Understanding Dog Walking Costs in the UK
If you’re a busy pet owner in need of a reliable dog walker, you’ve probably wondered:
💰 “How much does a dog walker cost in the UK?”
💰 “Am I paying a fair rate?”
💰 “What factors affect the price of dog walking services?”
With more pet owners seeking convenient and trustworthy care, the demand for professional dog walkers has increased in 2025. Prices vary depending on location, duration, number of dogs, and experience of the walker.
In this comprehensive 2025 dog walking price guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Average UK dog walking costs (by city & region)
✔ Factors that influence pricing
✔ Solo vs. group walks: which is better value?
✔ How to find a trusted dog walker at a fair price
✔ Hidden costs & red flags to avoid
1. Average Cost of a Dog Walker in the UK (2025 Update)
Dog walking prices in the UK vary by region, with London being the most expensive. Here’s a breakdown of average dog walking rates across different cities:
UK Dog Walking Price Guide 2025
| Location | 30-Minute Walk | 60-Minute Walk | Group Walk |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | £12 – £18 | £18 – £28 | £10 – £15 |
| Manchester | £10 – £15 | £15 – £12 | £8 – £12 |
| Birmingham | £10 – £14 | £15 – £20 | £8 – £10 |
| Glasgow | £8 – £12 | £12 – £18 | £6 – £10 |
| Cardiff | £9 – £13 | £13 – £19 | £7 – £10 |
| Edinburgh | £10 – £15 | £14 – £20 | £8 – £12 |
| Bristol | £11 – £16 | £16 – £20 | £9 – £13 |
National UK Average:
- 30-minute solo walk: £10 – £15
- 60-minute solo walk: £15 – £25
- Group walks (per dog): £8 – £12
📌 Pro Tip: Using GoWalkies allows you to compare local dog walking prices and find insured, verified walkers at competitive rates.
2. What Factors Affect Dog Walking Prices?
Not all dog walkers charge the same rate. Prices can fluctuate based on:
📍 Location & Cost of Living
- London & South East England tend to have higher prices due to increased demand.
- Rural areas may have fewer professional dog walkers, leading to higher rates due to limited availability.
⏳ Duration & Walk Type
- Shorter walks (15-30 minutes) are cheaper but may not be sufficient for high-energy dogs.
- Longer walks (45-60 minutes) cost more but provide better exercise and enrichment.
🐶 Solo vs. Group Walks
- Solo walks: More expensive, but ideal for nervous, reactive, or senior dogs needing one-on-one attention.
- Group walks: Cheaper, providing socialisation & exercise for dogs who enjoy pack settings.
🛡 Experience & Qualifications
- Qualified walkers (e.g., those trained in pet first aid or dog behaviour) may charge more.
- DBS-checked, insured, and verified walkers typically cost more but offer better safety & reliability.
📌 Pro Tip: Always check if a walker is insured and experienced before booking—cheaper doesn’t always mean better!
3. Are You Overpaying? Hidden Fees to Watch Out For
Some walkers may charge additional fees you should be aware of:
❌ Last-Minute Booking Fees – Some walkers charge extra for urgent bookings.
❌ Multiple Dog Surcharge – If you own two or more dogs, expect an extra £5-£10 per additional pet.
❌ Weekend & Holiday Rates – Expect higher rates for bookings on bank holidays, Christmas, and weekends.
❌ Long-Distance Surcharges – Some walkers charge for travel if they need to commute far to reach you.
✅ GoWalkies allows you to see transparent pricing upfront, so there are no hidden surprises!
4. How to Find a Reliable Dog Walker at a Fair Price
Choosing a dog walker isn’t just about cost—it’s about trust and reliability. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting value for money:
✅ What to Look for in a Dog Walker
✔ Verified ID & Background Check – Always choose a walker who has been vetted.
✔ Pet First Aid Certified – Helpful in case of emergencies.
✔ Good Reviews & Recommendations – Read online reviews or ask for references.
✔ GPS Tracking & Updates – Get real-time walk updates for peace of mind.
✔ Fair Pay Model – Avoid platforms that take high commission fees from walkers.📌 Best Option: Use GoWalkies, where all walkers are verified, insured, and fairly paid (unlike other platforms that take 20-40% commission).
5. Solo vs. Group Walks: Which One is Better for Your Dog?
💡 Wondering if solo or group walks are the better choice?
| Feature | Solo Walk | Group Walk |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Senior, anxious, or reactive dogs | Social & playful dogs |
| Cost | Higher (£15-£25) | Lower (£8-£12) |
| Customization | Tailored to your dog’s needs | More structured but less personalised |
| Exercise Level | Moderate to high | High social engagement |
Pro Tip: If your dog is nervous or easily distracted, a solo walk is best. If they love socialising, opt for a group walk to save money.
- Final Thoughts: How Much Should You Pay for a Dog Walker in 2025?
✅ The UK national average for dog walking is £10-£15 for a 30-minute walk and £15-£25 for a 60-minute walk.
✅ Pricing depends on location, experience, duration, and whether it’s a solo or group walk.
✅ Be aware of hidden fees for last-minute bookings, extra dogs, and holiday rates.
✅ Choose insured, vetted, and fairly paid walkers to ensure the best care for your dog.
📲 Want to book a trusted, fairly paid dog walker?
👉 Join GoWalkies today and connect with insured, verified pet carers near you.
