Dog walking costs: How much do dog walkers charge?

A recent dog-walking survey found that 36% of dogs gained weight during the pandemic, with vets linking the spike to fewer walks and more treats.

It’s a wake-up call for many owners who want their pets to stay active but don’t always have the time to walk them consistently. So the big question becomes: how much does a dog walker cost when you need reliable help?

Based on our research, dog walking costs in the U.S. range from $10 to $60 per walk, depending on location, length, and the type of service you choose. But the final price still varies based on several factors. We’ll walk you through these details so you can choose the right walker and feel confident in what you’re paying for.

How much does it cost to walk a dog? (Standard rates per hour or per walk)

Dog walking prices mostly depend on how long the walk is and whether you book a solo session or a small group. Because of that, the average cost of dog walker services can shift quite a bit, and the sections below break down what you can expect per walk or per hour.

Average dog walking cost by duration or per walk

Most walkers price their services based on how long they’re out with your dog, so the cost depends on duration. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll usually see for standard walk durations and the average cost of dog walkers per hour.

Average weekly or monthly dog walking rates

Weekly and monthly plans help dog owners lock in predictable costs, especially if they need consistent 30-minute walks during the workweek. Many walkers offer discounts for booking multiple sessions in advance, so dog walker rates often drop slightly when you commit to a set schedule. The table below shows what these recurring costs usually look like.

How walking improves dog health

Close-up of a happy dog on a walk. (Source: iStock)

Walking your dog is not just basic dog care. It’s also one of the simplest ways to improve their health, behavior, and overall quality of life. Here are just some of the benefits shown in various studies around the world.

Physical health benefits

• Helps manage weight and prevents disease: Nearly 60% of pet dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese, which increases the risk of diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and shortened lifespan. Regular walks help burn calories and keep your dog within a healthier weight range.

• Supports heart, muscle, and joint health: Daily movement strengthens the heart, keeps joints lubricated, and maintains muscle tone. This is critical for aging dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.

• Improves digestion and urinary health: Consistent walks help regulate digestion, reduce constipation, and give dogs the chance to empty their bladder regularly, which can help lower UTI risk.

Mental and behavioral benefits

• Reduces boredom and destructive behaviors: A well-walked dog is less likely to chew, dig, bark excessively, or act out due to pent-up energy.

• Lowers stress and anxiety: Walking boosts feel-good chemicals, which helps nervous or reactive dogs relax and settle more easily.

• Improves socialization and confidence: Exposure to different environments, people, and dogs builds social skills and helps reduce fear or reactivity outdoors.

What are the factors influencing dog walker rates? 

Several dogs on leashes being guided by dog walkers. (Source: iStock)

Figuring out how much dog walking should cost depends on several moving parts, and each one can push the price up or down. Location, service inclusions, and even your dog’s specific needs all play a role, so it’s worth knowing what actually drives those numbers before comparing rates. 

Location and labor costs

Major cities charge more for dog walking because the cost of living, minimum wages, and business overhead push prices higher than the national average. 

Walkers in these areas spend more time navigating traffic, parking, and tight schedules, all of which get built into the final rate. Suburban and rural markets sit lower because operating costs are lighter and competition is different.

Below are typical dog walker rates for a 30-minute walk in major U.S. metropolitan areas.

In comparison, most suburban areas fall around $15 to $25 for the same walking rate. Rural towns can sit as low as $10 to $20, especially when the walker operates independently rather than through a dog walking company.

Walker qualifications and training

Qualifications play a big role in the cost of dog walker services because training and safety credentials signal professionalism and reduce risk for the owner. Walkers with pet first aid or CPR training can handle emergencies, which matters if your dog is older, reactive, or prone to medical issues. Behavior-training certifications also justify higher rates since these walkers can safely manage dogs that need more structured management.

Insurance and bonding add another layer of security for clients who allow walkers into their homes. These protections cover accidents, property damage, or theft, which is why many professional walkers and pet care businesses include them as part of their service. Independent walkers who invest in insurance often price themselves on the higher end because their operating costs are higher.

Solo or group walks

Solo and group walks sit at different price points because the attention, pacing, and logistics aren’t the same. 
A group dog walk. (Source: iStock)

• Solo sessions: Costs more since the walker focuses on one dog’s needs, which pushes the cost of dog walking higher. Solo walks work best for dogs that are anxious, reactive, elderly, or need medication or training support. Rates usually land around $20 for 30 minutes and can reach $50 to $60 for an hour with experienced handlers. 

• Group walks: Involves two to six dogs and are common in dense neighborhoods where walkers can build efficient routes. These walks often cost $10 to $15 per dog for a half-hour, with longer or specialty group sessions climbing toward $30. They’re ideal for social dogs and budget-conscious owners, but they offer less personal attention and come with more distractions.

