We all love our dogs and want to keep them happy and healthy, but it can be hard to find time to give them the exercise they need, especially for city-dwellers. Not to worry; Toronto has plenty of certified and reliable dog-walking services ready to take up the reins and make sure your pooch is thoroughly pooped! [Image credit: iStock.com/andykatz]
Available throughout Toronto’s east end, Woofs Upon a Walk is pretty much the cream of the crop when it comes to dog-walking. Not only will they walk your dog, they’ll train ‘em too, taking on basic obedience and behavioural issues – which is no easy feat. The staff is certified in pet first aid and go through a rigorous training process. Best of all, their rates are competitive: private walks start at $25 and group walks at $18.
Toronto Dog Walks is a family business that has expanded its service area throughout North York, uptown, and midtown. Toronto Dog Walks is popular with busy professionals living in condos and apartments and offers walking services from 15-minute “Condo Potty Breaks” for $15, to three to four hour-long “Weekend Adventure Walks” for $45. They even have an online booking system so you can arrange your walk from a computer or smartphone in the inclement case that your boss asks you to stay late.
Serving North York and midtown, A Walk Apart offers basic dog walking services and boasts a particularly loyal following because they love dogs (belly rubs are included with every package and inclement weather is no obstacle to a good walk). Toronto dog owners know well that city dogs are expected to have basic obedience skills, and walkers will help them practice. Just keep in mind, if you want your furry friend to partake in one of the epic “Weekend Walking Adventures,” they have to be spayed or neutered, lest they get a little too “social” with their companions.
Do you have a crazy, never-gets-tired, super-dog and a tight budget? Soulmutts to the rescue! This is a pack-oriented business where the dogs can do zoomies for over 3 hours in a private forest dog run located near Cherry Beach – for $20! The company prides itself on its familiarity with all of its four-legged clientele and the security that comes with controlling access to the run. No longer do you have to worry about that shifty Chihuahua that’s always picking on your husky – only sociable dogs are allowed to roam freely here.
Looking for a company that offers a holistic approach to interacting with your pet? Providing service in and around the heart of Toronto, Christine and Katie put their hearts into taking care of their furry clientele. Both are dedicated trainers who use positive reinforcement techniques with their clients and offer nutritional advice – because both are vital to your dog’s health. Group walks are 60 minutes for the same price most charge for 30 and training walks are $22. Owners and dogs alike are in a little bit in love with these ladies…okay, maybe a lot in love.
Is Fido shy around new dogs? One of North Toronto’s most popular dog walking services, Cuddles & Fetch are all about positive reinforcement, familiarity, and play, play, play! One of their key tenants is developing comfort and strong relationships through consistency. Heather and Dave encourage you to commit your dog to at least three walks every week, and work to pair them with a suitable pack to minimize any anxiety and develop strong relationships. Everyone needs a good group of friends to goof around with and Cuddles & Fetch will help your dog become a social butterfly!
If you’re looking for an accomplished dog walker, Yvette will not disappoint. She is active in the animal rights community and has lead multiple fundraisers benefitting abused and abandoned animals. She is also a pet first aid instructor and co-founder of the Toronto Dog Walkers Association, which is all about setting high standards in pet care. She is the dog walker that other dog walkers go to for training and guidance. Tail Blazers is based in downtown Toronto and offers competitive prices. If only the best will do, contact the dogmother of Toronto’s pet community.