Dog sitting in Harpenden - a woman with dark hair, wearing a sleeveless top and sunglasses on her head, is holding a small, white and brown Jack Russell close to her chest, he is contently falling asleep in her arms.

Hi, I’m Ellie – the face behind The Dog Squad 

After years in an office-based career, I decided to leave the rat race and build a business I’m truly passionate about – combining my love of dogs with my love of the outdoors. Since then, I couldn’t be happier, and I’m proud of the growing “squad” of dogs I now care for every week.

I grew up in the Hertfordshire countryside in a home filled with animals – dogs, horses, rabbits, ducks, chickens, even budgies and hamsters – so caring for animals has always been second nature to me.

In my 20s and 30s, I was the proud owner of two very different dogs: a confident (but cheeky) little character, and a wonderfully goofy but anxious giant. Caring for them throughout their long lives (15 and 16 years) gave me a deep understanding of how individual each dog truly is. Their personalities and needs changed as they grew older, and this experience taught me the importance of tailoring walks and enrichment to a dog’s age, health, behaviour, and fitness. This value is at the heart of The Dog Squad.

My commitment to quality care is backed by:

  • Full insurance with Protectivity

  • DBS Check

  • Canine first aid training

  • Ongoing education through IMDT training courses (the UK's leading education provider for Dog Trainers and Behaviourists, focused on positive, reward-based dog training and behaviour).

I pride myself on offering a personal, friendly, reliable, and trustworthy service, where your dog’s wellbeing always comes first. With me, every walk is designed to be safe, stimulating, and tailored to your pup’s unique personality and needs.

A woman bending down to pet and interact with two dogs on a group walk on a grassy trail in a field in St Albans