11 Best Dog Walking Apps! Get Paid to Walk Dogs

In an era of increasing gig economy jobs, making money walking dogs has been a popular option for animal lovers.

Using dog walking apps, people can now monetize their love for canines while providing a much-needed service for busy pet owners.

However, becoming a successful dog walker is not as simple as lacing up your sneakers and grabbing a leash. From understanding licensing and insurance needs to knowing which dog walker app pays the most, there’s more to this profession than meets the eye.

This article dives into these critical aspects, offering valuable insights for those looking to explore this profitable and satisfying line of work.

Dog Walking and the Roles of a Dog Walker

Dog walking is a professional service that assists pet owners who may not have the time, ability, or energy to walk their dogs as frequently as needed. With the coming of various apps for dog walkers, such as Rover or Wag!, the demand for this service has skyrocketed.

A dog walker’s job involves more than just walking a dog. Their primary responsibility is ensuring the dog’s safety and well-being during the walk. This includes:

• Maintaining control over the pet
• Cleaning up after them
• Ensuring they get the required exercise

The role can extend beyond walking, depending on the services offered. Some dog walkers may also provide pet sitting, where they care for a dog in the owner’s absence, often at the owner’s home.

Professional dog walkers using dog walker apps need to manage their profiles, respond to customer inquiries promptly, and schedule walks efficiently. They may also need to meet with potential clients to discuss their services, rates, and the specific needs of the dogs.

While the concept of dog walking jobs may seem straightforward, the role requires a genuine love for animals, patience, and a strong sense of responsibility. It can be a rewarding way to make money dog walking, especially for those who enjoy spending time with canine companions.

How Dog Walking Apps Work

These dog walking apps connect dog owners who need someone to walk their dogs with dog walkers available in their area. You can sign up for these money making apps, create a profile, and showcase your skills and availability.

To find dogs to walk, you can browse the app and see which dog owners nearby are looking for walkers. You can choose the type of dogs you prefer, such as size, breed, and temperament.

Some apps may also offer additional services like dog sitting, boarding, or grooming.

Once you find a dog you want to walk, you can request to walk it or accept an offer from the owner. Through the app, you can chat with the owner and agree on the walk details like time, location, and duration.

After completing the walk, you can submit a report with a map of the route, photos of the dog, and any notes or feedback. The owner can rate and review your service and even tip you if they’re satisfied.

Mostly payments are handled through the app, so you don’t need to worry about cash or invoices. You can choose to be paid either weekly or daily. The app will deduct a service fee, which varies depending on the app and the service you provide.

As a dog walker, your earnings can range from $10 to $30 per hour, depending on the app and your location. Factors like the demand for dog walking in your area, the number of dogs you walk at a time, and the tips you receive can affect your income.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Walking App

• App reliability: Make sure the app works smoothly on your device without any issues. Good customer service and support are important too.
• Community reputation: Check the app’s reviews and ratings from both dog owners and walkers. Ask other dog walkers for their recommendations.
• Insurance and support: Choose an app that provides insurance coverage for you and the dogs you walk. Also, consider apps that offer support in case of emergencies or disputes.
• Payout rates: Compare the service fees and payout rates of different apps to find the best deal. Consider the frequency and method of payment that suits you.
• Availability in your area: Look for an app with many active users in your locality. This increases your chances of finding dogs to walk and earning more money.

Consider the verification process for walkers and safety measures for dogs. Some apps may require background checks or training for walkers.

Owners might need to verify their identity or provide vaccination proof for their dogs. These measures ensure quality and safety but may limit the number of available dogs.

Evaluate the pros and cons of each app’s verification process and safety measures before making a choice.

Best Apps To Find Dog Walking Jobs

Where do you find potential customers and manage your dog-walking business? Thankfully, several dog walking apps can assist you.

Here are all the top-notch apps for dog walkers to kickstart or advance your dog walking jobs.

1. Rover

Dubbed as the leading pet-sitting and dog walker app in the U.S. and Canada, Rover helps connect you with numerous dog owners in your vicinity who need the perfect dog walker.

With Rover, you enjoy the freedom of setting your rates and timetable and choosing the services to provide like boarding, house-sitting, drop-in visits, doggy daycare, or dog walking.

