Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our dog walking and training services in London

Our standard sessions run for 30 minutes or 60 minutes, depending on your dog's needs and energy level. The 30-minute option works well for smaller breeds or older dogs requiring shorter outings, while the 60-minute session suits active breeds needing extended exercise and mental stimulation.

Each walk includes time for play, sniffing, and socialisation with other dogs when appropriate. We also offer 90-minute adventure walks for high-energy breeds. During the session, your dog receives our complete attention, ensuring proper exercise and safety throughout.

We provide services across central and south London, including Southwark, Lambeth, Greenwich, Lewisham, and surrounding boroughs. Our base near Southwark allows us to efficiently serve clients within a 5-mile radius.

Each area offers excellent parks and green spaces for exercise. Popular walking locations include Burgess Park, Peckham Rye, and various riverside paths along the Thames. If you're unsure whether we cover your specific postcode, contact us at +44 7821 564907, and we'll confirm service availability for your location.

We offer both options based on your dog's temperament and your preferences. Group walks typically include 3-4 compatible dogs, providing socialisation opportunities and reducing costs. Dogs are carefully matched by size, energy level, and behaviour to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.

Individual walks suit dogs requiring focused attention, those recovering from illness or injury, or reactive dogs still working on socialisation skills. This option provides undivided attention and allows customisation of routes and activities. During your initial consultation, we'll discuss which format best suits your dog's personality and needs.

We employ positive reinforcement techniques based on modern canine behavioural science. This approach rewards desired behaviours with treats, praise, or play, encouraging dogs to repeat those actions. We avoid aversive methods such as shock collars, prong collars, or intimidation tactics.

Our trainers hold certifications from recognised organisations and regularly update their knowledge through continuing education. Training sessions focus on building trust and communication between you and your dog. Whether addressing basic obedience, leash pulling, or more complex behavioural issues, we create customised plans that respect your dog's learning pace and individual personality.

Safety remains our top priority. All walkers carry mobile phones, first aid kits, and emergency contact information. We use secure, well-fitted harnesses and leads for all dogs, with backup equipment available. Before each walk, we check weather conditions and adjust routes accordingly.

Dogs are supervised constantly, never left unattended. We maintain safe distances from roads, avoid extreme temperatures, and ensure access to fresh water. Our staff receives training in canine first aid and CPR. We're fully insured for public liability and professional indemnity. GPS tracking allows us to share walk routes with you, providing real-time peace of mind about your dog's location and activities.

Absolutely. During your initial consultation, we document all medical conditions, dietary restrictions, and medication schedules. Our team receives detailed instructions about your dog's specific requirements, whether managing diabetes, administering medications, or following post-surgery restrictions.

For training sessions, we accommodate food allergies by using hypoallergenic treats or your own provided rewards. If your dog requires gentler exercise due to arthritis or other conditions, we adapt walk pace and duration accordingly. We maintain detailed records of each dog's needs and update them as circumstances change, ensuring consistent care from all team members.

Most dogs enjoy walks in light rain, and we come prepared with waterproof gear and towels. However, during severe weather such as storms, extreme heat, or heavy snow, we prioritise safety over routine. In such cases, we'll contact you to discuss alternatives.

Options include rescheduling to later that day, shorter indoor play sessions focusing on mental enrichment, or arranging a visit purely for toilet breaks. We never cancel without offering alternatives. During hot summer days, we schedule walks during cooler morning or evening hours. Our flexible approach ensures your dog receives appropriate care regardless of weather conditions, maintaining their routine as much as safely possible.

Progress varies depending on the dog's age, previous experiences, and the specific behaviour being addressed. Simple commands like "sit" or "stay" often show improvement within 2-3 sessions. More complex issues such as separation anxiety or reactivity typically require 6-12 weeks of consistent work.

Success depends significantly on practice between sessions. We provide detailed homework instructions and video demonstrations to support your training at home. Most clients notice positive changes within the first month. Remember that every dog learns at their own pace. Younger dogs often progress faster, while older dogs with established habits may need more time. We'll set realistic expectations during your initial assessment and adjust our approach based on your dog's response.

Yes, communication is important to us. After each walk, you'll receive a report including photos, walk duration, distance covered, and notes about your dog's behaviour and activities. We use a dedicated app that sends notifications when we collect and return your dog.

GPS tracking shows the exact route taken, and you can view this in real-time if desired. If anything unusual occurs during the walk, such as encountering another reactive dog or a minor scrape, we'll contact you immediately. For training sessions, we provide detailed progress reports highlighting achievements, areas requiring more work, and recommended exercises for home practice. This transparency helps you stay connected with your dog's daily activities even when you're at work.

Pricing varies based on session length and whether you choose individual or group walks. Group walks start at £18 for 30 minutes and £25 for 60 minutes. Individual walks are £28 for 30 minutes and £38 for 60 minutes. Training sessions are priced at £55 per hour.

