How to Pick the Best Dog Walker in Springfield, MO (Without Losing Your Mind)
Let’s be real—handing your house key and your dog’s leash to someone new can feel weird. You’re not just choosing someone to take your pup around the block. You’re choosing someone who will be in your home, responsible for your dog’s safety, well-being, and happiness while you’re away. That’s a big deal. And in a place like Springfield, MO, where options range from hobby walkers to seasoned professionals, the choices can be overwhelming.
So what should you actually look for when picking a dog walker? We’ve got you.
1. Start with Trust
Would you hand your dog to a stranger in the grocery store parking lot? Didn’t think so. The same should apply to dog walking. A great dog walker should:
Be background checked
Carry pet-specific insurance and bonding
Offer a professional meet & greet before the first visit
Provide visit updates and photos, every single time
Be trained in Pet First Aid and CPR, because emergencies do happen
When someone’s walking your dog, they should know what to do if something goes wrong—not Google it in the moment.
2. Look for Systems, Not Surprises
If someone is serious about dog walking, they’ll have systems in place: scheduling software, backup plans, emergency protocols, and a clear way to communicate with you. If it feels like they’re winging it? They probably are.
At Funky Bunch, for example, we use Time to Pet to schedule visits, send updates, and make sure nothing slips through the cracks. You get a full report after every visit, complete with potty notes and cute photos (you’re welcome).
3. Prioritize Local + Professional
We’re proud to be a local business in Springfield, and we believe that matters. A local pro knows the best walking spots, understands the weather swings (hello, 70 degrees one day and snow the next), and can actually show up when you need them.
Ask questions like:
How long have you been walking dogs in Springfield?
Do you walk solo or with a team?
Do you know what to do if a loose dog approaches?
(We do. It’s in our training—and part of our Pet First Aid certification.)
4. Match the Energy
Your dog’s needs are unique. Maybe you’ve got a couch potato who loves a leisurely sniff walk. Or a young lab who needs to burn serious energy. Either way, your walker should be willing to tailor the visit. Cookie-cutter care isn’t care at all.
Ask potential walkers how they adjust their visits based on breed, energy, weather, and age. And yes, daily updates should be standard—because you deserve peace of mind while your pup gets their steps in.
5. Read the Reviews—and the Room
Testimonials are gold. Look for comments about reliability, communication, and how dogs react to the walker. But also trust your gut during the meet and greet. Do they ask thoughtful questions? Do they connect with your dog? Are youcomfortable?
Because at the end of the day, you should miss your dog while you’re gone—not worry about them.
Ready to Book a Walk?
At Funky Bunch Pet Care, we’ve built our reputation on trustworthy, loving, and totally professional dog walking. Our team is background checked, Pet First Aid & CPR certified, and obsessed with keeping your dog happy and healthy. Whether you need a quick check-in or a full-on adventure walk, we’re here to help your pup thrive.
📍 Serving Springfield, MO and surrounding areas
🐾 Learn more or book your Meet & Greet today!
Let’s make walk time the best part of your dog’s day.
