How to Find a Trustworthy Dog Walker in the UK

Leaving your dog with someone new is a big deal. Your dog is family, and trusting a stranger with their safety and wellbeing is a decision that deserves careful thought. The good news? Finding a trustworthy dog walker doesn't have to be stressful — if you know what to look for.

What to look for in a dog walker

Not all dog walkers are equal. Here are the key things to check before you commit to anyone.

DBS check

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a criminal record check carried out by the UK government. While it's not legally required for dog walkers, any professional who is serious about their work should have one. It shows they have nothing to hide and takes a matter of weeks to obtain. Always ask to see evidence of a current check.

Public liability insurance

If your dog injures someone or damages property during a walk, you could be held responsible. A professional dog walker should carry their own public liability insurance — typically covering at least £1 million in liability. Ask for the policy name and number, and verify it's current.

Experience and qualifications

Years of experience matter, but so does the right kind of experience. A walker who has handled large, energetic breeds is different from one who's mainly walked small companion dogs. Ask about their experience with your specific breed, and whether they hold any formal qualifications from bodies like the IMDT or iPET Network.

Group size

How many dogs does the walker take out at once? A solo walker managing six dogs in a busy park is very different from one who takes a maximum of three. Smaller groups mean more attention for your dog and lower risk of incidents.

Questions to ask before booking

Before you hand over the lead, have a proper conversation. Here are the questions that matter most:

• Are you DBS checked and insured?
• How many dogs do you walk at once?
• What's your experience with my breed?
• How do you handle dogs that don't get on?
• What happens if my dog is injured during a walk?
• Can we do a trial walk together first?
• How do you communicate with owners during and after walks?

The trial walk

A trial walk is non-negotiable. Let the walker meet your dog at home first, so you can see how they interact. Watch how the walker handles your dog on the lead — do they stay calm, use positive reinforcement, and seem genuinely at ease?

A trial also gives your dog a chance to build trust gradually. Some dogs take to new people immediately; others need more time. A good walker will be patient with both types.

Red flags to watch out for

Trust your instincts. Walk away if a walker:

• Can't produce evidence of insurance or a DBS check
• Seems vague about how many dogs they walk at once
• Refuses a trial walk
• Doesn't ask you any questions about your dog
• Can't tell you their emergency plan if something goes wrong

Using a platform like Central Barks

Booking through a platform gives you an extra layer of protection. Central Barks verifies that all walkers are insured and DBS checked before they can take bookings. You can read real reviews from other pet owners, message walkers before committing, and pay securely through the platform.

Finding a great dog walker takes a little effort upfront — but when you find the right person, it's one of the best investments you can make for your dog's wellbeing and your own peace of mind.