last-minute changes to the dog walking schedule. A good dog walker will be flexible and able to adapt to these changes, provided they’re given enough notice. Life can be unpredictable, and having someone who understands this is crucial.
8. Deep Affection Towards Dogs
Last but definitely not least, the best dog walkers are those who genuinely love dogs. Dogs can sense when someone loves or dislikes them, and they’ll respond accordingly. Somebody with deep affection towards dogs will be able to form a connection with your furry friend.
Parting Thoughts
With this guide, you’re now well-equipped to find the best dog walkers for your furry family members. Trust your gut feeling and don’t hesitate to ask questions before entrusting your beloved pets to someone new. So, what are you waiting for? Start searching now and give Fido the love and care they deserve!
For more interesting life hacks, you can check out the other articles on our site!