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Specialist Dog Walking & Gentle Behaviour Support in Kāpiti

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About

dog walker Waikanae, dog walker paraparaumu, dog walker raumati, senior dog walker kapiti coast,

Kia ora, I'm Kirsty,

Kia ora, I'm Kirsty,

Kia ora, I'm Kirsty,

I'm the human behind Small Paws Kāpiti Coast. I'm a professional dog walker and canine behaviourist in training, providing specialist care exclusively for small breeds across Waikanae, Paraparaumu, Raumati, and the wider Kāpiti Coast. What started as a lifelong love affair with animals has grown into something I'm deeply proud of. Over fi

I'm the human behind Small Paws Kāpiti Coast. I'm a professional dog walker and canine behaviourist in training, providing specialist care exclusively for small breeds across Waikanae, Paraparaumu, Raumati, and the wider Kāpiti Coast. What started as a lifelong love affair with animals has grown into something I'm deeply proud of. Over five years of hands-on daily care - walks, pop-ins, overnights, and everything in between - I've developed a particular soft spot for senior dogs, anxious souls, and curious puppies. Every dog in my care is treated as an individual - because that's the only way to do this properly.

Professional small breed dog walker and pet sitter servicing Waikanae, Paraparaumu and Raumati.

My Commitment

Kia ora, I'm Kirsty,

Kia ora, I'm Kirsty,

Your dog's safety, comfort, and wellbeing are at the centre of everything I do. I hold a Degree and Postgraduate qualification that includes Animal Behaviour and Conservation, am NZQA qualified in Companion Animal Care, and am currently training as a canine behaviourist. This academic grounding shapes every aspect of how I work - from rea

Your dog's safety, comfort, and wellbeing are at the centre of everything I do. I hold a Degree and Postgraduate qualification that includes Animal Behaviour and Conservation, am NZQA qualified in Companion Animal Care, and am currently training as a canine behaviourist. This academic grounding shapes every aspect of how I work - from reading a dog's body language on a walk, to recognising when an anxious dog needs space rather than stimulation.

My approach is entirely force-free. No aversive tools, no raised voices, no shortcuts. Just calm, consistent, behaviour-informed care that your dog can trust.

I hold full public liability insurance, have a clean criminal record (available on request), and carry a current Pet First Aid certificate. When you hand me your keys and your dog, you're welcoming someone who takes that responsibility seriously - wherever our walks take us."

Dog Walking

Small breed dog enjoying individual walk with professional dog walker Waikanae

Swift Sniff & Stretch 30mins

$35

A solo walk for one dog (or two siblings), designed for pups who need gentle exercise at their own pace. Ideal for senior dogs, dogs recovering from illness or injury, or those with limited mobility. Every walk is tailored to how your dog feels on the day - pace, distance, and route all adjusted accordingly. Walks take place on quiet, even surfaces away from busy areas. No rushing, no pressure just quality time and a comfortable outing. 

Active small dog on adventure hour walk Kapiti Coast beach Paraparaumu

Adventure Hour 1hr

$50

A solo walk for one dog (or two siblings), providing extended exercise and rich sensory stimulation for small dogs with energy to burn. Includes visits to Kāpiti Coast beaches, parks, and nature trails. Routes are chosen to keep things interesting - new smells, new environments, and plenty of opportunity for your dog to simply be a dog. Not recommended for dogs with severe anxiety or limited mobility - the Swift Sniff & Stretch is a better fit for those pups.


Additional Services

Pet sitter providing companionship and care to small dog at home Waikanae

Pup Pop-ins

$25/$45

A daytime welfare visit for puppies, anxious dogs, and dogs with special care needs. I'll check in, replenish food and water, administer medication if required, and spend quality time with your pup - play, calm companionship, or simply a reassuring presence, depending on what they need most that day. Puppies benefit enormously from short, positive interactions during the day rather than long periods alone; this service is designed with that in mind. 

Prices shown are for once/twice daily visits.

Overnight pet sitting service small dog comfortable at home Kapiti Coast

Cosy Overnight Cuddles

$75

Overnight care in your home, for pups who are happiest in familiar surroundings. Ideal for owners away for short periods who want their dog to stay comfortable, calm, and well-cared-for - without the stress of kennels or an unfamiliar environment. Includes an evening and morning walk, feeding, and personalised care tailored to your dog's usual routine. Particularly well-suited to senior dogs, anxious dogs, and dogs who take time to adjust to new people or places. Check here for availability.

Advertisement for upcoming canine behaviour advice service featuring a dachshund. Anxious dog. Dog behaviourist Kapiti. Senior dog walker. One on one dog walking. Gentle puppy care.

