Choosing the right person to walk your dog is a big decision. Penarth has no shortage of dog lovers, but experience, handling skills and an understanding of canine behaviour can vary widely. Since every dog has unique needs, it’s worth taking time to find a walker who genuinely suits your dog’s personality, energy levels and quirks. This guide breaks down what to look for when researching dog walking in Penarth, whether you’ve just moved to the area or are exploring options for the first time.

1. Look for modern, kind handling methods

A dog walk should be more than simply covering distance. The quality of the experience matters. Modern, force-free handling has become the gold standard because it supports dogs emotionally as well as physically. When speaking to potential walkers, ask how they respond to pulling, barking or excitement on lead. Their answers will tell you a lot about their approach.

Walkers who use reward-based methods typically focus on calmness, choice and clear communication. This is especially important for dogs who are nervous, reactive or still learning loose-lead skills. Even confident, friendly dogs benefit from gentle techniques because it keeps walks relaxed and predictable.

2. Consider how many dogs they walk at once

Penarth is full of variety when it comes to walking routes: quiet woodland paths, residential streets, coastal areas and open fields. Because environments differ so much, the number of dogs in a group can greatly affect how safe and enjoyable a walk feels.

Some dogs are sociable and thrive in small groups. Others find the presence of unfamiliar dogs stressful. Ask potential walkers how many dogs they take at a time, how they select groups and how they manage interactions. Well-organised walkers avoid mixing dogs who may not get on or may overwhelm each other.

If your dog needs more space, has specific behavioural needs or simply prefers human company, solo or same-household walks might be the best fit. Solo walks are also ideal for elderly dogs, puppies and dogs recovering from injury.

3. Ask about route choices and walking environments

Penarth has an excellent mix of walking options, from the tranquillity of Cosmeston Lakes to bracing coastal paths with plenty to sniff. A thoughtful dog walker will tailor routes rather than doing the same circuit every day.

Good questions to ask include:

• Do you adapt routes based on the dog’s needs?
• What areas do you avoid at busy times?
• How do you choose routes for anxious or reactive dogs?
• How do you handle off-lead time, if any?

A personalised approach helps ensure the walk suits your dog’s age, exercise needs and temperament. For example, some dogs enjoy varied terrain and mental stimulation, while others prefer predictable, low-pressure environments.

4. Check for insurance, training and professionalism

It might not be the most exciting part of your search, but it’s one of the most important. A responsible dog walker should have:

• Public liability insurance
• Canine first aid training
• A plan for emergencies
• Reliable procedures for managing keys
• Clear communication about scheduling

Professionalism isn’t about flashy branding — it’s about accountability. Dogs can be unpredictable, and a well-prepared walker will have thought through safety, risk management and communication long before anything goes wrong.

5. Arrange a meet and greet before deciding

Nothing replaces seeing how someone interacts with your dog in person. A meet and greet gives your dog time to approach at their own pace and helps you see how the potential walker handles introductions.

Things to look for during the meeting:

• They speak to your dog calmly and respectfully
• They don’t force interaction
• They ask about your dog’s routine, medical needs and behavioural history
• They observe your dog’s body language
• They explain what a typical walk might involve

Your instincts matter here. You know your dog best, and the right match should feel natural.

6. Look for transparency and ongoing communication

Good dog walking relies on trust. Many walkers send short updates, photos or notes after each walk. While not essential, regular communication helps you feel included in your dog’s day and reassured that everything is going smoothly.

It’s also useful to ask about:

• How cancellations are handled
• How schedule changes are managed
• What happens if your dog becomes unwell on a walk
• How they decide whether conditions (heat, storms, icy pavements) are safe for walking

Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures your dog’s welfare remains the top priority.

7. Think about your dog’s individual needs

It’s tempting to choose a walker purely based on convenience or price, but the most important factor is how well the service suits your dog. Consider:

• Their age and fitness
• Whether they enjoy dog-dog interactions
• Whether they’re reactive or easily stressed
• How confident they feel in busy or unfamiliar places
• What kind of enrichment they enjoy

A great dog walker should take these elements into account and be able to explain how they tailor their approach accordingly.