What We Do2024-06-05T08:18:40-07:00

Dog Walking, Dog Training, & Pet Sitting Services

San Francisco, CA

Here at Happy Dog Walking SF, we provide a variety of services designed to help your pet thrive, including pet sitting, dog walking, and dog training. We specialize in puppy training, but we train dogs of all ages and all breeds.

A close-up of a person feeding a golden-brown puppy outdoors, showcasing the loving bond and highlighting the benefits of dog walking services.

Dog Training

Unleash Your Dog’s Potential

Stefania is a certified San Francisco dog trainer, receiving her certifications from the Dog Walking Academy and Janis Bradley’s Dog Training School. She is also a certified Karen Pryor dog trainer, using clicker training to reinforce positive behavior. Stefania started volunteering at the SPCA in San Francisco in 2010 and found her passion for dogs. Stefania only use positive dog training tools, such as praise, games, treats, and more, which is a method scientifically proven to motivate the dog to repeat the desired behavior and discourage the unwanted behavior. Stefania never uses fear, pain, or coercion. Stefania train dogs of all ages and specializes in puppies.

What kind of dog training do you provide?2024-06-05T08:23:04-07:00

Stefania is certified and experienced in training dogs of all ages including puppies.

Stefania can help with basic manners:

  • Sit and stay
  • Recall (coming when called)
  • Leave it
  • Loose leash walk
  • Waiting at the door
  • Dropping objects in their mouth

Stefania can also help with the following behavior problems:

  • Rude, jumpy, or mouthy
  • Barking and lunging at other dogs while on a leash
  • Resource guarding (food bowl, objects, locations, owner)
  • Aggressive behavior toward other dogs and people
  • Shy demeanor
  • Unwanted puppy habits
  • House training

Stefania will work with your dog or puppy, then show you the new skills your dog has learned—and how to keep them.

Do you have specific breeds you work with?2024-06-05T08:29:02-07:00

We welcome all dog breeds at Happy Dog Walking SF! We recognize every breed is different and carefully plan each session according to the dog’s ability. Some dogs need more exercise than others and some do well socializing with other dogs while others prefer private sessions. Whether your dog prefers a slower pace, a faster pace, or even a running pace (for an additional fee), we can meet your dog’s exercise needs.

Will you keep me updated on how my pets are doing?2024-06-05T08:29:41-07:00

Yes! Stefania will personally send you images and videos of your pets via text or email so you can have peace of mind. Whether we are going for a walk, learning some basic training, or spending time together while you are away from home, Stefania will always keep you updated.

Map of San Francisco highlighting key areas such as Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, Union Square, The Castro, Sunset District, and the Presidio of San Francisco—ideal spots for exploring or utilizing dog walking services.

Teaching Your Dogs Positive Behavior in San Francisco

Our dog walking services are available in Duboce Triangle, Lower Haight, Alamo Square, and Hayes Valley, or other neighborhoods by special request. Our dog and puppy training services are available anywhere in SF. Contact Stefania to chat about your dog and neighborhood!

A cheerful person is strolling outdoors with their Corgi on a leash, the dog happily looking up at them, enjoying every moment. This scene perfectly showcases the benefits of professional dog walking services.

Dog Walking

Two Feet, Four Paws, One team

From private to group walks, we get your pets outside and active. Our dog walking services are all based on the dog’s breed, size, health, and specific owner requests. Stefania graduated from The Academy of Dog Walking in San Francisco where she learned a variety of critical skills, including first aid for dogs as well as reading the body language of dogs, how to prevent fighting, and knowing what to do if a dog fight does happen. Stefania is also a Dog•Tec certified dog walker. Private walks available upon special request.

Will my dog be part of a large group while walking?2024-06-05T08:24:50-07:00

No, we only walk with small groups to ensure your dog can socialize and still receive the direct care and attention needed for personalized care.

What is green dog walking?2024-06-05T08:26:40-07:00

Green dog walking means Stefania does not use a car to reach a walking area. Dogs are very territorial and sharing a small space like a car can be dangerous, or sometimes intimidating for physically-impaired dogs. Stefania walks your dog in your neighborhood in San Francisco without forcing your dog into a little car space.

