If you’ve ever seen a dog walker in New York, you might have noticed them walking what seems like a small army of dogs—sometimes up to 10 at a time! It’s an impressive sight, but here in Australia, the rules and practices around dog walking are a little different, and for good reason. So, how many dogs can you walk at once in Australia, and what should you keep in mind as a responsible dog walker?
Keeping Control: The Key to Safe Dog Walking
When it comes to dog walking, safety and control are top priorities. In New York, walking multiple dogs through busy streets is common, but here in Australia, local councils often have restrictions on how many dogs you can walk at once—typically, this number ranges from 4 to 6 dogs, depending on your location.
Walking a group of dogs may look simple, but it requires a deep understanding of canine behavior. The more dogs you walk, the harder it becomes to ensure each one is under control, especially if a distraction like another dog, a loud noise, or even a cat crosses your path! Being able to manage multiple dogs while navigating hazards is crucial for both the safety of the dogs and the peace of mind of their owners.
Why the Numbers Matter
In some Australian cities, councils impose specific limits on the number of dogs you can walk at once without special permits. These rules aren’t just there to make life difficult—they exist to ensure dog walkers can manage their pack responsibly and avoid accidents or incidents. If you’re walking more than you can handle, it’s not just stressful for you—it can also lead to leash tangles, unpredictable behavior, or worse, a dog running into traffic.
In contrast, while dog walkers in New York might take more dogs at once, they’re often doing so in very different environments, where there are usually fewer open spaces and more leash laws in place to ensure dogs are kept close. In Australia, with our expansive parks and beaches, it can be tempting to take on a larger group, but maintaining control is always the top priority.
The Importance of Safety for You and the Dogs
Every dog has its own personality and needs—some are social butterflies who thrive in a group setting, while others prefer more personal attention. As a dog walker, it’s your responsibility to ensure each dog is comfortable and safe. Walking too many dogs at once can make it harder to notice if one is getting anxious or struggling to keep up. Worse, it can leave you overwhelmed if something unexpected happens.
And it’s not just about control—it’s about being able to react quickly. For instance, if one of the dogs suddenly pulls towards something dangerous or if they get into a tangle with another dog, you need to be able to intervene quickly.
PetCloud Makes Dog Walking Safer and Easier
If you’re thinking about becoming a dog walker, or if you’re already walking dogs and want to take your service to the next level, PetCloud is the perfect platform to join. Here’s why:
- Insurance Protection: Walking dogs, whether one or five, carries risks. By joining PetCloud, you’re covered by our insurance, giving you peace of mind that both you and the dogs are protected if anything goes wrong.
- Access to Pet Jobs: PetCloud’s platform connects you with pet owners in need of dog walking services. New dog walking jobs are posted daily on our Pet Jobs board, helping you easily find opportunities near you.
- Community and Support: At PetCloud, you’re part of a community of passionate pet lovers. Plus, you’ll have access to ongoing support and resources to ensure your dog walking business thrives.
Ready to Become a Dog Walker?
Walking dogs is a rewarding experience, and when done right, it can also be a lucrative and fun way to spend your time outdoors with furry companions. However, it’s essential to understand your limits and prioritize the safety of both yourself and the dogs in your care.
By joining PetCloud, you’ll have the backing of a trusted platform that not only connects you with local pet owners but also gives you the tools and insurance you need to walk dogs confidently and safely. Whether you want to walk one dog at a time or build up to managing a pack, PetCloud helps make the process easier and more secure.
So, why wait? Sign up today and start your dog walking journey with PetCloud!