A little preparation can help your dog feel more comfortable with a new walker and give the walker practical guidance from the start. Before the first outing, write down your dog’s usual routine, how they respond to leash equipment, and what to do if plans change or an emergency occurs. Clear, simple notes are more useful than trying to remember every detail at the door. Use this checklist to get ready for a calm first walk.
Share the Usual Routine
Note when your dog usually goes outside, how long they tend to walk, and whether they prefer a familiar route. Include useful habits, such as stopping to sniff, needing a slower pace, or becoming restless around meal or nap times. If your dog has a typical bathroom routine, describe it plainly so the walker knows what to expect.
Include behavior that can affect the outing. Explain how your dog reacts to other dogs, people, bicycles, traffic, or loud sounds. Mention commands your dog knows and the words you use consistently. If there are places or situations to avoid, name them clearly and suggest an alternative route or response.
Prepare Leash and Gear
Set out the equipment you want used, such as your dog’s everyday leash, harness, collar, or waste bags. Show the walker how each item fits and fastens, and point out anything that should not be adjusted. If your dog pulls, slips equipment, or dislikes having gear put on, explain that before the walk rather than relying on a quick handoff.
Tell the walker which leash setup your dog knows best and whether you have preferences about retractable leashes or other equipment. Make sure identification tags are attached and current. Keep supplies in one easy-to-find place, and leave a towel or paw-cleaning cloth nearby if you use one after walks.
Give Safety and Emergency Details
Provide your current phone number and a backup contact who can make decisions if you are unavailable. Share your veterinarian’s name and phone number, along with any relevant health concerns, medication instructions, allergies, or mobility limits. Keep instructions specific, and confirm that the walker has received them before the first outing.
Explain how to reach you during the walk and what you want the walker to do if your dog seems unwell, gets loose, or encounters an unexpected hazard. Include your home entry instructions and where the walker should leave your dog afterward. Avoid leaving sensitive information in an exposed spot; share access details directly and securely.
Make the First Handoff Easy
If possible, introduce your dog to the walker before the scheduled outing. Let your dog approach at their own pace, and give the walker time to learn how your dog responds to greetings and handling. A short meet-and-greet can also help you demonstrate where supplies are stored and answer questions that are easier to address in person.
Keep your goodbye calm and brief, and avoid changing the routine at the last minute. Ask the walker to let you know when the outing is complete and share any useful observations, such as how your dog handled the route or equipment. Update your notes when routines, health needs, or contact details change.
A clear routine sheet, familiar leash setup, and reliable emergency contacts give a weekend walker a solid starting point. Take a few minutes to review the details together and make any needed adjustments after the first outing. OKC Weekend Walks can discuss your dog’s routine and walk preferences before getting started.