We offer discounted packages for regular clients booking multiple sessions per week. For example, booking five group walks per week reduces the per-walk rate by 15%. Payment can be made via bank transfer, card, or standing order for regular bookings. There are no hidden fees, though bank holiday rates apply with a £5 surcharge per session. Contact us for a detailed quote based on your specific requirements and schedule.

We have experience working with dogs displaying reactivity or anxiety. Before accepting a reactive dog into our care, we conduct a thorough assessment to understand triggers and current behaviour patterns. This allows us to create a safe management plan and determine whether group or individual walks are appropriate.

For reactive dogs, we typically recommend individual walks initially, using quieter routes and times to minimise trigger exposure. We employ counter-conditioning and desensitisation techniques to gradually build confidence. Anxious dogs benefit from predictable routines and gentle encouragement. Our patient approach focuses on working within each dog's comfort zone while slowly expanding it. We maintain detailed notes about what works and what doesn't, ensuring consistency across all walks and sessions.

We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Cancellations made with proper notice incur no charge. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice are charged at 50% of the session rate, as we've allocated that time slot and turned away other clients.

Same-day cancellations or no-shows are charged at the full rate. We understand emergencies happen, and genuine emergencies are handled on a case-by-case basis with understanding and flexibility. For regular clients on weekly schedules, we accommodate occasional cancellations within reason. Bank holidays require booking confirmation one week in advance. If we need to cancel due to staff illness or extreme weather, you'll receive full notification and no charges apply.

Yes, we welcome puppies once they've completed their primary vaccination course, typically around 12-14 weeks old. Puppy walks are shorter and focus on positive exposure to various environments, sounds, and experiences during the critical socialisation period.

Our puppy training programme covers essential skills including house training support, basic commands, bite inhibition, and preventing common behavioural problems before they develop. Sessions are designed to be fun and engaging, using play-based learning appropriate for young dogs' short attention spans. We limit puppy walk duration to prevent over-exercise, following the guideline of five minutes per month of age, twice daily. Early training sets the foundation for a well-adjusted adult dog, making this period crucial for long-term success.

Getting started is straightforward. First, contact us via phone at +44 7821 564907 or email at [email protected] to discuss your needs. We'll arrange a free initial consultation at your home where we meet you and your dog, assess requirements, and answer any questions.

During this visit, we collect important information including your dog's medical history, behaviour patterns, dietary needs, and your preferences regarding walks and training. We'll also collect keys and discuss logistics. Once everything is arranged, we schedule your first session at a convenient time. There's no long-term commitment required initially, allowing you to try our services and ensure they suit your needs. Most clients transition to regular weekly schedules after the first few sessions once they're comfortable with our care.

All our team members undergo thorough background checks including DBS certification. Our walkers complete professional training covering canine body language, safe handling techniques, first aid, and emergency procedures. Many hold additional certifications from organisations such as the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers or the Pet Professional Guild.

Training specialists possess recognised qualifications in behaviour and training, with several years of practical experience working with various breeds and behavioural issues. We invest in ongoing professional development, attending workshops and conferences to stay current with the latest research and techniques. Our commitment to education ensures your dog receives care from knowledgeable professionals who understand canine behaviour, health, and welfare. Staff are also insured individually, providing additional protection and demonstrating our professionalism.

About Jopuko

Providing reliable dog walking and training services across London since our establishment, helping dogs stay active and well-behaved.

Our Beginning

Jopuko started when a group of dog handlers in London noticed that many working pet owners struggled to give their dogs adequate daily exercise. We saw dogs spending long hours alone, missing the walks they needed for physical health and mental stimulation.

What began as a small operation covering several neighbourhoods has grown into a structured service. We now employ 12 trained dog walkers who cover areas from Southwark to Camden, maintaining consistent schedules that dogs and owners can rely on.

Dog walking service in London parks

Consistency

We maintain fixed walking schedules, arriving within a 15-minute window. Dogs thrive on routine, and we respect that by showing up when expected, regardless of weather conditions.

Safety Standards

Each walker carries liability insurance up to £2 million, uses secure leads rated for specific dog weights, and follows designated routes approved for dog walking in London boroughs.

Transparent Communication

Owners receive a brief report after each walk, including distance covered, behaviour notes, and any observations. No surprises, just straightforward information about your dog's day.

Experience & Training Approach

Our team includes handlers certified through the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) and members of the Pet Professional Guild. We focus on positive reinforcement methods rather than punishment-based techniques.

For training sessions, we work on specific behaviours: loose-lead walking, recall in distracting environments, and managing reactivity around other dogs. Sessions typically run 45 minutes and take place in controlled environments before progressing to busier areas.

We handle various breeds and temperaments, from energetic terriers needing vigorous exercise to older dogs requiring gentler, shorter walks. Group walks are organized by size and energy level to ensure compatibility.

850+ Dogs Walked Monthly
12 Certified Handlers
6 London Boroughs Covered
Professional dog training session