Dog Walking Melbourne Frequently Asked Questions

What type of training is for you?

Here's some very basic information to give you an idea:

a) POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING – reward/food based only and is in line with the latest research in dog behaviour

Good for people who are interested in developing a strong bond with their pet dog and are happy to work together as a team with rewards for good behaviour

Focus is on - general obedience and manners, emotional self control, focus under distraction and teaching the dog how to make the right choices

Unwanted behaviours are either ignored, redirected or incompatible behaviours taught

Terminology - teach, guide, lead, support, reward, redirect, ignore, encourage, ask, social groups, capture good behaviours, unwanted behaviour

Reward based training doesn’t require physical strength to achieve results just consistency and a desire to learn and connect with your dog. To truly adopt this philosophy and teach your dog with positive reinforcement, physical corrections or punishment aren't used. Very solid skills are achieved in this way but it can take a little longer and is hard for some people to grasp.

All dogs love learning this way as do their humans.

b) TRADITIONAL TRAINING – this method uses corrections for unwanted behaviour and reward for good. Many prefer not to use food (although more are starting to) preferring praise for good behaviour, and punishment/corrections for unwanted behaviour.

Good for people who are willing to be physical with their dog if required or for those who struggle with the positive only methods

Focus is on - obedience, control and compliance

Unwanted behaviours are corrected or punished

Terminology - obedience, alpha roll, submission, dominance, corrections, praise, commands, dominant, alpha, pack, pack leader, bad behaviour

Dogs don't enjoy this method as much but if the handler is consistent and clear it's works well . Using corrections to suppress behaviours can cause some dogs to to stop trying (too scared or worried in case they get it wrong). This way can be a lot easier and quicker to learn for the humans.

c) DOG WHISPERER/DOG LISTENER AND OTHERS - these aren't really training methods but have been known to help dogs who are lacking consistency and guidance. They believe if a pet owner can be a strong "pack leader" then all problems will be solved. They do have success but can be limiting with their one size fits all approach.

NB: All these methods can work but they’re not for everyone.

Before you enroll in a class or employ the services of a training consultant or dog listener etc ask which method they use - it can save money, time and stress. When talking to them listen to their terminology and it'll give you an idea, particularly if you're looking for a positive trainer.

All dog trainers believe you need to be consistent and a good teacher/leader/pack leader/parent/coach for a happy dog.

A confused dog is a stressed dog so no matter what method you use - consistency is the key.

How long are the dogs walked?

We allow up to two hours for each group outing,

up to an hour for solo walks including pick up

and drop off, towel down if needed, drinks etc

Do you ever need to cancel walks?

Yes if it's over 35 degrees (even cooler for

some dogs), if there's an electrical storm or

if it's raining and you'd prefer your dog didn't get wet

Where are the dogs walked?

GROUPS - We use local parks and beaches that are dog friendly and safe opting for parks we can drive into.

SOLOS - We vary it as much as possible using parks, streets and beaches in the local area. It also depends on what the dog enjoys, or doesn't enjoy

How many dogs are walked in a group?

This depends on the dogs in the group and what they're comfortable with but we like to keep them to a comfortable size of between 3 & 5

Why are group walks good for dogs lacking confidence?

Our walkers are trained in reading dog body language and are constantly looking for even the subtlest signs of stress. If we feel there's an issue with a dog this is addressed immediately in conjunction with the owner. We mix our dogs so they are at their most comfortable giving them room to shine and be the best they can be. If we feel a dog isn't ready for a group walk we will recommend solo sessions until they're feeling more confident - although some dogs simply prefer solo walks

Do you have insurance?

Yes we have pet industry specific public liability insurance

What about security, what steps do you take to keep our place secure?

We will never allow anyone into your home unless we have written or verbal permission from you. Your keys are kept in a locked safe and never with your personal information or details. The only information your key tag will have is your dog's name.

How do I pay?

There are a few options, for convenience we invoice most clients each fortnight via email for direct bank deposit over the internet but we also accept cash and cheque

Do you offer Daycare?

If one of our regular clients needs help with daycare we'll do our best to help out.

NB: On a regular basis however we think it's important for dogs to have time out and rest at home alone. Dogs who are constantly stimulated tend to develop behaviour problems and some can have separation issues being afraid to be left alone. For dogs who already have problems being left alone we will recommend professional help from a qualified behaviour consultant. Their recommendations may include daycare while trying to work with the anxiety of being left alone.

What type of car do you transport the dogs in?

We have a van ensuring comfort and space for the dogs. Like us dogs don't like to be crammed into a small space so we like to give them as much room as possible so they can travel in comfort to the park. We have three separate areas so they all have enough space without too much social pressure