Why a Dog Walker Is Good for Your Dog

A dog that spends eight hours alone gets little exercise and little to think about. A regular walker fixes both, and gives your dog some company too.

Exercise that fits your dog

Dogs differ a lot. A young Border Collie needs far more activity than an old Dachshund, so a good walker adjusts pace and length to the dog. Our dog walking comes in 30, 60 or 90 minutes, once or twice a day, so you can match it to your dog.

Regular exercise helps with:

• Weight. Overweight dogs are more likely to get diabetes, osteoarthritis and heart disease, and may live shorter lives.
• Joints and muscles. Steady movement keeps them working, which matters most for older dogs and breeds prone to joint trouble.
• Fitness. Walking builds stamina and keeps the heart in shape.

If your dog is overweight, old, or has a heart or joint condition, ask a vet how much exercise is right before you increase it. Our veterinary team can advise.

Something for the mind

Sniffing is how dogs read the world. New smells, sounds and surfaces give the brain work to do. A dog with enough to do is less likely to chew the furniture or bark at nothing.

Company and routine

Dogs like a predictable day. A walker who arrives at the same time gives your dog something to look forward to and breaks up a long stretch alone.

Walks also let a young or nervous dog meet people, other dogs, bikes and traffic in small, calm doses. A good walker goes at the dog's pace and never forces it.

Another pair of eyes

A walker who sees your dog several times a week may spot a limp, a change in energy, scratching or odd toilet habits before you do. Ask your walker to tell you what they notice. If a sign lasts more than a day or two, book a vet visit.

Choosing a walker

Ask these questions before you hire anyone:

• What experience do you have with my dog's size, age and breed?
• What do you do if my dog gets hurt or slips its lead?
• Do you walk dogs alone or in a group, and how many at a time?
• Are you insured?
• How do you get to know a new dog?
• How will you let me know how the walk went?

Walks with MyPeterinarian

Our walkers come to your home or a place you choose, and poop pickup is included. After each visit you get photo updates and an activity report. If your dog needs more than a walk, look at dog daycare, or contact us and we'll help you pick.