Welcome to Gundog Walks – Working Breed Dog Walking
Dog walking in Bournemouth and surrounding areas for working breed dogs
gundogwalks@gmail.com
Trusted, Professional Dog Walking in Bournemouth
Gundog Walks is a professional dog walking service in Bournemouth specialising in gundogs, spaniels, Labradors, retrievers and other active breeds. While we have expertise with working dogs, we also welcome energetic family pets that benefit from structured, enriching walks.
Why Choose a Professional Dog Walker in Bournemouth?
For many owners, finding the right dog walker in Bournemouth is about much more than simply giving their dog a chance to stretch their legs. Dogs are intelligent, social animals that benefit from regular exercise, mental stimulation and positive experiences outside the home.
A professional dog walker provides your dog with a structured, enjoyable outing while giving you peace of mind that they are being cared for by someone who understands their individual needs. Whether you have a young puppy, an energetic working breed, or a family dog that needs extra stimulation, the right walk can make a huge difference to their physical and mental wellbeing.
At Gundog Walks, we believe a good dog walk is about quality rather than just distance. Our walks are designed to provide dogs with opportunities to explore, sniff, investigate and use their natural instincts in a safe and controlled environment. For many dogs, especially active breeds such as Springer Spaniels, Labradors and Retrievers, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise.
Regular professional dog walking can help support:
- Better behaviour at home by helping dogs release energy in a positive way.
- Improved confidence through new environments, sights, sounds and experiences.
- Mental stimulation through scent work, exploration and natural behaviours.
- A healthier lifestyle with consistent exercise suited to your dog’s age, breed and ability.
Bournemouth and the surrounding areas offer some fantastic walking environments, from woodland trails and open spaces to quieter countryside routes. We make the most of these locations to provide enjoyable, varied walks that keep dogs engaged and happy.
Whether you need regular dog walking while you are at work, occasional support during busy periods, or specialist exercise for an active breed, Gundog Walks provides a reliable and caring service tailored around your dog’s needs.
Why Working Breeds Need More Than Just a Walk
Working breeds are incredibly rewarding dogs to own, but they have been bred for generations to think, problem-solve and work alongside people. A simple walk around the block may provide some physical exercise, but many active dogs need much more than that to feel satisfied.
Breeds such as Springer Spaniels, Labradors, Retrievers and other gundogs were developed with natural abilities including hunting, retrieving, scenting and working in partnership with humans. These instincts do not disappear just because a dog lives as a family pet. In fact, when these needs are not met, some dogs can become frustrated, bored or develop unwanted behaviours.
At Gundog Walks, we understand that a fulfilling walk should engage both the body and the mind. Our walks are designed to provide dogs with opportunities to use their natural abilities through exploration, scent work, problem-solving and controlled interaction with their surroundings.
A well-balanced walk can include:
- Scent exploration – allowing dogs time to investigate their environment and use their powerful sense of smell.
- Mental enrichment – encouraging dogs to think, make choices and engage their natural instincts.
- Structured exercise – providing appropriate physical activity based on your dog’s age, breed and fitness level.
- Retrieving activities – for suitable dogs, controlled retrieving can provide a rewarding outlet for natural behaviours.
- Confidence building – helping dogs experience different environments in a calm and positive way.
This approach is particularly beneficial for energetic breeds such as working-line Springer Spaniels, Labradors and Retrievers, which often thrive when they have a purpose and an opportunity to engage their minds as well as their bodies.
Our experience with working dogs means we understand that every dog is an individual. Some dogs need a longer adventure, some need confidence-building experiences, and others simply benefit from a calm, structured walk away from the distractions of everyday life.
If you are looking for a dog walker in Bournemouth who understands that a tired dog is not just a physically exercised dog, but a mentally satisfied one, Gundog Walks provides walks designed around your dog’s natural needs.
Solo and Small Group Dog Walks in Bournemouth
Every dog has a different personality, energy level and set of needs. While some dogs enjoy the company of others, many dogs benefit from a more individual approach where their walk can be tailored around their own temperament and abilities.
At Gundog Walks, we focus on providing structured, enjoyable walks where dogs receive the attention and care they deserve. Rather than simply taking as many dogs as possible, we believe in keeping walks manageable so each dog can have a positive experience.
The benefits of a more personalised dog walk
A smaller, more considered walking group allows your dog to enjoy:
- More individual attention from the handler.
- A calmer walking experience with fewer distractions.
- Exercise suited to their ability and fitness level.
- Opportunities for natural behaviours such as sniffing, exploring and scent work.
- Better understanding of their behaviour and body language.
This approach can be particularly beneficial for working breeds and active dogs, which often respond well to structure, consistency and clear communication.
