This is such a great service. We have truly appreciated Gabby and her team. They've had so much patience working with my little 12 lb poodle mix who is very anxious and afraid of her own shadow except when she's in our apartment then becomes very territorial (think reactive barking like she's freaking out). Background: We've tried dog daycares for Evie from when she was only a few months old (Just Pet Me in Oakland, Metro Dog in Richmond and Camp Bow Wow in Concord). Unfortunately, socializing her this way did not help. We stopped taking her altogether when she was about a year old because when we were able to monitor her via a cam, we saw that she was a little wall flower, refusing to socialize with the other dogs. They'd often crate her as well because of this. We were nervous that this was making her more reactive or anxious. Working with Gabby: To get connected with Gabby was easy. My partner reached out and she was really fast with responding and setting up a meet and greet. We were very nervous and thought Evie might do terribly for the meet and greet because she's very territorial with our apartment. And of course, that's exactly what happened. When Gabby came over, Evie was very unfriendly, barking and freaking out whenever Gabby made any movements. Gabby was very patient with her and decided to do a test run and walk her around our complex. Evie was fine when she was on the actual walk. While Evie is still scared of her own shadow and learning to socialize, we've seen her make some progress specifically outside. Typically, she gets scared and barks when people say hi to her. I've noticed there's a little less of that now. In addition, Gabby is really thoughtful in how she creates packs. She matches based on temperament and tries to meet your dog's needs as best as she can. Evie, for instance, is a little wary around highly energetic pups but does well with lower energy dogs or older dogs. Gabby factored all of this in when creating a pack that would work. Since the service is set up to pick up Evie, it's very convenient. In addition, Gabby's team members have all been very patient with Evie and her quirks and are able to successfully pick her up. Evie has slowly been adjusting to them which has been great as we try to widen her social circle. This is a great service for anyone looking to socialize their dog in a healthy, thoughtful way. read more

See all

Gabby and her team are wonderful! Our dogs have been going on pack walks with them for a few years now and we have always had a great experience. If anything comes up, Gabby is always extremely responsive and addresses issues immediately (though issues have been really rare). Overall, we highly recommend Fit Dog Theory. They are reliable, consistent, professional, super friendly and really take the time to get to know, care for and train your doggies! read more

I was very worried about how a new baby would impact my dog's quality of life and stress levels. Gabby and her team worked with me to find the right walk cadence and support for my dog, fitting her into the pack beautifully and always communicating the latest updates. She has been happier than ever and always waits at the window for her "friends" to come pick her up. Gabby really got to know my dog and helped her be her best self! read more

Fit Dog Theory - Dog Walkers Near Me

We started our dog, Dexter, on bi-weekly pack walks with Gabby and team last year, and it was a great decision! He so looks forward to his adventures with the crew, and has made some great connections with the other pups. When he started pack walks, our goal for him was to gain enough confidence to where he didn't need to bark at any passing big dog on his walks. While he's still a work in progress, we've definitely seen an improvement! It's also such a comfort knowing he is getting out of the house for some exercise and play time during our long work days! The best part of our week is getting pictures from the pack walks - the team does a great job documenting their adventures. read more

See all

I highly recommend Fit Dog Theory, i am so glad and relieved that i found a trustworthy company to take care of my dog for walks while i am away at work. They are reliable, professional and caring to my fur baby. I look forward to their pictures of where they went for adventure walks. Most important my dog is so happy hanging out with her other dog friends. read more

Fit Dog Theory - Dog Walkers Near Me

See all

Gabby and her team are awesome! Their pack walks have kept my young dog active and social while I work. The dog walkers are so friendly, and my dog is always excited to see them. She always comes home exhausted after. Gabby is very responsive and always sends pictures and updates after the walks. I recommend if you have a small dog who needs exercise and social time! read more

Fit Dog Theory - Dog Walkers Near Me

See all

Still loving Fit Dog Theory! Gabby and her crew are amazing!

