The first walk with a dog you do not know is the moment that sets the tone for the whole arrangement. The dog does not know you, the owner is anxious, and you need to win trust and keep everyone safe, fast. Here is how professional sitters get through this stage calmly and confidently.
Start with an introduction, not a walk
Do not grab the lead straight away. Let the dog sniff you, crouch side-on, do not loom over them and do not stare directly. Let the dog come to you. A calm voice and slow movements work better than any treat.
Read the dog's body language
Before you head out, take stock of how the dog is doing: relaxed or tense. Flattened ears, a tucked tail, yawning and lip-licking all point to anxiety. If the dog is tense, give them more time and do not force contact.
Handle the lead and kit properly
Check the collar or harness: is it fitted securely, is there any risk of the dog slipping out? Ask the owner about the commands the dog is used to and any quirks (do they pull, do they react to other dogs?). Hold the lead relaxed, but keep control of the length.
The first route: calm and familiar
For the first walk, choose an area the dog knows and keep a gentle pace. Do not take an unfamiliar dog to busy places or large groups of dogs. Let them sniff and get their bearings, as this lowers stress.
What to do if the dog pulls, is scared or will not move
If the dog pulls, stop and wait for the lead to slacken, do not yank. If they are scared and will not move, do not drag them by force: crouch down, wait, offer a treat. If the dog freezes from stress, give them a pause in a quiet spot.
The little things that build trust
Praise in a calm voice, do not overload the dog with commands, and keep an eye on their comfort. It is exactly these details that build the reputation of a sitter people want to come back to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the dog does not want to go out? Do not drag them by force. Give it time, talk calmly, offer a treat and try again a little later.
Can I give treats to someone else's dog? Only with the owner's permission: the dog may have an allergy or be on a special diet. Always check in advance.
What if the dog is behaving aggressively? Do not punish or provoke them. Keep a safe distance, tell the owner and, if necessary, turn the booking down.
Want to take on more walking bookings? Create a sitter profile in the Flat4Pet app and start working with vetted clients.
Book trusted, verified London caregivers in seconds.