Suitable walks for different dogs
Some dogs thrive on adventure and exploration, while others may prefer quieter routes with fewer distractions. Puppies, older dogs, nervous dogs and dogs that are still developing their confidence can all benefit from walks designed around their individual requirements.
For energetic breeds such as Springer Spaniels, Labradors and Retrievers, a quality walk is about more than simply covering miles. Combining physical exercise with mental stimulation helps create a more content and settled dog at home.
A better alternative to large group walks
Large group walks can work well for some dogs, but they are not the right choice for every animal. Dogs that are easily distracted, highly driven, young, inexperienced or simply prefer human interaction may benefit from a more focused approach.
At Gundog Walks, we take the time to understand your dog before tailoring their walks around what works best for them. Our aim is to provide safe, rewarding and enriching experiences that leave dogs happy, fulfilled and ready to relax when they return home.
If you are looking for a professional dog walker in Bournemouth who puts your dog’s individual needs first, Gundog Walks offers a more personal approach to canine care.
Our Favourite Dog Walking Locations
One of the biggest advantages of living in and around Bournemouth is the access to some fantastic natural spaces where dogs can enjoy varied, stimulating walks away from busy roads and everyday distractions.
At Gundog Walks, we choose walking locations that allow dogs to explore, use their senses and enjoy the kind of environment they were naturally born to experience. Woodland trails, open spaces and quieter routes provide excellent opportunities for dogs to sniff, investigate and enjoy a more enriching walk.
Matchams Forest Dog Walks
Matchams Forest provides a wonderful environment for dogs that enjoy exploring woodland trails and natural surroundings. The variety of paths, scents and terrain makes it an ideal location for active dogs that benefit from mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Woodland walks encourage dogs to slow down, use their noses and process the many interesting smells around them. For working breeds such as Springer Spaniels and Labradors, this type of exploration can be incredibly rewarding.
Ringwood Forest Dog Walks
Ringwood Forest offers miles of peaceful woodland walking and is one of our favourite areas for dogs that enjoy adventure and exploration. The changing terrain and natural environment provide a great opportunity for dogs to experience a more varied and interesting walk.
Rather than simply walking the same route every day, we believe dogs benefit from experiencing different environments, which helps keep walks engaging and mentally stimulating.
Castlemain Trailway Dog Walks
The Castlemain Trailway provides a fantastic route for dogs that enjoy longer walks and discovering new surroundings. Its quieter paths and natural setting make it a great choice for active dogs that need space to explore and burn off energy in a controlled way.
Trail walks are particularly beneficial for dogs that enjoy following scents, investigating their surroundings and having time to engage in natural behaviours.
New Forest Dog Walks
The New Forest is one of the UK’s most unique walking environments and offers incredible opportunities for dogs to experience open spaces, woodland and varied terrain.
Where suitable, walks in the New Forest allow dogs to enjoy a stimulating change of scenery while being carefully managed with their safety and wellbeing in mind. The combination of new smells, sights and sounds makes it an especially rewarding environment for curious and energetic dogs.
Natural walks designed around your dog
Every dog is different, and the best walking environment depends on their age, confidence, fitness and personality. Whether your dog enjoys exploring woodland trails, following scents or simply having the freedom to experience new surroundings, we aim to provide walks that are enjoyable, safe and rewarding.
At Gundog Walks, we believe the best dog walks are not just about distance travelled. They are about giving dogs the opportunity to explore, think and enjoy being dogs.
Dog Walking Areas We Cover Around Bournemouth
Gundog Walks provides professional dog walking across Bournemouth and the surrounding areas, offering enriching woodland walks for working breeds, active dogs and family pets.
Because we specialise in dogs that benefit from purposeful exercise and mental stimulation, we carefully choose walking locations that provide a safe, interesting and enjoyable experience. Our walks are based around quieter outdoor areas where dogs can explore, use their natural instincts and enjoy time away from the busy pace of everyday life.
Dog Walking in Bournemouth
We provide professional dog walking for owners in Bournemouth who want their dogs to receive more than just a quick walk around the local streets. Our woodland-based walks are designed to provide physical exercise, mental stimulation and positive experiences that help dogs feel happy and settled at home.
Dog Walking in Ringwood
For dogs that enjoy exploring natural surroundings, Ringwood is ideally placed for access to woodland and countryside walks. The variety of trails and environments makes it a fantastic area for active dogs, especially breeds that enjoy sniffing, exploring and investigating new surroundings.
Dog Walking in Ferndown
Ferndown and the surrounding areas offer excellent access to open spaces and woodland routes. These environments are particularly suited to dogs that benefit from longer, more stimulating walks rather than repetitive pavement routes.
