Information

At Harbour Hounds, every dog is treated as if they were our own. We provide personalised walks and basic training tailored to each dog’s needs, with a strong focus on safety, reliability, and positive reinforcement. Our goal is not just to exercise your dog, but to help them feel happy, confident, and well cared for every step of the way.

Frequently asked questions

We offer a free meet-and-greet before your dog’s first walk to discuss their routine, personality, and any training needs. Walks include home pick-up and drop-off, exercise tailored to your dog, and photo updates after each walk. Dogs must be fully vaccinated and wear a secure collar or harness. We ask for 24 hours’ notice for cancellations, and regular weekly slots are available for ongoing clients.

How does your dog walking service work?
We offer a free meet-and-greet before your dog's first walk to discuss their routine, personality, and any training needs. Walks include home pick-up and drop-off, exercise tailored to your dog, and photo updates after each walk.

What areas do you cover in North County Dublin?
We are based in Skerries and cover surrounding areas of North County Dublin. Please contact us to confirm if we cover your specific location.

Do you offer solo walks and group walks?
Yes, we offer both solo walks and small group walks to cater to your dog's individual needs and preferences.

How long are your dog walks?
Walk durations can vary, please refer to our Pricing & Packages page or contact us for more details.

How many dogs do you walk at one time?
For group walks, we keep the numbers small to ensure individual attention and a safe, enjoyable experience for all dogs.

Are you Garda vetted?
Yes, all Harbour Hounds staff are Garda vetted.

Do you offer a free meet-and-greet?
Yes, we offer a complimentary meet-and-greet to discuss your dog's needs and our services before you commit.

Can you help with basic obedience training?

Yes, we can incorporate basic obedience training into our walks, such as recall and loose lead walking and basic commands.

Do you work with puppies?
Yes, we offer services suitable for puppies, including puppy visits and gentle walks.

What if my dog is nervous or reactive?
We specialise in personalised care and can accommodate nervous or reactive dogs, often recommending solo walks initially. Please discuss your dog's specific needs with us during the meet-and-greet.

What breeds and sizes of dogs do you work with?
We welcome all breeds and sizes of dogs, tailoring our approach to suit each individual.

Can you help with recall and loose lead walking?
Absolutely, these are common areas we focus on during walks, using positive reinforcement techniques.

Where do you take the dogs for walks?

We explore various local parks, beaches, and scenic routes in North County Dublin, ensuring stimulating and safe environments. We also offer local walks from your house around the town. 

Do you provide updates and photos after walks?
Yes, we love to share updates and photos of your dog enjoying their walk!

Are dogs walked on or off lead?
Dogs are walked on lead unless explicit permission is given by the owner and the area is safe and secure for off-lead exercise.

What equipment should I provide?
Please ensure your dog has a secure collar or harness and lead. Any specific treats or toys they prefer are also welcome.

What if my dog is in season or unwell?
Please inform us if your dog is in season or unwell. We may need to adjust walking arrangements or postpone services for their well-being and that of other dogs.

What happens in bad weather?

In adverse weather conditions, we adapt walks to ensure your dog's safety and comfort, which may include shorter walks however if it's just a bit of rain/wind and your dog is happy to come we will still walk as normal provided it is safe to do so.

Do you offer puppy visits?
Yes, we offer puppy visits for younger dogs who aren't quite ready for full walks, focusing on potty breaks and playtime.

How much notice do you need to book?
We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, especially for regular slots. For ad-hoc walks, we ask for as much notice as you can provide.

Can you administer medication?
We can administer oral or topical medication if clear instructions are provided. Please discuss this with us in advance.

Do you offer regular weekly slots?
Yes, regular weekly slots are available for ongoing clients to ensure consistency for your dog.

What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours' notice for cancellations. Cancellations made with less notice may incur a charge.

How do I pay for your services?
Payment details and options will be discussed during your initial consultation or upon booking confirmation.

What are your prices?
Our pricing varies based on the service and duration. Please visit our Pricing & Packages page for detailed information, or contact us for a personalised quote.

Your dog's happiness is our priority

At Harbour Hounds, we believe every walk should be an adventure. Discover how our dedicated care and personalised approach can make a difference for your furry friend.