The first meet & greet: a calmer start for dogs and humans

A meet & greet is not an audition. It is a chance for your dog, you and a potential walker to become a little less unfamiliar.

Before you meet

Choose somewhere your dog already knows. Home can work well for discussing routines, but a quiet pavement or familiar green space often takes pressure out of the first hello. Tell the walker in advance if your dog is nervous around new people, guards the front door, or needs space.

Bring the things that make the conversation concrete: the usual lead or harness, a few treats, and a short list of non-negotiables. You do not need a perfect folder. You need an honest picture of an ordinary day.

The best first meeting feels less like an interview and more like making a shared plan.

What to notice

Look for calm attention rather than instant chemistry. Does the walker let your dog approach in their own time? Do they ask before offering a treat? Are they curious about the details that matter — recall, triggers, walking pace and what your dog does when worried?

• They listen without rushing to reassure you.
• They are comfortable saying what they would do in an unexpected situation.
• They respect the routines and boundaries you already use.
• Your dog has room to opt out and come back.

Questions worth asking

Ask how they handle dogs who refuse to move, slip a harness, find food on the pavement or react to another dog. Talk through keys, handovers, photo updates and who to contact in an emergency. If insurance or a DBS check matters to you, ask to see the relevant documents in person.

Good answers do not have to sound polished. They should be specific, thoughtful and consistent with the way you care for your dog.

Leave with a small next step

You do not need to commit on the spot. Take a little time, check how the meeting felt and follow up on anything you missed. When everyone is comfortable, start with a short familiar walk. Trust is usually built through several ordinary, reliable moments — not one impressive introduction.