Rover also enables you to create a comprehensive profile to attract clients and display your expertise. They facilitate payments via their secure platform, removing the need for dealing with cash, or checks.

They also offer access to safety advice, learning opportunities, and business enhancement tools. Additionally, every booking is supported by the Rover Guarantee and round-the-clock support.

Perks of Rover:

• Access to a large client base.
• Flexibility and control over your rates and availability.
• Insurance and support for peace of mind.

Drawbacks of Rover:

• A service fee of 20% per booking goes to Rover.
• You need to clear a background check and be approved by Rover’s team before starting work.
• Competing with other sitters and walkers in your area for clients.

User reviews suggest Rover as a fantastic dog walker app for those eager to earn money doing what they love. However, some users have mentioned low pay, poor communication from Rover, and challenges in finding consistent work.

Earnings

Your earnings on Rover depend on your rates, services, work frequency, and popularity among clients. According to Rover’s website, you can earn up to $1,000 monthly as a dog walker.

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2. Wag!

Wag! is another favored pet sitting and dog walking app with nationwide operations. It allows you to discover and book trusted local pet care professionals.

You can choose from a range of services and you can also set your preferences like walk duration and time, and dog type and size.

Wag! manages payments through its app. It also provides GPS tracking, photo updates, and report cards for each walk. All services booked on Wag! are insured and supported 24/7.

Benefits of Wag!:

• Enables on-demand or pre-scheduled walks.
• Ensures transparency and accountability with GPS tracking and report cards.

Cons of Wag!:

• You need to pay a 40% service fee per booking to Wag!
• You must pass a background check and a test before starting work.
• Handling client or walker cancellations and rescheduling can be challenging.

Wag! Earnings

Your earnings on Wag! depend on your rates, number of walks, travel distance, and tips. According to Wag!’s website, you can earn up to $25 per hour as a dog walker.

When comparing Rover vs Wag, both platforms offer their unique advantages and challenges. How much you make, how much Wag pays, and how much Rover pays are influenced by multiple factors, which could lead to variance in how much do dog walkers get paid.

The best app to walk dogs ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific needs.

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3. Barkly Pets

Barkly Pets, a handy dog walking app, active in several U.S. cities, stands out from others as it lets dog walkers pocket all their earnings, with only a tiny deduction for credit card fees.

Instead of paying a commission, dog walkers just need to cover a monthly membership fee of $8.50 on this odd jobs app. How much does Barkly Pets pay, you ask? Well, you can earn up to $30 per hour!

So, how does it work?

Firstly, Barkly Pets organizes in-person training for dog walkers. Once you’re trained up, you get to pick your furry clients.

You can also list down any special needs like medicine or a preferred toy. Walk the dog, get paid via the app, and rest easy knowing insurance and 24/7 support is provided.

Advantages:

• Keep all of your earnings – talk about walking dogs for money!
• Benefit from Barkly Pets’ training and feedback.
• Build a bond with your regular clients and their pets.

Disadvantages:

• You need to pay a monthly membership fee.
• Some areas might not have as many dog-walking opportunities.

With users highlighting Barkly Pets’ reliability and trustworthiness, it’s one of the preferred dog walker apps. However, some have reported occasional app glitches, and scarcity of walks.

Your earnings depend on your rates, the number of walks, tips and local competition.

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4. PetBacker

PetBacker is another superb option when looking at dog walking apps, operating globally. It connects you with pet owners needing a range of services, such as walking, sitting, grooming, and taxi services.

You can create your profile, list your services, rates, and availability, and then look for pet jobs near you. After each walk, you provide a report card detailing the walk. Payments are handled via the app, with insurance and customer support included.

Advantages:

• Offer a variety of pet services.
• Find pet jobs worldwide.
• Provide transparent dog walking report cards.

Disadvantages:

• You pay PetBacker a 15% to 25% service fee for each booking.
• A verification process and an online test need to be passed before starting.
• Some areas might have limited job availability.

PetBacker is a user-friendly and handy tool for dog walkers, both locally and internationally. However, in some rare cases, users have experienced app bugs, unresponsive customer service, and low-paying jobs.

