Changing up your dog’s routine can feel like a big leap for both of you. Bringing in a new dog walker is one of those changes that might make even the chillest pup (or pet parent) a little anxious. But with a bit of prep, some treats, and the right approach, your four-legged family member can warm up to their new best friend in no time.
At Latchkey Pets, we’ve seen it all: dogs who instantly fall in love, dogs who need a moment to size us up, and those who insist we pass their sniff test multiple times. No worries—we’re here for all of it.
Why First Impressions Matter (to Dogs Too)
Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity. Meeting a new person, especially one entering their space, taking them for walks, or handling their food bowl, can be a big adjustment. A positive introduction helps your dog:
- Build trust with their new walker
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Feel secure and confident in their routine
And let’s be honest, it helps you feel better, too. (Yes, we see you trying to sneak a peek from the window after we walk away.)
Pre-Meet Prep: What Pet Parents Should Know
Before we even walk through the door, there are a few things you can do to help us and, more importantly, your pup start off on the right paw.
Let Us Know if Your Dog Is Timid or Slow to Warm Up
Some dogs are immediate social butterflies. Others? Not so much. And that’s totally okay.
Please let us know in advance if your pup tends to be shy, protective, or hesitant around new people. This heads-up helps us tailor the introduction to their comfort level and avoid any surprises.
Share Specific Fears or Triggers
Believe it or not, some dogs have surprisingly strong opinions about:
- Men
- People wearing hats or sunglasses
- Tall people
- Squeaky shoes (we don’t blame them)
If your dog has any of these triggers or something else entirely, tell us beforehand. It helps us adapt, and it makes the experience smoother for everyone.
What to Expect During the First Meeting
We don’t just barge in, leash in hand, and expect instant tail wags. Here’s how we typically approach meeting a new (possibly skeptical) canine client.
Slow and Steady (Ignore Is the New Hello)
If we know your dog is shy or nervous, our Latchkey Pets team will start by ignoring them. Yup, this is intentional.
We’ll likely come in, sit down on the living room floor, and have a relaxed conversation with you about their care. We’re not being rude; we’re giving your pup the space to check us out, sniff around, and decide on their own time that we’re not scary.
Treats, Please!
Have a small stash of your dog’s favorite treats ready when we arrive. Giving your dog something yummy from our hands is a great way to build positive associations and show them that, hey, this new person might be a good thing after all.
Your Energy Matters (A Lot)
Here’s a fun fact: your dog takes their emotional cues from you. If you’re nervous, tense, or hovering like a helicopter parent, your dog will pick up on that and think something must be wrong. Take a deep breath. Relax. Trust the process and trust us. We’ve introduced ourselves to hundreds of dogs, and we know how to do it in a calm, respectful
way.
In fact, something magical often happens when you aren’t home: dogs who were fiercely protective of you suddenly become total goofballs, thrilled to have a new buddy visit. It’s like night and day.
Tips for a Seamless Transition to a New Walker
Even after a successful introduction, it helps to keep a few things consistent to give your dog a sense of security:
- Stick to the usual routine (walk times, feeding schedule, potty breaks)
- Use familiar items like their leash, harness, or favorite toy
- Share key info with us, everything from where they like to nap to whether they bark at the mailman
When Things Don’t Go Perfectly (Because Dogs Are Dogs)
If your dog isn’t instantly smitten, don’t worry. Some dogs just need a bit more time and patience. In rare cases where a dog shows signs of aggression or extreme anxiety, we may recommend a slower acclimation process or suggest working with a professional trainer before full visits begin.
We’ll always communicate clearly and honestly about what we see and how your pup responds. Our goal is a happy, safe, tail-wagging relationship for all.
Why Latchkey Pets Makes All the Difference
With years of experience in dog behavior, walking, and in-home pet care, the Latchkey Pets team knows how to handle every kind of pup personality, from the exuberant greeter to the quiet observer. Our approach is always:
- Patient
- Respectful
- Tailored to your pet’s needs
We know you’re trusting us with a member of your family. We don’t take that lightly. And neither does your dog.
Ready to Meet Your Dog’s New Favorite Person?
Schedule your meet-and-greet with Latchkey Pets today and see just how fun (and relaxed!) it can be to welcome a new dog walker into your pet’s life. We can’t wait to earn those tail wags and your trust. Contact Us Today to Set Up a Meet & Greet