7 questions to ask a dog walker for a quote
7 Questions to Ask a Dog Walker for a Quote
TL;DR: When getting quotes from dog walkers, ask about their experience, walking frequency, group sizes, pricing structure, insurance, emergency protocols, and references. These key questions help you find a reliable, affordable walker who’s right for your dog.
Introduction
Finding a trustworthy dog walker is one of the best decisions you can make for your furry friend. Whether you’re working long hours or just need extra exercise for your pup, a good dog walker makes all the difference. But before you hire someone, you need to know the right questions to ask. Getting detailed quotes from multiple dog walkers helps you compare prices and services fairly. In the UK, dog walking costs vary widely depending on location and experience. By asking the right questions upfront, you’ll find someone reliable who keeps your dog happy and safe.
What’s your experience with dogs like mine?
Ask about their background with your dog’s breed, size, and temperament. A 30-second answer isn’t enough. Find out how long they’ve been walking dogs and if they’ve handled similar personalities before.
Every dog is different. Some are anxious, others are hyper. Some have health issues you need to discuss. An experienced walker knows how to handle these situations. They’ll explain their approach to nervous dogs or high-energy breeds. They might mention training qualifications too. This shows they’ve invested in understanding dog behaviour properly.
How often would you walk my dog each week?
Your dog’s walking frequency directly impacts both price and health. Ask how many walks per week they recommend. Standard packages typically offer one, two, or three walks daily.
Most dogs benefit from at least one walk daily. Younger or high-energy breeds might need two. Your lifestyle determines what’s realistic. A good walker will suggest options without pushing expensive packages. They’ll explain why frequency matters for your dog’s wellbeing and behaviour. Be honest about your needs and budget.
What’s your pricing structure and what’s included?
Direct pricing questions prevent surprises later. Ask about costs per walk, package deals, and any hidden fees.
Prices vary across the UK. London walkers might charge £15-20 per walk. Rural areas often cost less. Ask whether the price includes toilet breaks, playtime, or photo updates. Some walkers offer discounts for multiple walks weekly. Others charge extra for weekend walks. Get everything in writing so there’s no confusion.
Do you have insurance and what’s your emergency protocol?
Insurance protects both you and your walker. Ask specifically about public liability and pet care insurance. This is non-negotiable.
Accidents happen. Your walker needs proper cover if your dog gets injured or causes damage. Ask what they’d do in emergencies. Would they contact your vet immediately? Do they know your dog’s medical history? Get their emergency contact procedure in writing. Make sure they have your vet’s details and any special instructions for your pet.
Can you provide references from current clients?
References are worth their weight in gold. Ask for at least two or three from dogs they’re currently walking.
Contact these references honestly. Ask how long they’ve used this walker. Is their dog happy and tired after walks? Does the walker communicate well? Are they reliable? References show you real experiences from real dog owners. Current clients are more valuable than old ones. They can tell you about consistency and reliability over time.
What happens on holiday or if you’re sick?
Reliability matters enormously. Ask how they handle their own time off or unexpected illness.
Your dog still needs walks. Does your walker have backup coverage? Do they work with other walkers they trust? How much notice do they need for holiday cover? A professional walker plans ahead. They don’t just disappear without solutions for your pet’s care.
Conclusion
Asking these seven questions gives you confidence in your choice. You’ll understand pricing, experience, and safety measures clearly. A good dog walker should answer everything honestly and completely. They’ll probably ask you questions too. That’s a good sign. They care about understanding your dog properly. Take time comparing quotes from different walkers in your area. Your dog deserves someone brilliant. Ready to find your perfect match? Search for a dog walker near you using our free UK directory today.
FAQ
How much does a dog walker cost in the UK?
Prices range from £10-20 per walk depending on location and experience. London charges higher rates than rural areas. Package deals for multiple walks weekly often offer savings.
Should I use a big dog walking company or an independent walker?
Both have benefits. Companies offer backup cover and insurance. Independent walkers often provide more personalised care. Choose based on your dog’s needs and preferences.
What questions should I ask about my dog’s safety?
Ask about their experience with your dog’s breed, their emergency protocols, insurance cover, and how they handle unexpected situations like illness or injury.
Is dog walker insurance really necessary?
Yes, absolutely. Proper liability insurance protects you both. It covers accidental damage or injury to your dog during walks.
How do I know if a dog walker is reliable?
Check references from current clients, ask about their backup plans, verify their insurance, and see if they communicate regularly with updates about your dog.