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Doggy Lama Pet Care Award-Winning Pet Care Dogs and cats love us in Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, and now Alameda! Are you looking for a responsible dog walker or pet sitter in the East Bay? Since 2005, Doggy Lama Pet Care, Inc., has been a trusted dog walking and pet sitting service for cats and dogs in Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, and Alameda. We do have a lot of fun at work, but we take our jobs very seriously. Our team members have experience working with animals in settings from the SFSPCA to doggie day care to specialized veterinary clinics.
Services
Training: our group dog walkers go through Dogbiz's Dog Walking Academy (DWA) so we know more than the average dog walker about dog behavior, body language, and pack management. We complete Pet CPR and Pet First Aid courses at the DWA. We also work with the best local positive-reinforcement dog trainers to problem-solve and hone our skills.
Many team members have been with Molly almost as long as she's been running Doggy Lama Pet Care. As our reputation and experience have grown, we've been fortunate to hire folks who bring a broad range of experiences, kindness, and creativity to pet care. Due to her father's allergies, Molly's childhood pet was an Eastern box turtle.
Our dog-walking clients don't just go on dog walks--they have adventures! Dog walks are group outings to the trails for a minimum of one hour hiking time. Dogs are usually off-leash, although we usually start a new dog in the group on the leash until we can be sure of the dog's recall. Some of our favorite hiking spots are Redwood Regional Park, Anthony Chabot Regional Park, Leona Canyon, Claremont Canyon, and Strawberry Canyon. Occasionally we go to the Albany Bulb, Pt. Isabel, or the Bridgeview Trail.
Dog walks are small group outings of 2-3 dogs to the trails or on the streets for a minimum of one hour of exercise and enrichment time. Dogs can be on-leash or off-leash or walked on a long line. Buddy walks can be appropriate for dogs who are not yet ready for a regular group hike of up to six dogs in a pack.
Reviews (27)
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Tamara Bricker
May 12, 2022
I am an Oakland based dog trainer and I feel very confident recommending Doggy Lama to my clients. The staff has proven to be passionate about the care of dogs and their family. With this passion they seek knowledge and experience in dog behavior and care. They communicate with one another to make sure everyone is safe out on the trails and supported.

They offer private walks, adventure hikes, and small group hikes. Many of my clients need experienced dog handlers with patience and lots of compassion not only for the dog but for the family. The human aspect of dog care is just as important in my view. I also love how they are willing to work with me as a team. Sometimes it takes a village to care for a pet and a team who communicates well is very important to support the family. Doggy Lama Pet Care is a wonderful company and I highly recommend their services.
Gesshin G.
Feb 22, 2022
Emily is great with our shy, reactive puppy Loki. The first day they met, Loki wouldn't even leave the house to say hello, but just barked and ran away. But Emily was very patient with him, giving him treats and letting him warm up to her. Now they go on short walks around the neighborhood, and we are looking to get Loki more socialized and confident in the future.
Jenn Holley
Feb 22, 2022
This is a shout out to the dog walker we adore, Heather J. She walks my girl Mumu 3 days a week, spending one on one time with her. Heather has got some major skills in regards to training and behavior. Mumu is a rescue, and has some quirks and fears around noises and certain places (like my street!). Heather has worked with Mu in a sweet, patient, and gentle way to ease her fears and help her through situations that make her nervous.

She takes her to the open space near my place, and they have a sweet little walk with each other for 30 minutes. Heather sends me great texts updating me on when she is on her way to my place to walk Mumu, and then again after she takes her out and is done. The photos she sends of Mu are always adorable! She fills me in on cute stories and happenings on their walks, and if Mumu met any other dogs, or if she went #2 or not.

I saw Mumu's reaction when Heather came over one day. I had called in sick that day and had totally forgot to contact Heather and let her know she wouldn't have to come by to walk Mu. Anyway, she walked into my place and took Mu and me by surprise. What I saw was so cute: Mu was thrilled to see Heather, and was a total wiggle-butt greeting her. At that moment, I knew Mu was having fun breaks in her days with her friend Heather, and that my dog really looks forward to her visits.

