Choosing the right dog walker is about much more than finding someone who loves dogs. This comprehensive guide explains the questions every owner should ask before trusting someone with their dog, home, and daily routine.
Choosing a Dog Walker Is One of the Most Important Decisions You’ll Make
Whether you need regular weekday walks, occasional help during busy periods or support following an injury or illness, choosing a dog walker is a decision that deserves careful thought.
For many owners, a dog walker becomes an important part of their dog’s life. They aren’t simply collecting your dog for exercise; they’re responsible for your dog’s welfare, safety and happiness while in their care. In many cases, they’ll also have access to your home, your keys and your daily routine.
Unlike some professions, dog walking is not currently regulated in the UK. There is no legal requirement for someone to qualify to advertise their services. This means standards can vary considerably, making it even more important for owners to ask the right questions before making a decision.
A professional dog walker should never be offended by sensible questions. In fact, most welcome them because they demonstrate that you care about your dog’s wellbeing.
This guide explains the key questions to ask, why they matter and what answers you should expect before trusting someone with your dog.
If you’re also wondering about the legal responsibilities of young dog walkers, you may find our guide, Can Children Walk Dogs in the UK?, helpful.
Why Asking Questions Matters
Many owners begin their search by looking at reviews, recommendations or prices.
While these are all useful, they only tell part of the story.
A five-star review cannot tell you whether someone carries appropriate insurance. A low price doesn’t tell you how many dogs are walked together. Likewise, a smart website doesn’t automatically mean a business follows professional standards.
The questions you ask before booking can reveal far more about how a dog walker operates than any advert or social media page.
Professional dog walkers should be transparent about:
- Their experience.
- Their insurance.
- Their walking methods.
- Emergency procedures.
- Business policies.
- How they prioritise the welfare of every dog in their care.
These conversations help build trust and ensure both you and your dog feel comfortable before the first walk.
How Long Have You Been Walking Dogs Professionally?
Experience isn’t everything, but it can provide reassurance that someone has encountered a wide range of situations and developed practical skills for handling them.
For example, experienced dog walkers may already have dealt with:
- Dogs escaping from collars or harnesses.
- Unexpected veterinary emergencies.
- Severe weather.
- Dog-to-dog conflict.
- Nervous rescue dogs.
- Puppies learning to walk on a lead.
- Elderly dogs requiring slower walks.
Every dog teaches us something new, and experience often helps people remain calm in unexpected situations.
That said, years in business should never be the only factor you consider. Someone who has worked professionally for two years but continually updates their knowledge may be better equipped than someone who has done things the same way for twenty years.
Consider asking:
- Is dog walking your full-time business?
- How long have you been working professionally?
- What types of dogs do you usually walk?
- Have you cared for dogs similar to mine?
A reputable dog walker will be honest about their experience and should never claim to know everything.
Have You Worked With Dogs Like Mine?
Every dog is an individual.
Breed, age, health, personality and previous experiences all influence how a dog behaves and what they need from a walk.
For example, caring for an energetic adolescent Labrador can be very different from walking an elderly Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with arthritis. Likewise, supporting a recently adopted rescue dog requires a different approach to caring for a confident dog that has enjoyed social walks since puppyhood.
You may wish to ask whether the dog walker has experience with:
- Puppies.
- Senior dogs.
- Rescue dogs.
- Nervous dogs.
- Reactive dogs.
- Large breeds.
- Small breeds.
- Dogs with medical conditions.
- Dogs requiring medication.
Remember that experience doesn’t necessarily mean they have looked after your dog’s exact breed. What’s more important is whether they understand how to adapt their handling to suit the individual dog in front of them.
What Qualifications or Training Do You Have?
There is currently no legal requirement for dog walkers to hold formal qualifications.
However, many professionals choose to invest in training because learning about dog behaviour, welfare, and first aid improves the care they provide.
Training also demonstrates a commitment to maintaining professional standards rather than relying solely on personal experience.
You could ask whether they have completed courses in areas such as:
- Canine First Aid.
- Dog Body Language.
- Canine Behaviour.
- Animal Welfare.
- Safe Dog Handling.
- Pet Business Management.
It’s also worth asking whether they continue to update their knowledge.
The science surrounding dog behaviour and welfare continues to develop, and many professional walkers regularly attend webinars, seminars and workshops to stay informed.
Someone who enjoys learning is often someone who wants to provide the best possible care for the dogs they look after.
Are You Fully Insured?
Insurance is one of the most important questions you can ask, yet it’s often overlooked.
