If you love animals and are thinking about turning that passion into a side hustle or full-time gig, you might be wondering: Should I offer pet sitting, dog walking, or boarding services? More importantly, which one is the most profitable?
We’ll break down what each service involves, how much you can realistically earn, and what kind of work you’ll be signing up for. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow your pet care business, this guide will help you make the smartest choice for your lifestyle and goals.
Table of contents
What’s the Difference Between Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, and Boarding?
Before we compare earnings, let’s define each service clearly.
| Service | Description | Typical Duration | Where It Happens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pet Sitting | Caring for pets in the pet owner’s home | Several hours to overnight stays | Client’s home |
| Dog Walking | Taking dogs on walks for exercise and bathroom breaks | 15-60 minutes | Outdoors/in neighborhood |
| Boarding | Taking care of pets in your own home while the owners are away | Overnight to several days | Your home |
How Much Can You Make from Each?
Let’s talk numbers. While prices vary by city, experience level, and demand, here’s a general idea of what pet care providers charge in the U.S.:
Average Earnings per Service:
| Service | Average Pay per Session | Time Spent | Estimated Hourly Rate |
| Pet Sitting | $25 – $75 per day | 1–8 hours | $12 – $25/hr (or more for overnight stays) |
| Dog Walking | $15 – $30 per walk | 15–60 mins | $15 – $60/hr |
| Boarding | $35 – $85 per night | 24 hours | $35 – $85/day |
Note: Rates can increase during holidays or for special requests like administering medication or walking multiple pets.
Real-Life Income Scenarios
1. Part-Time Pet Sitter (Weekends Only)
- 2 weekends a month
- 3 overnight bookings per weekend at $60/night
- Monthly Total: $360
2. Daily Dog Walker (Weekdays)
- 3 clients per day, 5 days a week
- $20 per walk (30 mins)
- Monthly Total: $1,200
3. Full-Time Home Boarder
- 2 dogs per night, 20 nights/month
- $50 per dog per night
- Monthly Total: $2,000
These examples show how flexible and scalable this work can be. You can tailor your schedule and income goals based on your availability and the space you have.
Pros and Cons of Each
Let’s look at what makes each option appealing, and what might make it challenging.
Pet Sitting
Pros:
- Pets stay comfortable in their own home
- Less overhead (no need for pet-proofing your place)
- Great for people who enjoy a quiet environment
Cons:
- Requires travel
- Less control over the pet’s environment
- Limited to one household at a time
Dog Walking
Pros:
- Flexible and active
- Quick jobs with good hourly rates
- Can be done before or after other commitments
Cons:
- Weather can be an issue
- Income depends on how many clients you have
- Travel time between clients cuts into pay
Boarding
Pros:
- Higher earning potential
- You control the environment
- Opportunity to host multiple pets
Cons:
- Requires space and pet-proofing
- Can be noisy or disruptive at home
- Must meet local zoning or permit regulations
Which One is Best for You?
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide based on your lifestyle:
| Lifestyle / Preference | Best Option |
| Live in a small apartment | Dog Walking |
| Have a house with a yard | Boarding |
| Prefer working in quiet homes | Pet Sitting |
| Want short, active jobs | Dog Walking |
| Okay with overnight stays | Pet Sitting or Boarding |
| Looking for the highest income potential | Boarding |
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
Whichever service you choose, here are some smart ways to boost your income:
- Offer add-ons like grooming, training, or multiple daily walks.
- Get certified in pet first aid and CPR, it builds trust.
- List on multiple platforms (like Rover, Wag!, or Care.com).
- Request reviews from happy clients to build credibility.
- Bundle services (e.g., dog walking + pet sitting).
FAQ: Common Questions from New Pet Care Providers
Q: Do I need a license to start pet sitting or boarding? A: It depends on your city or county. Boarding often requires permits, especially if you’re caring for pets in your home.
Q: Can I make this a full-time job? A: Yes, many people do! Especially those who board multiple pets or walk dogs daily. It takes time to build a client base, but it’s very doable.
Q: What are the startup costs? A: Dog walking and pet sitting require almost nothing to start. Boarding may need investment in pet beds, gates, and cleanup supplies.
Final Thoughts: Choosing What Works for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re just starting out and want flexibility, dog walking is a great way to ease in. If you have space and are looking for higher returns, boarding can be the most profitable. And if you love quiet nights with a furry friend nearby, pet sitting might be your sweet spot.
Whatever you choose, the key is to deliver great service, build relationships, and stay consistent. With time, trust, and a love for animals, you can absolutely turn this into a rewarding income stream.
Bonus Tip: Want to make your job easier and more professional? Check out our upcoming blog post on Essential Tools Every Pet Sitter Should Have, from must-have gear to time-saving apps, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to start your pet care side hustle? Take the first step today. Create a free profile on Rover or Care.com and get your first client!