Dog Walker In Islington
Dog Sitter and Dog Walker in Islington
As a solo dog walker in Islington, I care for dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes, ages and temperament, they’re all very different and all have their own individual needs. However the one thing they all have in common is that they do not like to be walked with other dogs.
I love getting to know your dogs, their funny little personalities, the things they enjoy, the things they don’t, their daily routines.
I’m always fully present with them, I never wear my AirPods when I’m out with them, so I’m constantly aware of our surroundings – keeping an eye our for anything they’re not happy with. I always talk to them, guide them, praise them. I go at their pace. Depending on where we are, I might let them lead the way, after all it is their walk and their time out.
Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions
Unlike their wolf ancestors that like to roam the wild in packs, central London dogs are very different – they’re urban, with urban lifestyles, which often come with urban stress. Their surroundings are busy and can often be overwhelming, which can make them nervous and reactive, and so they need patient and calm leadership, which is what I offer. Some dogs are deeply bonded to their humans and can find the presence of other dogs overwhelming. Honouring their space helps them feel safe and at ease.
Dogs are very emotional animals, they can sense our emotional state straight away – they can literally smell it they often project or mirror us emotionally – so happy human > happy dog etc.
I always try to maintain a calm, relaxed temperament when I’m with your dog, and this is something than cannot be faked around them…they’ll know (clever little things!) – I have been known to sit in park and do some calming breathe work, to regulate myself before collecting my next client.
Dogs have a highly sensitive nervous system that is constantly taking in information from their environment. Loud noises, fast movement, unfamiliar smells and unpredictable situations can easily push them into a state of stress or hyper-vigilance, especially in a busy city. When a dog’s nervous system is overloaded, it shows up as pulling, freezing, barking or reactivity. By slowing things down, creating predictability, and responding calmly rather than forcefully, their nervous system can settle. When a dog feels regulated and safe in their body, everything else becomes easier – movement, focus, and trust.
With solo dog walks we’re never in a rush to get anywhere, we can take our time, take in our surroundings and make our walks fun, and enjoyable.
Does your dog need a solo dog walker?
Why dogs often like being walked alone
Dogs often thrive on solo walks, not just because they dislike other dogs, but a lot of the time they can give their nervous system time to chill.
Here are some of the reasons your dog may benefit from solo walks…
Less Sensory Overload
Group walks can be loud, fast, and often unpredictable.
For sensitive, anxious, adolescent, or reactive dogs, that’s a lot to process. Walks alone allow their brains and bodies to stay regulated rather than switched into constant high alert mode.
More Sniffing,
Less Rushing
Dogs experience the world through scent. Alone, they can stop, sniff, investigate, and move at their own pace without being pulled along by a big group. Sniffing lowers stress and supports and is so good for your dogs emotional balance
Stronger Bond with Their Human
Your dog learns they can rely on their handler for guidance, safety, and clear communication. This is especially important for dogs who need reassurance or confidence-building.
Better Emotional Regulation
Dogs mirror energy. In a group, nervous energy can often get out of control. Alone, they can stay calmer and learn to self-regulate with consistent human presence.
Reduced Reactivity and Fear Response
Dogs that react around other dogs or busy environments, solo walks create a sense of safety, which is so important for positive changes in behaviour.
Adolescent, Senior, Rescue Dogs
Teenage dogs are often overwhelmed, rescues are still learning the world is safe, and older dogs may need gentler pacing, and lockdown dogs are often not very well socialised. Solo walks allow them to go at their own pace.