Professional dog walkers should be able to explain what insurance they hold and what it covers.
Policies vary between insurers, so don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
Areas of cover may include:
- Public Liability Insurance.
- Care, Custody and Control.
- Loss of Keys.
- Veterinary Fee Cover.
- Business Equipment.
- Vehicle Cover for transporting dogs.
Insurance protects both the business and the client should something unexpected happen.
If someone avoids answering questions about insurance or cannot explain what their policy covers, it’s reasonable to ask further questions before proceeding.
For a more detailed explanation of the different types of cover, read our guide: Why Dog Walker Insurance Matters.
Do You Hold Canine First Aid Training?
No one wants to think about emergencies.
However, dogs can become injured or unwell while out walking, just as they can at home.
A professional dog walker should know how to respond if a dog:
- Suffers heatstroke.
- Cuts a paw.
- Is stung by an insect.
- Chokes.
- Collapses.
- Is involved in an accident.
Canine First Aid training doesn’t replace veterinary treatment, but it can make an important difference while getting a dog safely to a vet.
Ask when their training was completed and whether they refresh it regularly.
Like many practical skills, first aid knowledge benefits from regular updates.
Do You Offer Solo or Group Dog Walks?
Every dog is different, and the type of walk that suits one dog may not suit another.
Some dogs thrive in carefully managed group walks where they can enjoy social interaction, while others are happier walking on their own. Puppies, elderly dogs, nervous dogs and those recovering from injury or surgery often benefit from a quieter, more personalised approach.
Ask whether the dog walker offers solo walks, group walks or both, and importantly, how they decide which service is most appropriate for each dog.
A professional dog walker should assess each dog individually rather than placing dogs together simply because they are booked for the same day.
You may also find our guide Choosing a Dog Walker helpful when deciding which service best suits your dog.
How Many Dogs Do You Walk at Once?
There is no single legal limit across England and Wales on the number of dogs a professional can walk. However, some local authorities include maximum numbers within licences, contracts or land agreements.
Rather than focusing solely on the number, ask how the walker manages the dogs in their care.
Consider asking:
- What is the maximum number of dogs you walk together?
- How do you supervise several dogs at once?
- Do you separate dogs if they become overwhelmed?
- Have you ever refused to add a dog to a group?
A professional should have clear reasons for their group sizes and be willing to explain how they maintain safety throughout the walk.
How Are Dogs Matched Together?
Dogs should never be grouped simply because they are available at the same time.
Responsible dog walkers consider many factors before introducing dogs to one another, including:
- Size and strength
- Play style
- Confidence
- Walking pace
- Age
- Medical conditions
- Recall
- Behaviour around unfamiliar dogs
Good group management is about creating calm, enjoyable walks rather than simply exercising as many dogs as possible.
How Long Will My Dog Actually Be Walked?
One of the most common misunderstandings is what constitutes a “one-hour walk.”
Some businesses advertise one-hour walks that include collecting and returning dogs. Others begin timing only when the walk itself starts.
Neither approach is necessarily wrong, but you should understand exactly what you’re paying for.
Ask:
- How long will my dog actually spend walking?
- Is travel included?
- How long will my dog be away from home?
Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings later.
Do Collection and Drop-Off Count?
If dogs are transported between homes and walking locations, ask how long collection and drop-off usually take.
Some owners are perfectly happy for their dog to spend time travelling, particularly if the destination offers excellent walking opportunities. Others may prefer shorter journeys or home-based walks.
A professional should be happy to explain their routine.
Will Every Walk Be Identical?
Dogs’ needs change throughout the year.
Heatwaves, icy weather, illness, veterinary advice or simply an older dog’s mobility may mean that a shorter walk is more appropriate.
Rather than sticking rigidly to the clock, experienced dog walkers adapt their service to protect the dog’s welfare.
The Blue Cross guide to exercising your dog safely provides useful advice on adapting exercise to weather conditions and individual needs.
Where Will You Walk My Dog?
It’s perfectly reasonable to ask where your dog will be exercised.
Different walkers use different locations depending on the dogs they care for.
These may include:
- Local parks
- Woodland
- Nature reserves
- Quiet residential routes
- Enclosed dog fields
- Open countryside
Knowing where your dog is likely to walk allows you to understand the environment and any potential risks.
Do You Carry Out Risk Assessments?
Professional dog walkers should continually assess their surroundings.