Your earnings on PetBacker hinge on your rates, the number of jobs, travel distance, and tips. You can earn up to $30 per hour, making it a great way to make money dog walking.

If you’re still wondering “Rover vs Wag,” remember to also consider these options in your search for the best dog walking jobs.

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5. Care.com

Looking for an app for dog walkers that works not just locally but internationally? Care.com could be the answer. This dog walking app connects dog walkers with pet parents needing various services.

From dog walking jobs to pet sitting, grooming, and more – you can find it all here. Create your profile, list your services and prices, your availability, and your skills.

Browse through pet jobs near you and apply right through the app. Payment are done through the app, and all services have insurance coverage and support.

Plus, you get useful tips and resources to help you make money dog walking.

What makes Care.com shine:

• You get to see pet jobs from different countries and regions.
• You get helpful resources and tips to grow your dog walking business.

Drawbacks of Care.com:

• There’s a membership fee for accessing premium features and jobs.
• Some areas may have limited job availability.

Based on reviews and personal experiences, Care.com is a reliable dog walker app, ideal for those looking for international and local work.

Making money walking dogs on Care.com depends on your rate, the number of jobs you do, your travel distance, and your tips. According to Care.com’s website, a dog walker can make up to $20 per hour.

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6. Fetch! Pet Care

For dog walkers based in major U.S. cities, Fetch! Pet Care is a worthwhile dog walking app. It helps you connect with local, experienced, and thoroughly checked dog walkers who are part of a professional service.

The app offers a wide variety of services like walking, sitting, grooming, taxi services, and more. It also allows you to customize preferences such as walk duration, dog type and size, and walker’s experience level.

Payments are handled within the app, and every service comes with insurance and round-the-clock support. Fetch! Pet Care provides a dog walking report card featuring start/stop times, walk map, breaks, pictures, and notes.

Advantages of using Fetch! Pet Care:

• It provides a variety of pet care services for you to offer or request.
• Dog walking report cards ensure transparency and accountability.

Challenges with Fetch! Pet Care:

• You have to pay a fee to Fetch! Pet Care for each booking.
• A free in-home consultation is required before you can start working or booking services.
• Some areas may have limited service availability.

Like in Care.com, how much does a dog walker make depends on their rates, the number of services performed, the travel distance, and tips. Fetch! Pet Care’s website states that dog walkers can earn up to $25 per hour.

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7. Holidog

Holidog is a popular app to walk dogs that’s available in over 10 countries including places like the US, Canada, and the UK.

Not just for walking dogs for money, it offers a range of services from dog sitting to grooming and more.

They take care of payments in the app, and each service comes with insurance and support. Plus, you can find handy pet care tips.

Things you might love about Holidog:

• You can find dog walking jobs not only locally but also abroad.
• You’ll find resources and tips to better care for pets.

Things you might not like about Holidog:

• You need to pay a registration fee to access its services.
• You have to pass an interview and verification process before you can start working or booking services.
• Some areas may not have a lot of services available.

Users generally find Holidog helpful and user-friendly, however, the app can get costly, and getting jobs can be competitive.

Your earning potential on Holidog is tied to how much you charge, how many jobs you handle, the distance you travel, and the tips you receive. According to Holidog’s website, you could make up to $30 per hour as a dog walker.

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8. Pawshake

Pawshake is another top dog walker app that operates in over 15 countries. It’s present in a variety of locations like Australia, UK, Canada, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and many European countries.

This app connects you with pet owners who need a host of pet care services. You can create a profile, list your services, rates, availability, and qualifications. You can also look for and apply for pet jobs in your vicinity.

Just like Holidog, Pawshake takes care of payments within the app and covers every service with insurance and 24/7 support.

Plus, you get a dog walking report card that tracks your walk, when the dog pees, poos, takes food and water breaks, along with photos and a note.

Advantages

• You can find dog walking jobs not only locally but also abroad.
• The dog walking report cards provide transparency and accountability.

Disadvantages

• You need to pay a 19% service fee to Pawshake for each booking.
• You have to pass an online test and verification process before you can start working or booking services.
• Some areas may not have a lot of services available.

Your earning potential on Pawshake depends on how much you charge, how many jobs you do, how far you travel, and how much tip you get. According to Pawshake’s website, you can earn up to $25 per hour as a dog walker.

