The Owner’s Guide to Dog Sitting Rates

Are you heading out of town for a much-needed vacation but can’t take your canine companion along? You’re not alone—as of 2024, over 34,976 pet sitters are employed in the United States to care for your furry friend. But pet care bills can add up quickly if you don’t plan. Budgeting for dog-sitting services is necessary for any savvy traveler or busy pet parent.

So, how much is dog-sitting per day? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Rates for dog-sitting can vary drastically based on where you live, what services you need, and your sitter’s level of experience.

Don’t let sticker shock deter you from getting the quality pet care you need.

We’ll cover all you need to know about budgeting for dog-sitting services, including the going rate for dog sitting, typical costs for services such as drop-in visits and overnight stays, important factors that influence pet care pricing, and advice on how to find a reliable dog sitter that aligns with your budget.

What Exactly is Dog-Sitting, Anyway? 

At its core, dog-sitting is a service where a hired caregiver watches over your dog while you’re away from home. Dog sitters provide your pup food, exercise, potty breaks, and TLC when you can’t be there. It’s a lot like babysitting but for your furry family members.

So why do dog owners enlist the help of a sitter? There are countless scenarios where pet-sitting services can save the day (and your sanity):

• Travel plans that aren’t dog-friendly.
• Long work hours or overnight shifts.
• Unexpected events like hospitalizations.
• Family emergencies or last-minute trips.

Knowing your dog is in good hands can ease the stress of time apart and help your puppy feel more comfortable. Rather than worrying if your pup is lonely or the house is getting destroyed, rest assured that your sitter is tending to your dog’s daily needs and providing plenty of attention.

Dog-sitting is especially useful for dogs that are easily stressed by new environments like boarding kennels. More than 70% of dogs display anxiety, with 5% of them experiencing separation anxiety. With a sitter, your dog can stick to its usual routine in the comfort of home. That means more relaxation for them and more peace of mind for you.

Sitting Services: Finding the Right Fit for Your Pup

Not all dog-sitting looks the same. While every sitter should prioritize your pet’s health and happiness, their specific services can vary. Here’s a rundown of the most common types of pet-sitting to help you choose the best fit for your furry friend:

Drop-In Visits

Quick drop-in visits are ideal if your dog just needs a quick potty break or a dose of human interaction while you’re at work or out for the day. Arranging for pet sitters or a midday dog walker can significantly alleviate the monotony of a long day alone. Most drop-in visits last 15-30 minutes, giving the sitter just enough time to:

• Let your dog out to do their business.
• Provide fresh food and water.
• Dole out treats and affection.
• Administer any medications.

Drop-ins are often the most affordable option since you only pay for the short time the sitter is there. They’re perfect for keeping your dog on their regular bathroom and meal schedule when you can’t make it home yourself.  

Longer Sits

Need someone to entertain your energetic pup or keep an anxious dog company for a long time? Longer sit, lasting 45 minutes to a few hours, might be the way to go. During these visits, your sitter can focus on wearing out and bonding with your dog. Here’s what you can expect during an extended sitting session:

• A solid walk or backyard playtime.
• Mental stimulation with interactive toys.
• Brushing or grooming, if needed.
• Plenty of belly rubs and snuggles.

If you have a dog with lots of energy to burn, these more extended sits are great for ensuring they get adequate exercise and attention while you’re gone. Dogs require a minimum of one to two hours of exercise daily while working breeds need significantly more. They’re also a wise option if you need someone to watch a sick or senior dog for a longer stretch.

Overnight Care  

Heading out of town? Booking a sitter to stay the night will give you peace of mind. Overnight stays usually last 12-24 hours and can include:

• Multiple potty breaks and mealtimes.
• Walks or playtime to keep your dog active.
• Administering any needed medication.
• Companionship so your dog doesn’t feel alone.
• Refreshing the water bowl throughout the day/night.

With overnight care, you know someone is there keeping tabs on your dog around the clock. Many sitters will even send periodic text updates and photos so you can check in on how your pup is doing while you’re away.

The Dollars and Cents of dog-sitting

So, what can you expect to shell out for a trustworthy sitter? While the exact numbers vary based on your location and pet’s needs, these price ranges can give you a ballpark idea:

• Drop-in visits: 5-minute visit: $15-$20, 30-minute visit: $20-$30.
• Longer sits: 45-minute visit: $20-$30, 60-minute visit: $25-$35.
• Overnight stays:12-24 hours: $40-$75. The exact range depends on the length of stay and duties required.

On average, a quick 30-minute drop-in costs about $25. If your pup needs longer or overnight care, costs can climb closer to $70+ daily.

Remember that most dog sitter prices are charged per visit, not per hour. So, a 30-minute visit is often more cost-effective than two 15-minute drop-ins. 

While it’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, remember that experienced sitters with glowing reviews may charge a bit more—but that extra cost is often worth the premium care and reliability they provide.

Crunching the Numbers: What Impacts Sitting Rates?

