NY Loves Dogs

What Type of Dog Walking Service is Right For Your Dog?

Regular walks are vital for keeping your dog happy and healthy. Dogs that socialize daily with other canines and humans aren’t just in better physical condition but are often more behaviorally sound. There are four different types of dog-walking services: one-on-one walking, pack walking, semi-private walks and doggy day care.

When considering services you should look for ones that are insured; this means that if there is an incident involving your dog all expenses will be covered. Additionally if a service is insured this generally means they are a legal, tax-paying business which is ultimately a more reputable route to go on. Furthermore always interview the handler for your dog – not just the person who runs the dog walking business. Ask for current references and past references – it is important to learn why people are no longer using a service.

Below is a mini-guide to help you figure out what type of dog walking service would best match you and your dog’s needs.

One-on-one walking

As the name suggests, this service provides one dog to one walker. This is ideal for dogs that require extra attention, are older and/or have special needs. On top of the scheduling flexibility this service will cater to your dog’s wishes. If you want your dog to get to the park each day or simply sit on a bench for twenty minutes, a one-on-one walker can accommodate your dog’s needs while not worrying about other dogs wants. There are specific one-on-one walking services that will jog or run your dog for the majority of the hour if you wish.

The success of the one-on-one relationship depends entirely on the walker, which means you should not only interview the handler first to make sure you feel comfortable with him/her caring for your animal but also schedule a meeting to see how your dog takes to this person. Trust your instincts and your dog’s – you will know pretty quickly if it is the right person to care for your dog or not.

Average price: $25-$30 per hour

Pack walking

This involves large groups of dogs, 10-12 at a time, being walked at the same time by two handlers. This is a great service for puppies who need extra long walks and to develop good leash walking etiquette. Puppies (or older dogs) with separation anxiety do extremely well in packs as not only does their energy get drained but they are surrounded by other dogs and people which builds their confidence and calms down their anxiety.

Pack walking can serve as a great training tool…and an even better tuckering out tool. And as we all know, a tired dog is a good dog.

If considering pack walking find a service that allows you to meet the walkers and request that your dog not be tethered outside alone when other dogs are being picked up or dropped off. Generally speaking there are two walkers per pack and one will wait outside with the dogs while the other goes in and picks up or drops off a dog. However, err on the side of caution and make it clear that you do not want your dog left alone outside – that is just asking for trouble.

Average price: $18-25 per two hours

Semi-private walks

A combination of one-on-one walks and pack walking, semi-private walks involve one walker with two to three dogs. Before signing up I strongly suggest that when interviewing your dog walker you not only get customer references for the walker but inquire what dogs (breed, temperament, age) your dog will be walking with. If your dog doesn’t get along well with white fluffy dogs you won’t want to hear your dog is walking with a Bichon Frise and Samoyed.

Requesting this information is not overstepping – it is protecting your dog and the dogs he/she will walk with. Semi-private walks are ideal for social, active dogs that require more attention than pack walks can offer. Some owners find this service to be more personable and flexible than pack walking; generally speaking semi-private walks are for one hour periods of time.

Average price: $20-$30

Doggy day care

With this service your dog spends the entire day at a doggy playground facility. Many offer an indoor playground and pool for canines as well as daily walks. Although it can be costly this “pampered pet” service can be a lifesaver for owners with long hours.

One drawback, aside from the often high cost, is that some facilities employ inexperienced people/kids with dogs. Additionally most doggy daycare facilities will ask that you sign an insurance waiver which will essentially waive the company’s responsibility should your dog get hurt in their care – read this carefully and feel free to discuss it with management. Too often dogs get hurt at these places due to typical dog fracas’ that result from multiple dogs in a closed-in place. Many owners are shocked when they learn their vet bills are not covered. Question their insurance policy thoroughly but do remember a minor scratch is common as dogs are dogs after all.

Average price: $40-60 per day

Questions to ask potential dog walkers/services:

• Do you have insurance?
• Will you cover the costs should my pet get hurt during your care?
• Do you have a back-up walker should you get sick or go on vacation?
• What is your policy for bad weather and holidays?
• Confirm that my dog will never be tied up alone outside an apartment or store should you need to go in.

Reported by Susan Cava