Who are the best dog walkers and pet sitters in Canberra? Photo: File.
However much you may love your furry friend, sometimes you just can’t take them out for a walk. Whether you’re swamped with work, kids, other commitments or even recovering from an injury, there are plenty of reasons why you may not be able to take your pooch for their daily stroll.
Don’t suffer the guilt pangs from an overly energetic dog running around the house with nothing to do.
By providing regular exercise, mental stimulation and affection, a professional dog walker can address problems like separation anxiety, barking and unwanted chewing. And if your dog or cat isn’t a fan of kennels, a pet sitter can keep them safe and happy in their familiar home environment.
But what qualities should you consider when choosing a dog walker or pet sitter? What makes a sitter or walker good? And where can you find the best in Canberra? These are worthwhile questions.
There’s much more to being a great dog walker or pet sitter than putting on a leash and going around the block once or twice. The best dog walkers and pet sitters have a genuine love of animals and seek to build rapport with your pet.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a dog walker or pet sitter in Canberra.
- Do they offer a free introductory meeting? Many of Canberra’s best dog walkers offer a free introductory meeting to make sure your dog feels safe, comfortable and happy in their company. There’s no point hiring a walker if your pet doesn’t trust them.
- Do they offer a personalised approach? A good dog walker or pet sitter will ask about your dog’s history, behaviour, temperament and training needs and adapt their approach to suit. Their services should be tailored to suit your pet, as every pet will require a different approach to walking or sitting.
- Will the same person be walking or sitting your pet each time? Dogs love routine and get very excited when their dog walker arrives to take them out. For dogs that are particularly anxious or routine-driven, it can help to double check that the same person will be walking them each day.
- Are they proactive communicators? Many dog walking and pet sitting services will happily keep you updated with photos and text messages so you know how each walk or sitting went. If you’re nervous about leaving your pet in the care of somebody else, this is a great way to be reassured that your dog is happy and safe at home.
- What insurances do they have? Check that your chosen dog walker or pet sitter is fully insured and has completed a recent police check. After all, you’ll be letting them into your home and/or backyard and trusting them to care for a beloved pet.
The best dog walkers and pet sitters in Canberra
Region Canberra's editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Pups4Fun
Pups4Fun is Canberra's leading dog daycare and walking business, with 17 years of experience under their belt.
With a big team across North and South Canberra, they have social daycare, out and about daycare and specialised daycare. No matter what your dog's personality is, they can cater to it.
"I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this business! Willow has been attending daycare since she was a little puppy and has been having a blast ever since," Isabella says online.
Happy Paws
Happy Paws is a pet care business focused on keeping your dog healthy and happy.
With solo and group walks, shorter walks for older dogs, pet taxis and check-ins, they make sure that no matter what your pet needs, they can provide it.
"This business was a real treat to deal with. Friendly, flexible and reliable. Philippa and Eliza were wonderful! My little dog Cinda loved her walks and I am so happy with their excellent service," Paulette says on Google.
Cognitive Canine
More than 30 owners across Canberra trust Cognitive Canine to take care of their best friend.
It's not hard to see why, with solo dog walking, group hikes, tailored dog training and walk and train sessions, they put in the hard yards for your pet.
"I find it hard to trust people with my girls however Gemma is absolutely incredible and I couldn't recommend her enough!" Joelle says online.
There’s a lot that comes with providing the best care for your pet. Check out our articles on the best dog groomers, the best vets, the best emergency after-hours vets, the best dog trainers, the best pet shops and pet supplies and the best pet insurance for more helpful information on Canberra’s best pet services!
If you’re interested in finding somewhere for your pet to stay whilst you’re on holiday, our articles on Canberra’s best doggy daycares and best dog boarding kennels and catteries may be helpful.
And if you’re looking to adopt another furry friend, our article on the best places for rescue dogs in Canberra may be of interest to you.
Your experience with dog walkers and pet sitters in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the dog walking or pet sitter companies listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
I work long hours. Should I choose doggy day care instead of a dog walker?
Hiring a dog walker is a great alternative to dog day care centre. Many dogs will only need a short walk to break up their day, prevent boredom and keep their physical fitness up.
My dog hates kennels. What alternatives do I have?
Many dogs become stressed in a kennel environment and are happier staying in their own home.
Overnight pet sitting is a great alternative to boarding kennels. A lot of dogs will find greater comfort in the space that they are used to, even when being cared for a stranger.
What do I need to do before hiring a dog walker or pet sitter?
Your pet may need to have up-to-date vaccinations, worming and flea treatments before they can be cared for by a professional dog walker or pet sitter.
If your dog is kept inside and can't be accessed from the backyard, you may also need to provide your dog walker with a set of keys.
How do I know if my dog will benefit from a dog walker?
Signs your dog might benefit from a regular dog walking service include separation anxiety, barking, boredom and unwanted chewing when you aren't at home.
Certain breeds also need more frequent exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Many dogs such as border collies, kelpies and blue heelers were bred as working dogs and require more activity than companion dogs.
How much do dog walking and pet sitting services cost?
The cost of dog walking and pet sitting services varies depending on frequency, number of pets cared for, whether you would prefer one-on-one care or don't mind a group setting and the individual pet sitter.
