Tips for Hiring a Dog Walker

Lucky Penny Pet Care Blog | Midtown Dog Walker

www.luckypennypetcare.com

Finding the right dog walker can feel a little overwhelming. After all, you're trusting someone with your beloved pup’s safety, happiness, and daily routine. Whether you're hiring a dog walker for the first time or switching from another service, here are a few key things to keep in mind to help you make the best choice.

1. Check Their Experience and Qualifications

A good dog walker should have hands-on experience handling dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments. Bonus points if they're trained in pet first aid (like we are at Lucky Penny Pet Care!) and understand basic canine behaviour. Don't hesitate to ask about their background — a true professional will be happy to share.

2. Ask About Group Walks vs. Private Walks

Some dogs thrive in group settings, while others do better one-on-one. Find out if the walker offers group outings, private walks, or both, and think about which option suits your dog best. At Lucky Penny Pet Care, for example, we carefully match dogs for group adventures to ensure everyone has fun and stays safe.

3. Make Sure They’re Fully Insured

Insurance isn’t just a formality — it’s peace of mind. Always choose a dog walker who carries proper insurance to protect your dog, your property, and themselves in case of an accident. This is a non-negotiable when it comes to professionalism.

4. Look for a Personal Touch

Your dog isn’t just another name on a schedule. A great dog walker will want to get to know your dog's unique personality, energy level, likes, and dislikes. Personal connections matter! At Lucky Penny, we treat every pup like family — because they are.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Before you commit, take a peek at online reviews or ask for references. Hearing from other pet parents can give you insight into what it's really like working with the dog walker. Look for comments about reliability, communication, and how happy (and tired!) the dogs are after their walks.

6. Ask About Their Communication Style

You should never be left wondering how your dog's walk went. Whether it’s text updates, report cards, or adorable photos from their adventures, clear and consistent communication is key. (We love sending our families photo updates from our outings!)

7. Trust Your Gut

Finally, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right during the meet-and-greet or after their first day, it’s okay to keep looking. You and your dog both deserve someone you feel 100% confident about.

Looking for a Dog Walker You Can Count On? At Lucky Penny Pet Care, we offer professional, loving dog walking services tailored to your best friend's needs. Fully insured, pet first aid certified, and ready to treat your dog like one of our own — because that's what family is all about.👉 Learn more about our services here!