How much does a Dog Walker make?
A dog walker's job involves taking care of pets and ensuring they get the exercise they need. This role can be a rewarding career for those who love animals. The average yearly salary for a dog walker is around $48,663. This figure can vary based on several factors.
Several elements can influence a dog walker's salary. These include the location, the number of dogs walked, and the experience of the walker. Dog walkers in urban areas often earn more than those in rural areas. Those who manage more dogs or have a larger client base can also see higher earnings. Experienced dog walkers, who have built a reputation for reliability and care, may command higher rates. Understanding these factors can help job seekers set realistic expectations and plan their career paths.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dog Walker?

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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $53,945
In Rochester, pet owners rely on dog walkers to care for their furry friends. Many local pet care companies offer opportunities for those who enjoy spending time outdoors and with animals. The city's parks and green spaces make it a great place to work.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $53,250
Pittsburgh offers a variety of dog walking jobs, especially in its many parks and residential areas. Companies like Wag! and PetCare Services connect dog lovers with pet owners. The city's vibrant community makes it a pleasant place to work.
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Columbia, SC
Average Salary: $51,818
Columbia provides a warm and welcoming environment for dog walkers. The city's numerous parks and pet-friendly neighborhoods create many opportunities. Local businesses often seek reliable dog walkers to help busy pet owners.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $51,612
San Diego's sunny climate makes it an ideal place to walk dogs. The city's many beaches and parks offer beautiful settings for pet care. Companies like Rover and Wag! connect dog walkers with clients in the area.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $50,917
Raleigh offers a range of dog walking jobs, with many pet owners seeking reliable care. The city's parks and green spaces provide great walking routes. Local companies like Rover and Wag! help connect dog walkers with clients.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $50,218
Baltimore provides numerous dog walking opportunities, especially in its many parks and neighborhoods. Companies like Rover and Wag! help connect dog walkers with pet owners. The city's diverse community adds to the experience.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $50,176
Charlotte offers a variety of dog walking jobs, with many pet owners needing reliable care. The city's parks and residential areas provide great walking spots. Companies like Rover and Wag! connect dog walkers with clients.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $49,932
Los Angeles offers many dog walking jobs, especially in its numerous parks and neighborhoods. The city's diverse pet population provides plenty of opportunities. Companies like Rover and Wag! help connect dog walkers with clients.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $49,719
Las Vegas offers a unique setting for dog walking, with many pet owners needing care. The city's parks and residential areas provide great walking spots. Companies like Rover and Wag! connect dog walkers with clients.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $49,450
San Antonio provides a warm and welcoming environment for dog walkers. The city's many parks and pet-friendly neighborhoods create many opportunities. Local businesses often seek reliable dog walkers to help busy pet owners.
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What are the best companies a Dog Walker can work for?

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Woofie's
Average Salary: $60,129
Woofie's offers rewarding Dog Walker jobs with competitive pay. They operate in major cities, providing flexible hours and a supportive environment. Woofie's values the well-being of both pets and employees.
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Fetch! Pet Care
Average Salary: $53,458
Fetch! Pet Care provides top-notch Dog Walker positions with a strong focus on pet care. They serve various locations, offering training and growth opportunities. Fetch! Pet Care ensures a positive experience for both pets and walkers.
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Dogs On The Run
Average Salary: $46,719
Dogs On The Run offers engaging Dog Walker jobs with a good salary. They operate in several regions, providing a friendly atmosphere. Dogs On The Run emphasizes the importance of exercise and companionship for dogs.
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Boston Dog Butlers, LLC
Average Salary: $46,400
Boston Dog Butlers, LLC provides reliable Dog Walker jobs with a decent salary. They serve the Boston area, offering flexible schedules and a caring environment. Boston Dog Butlers, LLC focuses on the happiness and health of pets.
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Everything and The Dog
Average Salary: $45,313
Everything and The Dog offers rewarding Dog Walker positions with a fair salary. They operate in several locations, providing a supportive community for pet lovers. Everything and The Dog values the bond between pets and their walkers.
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Barks and Recreation LLC
Average Salary: $42,613
Barks and Recreation LLC provides Dog Walker jobs with a good salary. They serve various areas, offering a fun and engaging work environment. Barks and Recreation LLC focuses on the joy and exercise dogs need.
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Shoreline Happy Paws
Average Salary: $39,174
Shoreline Happy Paws offers Dog Walker jobs with a reasonable salary. They operate along the coast, providing a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Shoreline Happy Paws emphasizes the importance of outdoor activities for dogs.
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Sitter4Paws
Average Salary: $35,309
Sitter4Paws provides Dog Walker jobs with a fair salary. They serve multiple locations, offering a caring and professional environment. Sitter4Paws values the trust and companionship between pets and their walkers.
How to earn more as a Dog Walker?
Becoming a successful dog walker involves more than just a love for pets. It requires a strategic approach to maximize earnings. One key factor is to increase the number of dogs you walk. More dogs mean more income. Building a strong client base through word-of-mouth and referrals can help achieve this. Another factor is to offer additional services. Pet owners often need help with pet care, such as feeding, grooming, or even training. Providing these services can increase your hourly rate and attract more clients.
Timing and flexibility also play a crucial role. Offering early morning or late evening walks can cater to busy pet owners who cannot walk their dogs during the day. Being flexible with your schedule allows you to take on more jobs. Investing in quality equipment can also make a difference. Using a reliable leash, a comfortable harness, and a GPS tracker for safety can enhance your service and give clients peace of mind. Lastly, maintaining a professional attitude and excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and positive reviews, which are essential for growth.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a dog walker:
- Increase the number of dogs you walk
- Offer additional pet services
- Be flexible with your schedule
- Invest in quality equipment
- Provide excellent customer service