What to Expect from a Professional Dog Walker in Chicago
Hiring a dog walker isn’t just about convenience—it’s about trust. In a city as fast-paced and unpredictable as Chicago, knowing your dog is safe, cared for, and in reliable hands makes all the difference.
Here’s what you should expect from a professional dog walking service—and what we focus on every day at Chicago Dog Walkers.
1. Consistency Over Gig Apps
You’re not just booking a time slot—you’re trusting someone with your home and your dog. A professional company provides:
Trained, insured walkers who show up reliably
Consistent service from the same few walkers your dog gets to know
Built-in backup plans for emergencies or time off
We don’t operate like a gig app. Every walker on our team is part of a coordinated, accountable system.
2. One Simple Service, Fairly Priced
We keep things simple: $25 for a 25-minute walk.
No upsells, no hidden fees, no surprises—just great service, consistently delivered.
If you’re looking for longer visits, additional pets, or expanded hours, we also work closely with some of the city’s other top-rated providers—including Urban Tailz and Windy City Paws—to help you find the right fit.
3. Bonded, Insured, and Safety-Focused
You should never have to ask whether your dog walker is covered. A professional company will always:
Be fully bonded and insured
Train staff in safety protocols and animal behavior
Use safety equipment, including two points of contact on every walk (collar + harness) to prevent escapes
We take safety seriously because we know how fast things can change on a Chicago sidewalk.
4. Real-Time Communication
After each walk, you should get more than just a “walk completed” alert. Look for:
GPS-tracked routes
Personalized walk notes
Photos and updates that let you know your dog is happy and safe
This is about peace of mind—not just proof of service.
5. Clear Expectations and Fair Policies
Life happens, and your walker should be ready for it. A professional service will offer:
Reasonable cancellation policies
Walk windows and schedule consistency
Responsive support if something goes wrong
Consistency is everything—for you and your dog.
6. Local Know-How Matters
We’ve walked thousands of dogs across neighborhoods like Lakeview, River North, Bucktown, and the Gold Coast. We know which buildings require extra clearance, where the best walking routes are, and how to navigate safely through construction zones and Chicago winters.
Moving to NYC? We recommend MixyPaws
In Brooklyn? Check out Brooklyn Bark
Final Thoughts
Whether this is your first time hiring a dog walker or you’re switching from another provider, the right fit should feel easy, professional, and reliable. That’s what we aim to deliver—day in and day out.