Potential hazards may include:
- Busy roads
- Livestock
- Flooding
- Broken glass
- Off-lead dogs
- Cyclists
- Horses
- Fallen trees
- Seasonal hazards
Risk assessment isn’t something completed once on paper—it’s an ongoing process throughout every walk.
Do You Use Secure Dog Fields?
Many professional dog walkers now use enclosed exercise fields for dogs requiring additional security.
Secure fields can be particularly useful for:
- Dogs with unreliable recall
- Newly adopted dogs
- Nervous dogs
- Dogs in training
However, even secure fields require careful management.
Ask how gates, fencing and previous users are checked before dogs are allowed to explore.
Will My Dog Be Allowed Off Lead?
Every owner should understand their dog walker’s off-lead policy before the first walk.
Some businesses specialise in on-lead walks only, while others allow suitable dogs off lead following assessment and written owner consent.
Ask:
- Will my dog ever be let off lead?
- How do you assess recall?
- Do you use long lines during training?
- Can I request on-lead walks only?
There should never be any uncertainty about this.
How Do You Assess Recall?
Good recall involves much more than a dog returning in a quiet park.
Professional dog walkers should assess how a dog responds around distractions such as:
- Other dogs
- Wildlife
- Children
- Cyclists
- Joggers
- Livestock
Many walkers will initially use a long line until they are confident that recall is reliable.
What Happens If a Dog Goes Missing?
Although rare, every professional should have a clear emergency procedure in place.
Ask what happens if:
- A lead breaks
- A collar fails
- A dog escapes
- A gate is left open
The answer should demonstrate preparation rather than simply saying, “It’s never happened.”
The GOV.UK guidance on controlling your dog in public explains owners’ legal responsibilities when dogs are in public places.
What Equipment Do You Use?
Safe equipment plays an important role in every walk.
Ask whether the dog walker uses your own equipment or supplies their own.
They should also check every collar, harness and lead before leaving your home.
Equipment can become damaged or loosen over time, particularly with growing puppies or active dogs.
Do You Use Slip Leads or Training Equipment?
Ask what equipment the walker uses routinely.
If they recommend a particular item, they should explain why and how it benefits your dog’s welfare.
Professional dog walkers should prioritise safe, humane handling methods and avoid equipment intended to cause pain or discomfort.
If you’re unsure about equipment choices, the RSPCA’s advice on collars, harnesses and leads is a useful independent resource.
What Identification Will My Dog Wear?
Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, dogs in public places must wear a collar with the owner’s name and address engraved on a tag or displayed on a plate attached to the collar.
Ask whether your dog walker checks identification before each walk and what information they recommend including on your dog’s tag.
How Will You Handle My Dog if They Become Frightened or Reactive?
Not every dog enjoys meeting unfamiliar dogs or people.
A professional dog walker should recognise that behaviour is a form of communication and adapt their handling accordingly.
Rather than forcing interactions, they should explain how they create distance, avoid known triggers and help keep your dog feeling safe.
Ask:
- Do you have experience with nervous or reactive dogs?
- How do you prevent conflict?
- What would you do if another dog approached unexpectedly?
Their answers should demonstrate patience, planning and an understanding of canine behaviour.
Can You Recognise Signs of Stress?
Many signs of stress are subtle and easily overlooked.
A knowledgeable dog walker should recognise behaviours such as:
- Lip licking
- Yawning
- Turning away
- Slowing down
- Freezing
- Avoiding eye contact
- Shaking off
- Sniffing the ground suddenly
Recognising these early signals allows the walker to intervene before a situation escalates.
If you’d like to learn more, read our guide to Understanding Dog Body Language.
What Training Methods Do You Use?
It’s worth asking every dog walker how they respond when a dog:
- Pulls on the lead
- Barks
- Lunges
- Becomes distracted
- Appears anxious
Look for answers that focus on calm handling, positive reinforcement and thoughtful management rather than punishment.
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 places a legal duty of care on anyone responsible for a dog to meet its welfare needs, including protecting it from unnecessary suffering. Understanding these responsibilities helps ensure your dog receives safe, compassionate care while away from home.
What Happens in an Emergency?
No one likes to think about emergencies, but they can happen without warning.
A dog may become injured, escape from a lead or harness, suffer heatstroke, or require urgent veterinary treatment. A professional dog walker should already have clear procedures in place, rather than making decisions under pressure.
Don’t be afraid to ask what would happen in different situations. An experienced professional will appreciate why you’re asking and should be able to explain their emergency procedures with confidence.
If the answer is vague or dismissive, it’s worth asking further questions.