LOVE LOVE LOVE FIT DOG THEORY!!!! Can't live with a dog without them! I have a hyper, anxious, nervous corgi (20lbs - 2,5 years old). I couldn't get him accepted into any dog training in the area, because he tends to react and lunge at other dogs. So I couldn't hope for much when it comes to signing him up for dog walking either. But with Gabby, she took her time to get to know Noodles before making a decision whether or not she could include him in her pack. Long story short, my dog passed the test. Because he was only anxious and nervous when he is not allowed to sniff the person or the other dogs. So Gabby introduced him to the pack in a way that didn't trigger my dog's anxiety and then he got accepted by the pack. I was also worried that my dog would freak out in the car as he always did with us in our car - but he did not, he might have learnt from other dogs as well that car rides are fine and they will only lead to happy adventures. Just after the first week walking with Gabby's pack, my dog's confidence has improved and he is no longer anxious in a car ride. When i put him in the back seat, he was like a totally different dog - that enjoyed the ride! He has become more trusting to people and dogs and doesn't immediately build negative assumptions anymore, maybe he learnt this from the other dogs that were very calm whenever there were people and other animals around them. I can't thank Gabby enough for the adventure, protection, security and the opportunity to make friends with other dogs that she has given my dog during the walks. She always sent me photos and videos of the adventures. I shared some of them here. If you have an anxious, hyper, lonely dog or just a happy dog that deserves to be happier -- call Gabby!!!! RIGHT MEOW! :) read more

Fit Dog Theory - My anxious dog, the corgi in the middle, is not anxious at all whenever he was with Gabby's pack! - Dog Walkers Near Me

See all

For the last several months we've been using Fit Dog Theory's services for daily walks for our 8 month-old puppy, and we couldn't be happier. Three highlights - 1. The walkers send a set of pictures every day letting us see the adventures our dog got to have while we toiled away in an office. We get a little shot of vicarious satisfaction, feel more connected to our pup and her experiences, and there's also some accountability in there. 2. Enabled by point #1, we appreciate that the walks seem to vary from day to day - from trips to the dog park to hilly hikes to back yard pool parties when the dogs need to cool off in hot weather. 3. Gabby and crew have always been highly professional in the way they deal with and communicate with us, from advance notification of vacations to a heads-up when our pup got a bee sting. The team is high-energy and our pup loves them. We would not hesitate to recommend Fit Dog Theory. read more

Fit Dog Theory will bring out the best in your dog. I know this because that's what Gabby and her crew have done with my two very high maintenance dogs. As a bit of backstory, my two dogs (Ernie, a dorkie age around 7, and Cody, a terrier mix age around 5.5) are rescues from Milo Foundation. We rescued them as a bonded pair - Ernie wasn't thriving at all in their shelter and out of cocern for his well being, fostered him with Cody, who was living with his foster mom in Berkeley. Cody had some skin and other medical problems Foster Mom was handling before putting him out for adoption. Everyone knew Cody would be a highly desirable pup since he was young (still a puppy at about 5 months) super cute. Ernie, on the other hand, was a wreck. Not especially good looking, he had a habit of hyper-ventilating when nervous (always) and biting himself when scared (always) and generally distrustful of everyone and thing in the world. He also was about 18 months old. But miracles happen and when Ernie was paired with Cody, Ernie changed overnight. Became more adventurous, playful and trusting. But only when Cody was around. Cody became a de facto therapy dog for a fairly miserable and unstable foster. So we learned if we wanted to adopt Cody, we kind of had to take Ernie too, as they had bonded and couldn't be separated. And when I say couldn't be separated, 5 years later they are still attached to each other at all times. Everything has to be done as a pair. As a result, they both have kind of lost out on any kind of behavior training since they look to each other before they react. So we were having a major renovation done in the back of our house, with workers around all day. This drove the dogs NUTS which drove ME nuts. I was frantic for a way to get them out of the house for a couple of hours a couple of times a week. But who would take them? I wasn't confident on their recall skills, and Ernie was not friendly with other dogs or people. Enter Gabrielle Walker and Fit Dog Theory. After an initial assessment and my explanation of their worst behaviors, Gabby decided to see if she could help. From the first pack walk to the last, the dogs were amazing. They learned how to interact with other dogs, other trainers and environments. Cody became quite the hit with the ladies which was hysterical and Ernie seemed ok with all of it. They learned better leash manners and even learned better recall skills. I credit all of it to Fit Dog Theory. If you have an anxious pup who needs to get some confidence or if you have a very social dog that needs some adventure, call Fit Dog Theory. You won't be disappointed and your dogs will love their time away from home. read more