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9. Tailster

Looking for dog walking jobs in the UK? Try Tailster, a dog walker app that gets you in touch with pet owners needing help in various areas such as walking, pet sitting, grooming, and training.

Here’s how it works:

1. You set up a profile listing your services, rates, availability, and qualifications.
2. Hunt for pet jobs near you on the app and apply.
3. Tailster handles your payments and your services are insured and come with 24/7 support.
4. You get the Tailster Carer App to GPS track your dog walks, send real-time photos, and access handy resources and tips.

Pros of Using Tailster:

• You can access pet jobs across different UK cities.
• The Tailster Carer App enhances your dog walking experience.

Cons of Using Tailster:

• For each booking, Tailster charges a service fee of 15% to 20%.
• In some areas, services availability can be limited.

Earnings can vary, depending on your rates, number of jobs, travel distance, and tips. But, Tailster’s website suggests you can make up to $25 per hour walking dogs!

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10. Petsitter.com

Looking for an app to walk dogs in the US and Canada? Check out Petsitter.com. Similar to Rover, it connects you with pet owners who need help with various pet care services.

Here’s what you do:

1. Create your profile listing services, rates, availability, and qualifications.
2. Browse and apply for pet jobs near you.
3. Unlike most other pet walking apps, Petsitter.com doesn’t handle payments through its app, so you’ll have to sort this out with pet owners directly. However, all services are insured and come with 24/7 support.

Pros of Using Petsitter.com:

• Access to pet jobs in different US and Canadian cities.
• No service fees to Petsitter.com.

Cons of Using Petsitter.com:

• To access premium features and jobs, you need to pay a membership fee.
• You’ll need to arrange payment methods directly with pet owners.

Petsitter.com is a reliable and useful dog walker app for finding work in the US and Canada. According to Petsitter.com’s website, you can make up to $20 per hour walking dogs!

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11. PetCheck

PetCheck is one of those walking dog apps that works within the USA. Imagine it as your link to professional dog walking companies and pet sitting services that utilize PetCheck’s technology to manage their operations.

This app for dog walkers is chock-full of features:

• You can select from a wide range of pet services – walking, sitting, boarding, grooming, training, and more.
• Customize your service options – the duration of walks, your pet’s size and breed, even the expertise level of the dog walker.
• PetCheck makes the payment process easy through the app, ensuring every service is backed by insurance and round-the-clock support.
• You stay updated with real-time information on your dog’s walks, including GPS tracking, timings for check-in and check-out, pictures, and remarks.

The perks of using PetCheck include:

• A vast assortment of pet care services to pick from and request.
• Access to professional dog walking and pet sitting firms that use PetCheck’s software.
• Real-time tracking and updates on dog’s walks, with GPS tracking, check-in and check-out times, photos, and notes.

But, PetCheck also has a few drawbacks:

• A service fee is charged by PetCheck for each reservation.
• Registration with a PetCheck-associated company is a prerequisite before you can start working or booking services.
• Limited availability of services in certain locations.

When we talk about ‘how to dog walk for money,’ or ‘how much does a dog walker make,’ your earning potential with PetCheck varies. According to PetCheck’s website, you could make up to $25 per hour walking dogs for money.

Hacks for Acing the Dog Walker Game

Want to become a pro at dog walking apps like Rover or Wag!? Being a dog walker is not just fun but a great way to make money dog walking.

Here’s how you can ace it!

• Perfecting your Profile: Your profile on dog walker apps is like your business card. It should scream “I’m a pro dog lover!” Be clear about your dog walking experience, your special dog handling skills, rates, and when you’re available. Don’t forget to upload some cool photos of you with dogs! Always keep your profile updated and respond quickly to messages. This is key to get more dog walking jobs.
• Safety First: Walking dogs for money can be risky if you’re not careful. Always use sturdy leashes and avoid the ones that can get tangled. Make sure the harness or collar doesn’t choke the dog. Carry water, poop bags, and treats. Don’t forget a first aid kit! Avoid walking in harsh weather. Watch out for cars, other animals or any possible dangers.
• Building Relationships: Success on walking dog apps is all about bonding with the dogs and their owners. Make sure to ask the owners about their dog’s behavior, health and routine. Be reliable, always on time and honest. Learn what the dog likes and doesn’t like. Keep the walk fun and playful!