Pet sitting rates aren’t one-size-fits-all. Where you live, what type of pet you have, and when you need care can all dramatically impact your price. Here are the key factors that can drive up (or down) the cost of sitting:

• Location: It’s all about location, location, location—even for dog care. Expect to pay more for a sitter in big cities and high-cost-of-living areas. Urban sitters often charge $5-$10 more per visit than their rural counterparts due to higher overhead costs and tighter schedules.
• Number and needs of pets: Got a whole pack of pups? Expect to tack on an extra $3-$5 per visit for each additional dog. Have a dog with special needs like medications or mobility issues? Sitters may charge more for the extra TLC and time required. Be upfront about your pet’s unique needs so sitters can give you an accurate quote.
• Specific services requested: The more you ask of your sitter, the more you’ll likely pay. You’ll be on the lower end of the price range if you need someone to do a quick potty break and feed. But the cost will climb accordingly if you’re looking for long walks, extensive playtime, grooming, or lots of cuddle time.
• Time of year: Planning a summer vacation or holiday getaway? Book your sitter early—and budget for higher rates. Pet sitting services are in high demand during peak travel times, and some sitters may charge a premium (usually an extra $5-$10 per visit). You might snag a lower rate if you can swing an off-season trip.  

Pro Pet Sitters vs. Amateur Animal Lovers

You’ve got two main options for finding a dog sitter: hiring a professional service or enlisting a hobby sitter like a neighbor or friend. While hobby sitters are often cheaper, you usually get what you pay for in terms of quality and reliability.

Like those from a bonded and insured agency, professional sitters typically charge 30-40% more than amateurs. But that extra cost comes with significant benefits:

• More training in animal behavior and care.
• Background-checked and vetted sitters.
• Backup sitters are available if needed.
• Greater accountability and reliability.

Hobby sitters on apps or community boards can be hit or miss. While you might stumble upon a gem who loves dogs, they may have different experiences, insurance, or backup plans than pros offer. And if they flake, you’re left scrambling.  

For most, the peace of mind with a professional service is worth a slightly higher price tag. An established agency can offer more consistency and support—so you’re not rolling the dice with your dog’s care.

Choosing a Top-Notch Sitter (Without Going Broke)

Quality is critical when finding the right caregiver for your canine. But that doesn’t mean you must blow your budget on the most expensive sitter in town. Here are some simple ways to find top-notch care at a reasonable rate:

• Ask for recommendations: People love to share amazing pet pros. Check with friends, coworkers, or even your vet to see if they have an affordable sitter they trust.
• Read reviews: Take a few minutes to skim the reviews and testimonials from a sitter’s past clients. Look for patterns of reliability, trustworthiness, and attentive care. If a sitter has all 5-star reviews, they may be worth the extra cost.
• Look for experience: Sitters with years of experience may charge more, but they’ve likely seen it all when it comes to pet care. That extra know-how can be invaluable if your dog has health issues or behavioral quirks.  
• Schedule a meet-and-greet: Most professional sitters offer a free in-home consultation so you (and your dog) can get a feel for their personality and services. If it’s not a good fit, keep looking until you find a sitter you click with.

Once you find a sitter you love, resist the urge to shop around to save a few bucks. Building a long-term relationship with a consistent caregiver creates a seamless experience for your dog—worth its weight in gold.

Extra Costs to Consider

Remember that the base rate isn’t all you pay when budgeting for dog-sitting. Depending on your sitter and your needs, there may be some additional costs to plan for:

• Travel fees: If you live outside the sitter’s standard service area, you may pay a bit more to cover their gas and time in the car.
• Holiday rates: Many sitters charge an extra $5-$15 per visit on major holidays since demand and availability are lower. 
• Special requests: Do you need the sitter to water your plants, grab your mail, or tackle a few light household chores? Expect those extra to-dos to increase the total cost.

To avoid surprises, ask for an itemized list of what’s included in the base rate—and what costs extra. Some sitters bundle common add-ons at a discounted rate, so see if you can score a deal.

Your dog-sitting FAQ, Answered.

Still have burning questions about finding the perfect pet sitter? We’ve got answers to some of the most common queries we hear from baby boomers:

• What’s typically included in a standard sitting visit?: Most visits include feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and lots of TLC. Some sitters may offer additional services like walks or grooming for an extra fee, but just ask what’s included upfront.
• Can I get a discount for booking multiple pets or visits? It depends on the sitter. Some offer discounts of $2-$5 per visit if you have a pack of dogs. Others may trim the cost per visit if you book multiple weeks of care. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
• Will my sitter stay overnight with my dog? Many professional sitters offer overnight stays ranging from 12 to 24 hours at a time. Expect to pay a premium for extended stays since your sitter will dedicate more time to your dog.
• Are dog sitters trained to handle emergencies?: Training varies by sitter. Look for a sitter who is certified in pet first aid and CPR. Some sitters may even be veterinary technicians with extensive medical training. Ask about qualifications before booking.
• My dog needs daily insulin injections. Can sitters handle that?: You bet. Many sitters are comfortable administering medications, including injections. Be upfront about your dog’s medical needs and ask if the sitter has experience with similar situations. You should do a quick tutorial on how to give the meds beforehand.

Budgeting for Your Dog’s Sitter

Finding a sitter you adore is a big part of being a responsible dog owner. But it doesn’t have to be a massive strain on your wallet. By understanding the typical costs, shopping around for quality care, and prioritizing your pup’s unique needs, you can find a sitting solution that works for your budget and your lifestyle.

Remember, your dog is family. They deserve attentive, trustworthy care that sets them (and you) up for success. Whether that means splurging on a top-rated sitter or getting creative to cut costs, focus on finding someone who will love your dog like their own.

With some research and planning, you can say “Bon voyage!” without stressing over your pet or bank account. Your dog will thank you with a wag and a smile.