Sighthound Specialist FAQ
- General Questions
- Dog Walking Services
- Frequently Asked Dog Training Questions
- Boarding Services
- Policies and Safety
General Questions
What services does K9 Exclusive Walks offer?
We offer specialised dog walking, training, and boarding services for sighthounds, including greyhounds, whippets, and lurchers. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these breeds.
Which areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Hampstead and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, feel free to contact us.
How do I book a service?
You can book our services directly through our website’s Booking Page. Alternatively, call us at +44 7970 287502 or email admin@k9exw.com.
Professional Dog Walking for Sighthounds
Does your daycare include dog walks?
Yes, our walks can last up to 4 hours, split into two sessions. We closely monitor each dog to ensure they remain comfortable and happy throughout.
Are the walks group-based or individual?
We offer both group walks. Group walks are carefully matched based on temperament and energy levels to ensure safety and enjoyment.
What is your cancellation policy for dog walks?
Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may be subject to a fee.
How do you ensure my dog’s safety during walks?
Our walkers are experienced and fully insured. We use secure collars and leashes and can track your dog via a Tractive device if provided by the owner. We avoid high-traffic areas and ensure that all dogs in group walks are compatible.
Do you offer a collection and delivery service?
Yes, but primarily the service is limited to London – Hampstead and the surrounding areas. Please contact us if you are unsure if your area is covered.
Positive Reinforcement and E-Collar Training Methods
What training methods do you use?
We use positive reinforcement techniques specifically designed for sighthound behaviour. Our methods are gentle, reward-based, and focused on building trust and obedience. For sighthounds with a high prey drive, we may also incorporate a professional e-collar to ensure reliable recall, helping to keep both your dog and local wildlife safe.
Can you help with recall training for sighthounds?
Yes! We specialise in recall training, which can be particularly challenging for sighthounds due to their prey drive. Our training sessions focus on reliable recall in various environments.
How long are training sessions?
Our training sessions are seamlessly integrated into our walks, ensuring your dog remains highly motivated.
E-Collar Training Methods
For the safety of some high prey drive sighthounds, we are professionally trained to use the EZ Educator e-collar in conjunction with a vocal command. This combination provides a reliable and effective way to train a consistent recall, especially with sighthounds that have a strong chase instinct or can be easily distracted.
The advantages of using the EZ Educator include its precision, adjustable stimulation levels, tone and vibration modes, durability, and user-friendly remote control. These features promote both safety and effective behaviour management.
Do you recommend a tracker device?
I recommend the Tractive GPS tracker for your sighthound. Tractive’s real-time GPS tracking lets you instantly monitor your dog’s location, ensuring you can quickly find them if they stray. Key benefits include:
- Live Tracking: Get location updates every 2-3 seconds.
- Share Tracking with Others: Easily share your dog’s live location with family, friends, or dog handlers through the Tractive app, ensuring everyone can help keep an eye on your dog if needed.
Sighthounds can cover large distances quickly, and having a reliable, shareable GPS tracker provides peace of mind and an added layer of safety for you and those who help care for your dog.
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Luxury Boarding and Daycare for Sighthounds
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Do you offer overnight boarding?
Yes, we offer luxury boarding services tailored for sighthounds. Your dog will stay in a safe, comfortable, home environment with plenty of exercise and attention.
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What do I need to provide for boarding stays?
Kindly bring any medications your dog may need. We will supply everything else to ensure your dog’s comfort.
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Do you offer a collection and drop-off service
Yes, we do! However, this service is primarily available within Hampstead and nearby areas. Clients are also welcome to drop off and collect their dogs directly from our home.
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What is your cancellation policy for boarding?
Cancellations made at least 72 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations within 72 hours may be subject to a fee.
Safe and Insured Dog Walking in London, Hampstead and surrounding areas
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Are you Licensed & Insured?
Yes, K9 Exclusive Walks is fully licensed and insured to provide dog walking, training, and boarding services.
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What happens if there’s an emergency during a service?
In the event of an emergency, we will promptly reach out to you or your designated emergency contact. If needed, we will take your dog to the nearest veterinary clinic or our trusted veterinarian.
Dietary Options
At K9 Exclusive Walks, we add our specially formulated Sighthound Topper to your dog’s meal. This superfood supplement is designed to support joint health, as sighthounds’ joints endure constant strain from running and jumping. Packed with nutrient-rich, natural ingredients, it promotes smooth, flexible movement and enhances overall wellbeing – boosting digestion, immunity, joint care, and coat shine to help your dog thrive every day.
Raw
- Breakfast: Bella & Duke Premium Complete – This nutritionally balanced raw dog food supports optimal health with high-quality, natural ingredients. It promotes a healthy digestive system, boosts energy levels, and supports a shiny coat and strong immune system.
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- Dinner: Duck Wings, seasoned with our Superfood Topper.
