Colchester Dog Walker

What if my dog isn’t used to walking in a group?
That’s absolutely fine. Many dogs just need time and gentle introductions. I keep group sizes small and match dogs carefully so walks feel safe and settled rather than overwhelming. I will always undertake one or two paid solo walks first as a low-pressure trial before moving on to introductions with the other dogs they would be walking with – reviewing at every stage. I’ll always be honest if I think group walks, or the groups I have available, aren’t the right fit for your dog.

Do I need to be home when you collect my dog?
No. All my clients provide a key or key safe code, and I handle everything from pick-up to drop-off. I’m fully insured to hold clients’ keys.

What time are your walks?
Walks take place Monday to Friday, with the first group of the day starting around 9.45am, the second starting around 11.30am and the last around 2.30pm. Pick-up times are obviously prior to these start times. I match dogs carefully, not conveniently, so specific times may not always be available. If you have questions about timings, feel free to contact me.

What happens when it’s hot?
If temperatures reach a point where it isn’t safe to walk, I’ll be in touch to talk through alternatives. This might include a shorter walk, an earlier or later slot, or a garden let-out or enrichment visit instead. Your dog’s safety always comes first. You can read more in my hot weather policy.

Is there a minimum number of walks I need to book?
Yes. I ask for a commitment of at least one walk per week. This helps dogs build a routine with me and with their walking group, which makes a big difference to how settled they feel.

Do you walk dogs off-lead?
All dogs are walked on-lead by default, unless: 1. You’ve given permission. 2. I’m confident in your dog’s recall. 3. We’re in a safe, suitable area. 4. I’ve built up a relationship with your dog.

I’ll always talk through recall, prey drive and preferences with you first.

How many dogs do you walk at a time?
I never walk more than four dogs at a time, even though I’m insured for six. Groups are kept small on purpose, with compatibility, pace and wellbeing coming first, rather than convenience.

Does my dog need to be lead trained?
Yes. Dogs joining group walks need to have good lead manners. Group walks aren’t the right environment for working on pulling, lunging or reactivity. If your dog is still learning, I’m happy to recommend a local trainer to help get them ready.

How far in advance do I need to book?
Bookings are made monthly, using my app, for the month ahead. I understand plans can change and I’ll always try to be flexible where I can. Payment is taken in advance when booking.

Can my unneutered male or unspayed female join a group walk?
It depends. Some unneutered males can find group walks more challenging, as their presence can affect how the group settles. I’ll always assess this during the meet and greet. For unspayed females in season, I have a female dogs in heat policy in place to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

Does my dog have to be vaccinated?
No. Vaccinations remain a personal choice of the owner. However, it’s important to note, my insurance excludes cover for distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis and parvovirus if a dog is not vaccinated against these illnesses and becomes unwell with them in my care. Please do also familiarise yourself with my kennel cough policy which includes details on post-vaccine waiting periods.

Will my dog get dirty?
Possibly – especially during wetter months. My walks take place in green spaces and woodland, and a bit of mud usually means your dog’s had a great time! I towel dogs down after walks to get the worst off, and I ask clients to leave old dog towels just inside their door. I also have a portable shower in my vehicle for the worst offenders (I have a few prolific fox poo rollers!).

Do you use balls or toys on walks?
No. Toys and balls can lead to overstimulation and in some cases resource guarding. Instead, I focus on allowing dogs to sniff and explore which is far more calming and enriching for them. Sniffing plays an important role in helping dogs stay settled during walks.

Do you send me photos?
Yes, of course! Where safe and possible, I try and take lots of photos and videos of my walks and will share them with you if I have them. Just bear in mind if it’s raining, or I feel like taking photos or videos would compromise a dog’s safety by me being distracted, then I will prioritise your dog’s care over getting a nice picture!