Honestly, in my experience, how much dog walkers charge per walk is a less important question than what can I afford to pay a dog walker? 

When I was in search of a dog walker, I got a referral from a friend. I knew her dog walker was really good, and I wanted her to walk my dog as well.

I knew that I only had so much money I could spend on a dog walker, so we worked out a schedule that suited that amount. 

My dog, Damien, started with 2 walks a week because that’s what I could afford. He ended up going 3 days a week eventually because our dog walker loved him and cut us a deal that we could swing.

What I am trying to get at here, is try not to pick a dog walker based on their price, but pick one that you and your pooch trust and work within a schedule that meets your needs and is within your means.

How much do dog walkers charge per hour?

There are many factors that go into calculating a dog walker’s rate per hour.

These include:

Experience: A newer walker may charge less than one with more experience.

Group walks: Typically these are cheaper than individual walks.

Individual walks: Generally a little pricier than group walks.

Location: Some cities and towns are just more expensive than others.

Frequency: Scheduling walks on a regular basis is generally cheaper than one-offs, as the dog walker may offer a discount based on how often they are needed.

Because there are so many factors that go into calculating dog walking rates per hour, there is quite a big range, so take this figure with a grain of salt and use it to give you an idea of what a dog walker will charge per hour, not an absolute.

For comparison, you can check out my services and rates here.

Average Dog Walking Prices Per Hour:

$30 to $60

How much do dog walkers charge for 15 minutes?

Dog walkers sometimes offer other services, like drop-ins.

These are ideal if you have a young puppy or senior dog.

The dog waker will take them out in the yard to do their business, walk around the block if necessary, make sure they have food and water, and be on their way.

That is pretty much what a 15-minute dog walking session will get you. 

These sessions are typically cheaper than your regular 30 to 60-minute walks, but the factors that go into setting the prices are typically the same. 

So again, take this figure with a grain of salt just to give you an idea of what a 15-minute dog walking session will cost.

Average Dog Walking Prices for 15-minutes:

$10 to $20

How to Get The Best Price For Dog Walking Services

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, the best price for dog walking services is the one that you can afford. 

I was fortunate to have an awesome dog walker who gave me a great price when she walked Damien 3 times a week instead of two. 

Many dog walkers offer incentives for more frequent walks, booking ahead, etc.

Here are some ways you can save money with a dog walker:

Number of Walks

Many dog walkers have discounted rates when you sign up for a certain amount of walks at once. For example, a 10-walk bundle may save you 10% of the original price.

Opt for A Group Walk

Group walks are typically cheaper than individual walks as the dog walker takes more than one dog out at a time.

I personally like group walks because it helps socialize your pooch, and nothing tires out a dog like a good play with other dogs.

Multiple Dog Discount

Many dog walkers offer a discount if there is more than one dog in a household needing a walk.

Avoid Weekend/Holiday Walks

Booking a walk on a weekend or holiday will typically be more expensive than your run-of-the-mill week-day walk.

Pay In Advance

Some dog walkers may charge you less if you pay for your walking sessions in advance.

As you can see, prices vary widely with dog walking services. 

The good thing is, there are options to make dog walking services affordable on most budgets.

My best advice is to talk with your dog walker, explain your particular situation and needs, and see what services you can work out together that are mutually beneficial.

If you’re still on the fence as to whether or not you should hire a dog walker at all, check out this article to help make up your mind.

What is your experience with dog walkers? Were their prices negotiable or set in stone?