2020

Independent Contractor

Scarborough/Toronto, ON

Services include group walks, adventure outings, day care and boarding

Meet Bryan Coulton, a seasoned professional in the dog world, who balances parenthood alongside a thriving dog care business. With over a decade of experience and a specialization in dog training, Bryan has been running his own show since 2020. His one-acre property in Scarborough offers a cottage-like experience for dogs, just a distance away from downtown Toronto. As a stay-at-home dad, Bryan seamlessly integrated his role as a caregiver for both his children and the dogs entrusted to his care, showcasing the adaptability and flexibility crucial in the dog walking profession.

Behind the Scenes

The transition to dog walking marked a new chapter for Bryan, where his expertise in reading dog behaviour, managing high-pressure situations, and delivering exceptional customer service found a perfect outlet. Servicing areas from west of Leaside, Rosedale, North of Yorkville, the Annex and Midtown, Bryan's offerings extend beyond mere walks, including light training, daycare, boarding, and special adventure days to scenic destinations like beaches, private lakes or private airports! He occasionally does private walks too, ensuring each dog gets the attention and adventure they deserve.

“What I've learned from dog walking is [that] dogs need friends… they look forward to waking up in the morning and [going to see] their friend.”

Despite not operating his own website or company, Bryan's partnership with other dog walking companies as a subcontractor allows him to focus on what he does best: working directly with the dogs. They handle the admin, while he brings his expertise to the forefront. It’s a balance that works perfectly for him and his family at this stage in their lives.

A Day in the Life

Bryan’s day starts at dawn with the chirping of early birds. After tending to the dogs he’s boarding and the bustle of preparing his two kids for school, he gears up for the day. Strapping on his TinyHorse Leader Lite, he fills up his water jug, packs his Step Line, and other essentials like fresh towels and a battery for his fan on hot days. Coffee in hand, he’s on the road by 8 AM, ready to pick up his first crew of dogs. Then it’s off to the beach, or into the bush … imagine dogs enjoying a forest romp or running free around a private lake—Bryan makes it happen!

“My favourite memory would be how I slept the first night after my first day of dog walking because dog walking is so intense and you're handling 6 to 8 dogs and you're doing that twice a day.”

After a day with dogs not even someone who, like Bryan, has suffered from insomnia can stay awake! Handling multiple dogs is incredibly fast-paced, and it’s the intuitive design of TinyHorse equipment that keeps Bryan ready at a moment’s notice.

TinyHorse’s Impact

Bryan refers to TinyHorse equipment as the “hockey stick of dog walking,” because the products offer his dog walking business unmatched versatility and strength. One standout feature is their ability to connect his entire pack of dogs to nearby fixtures like fences or gates, freeing up his hands for tasks like tying shoelaces. Unlike handling multiple leashes individually, which could result in a dropped line, TinyHorse leashes provide a secure connection, ensuring the dogs remain safe and controlled even in active situations like passing cars - “I can do all of that because I’m hands-free.”

“One of my favourite features about TinyHorse is its versatility.”

A neon yellow-coloured Step Line made of BioThane and 2 auto-locking carabiners

Step Line

Step Line

$35.99 CAD
$35.99 CAD
Leader Lite - TinyHorse Mercantile

Leader Lite

Leader Lite

$48.99 CAD
$48.99 CAD

Just as a hockey stick is essential to hockey, TinyHorse leashes are vital to his dog walking routine, saving him time and providing peace of mind -”the transitions are seamless.”. Additionally, their easy-to-clean design adds to their practicality, making them the go-to choice for any dog walker seeking strength, versatility, and efficiency.

“If you are going to depend on something to be strong and versatile, this is it. This, in terms of dependability, in terms of time-saving… this is the system to use.

Closing Thoughts

For Bryan, every day is a new adventure, a chance to learn and grow alongside the dogs he trains and cares for and to stay connected to his two children as they grow too. His story is a testament to the power of passion, expertise, and the right tools—like TinyHorse gear—that make all the difference in the world of dog walking.

Thank you, Bryan!

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Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed in this blog series are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect those of TinyHorse.

Photos and videos were submitted by the featured dog walker.

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