Another plus: Heather will let me know about things she observes on their walks and thinks I should know about. One time she noticed one of Mu's feet was bleeding, and sent me a photo of the foot. She has also let me know at various times that Mumu seemed to be eating dirt one day, and on another eating grass. These kind of updates are so helpful to me! I feel like Mu and Me hit the jackpot with Heather j.
Dene Carter
Feb 20, 2022
Doggy Lama have been responsible, reliable and kind during even the most difficult moments of the Covid Pandemic. I don't know what Ronin would do without Jeysi, his walker, and the gang to keep him entertained and socialized. Could not ask for a better service.
D. B.
Feb 19, 2022
My dog, Maddy, a skittish and insecure street dog rescue, alerts me with enthusiastic wiggles when Davida turns the corner onto our street and it's time for her pack walk. Her joy at seeing Davida is truly remarkable. I also appreciate how everyone at Doggy Lama is sensitive to shy dogs like Maddy and works to ensure a good experience and harmony between the dogs in the pack. I'm so glad to have found Doggy Lama!
Karen B.
Feb 14, 2022
My sweet but high energy Margaux has been in Vanessa's care for about two years - especially during the pandemic, Vanessa and Doggy Lama have been a godsend, providing structure, fun, adventure and connection (all the things we humans miss!) for Margaux and her trail buddies. This helps keep her social, super well-behaved and good & tired when she gets home from her party.er hike, so I can get some work done. Vanessa is a super communicator and a fantastic photographer to boot, so I get great updates on all the fun while I am at my desk. Makes me envious!
Roxanne G.
Feb 14, 2022
So grateful that I found Doggy Lama last year when I needed to add walking capacity for my new pup! Brad has been coming for a few months now. He takes both of my dogs for on-leash walks in my neighborhood several times a week while I'm working. They're always thrilled to see him when he arrives.and ready to nap when he brings them home, which is the best!
Jacqueline C.
Feb 13, 2022
Jeysi has been our walker for the last several months and she's great! Our dog loves her and she sends us pictures after every walk! Doggylama continues to be one of the things that we can depend on these last couple of years.
J. B.
Feb 12, 2022
The folks at Doggy Lama have been fantastic to work with - they have several options for different dogs (group walks, private walks, "drop-in" sitting, etc.). Their scheduling system is easy to use. Kendrae in the office is responsive, a great communicator, and works with yout ot meet your needs. They also have extraordinarily caring walkers - like Dorothy! - who can work with special needs dogs.

My shy pup Rosie used to shake with anxiety when meeting new people, but she has developed trust in Dorothy & now she runs toward the door when Dorothy arrives, in anticipation to their trip to the park! When I needed advice over the holidays because my not-so-well-socialized rescue pup and my family's dog wereen't getting along, Mary actually reached out to me on Christmas Eve to offer suggestions and insight. It was way above & beyond & we ALL were so appreciative! This is a great team & I highly recommend them :)
Katy Atchison
Feb 11, 2022
When my puppy first started going to Puppy Play Group at Doggy Lama, he was scared of stairs and had very little interaction with other pups. Now, he's a confident and friendly pup who understands different dog personalities due to his time at Doggy Lama. His favorite employee is Stephanie. Stephanie comes to pick him up and drop him off. He won't come into the house until he's seen her exit the front fence.

