Dog walking: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What dog walking is

A dog walker visits your home, leashes your dog and takes it out for exercise, bathroom breaks and fresh air. Walks can be short midday visits or longer group outings, and they keep your dog moving when you are at work or away.

Signs you need it

  • You are at work during the day and your dog is alone for long stretches
  • Your dog has more energy than you can give it during the day
  • Your dog needs regular bathroom breaks that you cannot meet on your schedule
  • You are recovering from an illness or injury and cannot walk your dog every day
  • Your dog does better with a steady routine and a companion on the walk

What the pro does

  • Meets you and your dog at the home to learn the leash, collar and walking route
  • Checks the gate, door and yard so your dog cannot slip out during the visit
  • Leashes your dog and walks at a pace that suits its size and energy
  • Watches for pulling, reactivity and any signs of fatigue or heat on the walk
  • Gives fresh water and a bathroom break, and cleans up waste on the route
  • Returns the dog home and sends you a short report on the walk

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The length of the walk and how many walks are booked per day
  • Whether the walker takes one dog or a small group
  • Whether a visit is a single walk, a regular schedule or a holiday plan
  • Whether the walker stays for a set time or a timed visit
  • How many dogs need handling, and whether the dogs need extra attention
  • Whether extras such as feeding, medication or house checks are included

What a written quote should spell out

  • The walk length, the time and the number of walks per visit
  • Whether group walks are included, and the maximum number of dogs
  • Whether a meet-and-greet and a trial walk are included
  • The cancellation and missed visit terms
  • Whether the walker is insured and bonded, and how to check that

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Are you insured, bonded and trained in pet first aid?
  • How do you handle a dog that pulls, lunges or bolts?
  • Do you walk dogs in groups, and how do you match dogs that get along?
  • What is your plan if my dog gets hurt or sick on a walk?
  • How will you keep my dog safe in heat or bad weather?
  • Can I see a sample of the walk report you send?
  • Do you have keys to my home, and how do you keep them secure?

Red flags

  • Walks several dogs at once with no leash control or no plan for conflicts
  • Does not ask about your dog's temperament, health or past behavior
  • Leaves the dog alone in a car or in the yard during a walk
  • Will not show proof of insurance or pet first aid training
  • Pushes you to sign a long contract before a meet-and-greet

What you can do yourself

You can walk your dog yourself, use a sturdy harness and leash, and keep a short-leash routine for a dog that pulls. Carry water and a bag for waste, and stop before your dog overheats. Hire a dog walker when you cannot meet your dog's exercise needs during the day, when your dog needs a second walk, or when you need reliable visits while you are away.

Licenses and permits

A license is often not required for dog walking, but rules differ by state and city. Ask for proof of pet first aid training, a current insurance policy and a written emergency plan for your dog.

Dog walking questions

How many dogs can a walker take at once?

It depends on the walker's experience and the dogs' temperament. Ask the walker for the maximum number they handle and how they match dogs that get along.

What should I give the walker before the first visit?

Give the leash and harness, the door or gate instructions, your dog's routine and any triggers. Share your dog's medical needs and your vet's contact information.

Will the walker take my dog to the bathroom?

Yes, a walk usually includes a bathroom break. Ask the walker how they handle waste on the route and whether they check the yard for safety.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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