Dog size and temperament

A dog’s size and behavior can raise the dog walking services cost because some dogs simply require more control, experience, or safety measures. 

Large breeds and reactive dogs often need solo walks, which pushes the rate higher than a standard group outing. Walkers also factor in the physical effort, risk, and special equipment needed for these cases.

Big dogs like Great Danes or Mastiffs often come with a $5 to $15 add-on per walk since they require stronger handling and more structured exercise. It’s common for these sessions to reach $30 to $55+ per hour, especially if the walker must use specific harnesses or no-pull gear. Some services won’t accept large dogs unless the owner provides approved equipment.

Reactive or aggressive dogs usually fall into the premium bracket because they demand behavioral experience and must be walked alone. Special-handling fees often land between $10 to $25 per walk, and hourly rates can go from $30 up to $60 to $75+ with expert handlers. Walkers may require a temperament assessment first or decline dogs with known bite histories for safety reasons.

Walk environment

Where the walk happens can also change the price, especially if the walker needs to travel. Neighborhood walks are the default since they start at your front door and don’t require extra logistics. Park or trail outings cost more because they involve driving, added time, and higher responsibility for the walker.

Most standard neighborhood walks stay within local streets or a nearby community park. They’re the most budget-friendly option and work well for routine exercise or quick breaks.

Walks that require driving to a park, trail, or beach often come with travel surcharges. Fees typically range from $5 to $20 depending on distance, and some walkers charge mileage at $0.50 to $1 per mile.

Add-on services

Add-ons matter for owners who need more than a simple walk, especially when their routine overlaps with ongoing dog training at home or when they can’t afford a separate dog day care. Walkers can also sometimes handle tasks that a dog sitter might cover, and some even assist with early potty training or older dog care, which naturally increases the total fee.

Why you should hire a professional dog walker

A professional dog walker at work. (Source: iStock)

Professional walkers know how to read dog body language, avoid risky situations, and manage different temperaments confidently.

• Safety and proper handling:  Many are pet first aid/CPR certified, so they can respond quickly in heat-related issues, minor injuries, or sudden distress. That level of preparedness isn’t standard with casual walkers.

• Reliable accountability: Pros treat dog walking like real work, not a hobby, so they follow routines, show up on time, and stick to agreed instructions. If something needs adjusting, they communicate clearly and document changes. You’re working with someone who understands responsibility.

• Screened and experienced walkers: If you hire through reputable services, most perform background checks and confirm references before letting anyone be on the platform. This ensures that you get experienced walkers who have handled everything from energetic puppies to reactive rescues.

• Clear communication and transparency: Most professional walkers use apps or messaging to send photos, videos, and GPS-tracked routes after each visit. You always know when the walk happened, how it went, and what your dog did.

• Peace of mind: Finally, a vetted pro walker gives your dog consistent care even when your schedule changes. You know they’re getting safe exercise and attention from someone who understands what they’re doing. It’s one less thing to worry about during a long workday.

4 tips for saving money on dog walking

Managing a large dog walking group. (Source: iStock)

Now that we’re done figuring out how much it costs to walk a dog, it’s now time to consider a few strategic choices that can lower the overall spend without affecting the care your dog receives. Here are some tips to save money on dog walking without cutting corners on safety or quality.

Opt for group walks

Like we mentioned above, group walks often cost less because the walker’s time is shared across multiple dogs. They’re a good fit for social, well-mannered dogs who don’t need one-on-one attention. Just make sure your dog is comfortable around others before choosing this option.

Book recurring packages

Many dog walkers offer weekly or monthly bundles that reduce the per-walk rate. Package pricing gives you predictable costs and usually saves you 3% to 10% over one-off bookings. It’s one of the easiest ways to cut expenses without changing the service.

Avoid peak times

Walkers often charge more during evenings, holidays, or last-minute requests. Scheduling walks during regular daytime hours can keep rates lower and availability higher. Planning ahead also reduces the chances of paying rush fees.

Ask friends or family to help occasionally

Having someone you know step in can reduce your weekly costs. Just remember this option doesn’t offer the training, accountability, or structure of a professional walker. It’s best used as a backup rather than a full replacement.

For your furry friend’s health and happiness

Regular walks keep your dog healthy and active. And a professional makes all the difference, whether you need dog walking or even dog sitting and boarding support.

Fortunately, Airtasker makes it easy to find someone you trust without overcomplicating the process. You can compare reviews, check qualifications, and choose a walker who fits your dog’s needs and your budget. Everything stays transparent, from rates to communication, so you always know exactly what you’re getting.

If you want consistent, reliable help and a safe routine for your dog, post a task today! Connect with pro dog walkers who can keep your pup moving, happy, and well-cared for.