Coming Soon

TBC

I'm in the final stages of qualifying as a canine behaviour therapist, bringing behaviour-informed support to dog owners. This is the natural next step and why I do what I'm doing. Consultations will cover body language, the root causes of tricky behaviours, and building a calmer bond - all using gentle, force-free methods.

Interested? Get in touch and I'll add you to the waitlist. 

A smorgasbord of happy clients..

A barrage of 'yappy' customers..

Huntaways named Bryn and Ryo - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Te Horo
Golden Retriever named Hunter - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Miniature Schnauzer named Rufus - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Peka Peka
Cavoodle named Rusty - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Schnoodle named Alfie - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Otaihanga
Aussie Terrier named Oscar - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Raumati
Cavoodle named Freddie- Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Parapauramu
Small fluffy dog standing on a rock among pebbles - Raumati
Beagle named Pip - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
King Charles Spaniel named Maisie - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Otaihanga
Poodle named Ned- Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Otaihanga
Westipoo named Otis - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Westipoo named Gus - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Golden Retriever named Hunter - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Lowchi named Benji - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Parapauramu
Aussie Shepherd named Kodi - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Parapauramu
Black dog named Timmy - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Parapauramu
Spoodle named Bertie - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Spoodle named Charlie - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Spaniel  - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Parapauramu
Schipperk named Tilda - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Whippet named Soula - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Westies named Milo and Baxter - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Dog named Awa - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Border Collie named Indie - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Nikau Valley
Miniature Daschund named Ruby - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Parapauramu
Miniature Daschund named Luca - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Raumati
Miniature Schnauzer named Macy - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Miniature Schnauzer named Zoie- Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Miniature Schnauzer named Nicky - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Dogs  - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Labradoodle named Coco - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Peka Peka
Jack Russells named Millie and Poppy - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client
Cavoodle named Pip- Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Raumati
Cocker Spaniel named Ada - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Miniature Schnauzer named Gus - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Miniature Schnauzer named Zack - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae
Miniature Fox Terrier named Steezy - Small Paws Kapiti Coast dog walking client - Waikanae

Instagram fun

FAQs

Please contact me at kirsty@smallpawskapiticoast.co.nz if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Yes, I offer overnight pet sitting services. Please see 'Cosy Overnight Cuddles' in Services and contact me to discuss extended pet sitting options. 


Yes, this option is available upon request and is dependent on the availability of other dogs in my care. The walk is limited to 2 to 3 dogs to ensure proper attention, and control is given. I try to match dogs based on energy level and temperament. On or off-leash dependent on your dog's requirements.


Yes, I have a clean criminal record, which can be provided upon request. I understand that your pets are family and your home is your sanctuary. You can rest assured that when you entrust me with your keys and beloved pets, you are welcoming a vetted, trustworthy professional into your home. 


Yes. I take my responsibility to you and your pets very seriously. That's why I'm fully covered by public liability insurance. This coverage protects you, your property, and your furry friends in the unlikely event of an accident or incident during my care. 


Absolutely! See details below about my free Meet & Greet and get in touch during contact hours.


Payment can be made by cash or bank transfer. If you choose to pay by bank transfer, an invoice(via Hnry) with bank details are sent to you via email on Fridays. 


Certainly! I offer a 10% discount on all services provided.


Absolutely! The majority of my clients are senior dogs, and every walk is tailored to your dog's individual needs and comfort level. Walks are gentle, shorter, and perfectly paced, using flat, even surfaces and avoiding extreme weather conditions. Each outing is adjusted based on how your dog feels that day. I keep a watchful eye for subtle signs of discomfort or fatigue, and will never push beyond your dog's limits.



Yes, anxious dogs are one of my specialities. I create calm, predictable experiences that build confidence over time. We'll start with a relaxed meet-and-greet to understand your dog's specific triggers and comfort level. From there, we develop a personalised approach at your dog's pace. Our walks avoid overwhelming situations - no busy dog parks or large groups. We choose quiet times and peaceful routes where your dog can relax.



Get in touch

Let's get acquainted - Book a FREE Meet & Greet

I believe in starting every relationship on the right paw. My free Meet & Greet is the perfect opportunity to: 


  • Introduce your pup 
  • Discuss your pup's unique needs and routines 
  • Learn about my services and ask questions 
  • Ensure I'm the right fit for you and your furry friend. 


No obligation, just a friendly chat in person, online, or by phone, because when it comes to your pup's happiness, every detail matters! 


Take the first step towards worry-free pet care. I'd LOVE to hear from you!

Message me on WhatsApp

Small Paws Kāpiti Coast

Waikanae, Kāpiti Coast

Tel. 022 464 7162 (call or text) Email: kirsty@smallpawskapiticoast.co.nz

Contact Hours

Open today

08:00 – 17:00

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