The Fit Dog Theory Team has been giving our dog private walks for several years. They are attentive experts who provide ample exercise, rain or shine! Every single team member is well trained on our dog's needs and preferences. They've adjusted schedules to walk her earlier in the day when it's cooler, as needed. She's returned to us right on schedule, and we receive text pictures so that we have extra confidence she has had a great time. She's always tired and happy when she returns. Thank you, Gabby and team for treating our dog like she's your own special pet! read more

LOVE Fit Dog Theory! My dog, Teddy, has been walking with Gabi and her team for over a year. The team takes GREAT care of him. Ted very much enjoys the daily walks with his packs of friends. Gabi and her team is trustworthy and very responsive. Seeing the pictures of Ted & friends after the walks is the best. I can have a peace of mind knowing he is in good hands! read more

I've used Fit Dog Theory for over a year now and they are fantastic. For a few more dollars a day than it would cost for a 30 minute walk, they'll come pick up your pup and take them to a park. They get out of the house for multiple hours, get much needed socialization, and most importantly, my pup always comes back happy and exhausted. I'd gladly recommend this service over any others I've used in the past. read more

My fur baby, Lily, been walking with Gabby and her team since January this year. It has been a great experience. Lily is a Shih Tzu Bichon and usually just liked people, showing little interest in other dogs. After walking with the pack for just a couple of months I saw the most wonderful changes in an already wonderful dog. Overall she's more fit and is more energetic and confident. I get pictures and video every day and she smiles the whole time. It's obvious from the first meeting with Gabby that she takes this profession seriously and is committed to an excellent experience for you and your little pup. I am so glad to have found Gabby, her team and Lily's darling pack buddies. read more

We love Gabby! We are so thankful to have her to help take care of our boys when we go out of town. Without a doubt we know they are well taken care of when they are with her. She goes above and beyond to make sure your pets feel loved. We highly recommend her! read more

Wonderful experience for my fur baby, Franny. I have used Fit Dog Theory for a few months now. On those days when I have to be at work al day; my dog get the the opportunity to get outside, socialize with other dogs and get some much needed exercise. Gabby is so attentive to the dogs needs; and, as patient as a saint. The regular socialization has made my, otherwise timid, dog much more confident. I also love that Gabby sends photos and videos of the dogs on their "pack" walks. It always is amusing!! Thank you Fit Dog Theory!! read more

Gabby is truly a Dog Whisperer! My hairdresser gave me the highest recommendation for Fit Dog Theory, so I checked it out. Gabby takes my chihuahua on her pack walks three times a week; this rescue dog's aggression is significantly reduced and, with Gabby's good modeling, I am learning how to make my stubborn dog do what I want her to do! Gabby takes the pack for a walk or run, with some play at the dog park-- they all love her and she appears to have the pack in control the whole time! She sends photos and videos each time she takes them out. My dog hasn't managed to lose any pounds yet, but I know she is getting great exercise and socialization while I am at work. I highly recommend them for regular walking or periodic pet sitting-- read more

Fit Dog Theory is heaven sent! They've been taking my dog, Frida, on walks for a few years now and it's been wonderful for her and us. You have the option of pack walks or individual walks and Frida's done both. The owner, Gabrielle, is responsive, conscientious, and very in-tune with canines! And every member of her staff has been very caring and responsible. We are greatly missing them during this shelter-in-place and can't wait to start up again. Frida is missing her friends and I'm missing receiving adorable pics of her on her adventures. :-) read more