- Benefits of Duck Wings in a Dog’s Diet:
- High-Quality Protein – Supports muscle growth and repair.
- Healthy Fats (Omega-3) – Promotes joint health, reduces inflammation, and enhances coat shine.
- Dental Health – Chewing helps clean teeth, prevent plaque build-up, and strengthen jaws.
- Digestive Aid – Contributes to firmer stools and improved digestion.
- Joint Support – Naturally contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
- Hypoallergenic – Ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
- After Dinner: 100% Natural Air-Dried Chew Sticks – These natural chew sticks are great for dental health, helping to reduce plaque and tartar build-up. They also provide mental stimulation, satisfy chewing instincts, and are free from additives or preservatives.
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Kibble & Tinned food
We don’t recommend kibble and tinned diets due to their high level of processing, which can result in a lack of essential nutrients, enzymes, and moisture — potentially affecting digestion, coat health, and dental hygiene.
However, we appreciate that these options may be more convenient or cost-effective. That’s why, we provide Millies & Wolfheart, a premium kibble and tinned food brand.
To enrich the meals, we add a sprinkle of our Superfood Topper.
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Superfood Topper
At K9 Exclusive Walks we include our special superfood topper with every meal
✨ Key Benefits:
- Ground Pumpkin Seed – Contains zinc and iron to support joint health, healthy fats to improve your dog’s skin and coat, supports a healthy gut, and promotes parasite prevention.
- Seaweed – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, anti-inflammatory properties for joint health, supports gut health and prebiotics, which promotes healthy gut bacteria.
- Celery Seed – A good source of calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, and are high in omega-6 fatty acids and other essential amino acids.
- Beetroot Powder – Improves heart health and circulation while aiding natural detoxification.
- Supergreen Mix (Spirulina, Chlorella, Wheatgrass, Barley Grass) – A nutrient powerhouse that detoxifies, boosts immunity, and enhances skin and coat health.
Perfect for picky eaters or dogs in need of extra nutrition.
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Alternative Medicine
We strongly believe in the benefits of homeopathic medicines for dogs as a natural alternative to some conventional medications and ointments that may be prescribed by your vet. However, we always recommend consulting with your veterinarian to ensure the best course of treatment for your dog’s health.
Ointments for Cuts and Bruises
- Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera can help with cuts, bruises, and skin irritations.
- Manuka Honey: A natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, manuka honey can be applied to wounds to speed up healing and prevent infection.
- Oregano Oil (mixed with a base oil like coconut or olive oil): Oregano oil has strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it effective for preventing infection in minor cuts and skin irritations. It should always be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil to avoid skin irritation, we use a 1:4 ratio.
Worms
- Pumpkin Seeds: Rich in cucurbitacin, pumpkin seeds are a natural remedy for tapeworms and other intestinal parasites.
- Wormwood and Black Walnut: These herbs are known to be effective for intestinal parasites and are often included in herbal deworming formulas.
Bad Breath
- Parsley: Fresh parsley is a natural breath freshener for dogs. It can be added to their food or given as a treat.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil can help improve bad breath when added to your dog’s food or used in dental care.
- Fennel: Fennel is another herb that can aid in freshening a dog’s breath and improving digestion.
Teeth Cleaning
- Coconut Oil: Used for brushing, coconut oil can help remove plaque and promote oral health, thanks to its antibacterial properties.
- Seaweed (kelp): Known for its natural ability to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Joint Health and Arthritis
- Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help relieve joint pain and stiffness in dogs with arthritis.
- Duck Fat: Healthy Fats (Omega-3) – Promotes joint health, reduces inflammation, and enhances coat shine.
Skin Issues (Itching, Dry Skin)
- Oatmeal Baths: Oatmeal has soothing properties and can help relieve itching and dry skin.
- Lavender Oil: Lavender has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties and can be diluted and used for minor skin irritations.
- Neem Oil: Neem oil is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it great for treating skin issues like dermatitis and hot spots.
- Oregano Oil (mixed with a base oil): Oregano oil is a powerful natural antimicrobial agent, helpful in treating skin infections, fungi, or irritation. It should always be diluted with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.
Digestive Health
- Probiotics: These supplements help maintain healthy gut flora and support digestion. They can be found in powder or capsule form.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea and digestive issues. It can be given in small amounts to help with stomach upset.
- Slippery Elm Bark: Known for its soothing properties, slippery elm can help ease digestive discomfort and treat conditions like diarrhoea.
Calming Remedies
- Chamomile: Chamomile can be used to calm anxiety or help with upset stomachs. It is often given as a tea or added to food.
- Lavender: Lavender oil, used in a diffuser or diluted and applied to the skin, can have a calming effect on nervous or stressed dogs.
These holistic remedies, when used correctly, can offer a natural alternative or complement to traditional treatments. Always consult a veterinarian, especially when using essential oils like oregano oil, as proper dilution and usage are key to preventing adverse effects.