He loves her so much that he waits by the door. I love her because she works on his training every week and make sure to give him some space when he's a little too excited to play with others. It's been vital in his development.
Barbara C.
Feb 10, 2022
My dog Sam loves all the walkers at Doggy Lama Pet Care, but he has had a very special relationship with Michael. Sam was a totally wild rescue dog with more energy and more love than I was prepared for. He is still a bit of a wildman (and singer of sad dog songs), but Michael never fails to bring out Sam's best. Sam and I are so grateful for his enduring patience and sense of fun.
Aaron G.
Feb 09, 2022
DLPC has been the best! Our dog looks forward to Jordan's visits with so much excitement. And the best part is she comes back thoroughly exhausted and happy, getting the chance to socialize and play with other dogs. Jordan does a great job matching up the dogs with similar temperaments and as an added bonus, has been helping improve our dog's recall and obedience. Thank you!
Farah J.
Feb 09, 2022
All dogs are special, but mine is a special kind of special. He's nervous, jumps at loud noises, being in the car brings next level anxiety, freaks out if the leash touches his back legs.despite all of this, he LOVES his outings with his pack. Adal picks him up twice a week and is so patient and loving while my fur guy goes through all of his emotions. You'd never know it though, bc The pictures and the overview of the day I get from Adal show my guy having the time of his life. I'm so grateful that Adal has come into our lives. I feel like he's the confidence boost Diego needs.
Emily E.
Feb 09, 2022
Doggy Lama is the best pet care service ever. Our walker Kristen takes such good care of our dog Skye on their adventure walks, and always sends us photos after every hike. She has captured some of my favorite pictures of our sweet lady. It is so comforting to know Skye will always be well looked after in her and Doggy Lama's care!
Karen Breslau
Feb 09, 2022
Update Still going strong in 2022 - Margaux is now 4 and still in Vanessa's thrall. The pack is having a way better pandemic than we humans! 2021: Many paws & thumbs up for Doggy Lama. Vanessa is an amazing walker/trainer/whisperer/spirit guide for my sometimes shy and tender 3-year-old husky-pit mix Margaux. When I just say to Margaux "are you ready for Vanessa?" she starts bouncing off the walls and runs to the door, with her tail going like a helicopter rotor. Vanessa brings so much heart and fun to Margaux's 3x a week hikes, and her photos of each day's adventure are incredible, along with hilarious reports of that day's antics. Vanessa could snag a cover of Doggie Vogue any day of the week! I truly appreciate Vanessa's awesome magic with Margaux, as well as her reliable and wonderful communication with the humans in the family.
Katie G.
Jan 19, 2022
Once again, Doggy Lama allows us to rest easy when we are away. Barb now cares for our kitties. Mama: 18+ yrs, Ziggy: 1.6 yrs, Hugo: 4 yrs. She sends us detailed accounts of what each cat did for fun and what they ate, sends picture of them. She is extremely careful of our busy street and ensuring no one escapes. She's just the best and always right on time and reliable. The rates are very reasonable and I trust Doggy Lama 100%. Could not be more thankful for their services. I've entrusted them with my kitty cat care for 10 years now!
Jonathon P.
Nov 11, 2021
Just wanted to recognize a business that responds quickly, even when it's not a match. A lot of businesses don't bother to respond at all, but Molly responded in a timely manner, explained why it wasn't a match, and even offered to help us find alternative dog walkers. Very much appreciated.
Alicia L.
Oct 16, 2021
Molly (the owner) and her crew are the best there is. I can't recommend them enough. My pup, Nori, is high-energy and definitely has some weird quirks like an obsession with pine cones and shaded areas, as well as a desire to give everyone kisses. Throughout it all, Jac and Stephanie, have been absolutely amazing! Every time they come to pick her up, Nori runs full speed to the fence to welcome them and she comes home every day with the biggest smile on her face. It's so comforting to know that Nori is safe, happy and having the time of her life.
Matt Barrio
Jun 06, 2021
Our boy Warren, a border collie mix, LOVES his time with Kristen & Michael's packs. They're some of the most exceptional and trustworthy dog walkers we've had. Warren will wait up by the window for Kristen or Michael to come every morning - tail waggin a million miles an hour and whimpering from excitement. It makes me happy to see Warren get to play out on the trails, learn new skills, and socialize with his pals every day.