What Happens if My Dog Is Injured?
Ask what the dog walker would do if your dog:
- Cut a paw.
- Became lame.
- Was involved in a dog fight.
- Was stung by an insect.
- Became ill during the walk.
- Showed signs of heatstroke.
Ideally, the walker should carry a basic canine first aid kit and hold current Canine First Aid training.
Remember, first aid is intended to stabilise a dog until veterinary treatment can be obtained; it is not a replacement for professional veterinary care.
You may also find our guide Why Dog Walker Insurance Matters useful, as many policies include emergency veterinary cover.
Which Vet Would You Use?
Ask whether your dog would be taken to:
- Your registered veterinary practice.
- The nearest emergency veterinary clinic.
- Another practice if your usual vet was closed.
You should also check:
- How owners are contacted.
- Whether the walker carries emergency contact details.
- Whether they have written permission to seek emergency treatment if you cannot be reached.
Keeping these details up to date is an important part of responsible pet ownership.
What Happens if My Dog Escapes?
No professional should ever say, “That could never happen.”
Even well-fitted equipment can fail unexpectedly.
Instead, ask:
- What would you do immediately?
- Who would you contact?
- Do you carry recent photographs of the dogs in your care?
- Would you contact the microchip database?
- Would you notify local vets?
A professional should already have an emergency action plan rather than relying on guesswork.
The Dogs Trust’s advice on keeping your dog safe offers useful information on identification and preventing your dog from becoming lost.
How Do You Manage Hot Weather, Cold Weather and Other Seasonal Risks?
Professional dog walking should always prioritise welfare over routine.
Extreme weather conditions require flexibility, and experienced walkers should adapt their service accordingly.
This may include:
- Walking earlier in the morning.
- Choosing shaded routes.
- Reducing walk duration.
- Providing home visits instead.
- Avoiding icy or flooded areas.
Ask how weather decisions are made rather than assuming every walk will proceed as normal.
What Happens During Heatwaves?
Dogs are far more susceptible to heat-related illness than people.
Walking during the hottest part of the day can significantly increase the risk of heatstroke.
Ask whether your walker:
- Checks pavement temperatures.
- Carries fresh water.
- Chooses shaded routes.
- Reduces exercise during hot weather.
- Cancels walks if conditions become unsafe.
The RSPCA’s advice on protecting dogs during hot weather is an excellent resource for understanding the risks.
How Do You Manage Winter Conditions?
Winter brings different challenges.
Ice, snow, flooding and poor visibility can all affect dog walks.
Ask whether routes are adjusted during severe weather and whether walks are shortened when conditions become unsafe.
Dogs with arthritis, mobility problems or very short coats may require additional consideration during colder months.
14. Will My Dog Travel in a Vehicle?
Many professional dog walkers transport dogs to quieter walking locations.
If this applies to your dog, ask how transportation is managed.
The vehicle should be clean, well ventilated and suitable for transporting dogs safely.
How Are Dogs Secured?
Dogs should never travel loose inside a vehicle.
Ask whether the business uses:
- Individual crates.
- Secure travel compartments.
- Crash-tested travel harnesses.
- Vehicle ventilation systems.
Dogs who are unfamiliar with one another should also be transported safely and appropriately.
Is the Vehicle Insured for Business Use?
Many owners don’t realise that transporting client dogs requires appropriate insurance.
Ask whether:
- The vehicle is insured for business use.
- Dogs are covered whilst travelling.
- Business insurance includes transportation.
This is particularly important if multiple dogs are transported together.
Our guide Why Dog Walker Insurance Matters explains the different types of insurance professional dog walkers should consider.
It should also be noted that I do not use vans or cars for my one-to-one walks, which is why one-to-one dog walks are sometimes better.
How Will You Keep My Home Secure?
Hiring a dog walker often means trusting someone with access to your home.
A professional should treat this responsibility seriously.
Ask how keys are managed and whether personal information is stored securely.
How Are Keys Stored?
Many businesses use coded key systems rather than attaching names or addresses to keys.
This helps protect clients should a key ever be misplaced.
You might ask:
- Are keys labelled?
- Where are they stored?
- Who has access?
- What happens if a key is lost?
Professional dog walkers should have procedures for each of these situations.
Do You Have Key Cover Insurance?
Replacing locks can be expensive.
Many professional insurance policies include key cover if client keys are lost or stolen.
Don’t hesitate to ask whether this forms part of the business’s insurance policy.
Who Else Has Access to My Home?
