Choosing a dog walkerin Torbay

A calm, practical checklist for comparing local dog walkers, including insurance, first aid, group walks, transport and emergency arrangements.

A professional dog walker walking dogs beside the coast

Check insurance and references

Ask to see current business insurance, including third-party or public-liability cover, and check how many dogs the policy covers at once. Request recent references or speak to clients whose dogs have similar needs to yours.

A Facebook page or directory listing does not prove that cover is current.Blue Cross checklist↗

Discuss first aid and emergencies

Ask whether the walker has current canine first-aid training, which vet they would use, how they would contact you and what happens to the other dogs if one needs urgent treatment.

Leave your vet details, an emergency contact and clear permission for urgent care.Emergency questions↗

Match the group to your dog

Find out the usual group size, how dogs are introduced and whether your dog can have a solo walk if group exercise is unsuitable. The RSPCA advises that dogs should be assessed for compatibility and that numbers must stay within insurance and local requirements.

Temperament, age, health and recall matter more than a headline group number.RSPCA walker guidance↗

Inspect transport and handovers

If dogs travel by vehicle, ask how they are secured, ventilated and separated when needed. Agree collection times, key security, identification tags, lead rules and exactly when off-lead exercise is permitted.

If a walker will enter your home, ask about DBS status and how keys and access details are protected.Transport guidance↗

Useful next steps

Keep planning.

Use current official information for rules and opening details, then return to the directory to compare places across the Bay.

Browse Torbay dog walkersSee the local services gathered in the directory.→Blue Cross dog-walker adviceQuestions about insurance, references, walks and emergencies.→Government commercial-walking guidanceBackground on the national regulatory position and responsible access.→

Good to know

Common questions.

Is every dog walker required to have a licence?＋

There is no single national licensing scheme for ordinary paid dog walking. Local land managers can set commercial-walking conditions, while separate licensing rules can apply to activities such as home boarding or day care. Ask what applies to the services being offered.

Should a dog walker be insured?＋

Yes. Ask to see current third-party or public-liability cover and confirm that the policy covers the number of dogs walked, transport where relevant, and care, custody and control.

Is a DBS check compulsory?＋

Not for every dog-walking arrangement, but it is reasonable to ask about one when a walker will hold keys or enter your home. Also agree how keys, alarm details and personal information will be stored.

What should happen before the first group walk?＋

Arrange a meeting and assessment. Discuss behaviour, recall, medical needs, triggers and preferred handling, then ask how introductions are managed and what happens if your dog is uncomfortable in the group.