Finding a trustworthy and professional dog walker is not easy. But Molly runs a tight ship, and the team she leads at Doggy Lama shows just how much she cares for and loves animals. If you're looking for pet care that exceeds the standard - I'd highly recommend you reach out to Doggy Lama.
Jen Birch
Mar 01, 2021
Everyone at Doggy Lama has been so good to my pup, Rosie, since I adopted her over a year ago. Rosie has arthritis so Dorothy takes her to the park to sniff about at her own pace or just lay in the sun. It's clear that she loves her time with Dorothy because she always comes home with a huge smile on her face! Kendrae is super communicative and responsive around scheduling, too. Highly recommended!
Ryan O.
Feb 15, 2021
Our Warren, a 3-year old border collie mix, has been walked by Doggy Lama since we moved to Berkeley 2 years ago. We're very pleased with the service - well-organized and regularly keeping us updated on any adjustments or season-specific messages. Michael walks Warren on Mondays and Fridays. We can tell that Warren really misses him in between walks because he whimpers when he sees Michael coming up to the house. Kristen walks Warren mid-week and she's so sweet!

She always greets Warren with a treat and usually sends photos of Warren with his pack. She works on his training and recall as well. They are both consistent with their schedule. We're pleased to have such professional, friendly people taking care of our pup and giving him some socialization. Thank you Doggy Lama for your service!
Sahra H.
Feb 12, 2021
The way my poodle's tail wags when she sees Vanessa is the stuff of doggy legend. I admit that sometimes I get a little jealous - kinda the way I felt when my kids used to look adoringly at their daycare providers or their grandma. But it's worth it. Vanessa is so loving and so protective of our little pup. Pepper comes back from their jaunts tired and happy. Vanessa calls herself "auntie" and we do too!
Shayda H.
Feb 12, 2021
Our little Bobby loves Adal. My fiance and I have been working from home since COVID-19 and we have to constantly sit in virtual meetings. We are so thankful that Adal comes by three times a week. It's great that he can give Bobby some respite from staring at us staring at computer screens. Walking along those trails with his dog pack is like he gets to go to Disneyland three times a week. Adal is so sweet and patient and we love when he sends us pictures of the walk after he drops Bobby off. I know Bobby loves him because he can't handle his excitement as soon as he sees Adal.
Amanda Z.
Feb 12, 2021
We love Doggylama & Jac, our pack walker! Our aussie Benson has been apart of the Doggylama pack for almost two years. Every Walker we've had has been incredibly kind, super trustworthy, and professional. Molly, the owner, is incredible as well. The office staff are amazing to work with for reschedules, billing, etc. Doggylama truly cares about enriching the lives of the dogs, and that is noticed. Benson LOVES his walks every week, which is mostly credited to Jac, who does an excellent job. We would recommend doggylama to anyone without any hesitation. 5 stars and lots of love for Doggylama.
Deb S.
Feb 12, 2021
Vanessa is such a skilled and generous person. She walks our challenging cur, Daisy once a week, solo -- giving Daisy confidence in encountering other dogs and people out in the world. We are grateful for Vanessa's genuine care and affection. With her training and support, Daisy has become such a pleasure to go out with! We highly recommend her as a dogwalker for any dog!
Aimee J.
Dec 26, 2020
Doggy Lama has been the most excellent dog walking service! I've been using their services for 2 1/2 years. My large German Shepherd goes berserk if he doesn't get to play with other dogs and get out of the house. They have taken efforts to match him with the perfect walker and group, and have always honored my special requests. Everything is as easy as it can be: from scheduling extra walks and drop-ins to billing and all communications.

My dog has not had the best experience with some other walking companies, and I am grateful to the considerate walkers and schedulers that go the extra mile to make sure our needs are being met.
Kaela Stuart Christensen
Dec 13, 2020
Molly and her team at Doggy Lama are the best! Our dog Toby always returns from his off-leash walks with Jordan having had lots of fun with his pack buds and tuckered out. It's been a huge relief to know Toby is getting the exercise and stimulation he needs, especially during the work week when we can't provide that for him to this level. This team is also amazing at communication, from day-of logistics to general awareness of seasonal considerations on the trail.