When comparing dog walking services, you’ll often see lower-cost group or “pack walks” advertised. At first glance, this may seem like good value — one walker takes several dogs out at once, which reduces the cost per dog. But cheaper doesn’t always mean better.
I take a different approach. I only offer solo dog walks or walks for dogs from the same household. While this option can be more expensive, it provides real benefits for your dog’s wellbeing, your peace of mind, and even the wider community. Here’s why.
1. Individual Attention and Tailored Care
Every dog is different. Some are energetic and need plenty of fast-paced exercise, while others prefer a gentle stroll with lots of sniffing breaks. Some may be confident around other dogs, while others can be nervous or reactive. On a one-to-one walk, I can adapt completely to your dog’s needs — the route, the pace, the length of the walk, and the level of enrichment. That’s simply not possible in a large group, where the individual is often overlooked.
2. Safety Comes First
Walking multiple dogs at once is more challenging than it looks. If an off-lead dog approaches, if traffic is heavy, or if something unexpected happens, it can be difficult to manage a group safely. With a solo walk, I can focus fully on your dog and react instantly. This keeps your dog safer and prevents risky situations for other dogs and members of the public.
3. Respect for the Community
Not everyone feels comfortable around groups of dogs, especially in busy parks or shared spaces. A large pack can look intimidating to children, older people, or those who are nervous of dogs. By offering solo or same-household walks only, I help make sure the public can enjoy their space without fear or inconvenience.
4. Less Stress, More Enjoyment
Pack walks often involve dogs that don’t know each other. This can lead to tension, overexcitement, or even conflict. Some dogs may cope, but many find it stressful to be walked in a group of strangers. My approach reduces that risk completely. Your dog isn’t forced into a situation that could harm their confidence — instead, they enjoy calm, positive experiences designed just for them.
5. True Quality Time
A walk should be more than exercise. It’s also an opportunity for mental stimulation and engagement. On a solo walk, I can give your dog my full attention — rewarding calm behaviour, encouraging exploration, and building a routine that boosts their wellbeing. That quality of interaction simply isn’t possible in a pack setting, where the walker’s main job is just to keep everyone moving in the same direction.
6. Building Consistency and Trust
Dogs thrive on routine and strong relationships. By walking your dog one-to-one, I can get to know their personality, their body language, and their unique needs over time. This consistency builds trust and helps your dog feel more secure. With pack walks, dogs often miss out on this bond because the walker’s attention is spread too thin.
💡 Yes, solo walks are more expensive than pack walks — but the difference in cost reflects the difference in quality.
You’re not just paying for time outside. You’re investing in:
- Your dog’s safety and comfort
- A stress-free, positive walking experience
- Dedicated attention and enrichment
- Peace of mind knowing your dog is cared for responsibly
In short, my dog walking services are designed to put your dog first. By avoiding pack walks, I can ensure every outing is safe, enjoyable, and tailored to the individual — because your dog deserves nothing less.
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