How Much to Charge for Dog Walking?

If you’re thinking about turning your love for dogs into a side hustle or full‑time gig, the first question is always the same: how much should I charge for dog walking? Getting the price right is key – too low and you won’t cover expenses, too high and you might scare clients away. Below is a straight‑forward way to figure out a rate that works for you and your customers.

What Factors Influence Your Rate?

Start by listing the things that affect how much work you actually do. In the UK, common factors include:

• Location. Walks in London or big cities usually command higher fees than rural areas because the cost of living is higher.
• Length of the walk. A 30‑minute stroll costs less than a 60‑minute adventure.
• Number of dogs. Walking two dogs at once saves time, so many walkers charge a small extra for each additional dog.
• Travel time. If you have to drive 15 minutes or more to reach the client’s house, add a travel fee.
• Experience and certifications. If you have a pet first‑aid course or years of experience, you can justify a higher rate.
• Special needs. Elderly dogs, reactive dogs, or those with medical conditions require more attention, so add a premium.

Write down each factor for your own situation. This will become the basis for a simple pricing formula.

Typical UK Rates and How to Set Yours

Most UK dog walkers charge between £10 and £15 for a 30‑minute walk. For a 60‑minute walk, the range jumps to £15‑£25. Here’s a quick way to calculate a rate that covers everything:

1. Base rate for a 30‑minute walk: £12.
2. Add £3‑£5 for each extra dog.
3. Add £2‑£4 if travel time exceeds 10 minutes.
4. Add £2‑£5 for special‑needs dogs.

Example: You walk two medium‑size dogs for an hour, 15 minutes away, with no special needs. Base £20 (60‑minute rate) + £4 (second dog) + £3 (travel) = £27. That’s a fair price that reflects the work you do.

If you’re just starting out, you might set your rates at the low end of the range (e.g., £10 for 30 minutes) to attract clients. Once you have a few happy customers and solid reviews, raise your fees gradually – maybe £2 more per walk every few months.

Don’t forget to factor in your own costs: insurance, dog‑walking gear, taxes, and the time you spend scheduling and invoicing. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a profit margin of at least 30 % after these expenses.

Finally, be transparent with clients. List your rates on a simple price sheet, explain any extra charges, and give a clear cancellation policy. Clear communication builds trust and reduces misunderstandings.

Bottom line: start with the local market range, adjust for location, walk length, number of dogs, travel, and any special needs, then add a margin for your business costs. That simple equation will help you answer the question “how much to charge for dog walking” with confidence.