So, you’re dog-obsessed. You say hello to every wagging tail on the street (and sometimes forget the human at the other end). Now you’re wondering: Can I actually make money just by loving dogs this much?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Absolutely—if you do it right.
Dog sitting is more than belly rubs and cute selfies. It’s a real responsibility. But done well, it can also be a deeply rewarding, flexible side hustle (or even a full-time business) filled with fresh air, furry companionship, and endless tail wags.
Here’s your complete guide to becoming a trusted dog sitter—whether you’re in it for side cash or planning to go pro.
🐾 1. Understand What Dog Sitting Really Involves
Let’s bust the myth: dog sitting isn’t just cuddles on the couch.
Depending on the service, your job may include:
- Overnight stays in a client’s home
- Daily drop-in visits for potty breaks, playtime, or feeding
- Hosting dogs in your home (if your space is safe and approved)
- Dog walking—sometimes several times a day
- Administering medication or special care
- Dealing with emergencies calmly and professionally
You’re not just a guest—you’re a temporary guardian. Your role is to maintain the dog’s routine, provide companionship, and create a stress-free experience while the owner is away.
👉 Ask yourself:
- Can I commit to early mornings and late-night potty breaks?
- Am I comfortable handling dogs of all sizes and temperaments?
- Do I have transportation in case of emergencies?
- Can I maintain professionalism in someone else’s home?
If you’re nodding along, you’re off to a strong start.
🐕🦺 2. Get Experience First (Even If It’s Unpaid)
Pet parents don’t trust just anyone with their fur baby—especially that high-strung rescue who only eats chicken boiled in filtered water.
Start with what you have:
- Pet sit for friends, family, or neighbors
- Volunteer at animal shelters or rescues
- Offer free or low-cost services to build trust and get testimonials
Create a “Dog Sitting Portfolio” to track:
- Dog breeds, ages, and behaviors you’ve handled
- Special needs (senior care, meds, behavioral quirks)
- Length of stays and types of services (overnight, walking, etc.)
Pro Tip: Practice handling different dog temperaments—like high-energy puppies, anxious rescues, or dogs with medical needs. This adds real credibility when you list your experience later.
🌐 3. Join a Trusted Dog-Sitting Platform
Once you’ve built some street cred (and maybe a glowing review or two), make it official.
Top Dog-Sitting Apps:
| Platform | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rover | Overall services | Large client base, good for sitters who want to grow fast |
| Wag! | Walking + sitting | Better if you prefer quick gigs |
| Care.com | Broader audience | Great if you also offer babysitting or senior care |
Create a stellar profile that includes:
- A warm, professional bio
- Verified experience and specialties (e.g., senior dog care, dog CPR)
- High-quality photos with dogs (not gym selfies!)
- Transparent availability and competitive pricing
- Reviews and endorsements, if possible
⚠️ Most platforms require background checks. Be prepared to provide ID and answer security questions.
💰 4. Set Rates That Reflect Your Value
Don’t undersell yourself—but don’t overprice before you build credibility either.
Factors That Affect Your Rates:
- Your location (Urban = higher rates)
- Service type (Overnight stays > drop-ins)
- Number of dogs
- Special needs (meds, senior care, reactive dogs)
- Holiday or last-minute bookings
Average Starting Rates:
| Service | Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Drop-in Visit (30 mins) | $15–$30 |
| Overnight Sitting | $45–$90+ |
| Dog Walking | $15–$25 per walk |
| Daycare in Your Home | $30–$60/day |
Pro Tip: Once you have at least 5–10 5-star reviews, it’s okay to increase your rates. Many sitters raise rates annually or by tier (e.g., $10 extra for second dog).
🐶 5. Nail the Meet & Greet
Would you leave your child with a stranger? Neither would a good pet parent.
A meet & greet is your trial run to see if it’s a good fit—on both ends.
What to Ask:
- Feeding schedule & walk times
- Medications or allergies
- Aggression or fear triggers
- Commands the dog knows (or doesn’t)
- Vet contact, emergency plan, backup sitter info
- Whether the dog has ever bitten or shown aggression
🚶♀️Try a short walk together so the dog can get used to your energy and scent. Don’t rush it—first impressions matter with dogs, too.
And remember: If the vibe feels wrong, it’s okay to politely decline. Your safety and comfort matter.
📋 6. Stay Professional (Yes, Even if You’re in Pajamas)
You might be snuggling with a Shih Tzu on a Tuesday morning, but this is still a business.
Best Practices:
- Be on time—always
- Follow all instructions to the letter
- Send regular updates and photos
- Handle accidents or behavior calmly and cleanly
- Leave the home better than you found it
- Communicate honestly if something goes wrong
Pro Tip: Use a dog-sitting app or shared note for daily logs—feeding times, walks, meds, even poop updates. Clients love transparency.
📝 7. Protect Yourself Legally and Financially
Too many new sitters overlook this—and regret it later.
Must-Have Protections:
- Pet-sitting insurance: Covers accidents, property damage, injuries
- Written agreements: Outline responsibilities, rates, emergency plans
- Cancellation policies: Prevent last-minute flakes from costing you money
- Pet First Aid/CPR certification: Adds trust and prepares you for emergencies
🧯Recommended: Take a Pet CPR & First Aid course from Red Cross or PetTech. It’s fast, affordable, and gives you a major credibility boost.
⭐ 8. Collect Reviews Like Treats in a Kong
In the world of pet-sitting, reviews = revenue.
After a job, follow up with a friendly message:
“Thanks again for trusting me with [dog’s name]—I loved our time together! If you’re happy with the service, a quick review would mean the world. 🐾❤️”
Make it easy. Add a direct link to your profile.
The more detailed your reviews, the faster your bookings will grow.
🧠 Bonus: Pro-Level Tips to Stand Out
- Build a mini website with a portfolio, FAQ, and booking form
- Create a digital welcome packet with your policies and info
- Offer add-ons: bath service, training games, holiday photo sessions
- Set availability smartly—don’t burn out taking every gig
- Say no when needed—some dogs (or clients) aren’t worth the stress
🐾 FAQ: Quick Answers
Do I need a license to be a dog sitter?
Not in most areas—but always check your local laws, especially if boarding in your home.
Can I watch dogs in my apartment?
Only if your building allows it, and the dog is a good fit. Always get written approval if needed.
What if a dog gets injured?
Stay calm. Call the owner, then follow their vet/emergency instructions. Having a pre-approved vet plan is key.
What if I get a bad review?
Respond professionally, learn from it, and move on. One bad review won’t sink you—just don’t ignore it.
🐕 Final Thoughts: From Dog Lover to Pro Sitter
Dog sitting isn’t just an “easy gig”—it’s a craft. One that blends trust, care, and love for animals with professionalism and clear communication.
Start small. Build experience. Treat every dog like they’re your own. And soon, your calendar will be full of loyal clients (and happy pups).
Your reward? A life filled with four-legged friends, flexible income, and a job that never really feels like work.
Ready to start your dog-sitting journey?
👉 Create your Rover profile or download our free Dog-Sitting Starter Kit and checklist [link].
Because honestly—getting paid for dog cuddles? That’s the dream.