Where do you walk dogs in San Francisco?2024-06-05T08:27:11-07:00

Your dogs will love walking around Duboce Triangle, Lower Haight, Alamo Square, and Hayes Valley. We will travel to other neighborhoods upon special request.

Do you give private walks?2024-06-05T08:27:40-07:00

Yes! Stefania provides private walks to dogs who require special attention or perhaps don’t socialize well with other dogs even in small group settings.

Do you provide dog training during walks?2024-06-05T08:28:18-07:00

Your dog always receives basic training when they are on a walk with Stefania.* Here are a few examples of the training your dog will receive to remain calm and happy:

  • Remain calm when another dog is near
  • Remain calm when skateboarders or bicyclists ride by
  • Wait for commands such as hello and approach
  • Sit before crossing the street
  • Sit before wearing the collar and harness
  • Sit before receiving a treat

*Please schedule a private dog training session with Stefania to address specific dog behavior issues in reactive dogs.

A map highlighting neighborhoods in San Francisco, including Civic Center, Hayes Valley, Lower Haight, Duboce Triangle, and Mission.

Call now to book our dog walking services

We service Duboce Triangle, Lower Haight, Alamo Square, and Hayes Valley, and will travel to other neighborhoods upon request.

A fluffy white dog, fresh from its latest adventure with our dog walking services, sits happily on a couch next to a person with long brown hair.

Pet Sitting

Fostering a Safe Haven For Your Four-Legged Friends

Our San Francisco pet sitting services deliver constant supervision and periodic visits. Stefania also provides house sitting, giving your pet the same love and attention you would give if you were there. Don’t have a dog? We take care of cats, rabbits, and more!

Do you service dogs who are handicapped?2024-06-05T08:25:29-07:00

Yes, Stefania has experience caring for handicapped dogs, carrying them as needed, keeping them comfortable, and following any other specific instructions you have for her while caring for your dog.

Do you service dogs who have special dietary needs?2024-06-05T08:26:08-07:00

Yes! Stefania recognizes all dogs have unique needs, so although she typically uses all natural treats for your dogs, Stefania can accommodate specific dietary requirements for your pet upon request.

Will you keep me updated on how my pets are doing?2024-06-05T08:29:41-07:00

Yes! Stefania will personally send you images and videos of your pets via text or email so you can have peace of mind. Whether we are going for a walk, learning some basic training, or spending time together while you are away from home, Stefania will always keep you updated.

A map highlighting neighborhoods in San Francisco, including Civic Center, Hayes Valley, Lower Haight, Duboce Triangle, and Mission.

Peace of Mind with Pet Sitting

We offer pet sitting in Duboce Triangle, Lower Haight, Alamo Square, and Hayes Valley, but will travel to other neighborhoods upon special request.

FAQs

Dog Walking Services

What kind of dog training do you provide?2024-06-05T08:23:04-07:00

Stefania is certified and experienced in training dogs of all ages including puppies.

Stefania can help with basic manners:

  • Sit and stay
  • Recall (coming when called)
  • Leave it
  • Loose leash walk
  • Waiting at the door
  • Dropping objects in their mouth

Stefania can also help with the following behavior problems:

  • Rude, jumpy, or mouthy
  • Barking and lunging at other dogs while on a leash
  • Resource guarding (food bowl, objects, locations, owner)
  • Aggressive behavior toward other dogs and people
  • Shy demeanor
  • Unwanted puppy habits
  • House training

Stefania will work with your dog or puppy, then show you the new skills your dog has learned—and how to keep them.

Will my dog be part of a large group while walking?2024-06-05T08:24:50-07:00

No, we only walk with small groups to ensure your dog can socialize and still receive the direct care and attention needed for personalized care.

Do you service dogs who are handicapped?2024-06-05T08:25:29-07:00

Yes, Stefania has experience caring for handicapped dogs, carrying them as needed, keeping them comfortable, and following any other specific instructions you have for her while caring for your dog.

Do you service dogs who have special dietary needs?2024-06-05T08:26:08-07:00

Yes! Stefania recognizes all dogs have unique needs, so although she typically uses all natural treats for your dogs, Stefania can accommodate specific dietary requirements for your pet upon request.