If the business employs staff or uses substitute walkers, ask:
- Who may enter my home?
- Will I meet them first?
- Are they insured?
- Will I be informed beforehand?
You should always know who is collecting your dog.
Our guide Preparing for a Meet and Greet explains why meeting the person who will actually walk your dog is so important.
Who Will Actually Walk My Dog?
This is one of the most important questions many owners forget to ask.
The person you meet during your consultation may not always be the person who collects your dog each day.
Ask whether:
- The same person walks your dog every time.
- The business uses employees.
- They use subcontractors.
- Holiday cover is provided.
- You will be informed if someone different attends.
Consistency can be particularly beneficial for nervous or anxious dogs.
Can Someone Under 18 Walk My Dog?
There is no legal minimum age for walking a dog in the UK.
However, if someone under the age of 16 is handling a dog, legal responsibility remains with the responsible adult under current legislation.
If a young person is involved in a professional dog walking business, ask:
- Who is legally responsible?
- Is the arrangement fully insured?
- Will an adult always be present?
- What experience do they have?
These questions are not about age—they are about understanding responsibility, safety and insurance.
For a detailed explanation, read our guide Can Children Walk Dogs in the UK? Law, Safety and Choosing a Dog Walker.
How Will We Communicate?
Good communication builds trust.
Ask how the dog walker keeps owners informed.
For example:
- Will you receive updates after each walk?
- Are photographs included?
- Will they contact you if your dog seems unwell?
- How quickly do they respond to messages?
Some owners prefer regular updates, while others want to know if there is a problem.
Discussing expectations early helps avoid misunderstandings.
Do You Have Written Policies and Terms?
A professional dog walking business should have written policies explaining how it operates.
These may include:
- Terms and Conditions.
- Cancellation Policy.
- Privacy Policy.
- Emergency Procedures.
- Complaints Procedure.
Written policies help ensure everyone understands their responsibilities before services begin.
You can view our own Policies and Standards to see the procedures we follow when caring for clients’ dogs.
Questions You Should Feel Comfortable Asking
Choosing a dog walker isn’t about finding someone who likes dogs.
You’re choosing someone to care for a family member.
Any professional should be happy to answer sensible questions about:
- Experience.
- Insurance.
- Welfare.
- Emergency procedures.
- Walking methods.
- Home security.
- Communication.
If someone becomes defensive or unwilling to answer reasonable questions, consider whether they’re the right person to trust with your dog.
Asking questions isn’t being difficult; it’s part of being a responsible dog owner.
Red Flags When Choosing a Dog Walker
Most professional dog walkers work hard to provide a safe, reliable and caring service. However, as dog walking is not currently regulated in the UK, standards can vary considerably.
Knowing what to look out for can help you avoid problems before they arise.
A single concern may not necessarily mean someone is unsuitable, but several warning signs together should encourage you to ask more questions.
They Won’t Meet You Before the First Walk
A professional dog walker should always want to meet both you and your dog before providing any service.
The meet and greet is an opportunity to:
- Learn about your dog’s routine.
- Discuss medical conditions.
- Explain how the service works.
- Assess your dog’s behaviour.
- Answer your questions.
If someone offers to collect your dog without first meeting them, consider why.
You may also find our guide Preparing for a Meet and Greet helpful.
They Can’t Explain Their Insurance
Simply saying “I’m insured” isn’t enough.
A professional should understand what their policy covers and be happy to explain it.
Ask about:
- Public Liability Insurance.
- Care, Custody and Control.
- Key Cover.
- Vehicle Insurance.
- Emergency Veterinary Cover.
Read more in Why Dog Walker Insurance Matters.
They Don’t Ask Questions About Your Dog
A professional should be just as interested in learning about your dog as you are in learning about them.
They should ask about:
- Medical conditions.
- Medication.
- Behaviour.
- Recall.
- Reactivity.
- Veterinary details.
- Emergency contacts.
- Feeding routines.
If they don’t ask many questions, they may not be gathering enough information to care for your dog safely.
They Promise Every Dog Will Be Off Lead
There is no single approach that suits every dog.
A responsible dog walker assesses each dog individually before deciding whether off-lead exercise is appropriate.
Be cautious if someone guarantees that every dog will be let off lead regardless of their experience or recall.
The GOV.UK guidance on controlling your dog in public explains owners’ legal responsibilities when dogs are in public places.
They Walk Large Numbers of Dogs Without Explanation
If someone regularly walks several dogs together, ask how they manage them safely.
