How to Make a Living as a Dog Walker: The Perfect Side Hustle

When I talk to friends about their financial goals, many share a common desire: to work less and enjoy life more. Some dream of early retirement, while others simply want more flexibility. The days of chasing a big house or a fancy car as primary financial goals seem to be fading.

Today, I’m sharing the inspiring story of my friend Benjamin, who has chosen a unique path to financial freedom by working just three hours a day.

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Meet Benjamin: The Dog Walker with a Simple Lifestyle

Benjamin runs a small dog-walking business in Le Plateau, Montreal’s coolest neighborhood. He shares his 3½ apartment with his Great Dane, Maya, who’s also his best friend. Benjamin’s workday consists of walking a handful of neighborhood dogs for about three hours a day, five days a week.

Dog walking offers him:

• Low stress
• Flexible hours
• Great social interactions
• A comfortable income

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What Does Benjamin Value?

Benjamin’s ambitions focus on simplicity and happiness:

• Enjoying sunny days at the park
• Reading books
• Chatting with friends
• Having a beer
• Napping in the afternoon
• Waking up naturally without an alarm

What Benjamin avoids:

• Waking up early
• Reporting to a boss
• Selling eight hours of his time, five days a week

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The Growing Demand for Dog Walkers

Dog walking has become a booming industry, especially in neighborhoods like Le Plateau, full of busy professionals. Many dog owners need someone to care for their pets during the workday.

Another friend, Claudia, also works as a dog walker during the day and offers tarot card readings at night. This flexible side hustle attracts people from all walks of life who value their independence.

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How Much Can a Dog Walker Earn?

The earnings potential for dog walkers is impressive:

• Average rate per walk: $20/hour
• Walking multiple dogs: If you walk 5 dogs simultaneously, that’s $100/hour
• Three daily rounds: Walking 5 dogs in three shifts could earn $300/day
• Weekly earnings: $1,500/week for a five-day schedule
• Annual income: Approximately $75,000/year

Some dog walkers, like Benjamin, also offer dog-sitting services. This adds an extra layer of income, especially for pet owners who need all-day care.

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How to Find Clients as a Dog Walker

Dog walking is a word-of-mouth business, and the industry is safe from corporate takeover or AI disruptions. Here are some proven strategies to grow your client base:

1. Business cards and flyers
   • Distribute them at local supermarkets, coffee shops, and laundromats.
   • Hand them out at parks to dog owners.
2. Network with other dog walkers
   • Established walkers may have reached their capacity and could refer clients.
   • Offer to subcontract for them when they need a break.
3. Build trust
   • Consistency and reliability are key to client retention.
   • Take excellent care of the dogs, and referrals will naturally follow.

You can also join a pet sitting platform such a Rover, that would take care of all the advertising and money collection for you.

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Challenges of Dog Walking

While dog walking has its perks, it’s not without challenges:

• Weather: Canadian winters can be brutally cold, so gear up with the right clothing.
• Dog behavior: Ensure you handle friendly, well-socialized dogs to avoid fights.
• Caution around unfamiliar dogs: Keep your distance from potentially aggressive animals.

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Why Dog Walking Is a Great Side Hustle

Dog walking doesn’t require a degree or significant upfront investment. All you need is a love for animals, some basic networking skills, and a willingness to spend time outdoors.

If your living expenses are under $2,000/month, you could achieve financial stability with just five regular clients. It’s a quicker, less expensive path to income than many traditional jobs or degrees.

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Conclusion

Dog walking is one of the many flexible and rewarding side hustles available today. It’s perfect for those seeking independence, low stress, and a good income without the constraints of a 9-to-5 job.

If dog walking isn’t for you, there are countless other alternatives to explore. What’s your ideal side hustle?