Dog Walking in Christchurch
Christchurch and the surrounding area have a fantastic mix of countryside, woodland and coastal environments. Dogs that enjoy variety benefit from experiencing different sights, smells and terrain, helping to keep walks interesting and rewarding.
Dog Walking in Southbourne, Boscombe and East Bournemouth
For owners in Southbourne, Boscombe and the eastern areas of Bournemouth, Gundog Walks provides a reliable and caring service focused on your dog’s individual needs. We understand that every dog has its own personality, energy level and exercise requirements, and we tailor walks accordingly.
Dog Walking for Active Dogs Across Dorset
Although we specialise in working breeds and energetic dogs, we welcome all dogs that benefit from a more thoughtful approach to exercise. Whether you have a Springer Spaniel that needs an outlet for their natural instincts, a Labrador that loves exploring, or a family dog that simply enjoys a good adventure, our aim is to provide safe, rewarding and enjoyable walks.
If you are looking for a professional dog walker in Bournemouth or the surrounding Dorset area, Gundog Walks offers a personalised service built around understanding dogs and providing walks that support their physical and mental wellbeing.
What Makes Gundog Walks Different?
Choosing a dog walker is about more than finding someone who can provide exercise. It is about finding someone who understands dogs, recognises their individual needs and can provide a safe, enjoyable and rewarding experience while you are away.
At Gundog Walks, we bring genuine working dog experience to every walk. For around 10 years, we have trained and worked our own spaniels in the field, developing a deeper understanding of the instincts, behaviours and needs of working breeds.
We also train and work our own Weimaraner, giving us experience with another highly intelligent, energetic breed that requires thoughtful handling, consistent training and plenty of mental stimulation.
Understanding working dogs
Working breeds are not simply dogs with high energy levels. They have been selectively bred for generations to use their noses, solve problems and work alongside people. Understanding these natural behaviours helps us provide walks that are more fulfilling and better suited to the individual dog.
Our experience with gundogs means we understand the importance of:
- Reading body language and recognising when a dog is excited, unsure or becoming overwhelmed.
- Providing appropriate outlets for natural behaviours such as scenting, exploring and retrieving.
- Maintaining good habits through calm, consistent handling.
- Balancing exercise and stimulation so dogs return home happy and content.
More than just miles walked
A successful dog walk is not measured only by distance. A dog can walk for miles and still return home needing more stimulation, while a shorter, well-planned walk can leave them much more satisfied.
We focus on providing dogs with opportunities to explore, think and engage with their surroundings. For active breeds such as Springer Spaniels, Labradors, Retrievers and Weimaraners, this approach helps support their natural abilities while providing the enrichment they need.
Experience you can trust
Having trained and worked our own dogs in real-life environments, including the challenges and distractions found in the countryside, we understand the importance of reliability, patience and good communication between dog and handler.
Every dog we walk is treated as an individual. Whether they are a young dog learning the world around them, an energetic working breed needing a suitable outlet, or a family companion that simply enjoys exploring, our aim is always the same:
To provide safe, structured and enjoyable walks that help dogs thrive.
If you are looking for a dog walker in Bournemouth who understands that dogs are individuals with different instincts, personalities and needs, Gundog Walks offers a more knowledgeable and personal approach to canine care.
Why Choose a Local Bournemouth Dog Walker
Choosing a local dog walker means choosing someone who knows the best routes, safe spaces, and natural environments Bournemouth has to offer.
We regularly walk in:
Queens Park, Hengistbury Head, Meyrick Park, and the beautiful Dorset woodlands surrounding Bournemouth.
Whether your dog prefers calm strolls or energetic off-lead runs, we tailor every walk to their personality and ability.
Specialist in Gundogs & Active Breeds
With years of experience handling working breeds such as spaniels, labradors, pointers, and retrievers, Geoff at GundogWalks understands how to keep high-energy dogs both physically fit and mentally satisfied.
Our gundog and active breed walks focus on:
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Recall training and focus exercises
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Enrichment games like scent work and controlled retrieves
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Woodland routes for safe, engaging exploration
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Consistent routines and calm handling
Our Bournemouth Dog Walking Services
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Solo Walks – One-to-one attention for dogs who need individual care.
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Small Group Walks – Carefully matched groups to encourage safe socialisation.
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Puppy Visits – Short visits for young dogs to build confidence and routine.
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Gundog Enrichment Walks – Mental and physical stimulation for working breeds.
All walks include GPS tracking, fresh water, and post-walk updates for your peace of mind.
Areas We Cover
We’re based in Bournemouth and cover:
Southbourne, Boscombe, Winton, Westbourne, Charminster, Poole, Christchurch, and the surrounding Dorset countryside.
