On average, a 30-minute dog walk costs around $20, but prices can range anywhere from $10 to $35. No matter how long the walk is, you'll pay $0.50 to $1 per minute for your dog(s) to be walked depending on your location.
In terms of low, medium, and high-end dog walkers, Home Guide estimates the following rates:
- The cost of a 30-minute walk with a low-end dog walker is $10
- A 30-minute dog walk costs $20 in the mid-range
- A 30-minute walk with a high-end dog walker costs $35
Dogs are family
Among pet animals in the USA, dogs are the most popular. According to Statista, the number of dogs living in US homes in 2023 is estimated to be 65.1 million. For many, dogs are an integral part of daily life and are considered part of the family.
Dog ownership in the USA increased dramatically during the pandemic and now the need for a reliable dog walker has never been greater, since many are returning to work. There’s never been a better time to become a dog walker, plus it’s a simple process and can be a lucrative business.
Plus, dogs are social creatures and enjoy spending time outside, so taking them for a walk can be a very enriching experience which allows them to indulge their senses and curiosity by exploring the sights and smells around them.
How much do dog walkers cost?
There are many factors that can affect dog-walking prices, including;
- Duration
- Frequency
- Number of dogs
- Location
Duration
Time is money - typically, dog walkers charge up to $20 for a 30-minute walk.
The costs will, of course, vary if you choose a longer walk for an active dog or a shorter walk for a new puppy.
Frequency
It’s a good idea to schedule multiple walks at once since you can usually expect a discount in price for bulk or package deals. Look for loyalty packages too, where you might get a free walk!
The number of dogs
This varies but some dog walkers offer a discount when group size grows. Legally, a dog walker can only walk a certain amount of dogs safely – in some cases that’s 6 and in others it’s 4. Checking local laws is important to staying compliant, and to making sure your insurance is valid if you need to make a claim.
Although dog walkers don’t need a license to operate, they should have dog walking insurance and understand their liabilities and coverage.
Location
If you live in a city with a high cost of living, your dog walking expenses may increase dramatically. Dog walking rates in NYC, San Francisco and Chicago will be higher than smaller cities in the Midwest or Southeast. Plus, with inflation on the rise, they may continue to increase.
Things to keep in mind
While the average rate for dog walking can be $20 for 30 minutes, other factors to consider are the time of year or time of day. There may be an extra charge for early morning or late-night hours dog walking services, and dog walking rates typically increase over the winter months and around the holidays.
Dog walkers can provide extra services too. A walk can include feeding, making sure a dog is given their medication, or simply spending some extra time with a dog playing fetch or going to a dog park. Although not all dog walkers charge extra for these additional services, you should establish the parameters right from the start.
Tips to help save money on dog walking
- It is usually cheaper to hire an individual rather than a company in the long run.
- Weekend and after-hours walks are usually more expensive.
- Look for dog walkers closer to your location to minimize travel expenses.
- Ask about loyalty programs or discounts.
What to look for when choosing a dog walker and questions to ask
A pet parent's love for their dog is unconditional. A theft, an injury, or even a death can cause more grief than a financial loss. To choose a responsible dog walker, here are some questions to ask.
Are you insured?
If the dog harms a passerby or causes an accident, dog walkers may need liability insurance. Insurance is also a good idea in case your dog gets lost or injured, whilst in the care of your dog walker. Ask for proof of dog walking insurance – it’s.
Is there anyone else with you when you walk?
You may want to make sure your dog walker isn’t meeting up with others if your dog isn’t particularly friendly or is feeling under the weather to prevent any accidents or the spread of germs. It’s a good idea to stay on top of what illnesses are affecting dogs in your local community and make sure that your dog walker is limiting exposure to yours.
Do you walk a variety of dogs in a group?
Temperament and breed must be considered when grouping dogs. Finding out what type of dogs are walked in your group is a good idea so you can voice any concerns.
If you cannot walk the dog, do you have a backup plan?
It's important to know if a stand-in walker will be available in case your regular dog walker can't make it due to illness or another unforeseen circumstance.
Can you tell me about the courses you have taken?
Being assured that your dog walker has taken training courses gives you peace of mind as a pet parent. Animal first aid, animal behavior, and animal care are common topics that dog walkers should be familiar with.
Would you be able to provide me with references from other dog owners?
A walker's reputation will help you determine if they’re right for you based on testimonials from other happy customers. A dog walker without references would be a red flag, and it would be wise to follow-up and find out more if you’re trusting someone with a member of your family.
When the weather is bad, what do you do?
A dog walker's response to unexpected situations can be determined by asking this question and then you’ll know what to expect on rainy days. Your dog walker may ask you to provide a waterproof jacket for a dog that feels the cold or dislikes the rain. Or you may choose to provide shoes to protect your dog’s paws from burning on the concrete on hot summer days.
Aside from these questions, meeting the dog walker in person can help you determine whether they get along with your dog. Take note of the way they greet your pet and whether they correct any unruly behavior.
Do you tip dog walkers?
If you’re happy with your dog walker and want to keep them around, feel free to add on a tip occasionally! Although it’s not required or expected, dog walkers that work during odd times, cater to last minute requests, or go out of their way to provide excellent customer service can be tipped, or given a gift during the holidays.
If you do choose to tip your dog walker, anywhere from 10 to 15% would be a good range to aim for. Ultimately, the decision is up to the dog owner and whatever they can afford.