Do You Need A Dog Walking Service? Questions You Should Ask Potential Walkers!

If you need to hire a dog walker, there are many questions you need to ask first, to be sure this secondary caretaker can look after your dog properly. You also want to find a responsible, reliable dog walker so keep this in mind when interviewing someone.

First, you should ask if they can give you other current clients names or references. If the dog walker can`t give you any current clients you can talk to, you should move on to the next interview.

Next is you should ask if they are an independent walker or part of a large company. Though a large company may be able to provide you with someone at any time, you may want to opt for an independent walker that will be the only one handling your dog, but be aware, they may not always be available when you need them, for example, if they are sick, on vacation, or have other situations that require their attention. Ask them how they handle these situations.

Next, ask them how long they have been working professionally with dogs and do they have any formal training. Hands-on experience in working with dogs will go a long way  in this business. Be wary of people who just like dogs as they may not be able to handle difficult situations that could pop up.

Next, ask what the pet visit includes, just a walk or will the walker feed the dog and reinforce training commands.

You should ask how many dogs the walker walks at one time. Some work one-on-one, while others walk large groups of dogs. If they walk many dogs, find out where your dog is while they are picking up/dropping off other dogs as you want your dog secured so there is no risk of someone stealing him.

Ask if they ever take your dog off-leash so you can approve or disapprove of this.

Ask what kind of punishment they use for unruly dogs as; if they say they punish a dog and not 'reinforce  the right behavior', you should find another walker. Make sure you know how the walker handles a dog that is acting up.

Ask what their plan is if a dog gets lost or hurt. They should have an emergency plan in place.

Ask if they give daily or weekly updates on your dog`s behavior while with them. A great dog walker should assure you that your dog is in good hands and well taken care of while in their care.