
Dog walkers can make a decent income, especially if they're willing to put in the time and effort. On average, a dog walker can earn around $15 to $25 per hour, depending on the location and the number of dogs they're walking.
According to industry reports, dog walkers can earn anywhere from $10 to $30 per hour, with some walkers earning even more in high-demand areas. This translates to around $20,000 to $40,000 per year, working just 20 hours a week.
Some dog walkers also offer additional services, such as overnight pet sitting or administering medication, which can increase their earning potential. In these cases, dog walkers can earn up to $50 per hour or more.
Salary Variations
Salary Variations can be significant for dog walkers, depending on factors like location and experience. The average dog walker salary is $13.69 per hour, but salaries can range from $6,000 to $50,088 per year.
In some states, dog walkers can earn significantly more than others. For example, Oregon, California, and North Dakota have the highest average dog walker salaries, while Florida, Virginia, and Pennsylvania have the lowest. If you're a dog walker, it's essential to consider these variations when planning your finances.
Here are some examples of average dog walker salaries by state:
Some dog walkers can earn significantly more than the average, especially if they have certifications or experience. For instance, a dog walker with a certification from the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters can earn up to $43,000 per year.
Experience and Reputation
Experience and reputation are crucial factors in determining a dog walker's earning potential, with established professionals charging premium rates due to their proven track record and positive client testimonials.
An accountant's salary also increases with experience, with a senior level accountant earning an annual salary of $33,873 after 7-12 years of experience.

Building a strong reputation through satisfied clients and online reviews can attract more customers and justify higher fees for dog walkers.
The Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) also takes experience level into account when determining total remuneration, considering criteria such as knowledge, complexity, contacts, and surroundings.
A mid-career professional with 3-6 years of experience, such as an accountant, earns an annual salary of $30,893.
Established dog walkers with a strong reputation can charge higher fees, making it essential to build a positive reputation through satisfied clients and online reviews.
Salaries Vary by City
If you're considering a career as a dog walker, you might be wondering how much you can earn in different parts of the country. The truth is, salaries vary significantly from city to city.
For example, in Seattle, Washington, the hourly dog walker rate is $20.08, making it one of the highest-paying cities for dog walkers.
In contrast, cities like Cincinnati, Ohio, and San Antonio, Texas, have lower hourly rates of $13.58 and $12.94, respectively.
A fresh viewpoint: Tip Dog Walker
Here's a breakdown of the top 5 cities with the highest and lowest hourly dog walker rates:
These rates can give you an idea of what to expect in different cities, but keep in mind that they may vary depending on factors like experience, location, and the specific services offered.
Earning Potential
Dog walkers can earn between $15 and $30 per hour, but rates vary depending on location and individual circumstances.
In urban areas with a higher cost of living, dog walkers may charge premium rates of $20 to $40 per hour or more.
Dog walkers in smaller towns or rural areas typically charge between $15 and $25 per hour.
During peak periods, such as holidays or vacation seasons, dog walkers often encounter increased demand and better earning possibilities.
Building a loyal customer base and leveraging referrals can lead to steady revenue and opportunities to provide more services.
For your interest: Villalobos Charge
Income Considerations
If you're considering becoming a dog walker, understanding how much you can earn is essential. Dog walkers can earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on the location and individual circumstances.
In urban areas with a higher cost of living, dog walkers may charge premium rates of $20 to $40 per hour or more. On the other hand, dog walkers in smaller towns or rural areas may charge $15 to $25 per hour.
The highest paying types of dog walkers are pet care associates, animal shelter workers, and pet groomers, with salaries ranging from $32,643 to $37,929 per year, depending on the state.
Curious to learn more? Check out: How Much Are Dog Walkers
Factors Affecting Earnings
Geographical variations play a significant role in dog walkers' earnings, with urban regions having a higher cost of living and premium rates of $20 to $40 per hour or more.
Urban areas with a high cost of living tend to have a higher demand for dog walking services, which can lead to better earning possibilities.
In smaller towns or rural areas, dog walkers may charge lower rates of $15 to $25 per hour for their services.
During peak periods, such as holidays or vacation seasons, dog walkers often encounter increased demand and better earning possibilities.
Dog walkers charge based on the number of dogs you have, the number of walks purchased, and their distance away from you.
Here are the key cost factors to consider:
- Number of Dogs
- Number of Walks
- Travel Costs
The cost per day will depend on the number of walks, the length of each, and if your dog is sharing the walk with the dog walker's other clients' dogs.
Inconsistent Income
Dog walking can be a lucrative venture, but it's essential to consider the income stability. Your income may not always be consistent, as clients will come and go, through no fault of your own.
Dogs get sick and pass away, owners lose their jobs, and people move, all of which can affect your income. This can be a challenge, especially if you need a stable and consistent income every week of the year.
There are slow seasons, like January and December, when business is slow. In fact, Angerami mentions that these months were super slow for her business.
You just have to have faith that the slow season will come to an end and business will pick up again. For Angerami, the end of January and February is already showing an increase in clients.
Additional reading: Dog Boarding Business Make
Frequently Asked Questions
How much to charge for a 30-minute dog walk?
For a 30-minute dog walk, a typical charge is up to £10. Longer walks may incur higher costs, depending on the dog's activity level.
What are the disadvantages of being a dog walker?
Being a dog walker comes with unique challenges, including inconsistent pay and difficult clients, as well as potential exposure to strange dog behaviors and unpleasant tasks like picking up poop. If you're not a dog lover, this job may not be the best fit for you.
Sources
- https://www.zippia.com/salaries/dog-walker/
- https://www.care.com/c/how-much-money-do-dog-walkers-make/
- https://www.scoutforpets.com/post/how-much-do-dog-walkers-make-revealing-the-earnings-of-dog-walking-professionals
- https://homeguide.com/costs/dog-walking-prices
- https://www.zippia.com/salaries/dog-walker-pet-sitter/
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