Gabby has been walking my Miniature Schnauzer Dexter for almost a year now. She is absolutely amazing!!! Dexter always comes home from his walks happy and tired out. Even though Dexter is almost six, he has always pulled on his leash. Gabby has worked with us to reduces his pulling significantly. He's walking much better on his walks with us and with other dogs. She has also given us helpful tips for toys to keep Dexter occupied while we are away so he doesn't get bored. She knowledgeable about behavior and is passionate about her work. Before Gabby, we had a dog walker that I worried wasn't actually taking Dexter out because he was so wound up. I never worry about his with Gabby! So happy I m read more

Gabby and her team of walkers are absolutely wonderful! We have a two-year old Cockapoo who was not yet well socialized with other dogs and still requiring a lot of help while walking (help to heel, not vocalizing at other dogs, not pulling the leash). In just a couple of months walking with Fit Dog Theory, Bella has gotten so much better - walks right next to me, is happy to see other dogs and her recall is excellent. Bella is SO excited when she hears the dog walker at the door and comes home tired and happy. The dog walkers are all incredibly trustworthy and Gabby is an excellent communicator. I always get pictures of my dog after each walk, sometimes videos as well. Highly recommend this company. read more

We love Gabby. She has been housesitting/pet sitting for us for the past few months. She shows up when she says she will, manages our dogs' medical (lots of medicines) and schedule needs, and assuages their anxiety. Our two dogs absolutely love her. She sends us pictures of our dogs daily. Highly recommended! read more

Highly recommend Gabby to take care of your little fur babies! Her pack walks have changed my dogs, literally. I have 2 very shy little dogs that I was worried would freak out in a pack of other dogs. Not only did they not freak out, but are thriving thanks to Gabby and her pack walks. They don't bark at other dogs anymore and the timidness is out the window! Give her a try, send your dog on a walk and you will not be disappointed. read more

Fit Dog Theory is awesome! Gabby and her team are not only professional to work with but I know they show the dogs a good time. Our pup LOVES his pack walks! I work from home and I can see how excited he gets when he hears that they have arrived outside--he runs down the stairs, out the door & is anxious to get in the car with his pals. I look forward to receiving the--DAILY--pictures and videos of him in action, with his crew and with a big smile on his face. He is a 7 month old puppy so the added benefit is that he learns good manners and gets to socialize with other dogs. I highly recommend Fit Dog Theory! read more

Perfectly amazing. My 18 month old terrier/poodle was bored and vocal about it when I moved into my condo.... Gabby came to the rescue. She keeps my puppy worn out and gives him lots of opportunities to socialize with other dogs. She brushes him after his adventures and even gave him a quick bath when he got particularly dirty on one adventure. I get my money's worth and far more with Gabby. She is a true partner with her clients. read more

Gabby is wonderful. She is not only charming and clearly a dog lover, but she is great at her a job too. She takes the dogs on pack walks that are great fun for the dogs and great adventures as well, as she takes them to the open space with creeks and all kinds of fun stuff for the dogs. Our corgis are allowed to run and play in ways they never could in our home or back yard. They are much healthier and happier because of Gabby and this excellent business. We highly recommend this company. read more

I met Gabby walking on our trail in Lafayette and she was so friendly. I never thought I would hire a dog walker but Gabby was so friendly and her dogs with her seemed to be having so much fun I had to see if our dog Rocco would like it. Well - he gets so excited when Gabby picks him up for his hour walk that we have now hired Gabby to walk him three days a week! Rocco comes home well exercised and happy! Thank you Gabby!! read more

Gabby is the ultimate dog walker. She is professional, very organized and extremely reliable. Over the years I have used a couple of different dog walking services. However, what sets Gabby apart from the rest is the fact that she really goes above and beyond by offering a service that's more than just a walk or a quick relief during the day. She actually believes in a more holistic approach by taking the pack to a stress free environment (often local parks and trails) in which dogs can get a healthy dose of exercise, socialize and ultimately build confidence. She is also very observant and will notify you of any changes in your dog's behavior or health as soon as she notices them. I absolutely recommend her as the ultimate dog fitness instructor / coach :) read more