Dog walking prices in 2024

For many dog owners, ensuring their furry companions get regular exercise is a crucial aspect of maintaining their health and happiness. Daily walks provide dogs with the physical activity they need, mental stimulation from new sights and smells, and an essential outlet for social interaction with other dogs. Studies suggest that more than 61 million US households have at least one dog - that's a big market for pet services, including some of those walks,

Busy schedules, physical limitations, or extended work hours can make it challenging for owners to fulfill this need consistently. This is where professional dog walkers come in, offering a valuable service to keep pets active and engaged when their owners cannot. As the demand for these services grows, understanding the costs involved in hiring a dog walker has become increasingly important for pet owners looking to balance their dog's well-being with their budget.

This handy price guide will help you understand how much dog walker charge. A quick note - these average prices are based on our data and research, but every dog, and every professional walker, is different. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from local dog walkers.

Dog walking prices

It’s difficult to say just how much stretching your dog’s legs is going to cost, as the price varies depending on your requirements. Based on the prices of local US professionals, the average cost for one dog walk is given below:

These prices are based on the average length of a walk, which is half an hour (or slightly less). If you're paying by the hour, expect to pay between $30 and $60 instead.

What's included in the cost of a dog walk?

A typical dog walk includes more than just a stroll around the neighborhood. It often starts with the walker picking up your dog from your home and, depending on your arrangement, might include a car journey to a nearby park or a suitable walking area to provide a more enriching experience. Be sure to confirm if transportation is included in the service. Once at the location, the walk itself will allow your dog to exercise, explore, and socialize under the watchful eye of the walker. After the walk, the service usually concludes with the dog being safely returned to your home.

What can affect dog walking rates? 

The rate of a dog walker is variable depending on different factors, including: 

• Group vs. single dog walks

• Location

• Time

• Add-ons

Group vs. single dog walks

Group dog walks are less expensive than individual dog walks, so if your dog is well behaved around other dogs, this could be a great option. If you think your pup could disrupt a group environment, you’ll have to pay a higher price. You could save between $5- $10 if you opt for group classes, as well as saving on the dollars, they’re a great way for your dog to learn to socialize. 

Conversely, if you have more than one dog yourself, your walker might only charge you a solo price. It's usual for them to add a surcharge though - on average, this is an extra 50% of the cost.

Location 

If a dog walker isn’t located nearby, you may incur extra fees to cover the travel costs, so it's a good idea to search locally. Prices can vary widely depending on the location. If you live in a big city with higher living costs, like New York or Los Angeles, expect to pay more for the same service. The average highest price nationwide is $25, but in New York, the upper limit is closer to $35.

Length of walk

The longer your dog walker spends with your dog, the more expensive the service will be. This is especially true for high-energy breeds like Border Collies and Siberian Huskies, which require up to two hours of walking each day to stay healthy and happy. On the other hand, breeds like Pugs and Shih Tzus are more comfortable with shorter, less demanding walks. The cost of hiring a dog walker also depends on how often you need their services. If the walker is the primary caregiver, providing daily or twice-daily walks, the overall cost will be higher compared to occasional or supplemental visits.

Understanding these factors helps pet owners budget effectively while ensuring their dogs receive the appropriate level of care and activity.

Add-ons 

If you love to pamper your pooch, lots of dog walkers offer additional services, from home care to grooming. Some even offer photoshoots of your beloved pup. There is no limit to the services that dog walkers offer, but remember that these come at an additional cost which should be discussed at the outset.

From bath and brush to spa treatments, the sky’s the limit when it comes to dog walking add-ons, so always ask your dog walker if you think your pup’s deserving of a pamper. 

Saving money on dog walking services

Keeping your pooch healthy and happy doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips for keeping costs down: 

• Ask about package options - If your dog requires regular walks, you might be able to agree on a reduced fee per session if you’re buying a package of sessions. 

• Ask about multiple dog discounts - If you have more than one dog from the same household, you might be able to get a discounted price if they can be walked together.

• Avoid national holiday and weekend walks - If you want to keep costs to a minimum, avoid walks that fall on a weekend or national holiday, as dog walkers tend to charge more during these times. 

Choosing your dog walker

It's important to choose a dog walker you click with, as well as one who fits your budget. Before you settle on the right person, you might want to check the following:

• Experience – The more experienced dog walkers are, the better they’ll be at administering meds and understanding your dog's needs. Ask about a meet and greet to see if your dog likes his future walker and to inform the walker about any idiosyncrasies your dog has.

• Pet health – Ask the dog walkers you interview if they know pet CPR and first aid.

• Memberships – You might be more comfortable with a professional who is registered with an official organisation like the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS).

• Insurance – Hiring an insured dog walker means the insurance will cover the costs if your dog gets hurt during the walk or causes any property damage while with the dog walker.