Top 5 things to look for when hiring a dog walker

Finding the right dog walker isn’t just about price or scheduling convenience, it’s about trusting someone with your best friend’s safety, happiness, and daily routine. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know who will truly provide the best care. If you’re looking for dog walking services, here are the top five things you should always look for when choosing the right fit for you and your companion.

Professional Training & Certifications

A great dog walker brings more than just a love of dogs, they bring knowledge and skill. Look for walkers who have completed pet first aid or CPR training, or who have education in dog behavior and handling. These certifications show dedication to the craft and give you peace of mind that your dog is in capable hands.

At Monterey Dog, we prioritize ongoing education for our team. From safe leash handling to recognizing stress signals, our staff are trained to make every outing safe, positive, and fun.

Why it matters: Certifications and training show that your dog walker has gone the extra mile to keep your dog safe and happy.

Safety First (Including Insurance)

Walks should be the highlight of your dog’s day, but safety always comes first. That means proper use of leashes and harnesses, avoiding unsafe routes, and being prepared for unexpected situations.

Another key safety factor? Insurance. Many independent dog walkers don’t carry liability insurance, which leaves you vulnerable if an accident occurs. Monterey Dog is fully insured and bonded, so you can feel confident knowing both your dog and your home are protected.

Why it matters: A professional, insured dog walking company in Monterey is prepared for anything, giving you true peace of mind.

Reliability and Professionalism

Trust is everything. The best dog walking services are dependable, punctual, and professional. You should never have to wonder if your dog walker will show up, or if your dog is getting the full walk you booked.

At Monterey Dog, reliability is at the heart of what we do. We use clear communication, consistent scheduling, and professional standards to make sure you always know your dog is in good hands.

Why it matters: A reliable dog walker keeps your routine stress-free and ensures your dog never misses their adventure.

Employees vs. Independent Contractors

One of the most important (and most overlooked) questions to ask when hiring a dog walking company is whether their staff are employees or independent contractors.

Unlike most dog walking companies, our team members at Monterey Dog are employees, not contractors. That means we provide hands-on training, supervision, and accountability. It also means our staff are covered under our company insurance and follow the same high standards of professionalism on every walk. When dog walking companies rely only on contractors, pet parents can end up with inconsistency in training, safety practices, and overall reliability.

Why it matters: Hiring a company with employees shows that they’re investing in their staff, ensuring better consistency, and prioritizing your dog’s care.

Personalized Care and References

Every dog is unique, and your dog walker should understand that. Whether your dog loves high-energy hikes, slow sniff walks, or social strolls with other dogs, the right dog walker tailors the experience to their personality and needs.

Checking reviews and testimonials is also essential. A walker with a strong reputation and happy clients has already proven their trustworthiness. Monterey Dog is proud to have earned the trust of countless Monterey pet parents who value our personalized, thoughtful care.

Why it matters: Personalized walks and glowing reviews are signs of a dog walker who goes above and beyond.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Dog Walker in Monterey

Hiring a dog walker isn’t just about finding someone to fill time, it’s about finding a trusted partner in your dog’s life. By looking for a dog walker with proper training and certifications, safety measures like insurance, professionalism, and personalized care, you’ll know your dog is in the best possible hands.

At Monterey Dog, we’re more than a dog walking company, we’re your dog’s second family. Our mission is to provide safe, reliable, and joy-filled walks that give dogs the adventure they crave and pet parents the peace of mind they deserve.

👉 Looking for the best dog walking service in Monterey? Book a walk with Monterey Dog today, because your companion deserves nothing less.