For serious dog lovers, dog walking can seem like a dream job. Who wouldn’t want to be paid to spend time outside with adorable pups during what is undoubtedly one of the highlights of their day? Add in the fact that you can create a flexible schedule and set your own rates, and it really is an ideal job for an active, animal-loving entrepreneur.
Whether you’re a professional dog walker or you’re just starting out, most new clients will want to interview you before they hire you. These interviews will typically take place in person, allowing you to meet their pooch and ensure that you are a good fit. Be prepared to answer some basic questions — and ask a few of your own — to increase your chances of landing the dog walking job.
Beth Stultz-Hairston, president of Pet Sitters International, recommends that dog walkers never accept an assignment — and pet parents never book services — without first having this initial consultation. “Dog walkers should be prepared to answer specific questions about their prices, business policies and service agreement,” she says.
Most common dog walker interview questions
Here are a few of the most common questions you can expect to answer during your interview:
“What is your experience as a dog walker?”
Potential clients want to know that you have the skills and experience necessary to keep their dog safe and happy while they’re in your care. If you have specific qualifications like animal first aid training or behavioral training, now’s the time to mention it! It’s also helpful to provide examples from past experiences.
“Will you walk my dogs with other dogs?”
Some dog walkers walk dogs individually, while others walk dogs in a pack — and most dog owners have a preference one way or the other. If the dog owner expresses any concerns about how you operate, be prepared to set their minds at ease with a clear explanation of why you work the way you do, and how you deal with common challenges.
“What does your dog walking service include?”
Dog owners will want to know exactly what the walking experience will be like for their pup, so give them all the details from beginning to end. For example:
- How do you handle pickup and drop-off?
- What are the routes you take?
- Is any driving involved?
- Will you also offer water and/or food to the dog?
To really give them a sense of what it means to hire you, invite them to join you on a free trial walk with the dog.
“Are you licensed and insured?”
If your answer to this question is yes, be prepared to provide proof of this to any potential clients. This is an easy way to set yourself apart as a trustworthy, professional dog walker.
Dr. Danielle Bernal, Global Veterinarian for Wellness Pet Company, notes that liability insurance is essential when you’re providing pet-walking services. “The insurance can cover you if one of the dogs you’re walking gets sick or injured, and is essential for peace of mind for both pet parents and the dog walker,” she says.
When it comes to the licensing, this one will really depend on where you live, Bernal adds. “If you live in a smaller town or suburb, you may not need a dog walking license and may be able to have a more informal agreement with a pet parent. If you live in a larger city or metropolitan area such as New York City, you probably need a license.” Check with your local town council to determine what is needed in your neighborhood.
“Can you provide references?”
As with any other position, happy references can help you land a job. Have a list prepared to hand over in case a potential client wishes to speak to your other clients.
“While many people think of the initial consultation as a time when the pet owner is deciding if they want you to use the dog walker, this is also an important time for the dog walker to determine if they want to accept an assignment.”
— BETH STULTZ-HAIRSTON, PRESIDENT OF PET SITTERS INTERNATIONAL
What you should ask a potential dog walking clients
Potential clients are sure to have many questions for you during the interview process, but it’s important for you to ask them questions as well.
“While many people think of the initial consultation as a time when the pet owner is deciding if they want you to use the dog walker, this is also an important time for the dog walker to determine if they want to accept an assignment,” says Stultz-Hairston.
She recommends using a dog walking agreement that clearly outlines not only the services you’ll provide, but also important information about the clients’ pet and home-care needs. “Walking through this contract will allow dog walkers to gather important information they will need about the clients and their pet.”
Here are some questions to start with:
“What is your dog’s medical and behavioral history?”
You definitely need to know if the dog has any health concerns, such as a previous injury that may impact their abilities, food allergies or sensitivities, or other impairments. If they need medication, will you be expected to give it to them while they’re under your care? You’ll also need to know about any behavioral issues — do they get along with other dogs? Are they OK being around kids? Are they terrified of thunder, or skateboards, or sirens? Do they have any other behavioral quirks you need to know about?
“What type of activity does your dog require?”
Every dog’s needs and abilities are different, so be sure you understand what the dog owner expects of your walks. Bernal suggests asking, “Is it a gentle walk for a senior dog, for example, or a more active dog park activity for a younger dog?” Be clear about how much time and activity the dog owner is expecting from your arrangement.
“How can I make your dog feel safe and secure with me?”
Ask specific questions about the dog’s routine and the training methods they’re familiar with in order to help the dog feel comfortable with you. Does the owner allow treats, and what kind does the dog prefer? What does the dog love to do, and what are some things, activities, or places you should avoid?
Ben Doyle of U.K.-based pet care company Pet Checkers also recommends arranging with a new client to go and visit the dog while their owner isn’t there, but is close by in case anything unexpected happens.
For example, an initial unsupervised visit could go awry when an animal is taken off guard. “I once went to a consultation and the dog was fine when its owners were there,” he says. “We agreed to walk the dog, but on the first visit I walked into the house and the dog attacked me, biting a chunk out of my shin and there was no one there to help.”
Red flags to consider
Be prepared to look out for a few red flags that may suggest a bad fit with a potential client. Bernal shares a few common warning signs:
- A reluctance to allow you to meet the dog before accepting the job as dog walker
- Vague details around what is required of you
- No clarity around payment or process
- If the previous dog walker didn’t stay long or the pet owner is reluctant to share details around who was walking the dog previously
- Any inappropriate behavior or concerns
Doyle also notes that it’s important to pay close attention to the dog’s behavior during the interview. “If you think a dog is out of control, chances are, it’s not safe to walk them,” he says. “This is really important: If a dog shows aggression toward you, walk away.”
Not every interview will result in you being hired for a dog walking job, but with proper preparation, you’ll be able to easily land the jobs that are right for you. Presenting a confident, professional demeanor to dog owners — and knowing exactly what you need to see in a potential client — is the first significant step toward a working relationship that will hopefully last for years to come.