How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge in the UK?

Dog walking has become an essential service for many pet owners across the UK.

Whether you’re working long hours, have mobility challenges, or simply want your dog to get some extra exercise and socialisation, hiring a dog walker can make life easier for both you and your pet.

But how much do dog walkers charge in the UK? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of service, your location, how often you need a walk, and whether you opt for a solo or group session.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to expect in terms of pricing and what factors impact those charges.

What Are Dog Walking Services & What Do They Include?

Dog walking services are designed to help you ensure your dog gets enough physical activity and mental stimulation throughout the day.

A professional dog walker typically picks up your dog from your home, takes them for a walk — either solo or with a group — and returns them safely.

Depending on the provider, services may include:

Short or long walks (from 15 minutes to over an hour)
Group or individual walks
Feeding or water top-ups post-walk
Administering medication
Puppy visits or comfort breaks
Emergency or weekend services

Some walkers are self-employed, while others work through agencies or apps. Many offer customised care depending on your dog’s age, temperament, or medical needs.

What Are Dog Walking Services & What Do They Include

Prices for Dog Walking in the UK: What are the Basics?

When you start comparing dog walking prices, you’ll notice that rates vary across the UK.

On average, most dog walkers charge between £10 and £20 per walk, though rates can be lower or higher depending on the length of the walk, the area you live in, and the type of service.

Key pricing models include:

Per walk – most common (charged per 30 or 60-minute walk)
Per day – for multiple walks
Weekly/monthly packages – often discounted
Per dog – additional charges for multiple pets from the same household

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge for 30 Minutes?

If you’re only looking for a quick walk — perhaps for an older dog or just a toilet break — a 30-minute session might be ideal. These are commonly used by owners who want to ensure their dog gets out while they’re at work.

On average, dog walkers charge between £7 and £12 for a 30-minute walk.

Some factors that affect this cost include:

Whether it’s a group or solo walk
Time of day (midday walks tend to be popular)
Location – urban areas may charge more

Group walks are typically cheaper than one-to-one sessions.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge for 30 Minutes

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge Per Hour in the UK?

An hour-long walk is the standard service offered by most dog walkers and is usually what you’ll need if your dog is young, energetic, or requires a lot of stimulation.

You can expect to pay around £12 to £20 per hour in most parts of the UK.

Solo walks, where your dog is walked alone, generally cost more — up to £25 or more per hour — as your dog is receiving full attention. Group walks are more affordable, but they may not suit all dogs, especially those that are reactive or shy.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge Per Day?

If your dog needs more than one walk a day, you might consider hiring a walker per day. Many dog walkers offer discounts for multiple daily sessions.

Daily rates often range from £20 to £30, depending on:

The number of walks (e.g., two 30-minute walks vs one 60-minute walk)
Group vs solo format
Whether the walker offers a package deal

Booking walks daily for long-term needs can sometimes lower the cost per walk.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge Per Month?

If you’re looking for long-term, regular help, you may want to commit to a monthly package. These are often the best value, especially if you use a dog walker multiple times a week.

Here’s an estimate based on a standard 5-day-a-week schedule:

£200 to £400 per month for once-daily walks
Up to £600+ per month for twice-daily or solo premium services

Monthly plans typically offer better rates per walk than occasional bookings. You also benefit from having a reserved slot and consistent care for your dog.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge Per Month

UK Dog Walker Price Table – A Quick Reference

Service Type	Average Price Range	Details
30-Minute Group Walk	£7 – £12	Best for sociable dogs
1-Hour Group Walk	£10 – £16	Most common option
1-Hour Solo Walk	£15 – £25+	Higher cost for one-on-one attention
Daily Rate (2 walks)	£20 – £30	Often offered at discounted rates
Monthly (20–22 walks)	£200 – £400+	Regular clients often receive a discount

What Affects Dog Walker Prices in the UK?

Several factors contribute to how much a dog walker might charge. Understanding these can help you compare services and avoid unexpected costs.

What are the Factors that influence dog walking prices?