A professional should be able to explain:
- How dogs are matched.
- How behaviour is monitored.
- What happens if a dog becomes overwhelmed.
- How emergencies are managed.
The answer should demonstrate planning rather than convenience.
They Cannot Explain Emergency Procedures
Emergencies are rare, but they happen.
Ask what would happen if:
- A dog escaped.
- A dog became injured.
- A dog needed urgent veterinary treatment.
- The walker became ill.
A professional should already have clear procedures.
They Avoid Written Agreements
Professional businesses usually provide written information explaining how they operate.
This may include:
- Terms and Conditions.
- Cancellation Policy.
- Privacy Policy.
- Emergency Procedures.
Written policies help avoid misunderstandings and protect both the owner and the business.
They Become Defensive When You Ask Questions
Professional dog walkers understand that owners are placing enormous trust in them.
Questions should be welcomed rather than viewed as criticism.
If someone becomes irritated by reasonable questions, ask yourself how they might respond if a genuine concern arises later.
Green Flags That Show Professional Standards
Just as there are warning signs, there are also reassuring signs that suggest you’ve found someone who takes their responsibilities seriously.
They Welcome Your Questions
Professionals understand that informed owners make confident clients.
They should be happy to explain how they work and why they make certain decisions.
They Focus on Your Individual Dog
Rather than offering identical services to every client, they take time to understand:
- Your dog’s personality.
- Health.
- Routine.
- Behaviour.
- Preferences.
No two dogs are exactly alike.
They Explain Their Procedures Clearly
Whether discussing insurance, emergencies or daily routines, professional dog walkers should provide clear, straightforward answers.
If something changes, they should communicate openly rather than assuming owners won’t mind.
They Prioritise Welfare Over Convenience
Sometimes the safest decision is not the easiest one.
Professional dog walkers may shorten walks during hot weather, cancel off-lead exercise if conditions change or recommend solo walks instead of group walks.
These decisions demonstrate good judgement rather than poor service.
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 places a duty of care on anyone responsible for a dog to meet its welfare needs.
They Continue Learning
Dog behaviour and welfare continue to develop through research.
Many professional dog walkers regularly attend:
- Courses.
- Webinars.
- Workshops.
- Conferences.
Continuing education demonstrates a commitment to improving standards.
A Quick Checklist Before You Book
Before choosing a dog walker, ask yourself whether you can answer “yes” to the following questions.
- Have I met the person who will walk my dog?
- Am I satisfied with their experience?
- Have they explained their insurance?
- Do they understand my dog’s individual needs?
- Do they have emergency procedures?
- Have they answered my questions openly?
- Do they use safe, welfare-focused handling methods?
- Do I feel comfortable trusting them with my dog and my home?
If several answers are “no”, it may be worth continuing your search.
Choosing the right dog walker is about confidence as much as convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I ask to see a dog walker’s insurance?
Yes.
Most professional dog walkers will be happy to provide evidence of their insurance if you ask.
Do dog walkers need qualifications?
There is currently no legal requirement for dog walkers in the UK to hold formal qualifications.
However, many professionals choose to complete training in canine first aid, behaviour and animal welfare.
Is a DBS check compulsory?
No.
A DBS check is not a legal requirement for dog walkers.
However, some businesses choose to obtain one as an additional reassurance for clients.
Should I expect a written contract?
Yes.
Professional businesses should provide clear terms and conditions that explain how their services operate.
Can someone under 18 walk my dog professionally?
Age alone does not determine someone’s ability.
However, you should ask about legal responsibility, insurance, supervision and experience before making your decision.
You can read more in Can Children Walk Dogs in the UK? Law, Safety and Choosing a Dog Walker.
What information should I give my dog walker?
Your dog walker should know about:
- Medical conditions.
- Medication.
- Allergies.
- Behaviour around people and dogs.
- Veterinary contact details.
- Emergency contacts.
- Feeding instructions.
- Home access arrangements.
Our guide What Information Should You Leave for Your Dog Walker? explains this in more detail.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a dog walker is about far more than finding someone available at the right time.
The right person will take time to understand your dog, explain how they work and answer your questions honestly.
By asking about experience, insurance, welfare, emergency procedures and daily routines, you’ll be in a much better position to choose someone who meets your expectations and provides the standard of care your dog deserves.
If you’re looking for a professional, fully insured dog walker in Finchley, you’re welcome to get in touch to discuss your dog’s individual needs. A relaxed conversation and meet-and-greet are always the best place to start.
