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 furry friends 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.
Ideally, dog walkers shouldn’t accept an assignment—and pet parents shouldn’t hire them—without this initial consultation. Prepare to answer specific questions about your prices, how you work, and your terms and conditions before getting started.
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 behavioural 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 pooch, so give them all the details from beginning to end. For example:
- How do you handle pick-up and drop-off?
- What routes do 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 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. Liability insurance can be crucial if you’re providing pet-walking services. This can cover you if one of the dogs you’re walking gets sick or injured, resulting in peace of mind for all involved.
“Can you provide references?”
As with any other position, glowing 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.
What you should ask a potential dog-walking client
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. Remember, they’re not just deciding if they want to use your services: you’re deciding if you want to work for them, too.
A dog-walking agreement is a great way to set clear expectations about the services you’ll provide, and also establish important information about the client’s pet and home care needs. Discussing the contents of this agreement will help you gather key details about the client and their pet from the outset.
Here are some questions to start with:
“What is your dog’s medical and behavioural 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 behavioural issues—do they get along with other dogs? Are they OK being around kids? Are they terrified of thunder, scooters, or sirens? Do they have any other behavioural 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. Work out whether an older dog needs to take it easy, for example, or a younger dog needs a more active arrangement. Be clear about how much time and activity the dog owner is expecting from your setup.
“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 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 activities and places should you avoid?
A good way to work out whether you and the dog will get along is to arrange with the client to go and visit their pet while their owner isn’t there, but is close by in case anything unexpected happens. After all, dogs may appear comfortable with you in the soothing presence of their owner, but an initial unsupervised visit could go awry when an animal is taken off guard.
Red flags to consider
Be prepared to look out for a few red flags that may suggest a bad fit with a potential client:
- A reluctance to allow you to meet the dog before accepting the job as dog walker
- Vague details regarding what is required of you
- No clarity on payment or process
- If the previous dog walker didn’t stay long or the pet owner is reluctant to share details of who was walking the dog previously
- Any inappropriate behaviour or concerns
It’s also important to pay close attention to the dog’s behaviour during the interview. If a dog seems out of control or aggressive towards you, that’s your cue to say goodbye. You can’t afford to take the risk that they won’t be safe for you to walk.
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 demeanour 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.