If you’re just outside these areas, please get in touch — we may still be able to help.
Meet Geoff – Your Local Dog Walker
As the owner of GundogWalks, Geoff brings professional experience, calm confidence, and a genuine love for dogs of all breeds — especially those with energy to spare.
Fully insured, DBS checked, and Canine First Aid trained, Geoff provides a safe, structured, and enjoyable walking experience every time.
Book Your Dog’s Walk
Give your dog the exercise, structure, and adventure they deserve.
📞 Call or WhatsApp Geoff on 07842 748035
📧 Email: gundogwalks@gmail.com
Follow Our Adventures
See our latest woodland walks and happy clients on social media:
📸 Instagram: @gundogwalks
👍 Facebook: GundogWalks Bournemouth
Dog Walking £20 per hour
What’s included:
- Maximum of 2 dogs
- £30 for 2 dogs from same household
- Customised enrichment walks for individual needs
- On lead and off lead walks
- All training equipment is provided by us
*Free pick up and drop off within 5 miles of our home.
Based in Bournemouth
Gundog Walks dog walking and enrichment is based in Bournemouth, and we cover the following areas:
- Bournemouth, BH7 plus surrounding area
We can cover areas further afield, but we reserve the right to charge extra for travelling expenses. Please contact us for more information.
- Solo / duo walks – max 2 dogs
- Morning shade walks avoiding midday heat
- On-lead, off-lead & retrieving drills
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by "working dogs"?
When I use the term “working dog”, I’m referring to the breed traits of the dog. You may or may not be working your dog. For example, a Springer Spaniel is known for their ability to track, flush and retrieve game birds. In order to exercise their brain as well as their body, Gundog Walks aims to work on those breed traits, in a controlled manner, to achieve an enriched walk. We feel this is much more beneficial to the dog than just being walked in a pack of mixed dogs for an hour. Likewise, Labradors are known for their retrieving and finding lost birds, so their time with me will be spent working on those traits. Again, exercising their mind just as much as their body.
What if it’s too hot to walk my dog?
First and foremost, the safety of your dog takes priority. In the event that the morning is deemed too hot, then you’re dog won’t be walked. No dog ever died from not being walked. I can however, use that time to spend with your dog in your own home and garden if you would prefer not to cancel.
Generally all my walks are done in the morning and completed by around 12pm, thus missing out the hottest part of the day. All walking and enrichment training takes place in a woodland environment, so there is plenty of dappled shade. I also carry water at all times and the crates in the car will have cooling mats when necessary.
All walking and enrichment training will be weather appropriate, i.e. the warmer it is, the calmer the time spent with me will be.
Do you exercise dogs over water?
The answer to this is no. I will not walk or exercise your dog around water because I won’t take any unnecessary risks with your dog.
How many other dogs will be with my dog?
I will only take out a maximum of 2 dogs at a time. I work on a “no pack” basis. And if you prefer to have your dog walked and trained on it’s own, then that is no problem. I don’t believe in taking out 6 or more dogs at once, as you see with other dog walkers, there is no way a single dog walker can control that many dogs at once.
Do I need to provide my own training equipment?
No. I have a large range of canvas dummies, rabbit skin dummies, and balls etc. I also have a large range of slip leads, clip leads and long lines. Unless you have a specific piece of training equipment you’d like me to use, I provide all that is needed. You can also buy any equipment from me directly, or my online shop www.gundogshop.co.uk
Are there any restrictions
If you have a bitch who is in season, but needs exercising, we will be happy to train and play within the grounds of your home, but she will not be able to take part in an enrichment walk.
Do I need to be home when you collect or drop off my dog?
No. Most of our clients are comfortable sharing a set of keys to enable us to collect and drop off if you are not at home. Your key will be coded and kept in a secure lock box when not in use. No identifying addresses will be left with the keys, so you can be assured that your home is safe.
Will I meet my dog walker first?
Yes we insist on this. We offer a free face-to-face initial consultation so we can understand your dog’s personality and individual needs. This will also give you the chance to meet us and ask questions. Deciding to move forward is a two way decision and hopefully this session will give you the confidence to do so.
How to contact Gundog Walks – Working Breed Dog Walking in Bournemouth
Contact Us
Get in touch! We’re here to quickly provide you with the info and services you need & answer any question you may have.
Contact Us
and arrange a free consultation, where we can arrange a convenient time to meet you and your pet and discuss your needs.
From this we can get all the information we need to know about your pet, emergency contact details and of course answer any questions you will have for us.
This will also give you the opportunity to meet us face to face and see who you are putting your trust with.
Serving Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, and the wider Dorset area.
