How to Become a Dog Walker

How to Become a Dog Walker

If you love dogs, enjoy being outdoors, and want a flexible way to earn money, dog walking might be the perfect fit. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or planning a full-time shift into pet care, dog walking can offer both freedom and fulfilment. But it's not just about grabbing a lead and heading to the park. There are some important things to consider before turning your love of dogs into a reliable service.

Do I Need to Do a Course to Become a Dog Walker

You don’t need to take a formal course to become a dog walker in the UK, but doing so can be a big advantage. A course shows potential clients that you’re serious, responsible, and educated about dog behaviour, handling, and safety. Even a short, affordable online course can help you stand out in a crowded market and build confidence when working with different breeds and temperaments.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Become a Dog Walker

There are no mandatory qualifications for dog walkers, but some basic knowledge goes a long way. Clients often look for people who are trained in dog first aid, understand canine body language, and know how to handle emergency situations. A background in animal care or experience volunteering with dogs can be just as valuable as formal qualifications. While you won’t need a licence in most areas, you’ll need to follow local council rules, especially if you're walking several dogs at once.

How Much Is a Dog Walking Course

Dog walking courses can range in price depending on the depth and provider. Basic online courses may cost around £30 to £50, while more comprehensive ones that include behaviour training, first aid, and business tips can be £100 or more. Look for courses that are accredited or recognised by animal care organisations. They’re worth the investment if you want to turn dog walking into a long-term business.

Do I Need Insurance

Yes, if you’re serious about dog walking as a business, insurance is essential. Public liability insurance protects you in case a dog causes injury or damage while under your care. You may also want cover for lost keys, accidents during transport, or vet fees if a dog gets injured. Insurance gives your clients peace of mind and protects you from unexpected costs or legal claims.

How Much Do I Charge People for Walking Their Dogs

Pricing depends on where you live, the length of the walk, and how many dogs you take at a time. In most parts of the UK, the average rate is between £10 and £15 for a 30–60 minute walk. Group walks tend to cost less per dog, while one-to-one sessions command a premium. If you're just starting, you may charge a bit less to build trust and grow your client list, then raise your rates as your business develops.

Step by Step Guide on How to Become a Dog Walker

Start by researching your local area—check out what other dog walkers are charging and how busy they are. Then, decide whether you’ll offer solo or group walks, and plan your route and time slots. Create a professional-looking profile and advertise on community boards, social media, or platforms like Tailster or Rover. Getting basic dog first aid training and public liability insurance should come before taking on your first client. Meet with owners beforehand to get to know the dog and gather key info, such as health needs, behaviours, and emergency contacts. From there, keep a regular schedule, communicate clearly with clients, and build up your reputation through word of mouth and reviews.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Dog Walker

Being a dog walker means more than just giving a dog some exercise. You're responsible for their safety, behaviour, and wellbeing while they’re in your care. That includes keeping them on safe paths, managing interactions with other dogs and people, and recognising signs of stress or illness. You may also need to clean up after the dog, towel them off after a muddy walk, or give them water when you return them home. It’s important to follow the owner's instructions closely, stick to agreed times, and be dependable—your reliability is what keeps clients coming back.

Can You Become a Dog Walker at Any Age

Yes, dog walking is open to people of all ages, as long as you're physically capable of handling dogs and walking for extended periods. Teens may start by walking neighbours' dogs for extra money, while retirees often take it up as a way to stay active and social. There’s no upper or lower age limit, but clients will look for someone mature, trustworthy, and genuinely good with animals. As long as you meet those expectations, your age won't hold you back.

DBS Checks and Trustworthiness

While not legally required, many dog owners feel more comfortable hiring a walker who has a recent DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. It’s especially useful if you’ll be collecting dogs from people's homes. Offering proof of a clean DBS check helps build trust and can give you an edge over competitors—especially when clients are handing you their house keys as well as their pet.

Walking Multiple Dogs: Know the Local Rules

Some councils in the UK limit how many dogs one person can walk at a time—typically around four. Check your local council's guidelines, as exceeding the limit can lead to fines or complaints. It’s also a safety issue. Managing several dogs at once takes experience, strength, and strong recall skills. Start with one or two until you're confident.

Pet First Aid Knowledge Is a Big Plus

Knowing how to handle minor injuries, heatstroke, or choking can make a huge difference. Even if you don’t take a full course, learning the basics of pet first aid—like how to recognise bloat, handle a seizure, or clean a wound—shows professionalism and gives clients reassurance. It’s not just about being good with dogs; it’s about knowing what to do when something goes wrong.

Contracts and Paperwork Matter

Once you start getting regular clients, you’ll want to protect yourself with simple agreements. A basic dog walking contract can include:

• Your responsibilities
• The owner’s responsibilities
• Cancellations, payments, and emergency protocols

Even just having signed consent forms and vet contact details makes you look more professional and keeps you covered legally if there’s ever an incident.

Pet Sitting Can Grow Your Business

Many dog walkers go on to offer pet sitting, puppy visits, or even pop-in toilet breaks. These services are great for dog owners who work long hours or go away overnight. Once you’ve built trust, you can grow your offering beyond just walks. It’s a natural step for turning a side hustle into a full-time pet care business.

Consistency Builds Reputation

It’s easy to get excited at the start, but clients value reliability above all. Showing up on time, communicating clearly, and returning dogs clean and happy earns loyalty. Most dog walking work comes through word of mouth—so going the extra mile early on will pay off long term.

Apps and Tech That Help You Stand Out

Using dog-walking apps like Rover, Tailster, or even basic GPS trackers can help you show accountability. Some walkers send photos or little updates after each walk. These small touches reassure owners and show that their dog is in good hands. If you’re tech-savvy, this can help you stand out without spending extra.

Summary

Becoming a dog walker is a rewarding way to combine your love of animals with a flexible income. While you don’t need formal qualifications, some training, insurance, and planning can help you launch successfully and earn trust from clients. Whether you’re walking dogs as a side gig or building a full-time business, the key is responsibility, reliability, and a real passion for dogs. With a thoughtful start and consistent care, you can build a strong reputation—and a loyal client base.