Dog walking services

Dog walking. It sounds pretty simple: someone comes to your house to take your dog out when you can’t do it yourself. But did you know all the dog walking services that are available? Dog walkers can do much more than taking your dog for a stroll. Let’s find out more.

What types of dog walking services can I book?

Dog walkers are not expected to only put the lead on and walk your dog up and down the street. Depending on their training and experience, they will engage with your dog and provide some fun outdoor activities for him. That’s perfect if your dog is one of those breeds that excel at agility or speed.

Dog walkers can also take your dog to fenced green areas when your furry friend will be able to enjoy some good time off-lead. This is great at any time of the year but particularly in spring when nature turns into a sniffing paradise for our four-legged friends.

If you are the lucky owner of a very social dog, dog walkers near you can also take it to a dog daycare or arrange to meet with other dog parents for some fun group time. Not all dogs enjoy being with other dogs but for those who do, those group meetings are a lot of fun.

After the walk, dog walkers check that your dog has a clean water bowl and can even give some food if you have left such instructions.

How can I find those dog walking services?

There are several ways to book one of those dog walking services depending on where you live. You can start by asking your vet, your local shelter or pet shop: they may be able recommend someone. Alternatively, you can turn to specialised dog walking apps or companies and check their dog walkers’ profiles.

If you choose to go with a specialised company, take some time to go through the dog walkers’ profile to make sure they have the right qualifications to offer the kind of service you are after. Not everyone can handle canine activities, just like not everyone knows how to interpret dogs’ behaviours when they’re in a group. You need to pick the right person.

The best apps or websites will have a rating or a review system that will allow you to read what other dog parents think about a particular dog walker. You can also ask your vet or your local pet shop if they know someone. People are always happy to put a good word when they have been genuinely satisfied with a service.

Dog walking costs

It is impossible to give an exact idea of how much a dog walker will cost you. It depends on a variety of factors, such as your location, the type of dog, the time of the day and time of the year, the expected duration of the walk and the experience of the the dog walker.

Prices for dog walking in Sydney or Melbourne are usually higher than in other areas of Australia. Bigger breeds that need a lot of exercise are also more expensive than their smaller compatriots. The same goes for booking early morning walks or during typical vacation times. Of course, the longer the walk, the higher the costs, and the same goes for a highly experienced dog walker.

If you choose to find your dog walker through Holidog, the price that each pet sitter asks for dog walking services are displayed publicly on their profile. There is a dog walker for every budget, so start looking now.