A dog walker’s job is to take your dog for a walk while you’re at work or busy.
They are responsible for picking up the poop, making sure the dog doesn’t get away and keeping them safe.
The average cost for a dog walker is $15 to $25 per visit. If you have more than one dog, they may ask for an additional fee.
The question here is how much should you tip a dog walker?
There are arguments that say it’s not necessary because the walker has already been paid by your home owner’s association or apartment complex in most cases.
However, if they do a good job then tipping 15% will be appropriate.
Other people argue that it’s just too expensive so anything would be appreciated.
If a person is going to pay for a service, why wouldn’t they tip? However, many people feel that tipping isn’t necessary because they feel the walker is paid enough with their salary.
If you’re not sure whether or not to tip your dog walker after all the debates and what others have done, then you can always ask them.
What a dog walker does
A dog walker is a person who takes care of a dog for a certain period of time during the day, usually in his or her own home.
A good dog walker provides more than just exercise and relief from being left alone all day.
He or she makes sure that your dog gets plenty of love and attention as well as feeding if necessary, walking, grooming, and medication.
You pay a dog walker for being responsible for your dog, so you should feel confident that he or she is a dependable and trustworthy person.
How to find a good dog walker
Decide what kind of services you want your dog walker to provide.
Some people need their dogs walked twice a day, some once a day, and others only when they have to travel.
People with small children usually prefer that someone is home when the dog is being walked.
Determine how many days a week you want the dog walker to visit.
The cost of hiring a dog walker
The cost of a dog walker varies depending on a number of factors, including the size and breed of your dog, the length and frequency of walks, where you live and the services available.
The average dog walker charges between $15 and $20 for a 30 to 40-minute walk, but many offer discounted rates for additional dogs.
Dog walkers in larger cities typically charge $25 or more per walk.
The average dog owner spends $200 or more on professional walks every year.
If you’re only hiring the dog walker during the workweek, you may pay as little as $7 per walk.
How much should I tip my dog walker?
If your dog walker provides you with a breakdown of services and costs, then they will most likely go over their expected fees at the end of each month. In this case, it’s good etiquette to leave a tip equivalent to around 10% to 15% of the monthly fee.
When you’re not provided with a breakdown and costs, it’s good etiquette to tip $5 per walk.
Tipping in cash is always appreciated by your dog walker, but you can also leave a gift card to Starbucks or another favorite place.
Final Thoughts
You should tip your dog walker if they do a good job and you feel like it’s something that is deserved.
If you believe the dog walker did a good job and you want to show your appreciation, then tip 15% of their fee for each walk.
However, if you don’t think they were very helpful or didn’t do an adequate job then don’t tip them at all.
When in doubt, always feel free to ask the dog walker.
