Hiring a dog walker is a great way to ensure your dog gets exercise, socialization, and stimulation—especially when life gets busy. However, if your dog isn’t accustomed to new people or has specific needs, it’s essential to take a few simple steps to prepare them. Whether you’re booking a daily walker or occasional visits, this guide will walk you through how to make the transition smooth for both you and your furry friend.
Why Preparing Your Dog Matters
Introducing a dog walker isn’t just about convenience—it’s about trust. For your dog, a new person entering their space and taking them on adventures can be exciting or stressful. A little preparation helps your dog feel safe, confident, and eager to enjoy their new routine.
Choose the Right Dog Walker
Before anything else, take time to find the right person who fits your dog’s personality and your expectations. Look for:
- Experience with your dog’s breed or energy level
- Comfort with any behavioral needs (reactivity, anxiety, etc.)
- Pet CPR certification and insurance (always a bonus)
- A meet-and-greet before services begin
If you’re working with a service like Rustic Paw Adventures, you’ll get a free meet & greet to assess compatibility.
Schedule a Meet & Greet
A meet-and-greet is essential to preparing your dog for a walker. Use this time to:
- Let your dog sniff and interact on their own terms
- Go for a short walk together to observe chemistry
- Discuss feeding schedules, medication, commands, and quirks
- Show where leashes, poop bags, and treats are kept
This casual intro builds trust and helps the walker understand your dog’s routines.
Practice Short Separations
If your dog has separation anxiety or isn’t used to you leaving, start with short outings before the visits. Gradually increase the time you’re gone to help ease the transition.
Try:
- Leaving for 5–10 minutes at a time
- Using calming tools like enrichment toys or background music
- Reinforcing calm behavior when you return
This helps normalize someone else coming in when you’re not around.
Create a Routine & Safe Environment
Dogs thrive on routine. Before your walker starts, keep things consistent:
- Feed and potty your dog on the same schedule
- Leave out harnesses, leashes, and anything needed for the walk
- Make sure your yard or home is secure if the walker enters while you’re away
Bonus tip: Leave a note with emergency contact info and any new updates your walker should know.
Communicate Clearly with Your Walker
Being upfront helps the walker tailor the experience. Share details like:
- Favorite walking routes or parks
- How your dog reacts to other dogs, people, bikes, etc.
- Words or commands your dog knows
- Medical issues or allergies
Most dog walkers appreciate clear instructions and check-ins—it creates a safer, happier environment for your dog.
Monitor the First Few Visits
After your dog’s first few walks, pay attention to:
- Their energy level when they come home
- Any signs of stress or excitement
- Feedback from the walker (they’ll often leave a note or message)
If your dog seems calm, content, and eager to go again—that’s a great sign.
Final Thoughts: Set Your Dog Up for Success
Preparing your dog for a walker doesn’t need to be complicated—it just requires a little forethought and communication. A well-prepared dog is a happier dog, and a great one can become one of your dog’s favorite people.
Looking for a Reliable, Dog-Loving Walker?
If you’re in the Charlottesville or Nelson County, Virginia area, Rustic Paw Adventures offers enrichment-based walks, pet taxi services, puppy visits, and more. Schedule your free meet-and-greet today to see how we can help your dog thrive!