What is green dog walking?2024-06-05T08:26:40-07:00

Green dog walking means Stefania does not use a car to reach a walking area. Dogs are very territorial and sharing a small space like a car can be dangerous, or sometimes intimidating for physically-impaired dogs. Stefania walks your dog in your neighborhood in San Francisco without forcing your dog into a little car space.

Where do you walk dogs in San Francisco?2024-06-05T08:27:11-07:00

Your dogs will love walking around Duboce Triangle, Lower Haight, Alamo Square, and Hayes Valley. We will travel to other neighborhoods upon special request.

Do you give private walks?2024-06-05T08:27:40-07:00

Yes! Stefania provides private walks to dogs who require special attention or perhaps don’t socialize well with other dogs even in small group settings.

Do you provide dog training during walks?2024-06-05T08:28:18-07:00

Your dog always receives basic training when they are on a walk with Stefania.* Here are a few examples of the training your dog will receive to remain calm and happy:

  • Remain calm when another dog is near
  • Remain calm when skateboarders or bicyclists ride by
  • Wait for commands such as hello and approach
  • Sit before crossing the street
  • Sit before wearing the collar and harness
  • Sit before receiving a treat

*Please schedule a private dog training session with Stefania to address specific dog behavior issues in reactive dogs.

Do you have specific breeds you work with?2024-06-05T08:29:02-07:00

We welcome all dog breeds at Happy Dog Walking SF! We recognize every breed is different and carefully plan each session according to the dog’s ability. Some dogs need more exercise than others and some do well socializing with other dogs while others prefer private sessions. Whether your dog prefers a slower pace, a faster pace, or even a running pace (for an additional fee), we can meet your dog’s exercise needs.

Will you keep me updated on how my pets are doing?2024-06-05T08:29:41-07:00

Yes! Stefania will personally send you images and videos of your pets via text or email so you can have peace of mind. Whether we are going for a walk, learning some basic training, or spending time together while you are away from home, Stefania will always keep you updated.

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“Stefania is what all dog owners could want in a dog walker: trustworthy, on time, flexible, truly cares about dogs. I give Stefania my highest recommendation.”

Sid
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“Stefania is the absolute best… I would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking for a dog walker or a dog sitter!”

Elizabeth S.
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“I love Stefania!! She is always prompt and takes good care of my dog every time… Anyone who works with Stefania is lucky as she really is a great person and truly loves her work.”

Eli B.
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“We would absolutely recommend Stefania and Happy Dog… Stefania is kind, efficient, flexible and THE BEST dog trainer/walker we have had for our reactive pup, Taco…”

Vanessa F.
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“Not only does Stefania send us daily text messages of Seeley out with his buddies, she goes to great lengths to ensure his safety and health… We would recommend her to anyone looking for animal care in the city!”

Sarah W.
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“…When you meet Stefania, you can tell she is definitely a pet lover… We recommend Stefania without a hint of doubt or worry.”

Alyssa R.
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“…When you meet Stefania, you can tell she is definitely a pet lover… We recommend Stefania without a hint of doubt or worry.”

Priscila & Geoff A.
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“Stefania is amazing! 5 stars! She is very professional, caring, punctual and reliable. I trust her to watch the pup while traveling because I know that my pup is well taken of.”

Wipada M.
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“Since I’ve had Grover, it has been amazing to watch him grow from the street and shelter into his home with me, and I have Stefania to thank for it… Thank you so much, Stefania!”

Grover A.
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“We are so lucky to have found Stefania!… We could not recommend her enough, and our dog also loves her very much!!!!! He is so excited to see her when they go on walks!!!”

Amie N.
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“Happy Dog and Stefania are the best walkers we’ve ever had! Efficient, consistent, always shows up, and has never canceled… our pup Dexter LOVES her!… Simply the best!”

Mark N.
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“Stefania is so attentive and loving for our pup, he always gets so excited when she comes to the door for his walks…”

Kellie K.

Schedule A Consultation

We can’t wait to meet you and your dog to discuss how we can boost your dog’s happiness, exercise, and training!