Dog walking jobs

Offering dog walking services is a dream job for any dog lover that has some spare time, likes to earn some extra cash and loves flexibility! But what does the job consist of and more importantly, how do you find dog walking jobs? Let’s find out.

What does a dog walker do?

Simply put, offering dog walking services means taking somebody else’s dog for a walk for the times that the owner is not capable to do so himself. It doesn’t mean that all you have to do is to put the lead on and take a short stroll up and down the street: a dog walker is expected to engage with the dog, provide fun activities and is responsible for the dog’s safety.

Sounds like a walk in the park? Think again. Dogs of all sizes and physical abilities need to go out. Handling a big, boisterous dog requires some experience and proper handling while taking a sick or disabled dog for a walk requires specific knowledge. Dog walking jobs are more than a way to earn money: they are for people who genuinely love and care about dogs.

Where can I find dog walking jobs?

With 90 million dogs in the United States the demand for dog walking services is high - especially in big cities like LA or New York. Let's have a look at how to land dog walking jobs.

Local Ads

The first thing that you can consider is putting an ad in local shops. Pet shops, dog-friendly cafes, vets or even your local pastry shop: your potential clients are out there! Create an attractive ad, indicate clearly the services you offer, your availability and your rates. Don’t forget to include your contact details like a phone number or email address.

Specialised companies

There are several online platforms in the United States where people who want to offer dog walking services can advertise themselves. Holidog, the number one pet sitting platform, is a good place to start.

Register yourself on their website and indicate that you are available for dog walking jobs. Spend some time creating the most attractive profile as possible in order to stand out in the crowd. Mention any previous experiences with dog walking, the type of dogs you’re able to take care of, your exact location and your rates.

Be prepared to be asked a few (or a lot of) questions by dog parents. Most will also want to meet you in person to work out the last details such as the route and the duration. At the same time, it’s a good opportunity for you to ask questions about the dog you’ll be walking.

How much do dog walking jobs pay?

The price depends on the dog’s size, your level of experience, the frequency/duration of the walks and your location. On average, you’re looking at earning $12 per walk. Dog walks usually last for about 30 minutes. Bigger dogs may need longer walks.

If you’re using a website to find dog walking jobs, you should always check if it will cost you something. Some take a commission on your rates so the actual amount of money you get to take home might be less. Factor the fees into your rates to avoid disappointment.

If you’re new to dog walking and don’t have much experience, it’s a good idea to ask for a slightly lower price. Drop your rates by $1: this may help you land more dog walking jobs. As you gain experience, you can gradually up your price.

A final piece of advice: get a dog walking insurance! Covering your dog walking activities for any type of liability will give you peace of mind and help avoid turning a job into an expense.