Location: Rates are higher in London and other major cities than in rural areas.
Walk type: Solo walks are more expensive due to the personalised attention.
Duration: Naturally, longer walks cost more.
Number of dogs: If you have more than one dog, you may pay an extra £5–£10 per additional pet.
Time and day: Weekends, evenings, and holidays may come with a surcharge.
Special requirements: Dogs with behavioural issues, medication needs, or senior dogs needing extra care may be priced higher.

Group Walks vs Solo Walks – What’s More Affordable?

Group walks are the most budget-friendly option. In this setup, your dog is walked alongside 2–4 other dogs, usually for 30 to 60 minutes. These are ideal for social dogs and cost significantly less.

Solo walks are more expensive but necessary for:

Reactive or aggressive dogs
Puppies or eldery dogs with unique needs
Owners who want undivided attention for their pet

Choosing between group or solo walks comes down to your dog’s personality and comfort. Group Walk

What are the Regional Price Differences Across the UK?

The place where you live plays a vital role in pricing. Here’s a general idea of how prices vary across the UK:

Region	Hourly Price Range
London	£15 – £25+
South East England	£12 – £20
Midlands & North	£10 – £15
Scotland & Wales	£9 – £14

Prices also vary within each region, especially between city centres and suburban or rural areas.

What are Other Costs to Keep in Mind?

When budgeting, don’t forget to factor in additional charges that may apply:

Pick-up/drop-off fees
Weekend or holiday surcharges
Late booking or cancellation fees
Additional dog charges (if you own more than one)
Feeding, medication, or special care add-ons

Always ask for a full price list before hiring a dog walker to avoid surprises.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Make in the UK?

If you’re curious about the business side, dog walkers in the UK can earn a decent income, especially in high-demand areas.

How is the Estimated annual earnings?

Part-time dog walkers: £8,000 – £15,000 per year
Full-time, self-employed walkers: £20,000 – £30,000+
High-demand areas (London, affluent suburbs): Up to £40,000 with loyal client base

Dog walkers typically work on a self-employed basis, which means they also need to factor in expenses like:

Public liability insurance
Fuel and travel
Business registration
Marketing and advertising
Equipment (leads, treats, first aid kits)

What are the Tips for Choosing the Right Dog Walker?

Selecting the right dog walker isn’t just about price — it’s about trust, experience, and compatibility with your pet.

Here are some things to consider:

Ask about insurance and criminal background checks
Meet them in person before the first walk
Check reviews or ask for references
Understand their emergency procedures
Confirm group sizes and walk structure

A trial walk is always a good idea to see how your dog responds.

How to Save on Dog Walking Costs?

Dog walking doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips to keep costs down:

Book in bulk: Weekly or monthly packages often offer better value.
Join local pet owner groups: Shared walks or neighbourhood sitters might be cheaper.
Be flexible with timing: Off-peak hours may be less expensive.
Use the same walker regularly: Loyal clients often receive loyalty discounts.

How to Save on Dog Walking Costs

Conclusion

Understanding how much dog walkers charge in the UK gives you the confidence to make an informed decision for your dog’s daily care.

With typical rates ranging between £7 and £25 per walk, you’ll find services to suit every budget and schedule.

Whether you’re looking for a quick midday walk or regular weekday support, there’s a dog walker out there who can offer the perfect solution — both for your pet’s happiness and your peace of mind.

What are the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) On How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge?

1. Do dog walkers charge per dog or per household?

Most charge per dog, but offer a small discount for a second dog from the same household.

2. Are dog walkers insured in the UK?

Professional walkers typically carry public liability insurance. Always ask to see proof.

3. How far do dog walkers usually walk?

Most sessions cover 1–3 miles, depending on the dog’s age, pace, and the duration of the walk.

4. Is it better to use an app or hire directly?

Apps offer convenience and reviews, while hiring locally can offer more flexible and personal service.

5. Do walkers walk dogs in the rain?

Yes — most do, unless the weather is extreme or unsafe.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Charge in the UK? – Average Rates & What Affects the Cost