What is a Dog Walker?
A Dog Walker is someone who walks dogs for a living. Usually, Dog Walkers offer walks of between 30 minutes and one hour, and most take several dogs on each walk.
Professional dog walking services are increasingly in demand in the UK, particularly in urban areas where dogs can be confined to small properties and left on their own while their owners are at work all day.
All healthy dogs need to be walked every day, sometimes more than once (some high energy dogs can require 2-4 walks per day, although it is important to remember that mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise). In some circumstances this is impossible for owners to achieve due to work commitments, health issues or holidays. In these cases, owners may choose to employ the services of a Dog Walker.
How does being walked benefit dogs?
Dogs benefit from the regular routine that Dog Walking can provide. They are sociable animals who enjoy the company of others and should not be left on their own for more than 4 hours at a time. Employing a Dog Walker can positively impact on a dog’s physical and emotional health. Regular exercise not only keeps dogs physically healthy but also alleviates stress and prevents boredom and behavioural problems.
Walking maintains a dog’s physical health by:
- Keeping joints and muscles moving.
- Keeping weight controlled.
- Supporting a healthy digestive system.
Walking maintains a dog’s mental health by:
- Engaging senses of sights, scents, and sounds.
- Providing opportunities for socialisation.
- Improving cognitive and behavioural development.
- Improving wellbeing and confidence.
Where do Dog Walkers work?
Dog Walkers work predominantly outside in all types of weather and terrain. However, they also need a space to complete admin and arrange bookings and will often complete home visits to meet clients and their dogs. Some Dog Walkers have use of a large vehicle and will spend time transporting dogs to a walking site and home again.
What soft skills do you need to become a Dog Walker?
To consider a career as a Dog Walker, several soft skills are required to become successful. Dog Walkers must genuinely like dogs and have a desire to promote their welfare. It will benefit your career to have the following skills:
- Be physically fit.
- Be responsible.
- Be quick-thinking.
- Be happy and comfortable in all weathers.
- Have experience with dogs.
- Enjoy exercise.
- Good time management.
- Be organised.
- Familiar with canine behaviour.
- Good communication and customer care skills.
How much does a Dog Walker earn?
The average cost of a dog walk in the UK is between £10-£24 per hour, per dog. This can vary depending on where you are based, your skill and experience level and whether the dog has specific needs or requirements.
In the UK, professional Dog Walkers have the potential to earn around £26,500 per year based on a dog walker who walks around 13 dogs per day for five days each week.
Some Dog Walkers choose to offer additional services, such as Animal Boarding or Grooming, which can increase your earning potential and enhance your business.
How do you become a qualified Dog Walker?
Currently, there is no obligation to complete official training to become a Dog Walker in the UK. However, if you are Dog Sitting or taking care of a dog within your own home or business then you will need to obtain a Level 2 or a Level 3 qualification to meet the Defra Animal Activity Licensing Requirements.
Completing a relevant course or qualification will demonstrate to owners that you have the necessary knowledge to take good care of their dogs. Becoming qualified in Dog Walking, Canine Behaviour, Pet Sitting or Canine Care will help to give you an advantage in the increasingly popular career choice of Dog Walking. Achieving the appropriate qualification will also ensure that you meet the Defra Animal Activity Licensing Requirements.
A good place to start and get some basic essential skills in Dog Walking would be with a short online course such as the Dog Walking Certificate. Gaining this certificate will provide reassurance to clients and provide you with valuable knowledge for developing a successful Dog Walking Business.
If you choose to enhance your Dog Walking Business by offering additional services such as Pet Sitting, Boarding or Grooming then you will need to obtain a Level 2 or Level 3 Ofqual regulated qualification that meets the standards of the Animal Activity Licensing Regulations.
The Level 4 Certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Dog Day Care and Boarding is suitable for those who want to operate a Dog Walking or Pet Sitting Business. This qualification complies with the Defra Animal Activity Licensing Requirements for working as a Pet Sitter. Achieving this qualification will ensure that you are aware of the responsibilities, legislation and legal requirements necessary to carry out Dog Walking or Pet Sitting. It will also provide you with useful canine behaviour and psychology knowledge that will improve the service that you offer.
For all related courses, training and qualification please visit the relevant course pages.
Where can I get a job as a Dog Walker?
Once you have qualified as a Dog Walker you may choose to become self-employed and set up your own business.
Many Dog Walkers start small and advertise their service locally before building up a customer base. If you choose to become self-employed, it’s a good idea to advertise your services at your local veterinary surgery and pet shops. Providing a service that exceeds customer expectations will ensure that you get positive reviews. Word of mouth endorsement is vital for a small business.
It’s also worth keeping your eye on local ‘wanted’ advertisements as owners may post details when they’re looking for the services of a local Dog Walker.
Registering with our Animal Job Board will give you access to the latest vacancies around the world.
Book a call with one of our career advisors and they will take you through training and career options within the animal industry.
