About Me

I’ve shared my life with dogs for over 40 years. For 10 of those years, I volunteered with rescue organisations, working with and helping to train difficult and vulnerable dogs.

I don’t have formal certificates or fancy accolades — what I do have is experience, practical knowledge, and, most importantly, common sense.

I’ve now been a professional dog walker for around 10 years… and I absolutely love it.

So You Love Dogs and Want to Become a Dog Walker?

Let’s start with something important:

Owning a dog and being responsible for other people’s dogs are two completely different things.

Despite what some may say, dog walking is hard work.

You’ll wipe slobber.
You’ll clean off fox poo, bird poo, and things you’d rather not think about.
You may find yourself removing grass, string, or hair from a dog’s backside.

There is nothing glamorous about dog walking.

But if you truly love dogs, it can be one of the most rewarding careers you’ll ever choose.

Starting Your Dog Walking Business

If you’re serious about turning your love for dogs into a business, here’s what you need to think about.

Public Liability Insurance

If you or a dog in your care unintentionally causes injury or damage to a third party, you need to be covered.

Always check the details of your policy carefully — especially coverage limits and exclusions.

Business Vehicle Insurance

If you use your vehicle for your dog walking business, it must be insured for business use.

Don’t assume “no one will know.” Many delivery drivers and small business owners have been fined for improper cover.

Bonus: your vehicle can also double as advertising for your business.

Again — always check the fine print of your policy.

Safe Transport

Transporting dogs safely is non-negotiable.

Under Rule 57 of the Highway Code, dogs must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves if you stop suddenly.

Acceptable restraints include:

Seat belt harnesses
Pet carriers
Dog cages/crates
Dog guards

If transporting multiple dogs, especially high-energy dogs, use separate crates where possible. Crates with opposing doors are helpful for safe exits on either side of the vehicle.

Remember: if something happens while you’re driving, you cannot intervene from the driver’s seat.

Terms & Conditions

Always have a written Terms & Conditions agreement signed by your client.

This protects you by:

Clarifying payment terms
Setting cancellation policies
Outlining responsibilities
Helping protect you from unexpected veterinary costs

Professional boundaries protect both you and your clients.

Dog Information Forms

Have each client complete a detailed information form including:

Breed
Age
Vaccination status
Microchip number
Vet details
Permission to seek veterinary treatment in an emergency

Preparation prevents panic.

Your Safety Comes First

Always meet new clients and their dogs in daylight, ideally in a park or open field.

Observe:

Lead behaviour
Reaction to distractions
General temperament

And remember: it is absolutely okay to say no.

If you are given house keys, ask whether you can collect the dog while the owner is home for the first visit. A dog’s reaction to a stranger entering their home without their owner present can be unpredictable.

Your safety matters.

So… Let’s Get You Walking

How Many Dogs Should You Walk?

Personally, I operate a four-dog maximum policy.

Some councils are considering limits of up to six dogs, so always check with your local authority first.

In my experience:

Four dogs are manageable on leads
You can provide better control and attention
Training and engagement are more effective

Three group walks per day is a comfortable workload for many walkers.

You don’t have to take every client who contacts you. Choose dogs located near your existing clients to reduce travel time and fuel costs.

Equipment Essentials

Strong, sturdy leads (avoid retractable “flexi” leads — they can be dangerous)
Double-ended leads and double D-rings for flexibility
Biodegradable poo bags
Plenty of towels
Fresh water (for drinking and rinsing off muddy or unpleasant mishaps)
Antibacterial spray or a dog first aid kit
Brushes and a light dog-safe fragrance (a nice finishing touch before drop-off)
Treat pouch or multi-pocket belt
Clicker for recall training and distraction

You’ll be amazed how many keys, bags, treats, cards, and tools you accumulate!

Ask clients to leave harnesses and leads just inside the front door so you don’t have to search through their home. The less you encroach into their space, the better.

Clothing & Footwear

There are many opinions about what to wear, but comfort and practicality are key.

Personally, I prefer layers. A heavy coat can become too much once you’re moving.

Essentials:

Comfortable walking boots
Waterproof trousers
Waterproof jacket with secure pockets
Gloves in cold weather

And one item I can’t recommend enough for winter…

A snood.

It made a massive difference to me in cold weather.

Final Thoughts

Dog walking isn’t glamorous.

It’s muddy.
It’s physical.
It’s unpredictable.

But it’s also:

Full of fresh air
Packed with personality
Deeply rewarding

If you truly love dogs — and you’re prepared for the responsibility — this could be the perfect career for you.

So you want to be a dog walker ?