Legal and Insurance Stuff for Dog Walkers

Being a pro on dog walking apps like Rover or Wag means taking care of some legal and insurance stuff.

• Insurance: How much do dog walkers get paid? It can be good money but remember, you’re in charge of the dog’s safety. Accidents can happen and you could be liable. It’s crucial to have insurance to cover any accidents or issues. Check out general liability insurance, animal bailee insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and bond insurance.
• Legal Bits: There are a few legal things to know about how to dog walk for money. These include leash laws, waste disposal laws, and vaccination requirements. Make sure you have a written contract with all the necessary details of your service.
• Sticky Situations: What happens if a dog gets injured, or if there’s an accident? These situations require calmness and professionalism. Always have a plan ready!

Now Get Paid For Walking Dogs With These Apps

Dog walking can be a highly rewarding way to earn a living, especially for those with a passion for dogs. As we’ve discussed, while the convenience of dog walking apps provides numerous opportunities for dog walkers, understanding the ins and outs of this business is vital.

From getting the right license and insurance to choosing the best app to walk dogs, these elements can significantly impact your earnings and professional reputation.

By thoroughly preparing and choosing the right platform, you can turn a simple passion for canines into a lucrative dog walking job, making money while enjoying the company of our furry friends.

FAQs

Alternatives to Dog Walking Apps

While apps for dog walkers are convenient, they aren’t the only way to start walking dogs for money.

• Pet Sitting: Pet sitting is a broader job than dog walking and may include tasks like feeding, grooming, and spending time with the pets.
• Doggy Day Care: A more involved commitment, this option caters to owners who need long-term care for their pets.
• Freelance Dog Walking: You can also start a freelance dog walking business. This gives you control over your rates and clientele but may require additional marketing efforts.

Do Dog Walkers Need a License?

Walking dogs for money can be a fulfilling side hustle. However, a commonly asked question is, “Do dog walkers need a license?” While most areas do not require a specific “dog walker license,” some municipalities may necessitate a general business license to operate.

This can often depend on how you structure your dog walking jobs – for example, whether you work independently or through dog walking apps.

Having your dog walker app profile listed as licensed can provide additional trust to potential clients. Investigate local regulations, as requirements may vary based on the scale of your operations or your geographic location. Stay compliant to avoid complications and enhance your reputation as a professional dog walker.

Do Dog Walkers Need Insurance?

When it comes to the question, “Do dog walkers need insurance?” the answer is a resounding yes. Regardless of whether you use an app to walk dogs or operate independently, having dog walker insurance is essential.

It protects both you and the dogs you walk from potential accidents or damages.

Insurance not only adds credibility to your profile on dog walker apps but also provides a safety net. Consider policies covering liability, care, custody, control, and even workers’ compensation if you’re hiring other walkers.

Some apps for dog walkers, like Rover or Wag, may offer insurance coverage, but double-check the specifics to ensure adequate protection.

Which Dog Walking App Pays the Highest?

For dog walkers wanting to maximize their income, identifying the highest paying dog walking app is key. So, “Which dog walking app pays the highest?” While this may vary based on location and demand, Rover and Wag have traditionally been the top players in the market.

However, comparing Rover vs Wag isn’t just about how much Wag pays or the Rover dog walker app rate. Consider factors such as tip potential, frequency of available jobs, and user base size. Plus, remember to factor in the insurance coverage offered.

Other apps for dog walkers like Barkly Pets, PetBacker, and Care.com also offer competitive rates. Here is a brief comparison:

Dog Walking App	Average Pay Per Walk
Rover	$20 – $30
Wag	$15 – $25
Barkly Pets	$15 – $25
PetBacker	$15 – $25
Care.com	$15 – $25

Keep in mind, these figures can fluctuate depending on the length of walk, the number of dogs, and location.

Walking dogs for money involves more than just enjoying canine company. It requires understanding the business side, including licensing, insurance, and the best platforms to use.

Whether you’re asking, “how much do dog walkers get paid?” or “how to make money dog walking?” – the answers lie in your research and commitment to this rewarding job.