As dog walking and pet sitting professionals in the Newton area, we see a wide array of dog walking styles. Each dog is unique, and their behavior can vary depending on the weather, the time of day, and even who is walking them! While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some of the most common dog walking styles we encounter in Newton and the surrounding areas, including North Newton and Hesston.
The Sled-Dog-in-Training
Picture the classic “sled-dog”—these dogs pull with all their might, as if the world might stop if they don’t! Fortunately, we know how to handle their regular walks because we’ve seen it all. These pups typically calm down after a few minutes, and we even have some tricks up our sleeve, like changing course to discourage pulling (“If you pull, we’ll never get to that tree to pee on!”).
If you’re walking your high-energy puller yourself and prefer a more relaxed walk, we recommend playing a game of fetch or another energy-burning activity beforehand. This makes the walk more about bonding and less about getting in the exercise. For a long-term solution, our head dog trainer is the expert in leash manners and overall training to help your go-get-’em pup walk with ease.
The Sniffari Adventurer
Then there are the sniffers—the dogs who could spend hours walking just a few blocks, stopping at every tree, pole, and acorn to take in all the smells. While these pups might not be the speediest walkers, their journey is all about exploration. A sniff-and-stroll seeker loves to follow their natural instincts and explore the world through their nose. These dogs can be slower-paced, and it may feel like you’re not getting anywhere on your walk. Dogs in this group can also be trained to sniff on cue as well as walk on cue, giving you both the opportunity to enjoy your walk. With a little patience, you’ll both enjoy a relaxing and enriching stroll.
For busy pet parents, you might want to consider hiring a dog walker who specializes in providing mental stimulation and enrichment during walks.
The Pooper
Some dogs just want to get down to business. Whether it’s for a quick potty break or a more extended walk before they’ll do their business, these dogs are all about getting their needs met. “Potty break pups” are the ones who, without fail, need to go during their walk—no exceptions! These dogs are usually very routine-oriented and have clear signals when it’s time to do their business. If your dog is one of these pups, hiring a dog walker for daily potty breaks can save you time and hassle while ensuring your dog’s needs are always met. And let’s face it—sometimes it’s just easier to have someone else handle the dirty work! For example, our chocolate lab friend 2Bears always keeps us on our toes—he’ll go through multiple bags in one walk and even “marks” with his poop! And then there’s Waylon, who needs a walk every day to get his business done. Whether it’s snowing or 100 degrees, we’re always prepared for a dog walk, rain or shine!
The Angel
Ah, the dream dog—the one who doesn’t pull, gets along with other dogs, and walks at a steady pace. They’re not distracted by squirrels, bunnies, or other walkers, and they stick to the sidewalk like a pro. While this may seem like the perfect walk for a human, it’s almost always the result of intentional dog training, since dogs usually enjoy exploring their environment more than following a straight A-to-B route. Whether your dog is a dream walker or still a work in progress, we can’t help but fall in love with every pup we meet!
“Can I hire a dog walker even if I’ll be home?”
Of course! Many pet parents in Newton, North Newton, and Hesston hire dog walkers even when they’re home. All dogs benefit from extra socialization and enrichment, and our trained dog walkers provide that while also offering a chance for your dog to stretch their legs. Whether it’s for a potty break, a long walk, or just a quick stroll, we’re here to cater to your dog’s unique walking style.
At Blue Skies Pet Care, we cater to each pup’s needs. Some dogs need a long walk before they’ll settle down, while others prefer a relaxed pace to sniff and explore. No matter your dog’s style, we’re always happy to help them live their best lives!
“Do you only offer daily dog walking?”
Not at all! We’re flexible to meet your schedule. While many of our clients in Newton and surrounding areas prefer daily walks, we also offer weekend and evening dog walks, potty breaks, and even dog park field trips. Whether you need regular visits or occasional walks, we’ve got you covered. And yes, we also provide dog training, luxury dog boarding, and poop scooping services, so you can trust us for all your pet care needs!
“I work unpredictable hours. Do you offer dog walks with short notice?”
Yes! As a fully staffed pet care company, we’re available for dog walks from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., 365 days a year. We’re always ready to help! Plus, we offer emergency lockout services for our clients, so you can count on us when you need us most.
Dog Walking as Enrichment
Every dog is an individual, with different needs and preferences. Remember that their walks aren’t just for our enjoyment – their world is only as big as we humans make it. If they want to stop and sniff every acorn, let them enjoy it! If they’re all about getting their steps in, they may prefer a faster pace. It’s not only about choosing the right dog for your life, but also about understanding and working with the dog in front of you, whether that’s through day-to-day life or by working toward specific training goals.
At Blue Skies Pet Care, we offer more than just dog walking. Whether your dog is an energetic explorer, a sniff-and-stroll seeker, or a potty break pro, we can help with both their physical exercise and their mental enrichment. We’re proud to offer professional dog walking services tailored to your dog’s needs, and we can also support you with dog training to make walks more enjoyable and controlled.
Contact us today to set up a dog walking plan or to learn more about how our dog training and walking services can work together to improve your pup’s experience!
