21/10/2026
CHOOSING A DOG WALKER – DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHO YOU'RE TRUSTING WITH YOUR DOG?
You have all probably recently seen the video circulating on Facebook showing a professional dog walker out with seven dogs.
During the walk, they came across two horse riders. Thankfully, both horses were incredibly well behaved and stood calmly while the dogs barked and ran around their legs.
What was really concerning was the apparent lack of control the dog walker had over the dogs. There seemed to be no recall, and the situation could have ended very differently.
I couldn't help but think how horrified the owners of those dogs must have been watching that footage.
When you pay someone to walk your dog, you're trusting them with a member of your family.
So, before choosing a dog walker, here are some important things to consider.
1 - How many dogs do they walk at once? More dogs doesn't necessarily mean a better walk. Can they safely manage every dog in their care, especially when something unexpected happens?
2 - Do they have control and good recall? If your dog is being walked off lead, does the walker have reliable control? And what happens if they encounter horses, livestock, wildlife or other dogs?
3 - Are they insured? Ask about appropriate public liability insurance, cover for dogs in their care and insurance for transporting dogs.
Do they understand dog behaviour? A good dog walker should recognise body language, stress, excitement and potential problems BEFORE situations escalate. What studies have they done?
Do they respect other countryside users? Horse riders, farmers, livestock owners, cyclists and other walkers all have a right to feel safe. Dogs should never be allowed to chase, surround or harass horses or livestock.
Will they keep your dog on a lead when necessary? There's absolutely no shame in using a lead. In fact, knowing when to put one on is a sign of a responsible professional.
And,
HOW IS YOUR DOG TRANSPORTED? This is something owners should ALWAYS ask about!
If your dog is collected and transported in a vehicle, are they travelling safely and securely?
Are dogs secured in suitable crates, carriers or with appropriate restraints?
Are the crates properly fitted and secured so they cannot move during a journey?
Is there adequate ventilation and temperature control, especially during warmer weather?
Are dogs transported in a way that prevents fighting, overcrowding or unnecessary stress?
Is the vehicle clean, well maintained and suitable for transporting dogs?
Are dogs safely secured when doors are opened, preventing them from escaping into traffic?
Dogs should NEVER be travelling loose in the back of a van or car.
Your dog's safety starts the moment they're collected from your home, not just when they arrive at the walking location.
Do they have a plan when things go wrong? Accidents can happen, but a professional should be prepared, proactive and capable of managing the dogs they're responsible for.
Can they provide references and explain their experience? Don't be afraid to ask questions. A good dog walker should be happy to answer them.
A dog walk isn't just about getting dogs out of the house for an hour. It's about their safety, welfare and responsible handling.
Those horses were absolute saints, but what if they'd spooked, kicked out or bolted? A dog, horse or rider could have been seriously injured.
Seven dogs with no apparent control isn't just embarrassing – it's potentially dangerous.
And remember, just because someone calls themselves a professional dog walker doesn't automatically mean they have the knowledge, experience or skills to manage a group of dogs safely.
Please do your homework before handing over your dog's lead. Ask to see the vehicle your dog will travel in. Ask how many dogs they'll be walking. Ask about their experience, insurance and safety procedures.
A responsible dog walker should welcome these questions, not be offended by them.
Your dog deserves more than just a walk. They deserve to be safe from the moment they leave your home until the moment they're returned. ❤️
