Handing your dog — and usually a key to your home — to someone else is a big act of trust. A good dog walker becomes a genuine part of your dog's life; the wrong one can be a worry at best and a real risk at worst. The good news is that you can tell a lot from a short conversation. Here are the ten questions I would ask before booking any dog walker, and, in the interest of being open, how I answer each one myself.
1. Are you insured?
This is the non-negotiable one. A professional walker should carry public liability insurance to cover accidents, injury or damage. If a dog in their care is hurt, runs off, or causes an accident, insurance is what protects everyone. It is reasonable to ask to see proof — Pet Business Insurance has a good overview of the cover and licences a professional walker should hold. (We are fully insured.)
2. Are you DBS checked?
Because most walkers hold a key to your home, a DBS check offers real reassurance about who you are letting in. Any walker who has thought seriously about trust and security will understand exactly why you are asking. (We are DBS checked.)
3. Do you have any pet first aid training?
Accidents happen, and the first few minutes matter. A walker with a canine first aid qualification knows what to do while getting your dog to a vet. It is not legally required, but it is a sign of someone who takes the role seriously. (We hold a current canine first aid certificate.)
4. How many dogs do you walk at once?
Group size affects how much attention and control your walker has. There is no national legal limit, though many councils cap it and some require a licence — I have written more about this in how many dogs should a dog walker walk at once?. Ask, and decide what you are comfortable with. (We only walk solo, or dogs from the same household.)
5. Will my dog travel in a vehicle?
Many group walkers collect dogs by van and drive them to a walking spot. Some dogs find this stressful, and it adds risk. Ask whether your dog will be transported, and how they are secured if so. (We walk dogs from your own front door and back — never by van, except in a genuine emergency.)
6. How do you handle keys and home security?
If your walker holds a key, ask how it is stored. Keys should be kept securely and coded, never labelled with your name or address, so a lost key cannot be traced to your home. (We store keys under a code, and deliberately drive an unmarked vehicle so nothing advertises that you are out.)
7. What happens in an emergency?
Ask what they would do if your dog was taken ill or injured, or if they could not reach you. A good walker will have a clear plan, your vet's details, and the cover to act fast.
8. Will I get updates?
Knowing your dog is happy makes all the difference. Ask whether you will get a message or photo. (We send updates so you can see how the walk went.)
9. What is your cancellation policy?
Life changes plans. Understand the terms up front so there are no surprises — ours, along with answers to lots of other common questions, are on our FAQ page.
10. Can we have a meet and greet first?
Any walker worth booking will want to meet you and your dog before the first walk, to make sure everyone is comfortable and to learn your dog's routine. If someone is reluctant to do this, take note. (We offer a free meet and greet to every new client.)
Trust your instincts
Beyond the questions, pay attention to how someone is around your dog, and how your dog is around them. A walker who is calm, asks lots of questions about your dog, and clearly enjoys the work is usually a good sign. One who seems rushed or vague is worth a second thought.
What should I look for in a good dog walker?
Insurance, a DBS check and first aid training are the foundations, followed by sensible group sizes, clear communication, a proper meet and greet, and a genuine rapport with your dog. Together these tell you whether someone is a true professional or just doing it casually.
Should a dog walker meet my dog before the first walk?
Absolutely. A meet and greet lets your dog get comfortable, lets you ask questions, and lets the walker learn your dog's routine and quirks. A reluctance to meet first is a red flag worth heeding.
If you are in Biggleswade or one of the surrounding villages and looking for a walker who ticks all ten boxes, take a look at our dog walking service or get in touch for a free, no-obligation meet and greet.