Why Use a Contract?
The primary benefit to using a contract for dog walking is that is establishes clear expectations for both the dog walker and the owner. It also limits liability for the walker, helps prevent disputes, and demonstrates professionalism.
Average Pay
According to Indeed, the average pay for a dog walker in the United States is $19.88 per hour. However, the hourly rate for dog walking can vary widely, from as log as $13 to as high as $30, depending on location and experience.
What to Include
1. Client Information
A dog walker’s contract must include the name and mailing address of the client for whom they are providing the service. The form should also list the name and description of each dog that the walker will walk.
2. Work Schedule
The agreement should outline whether the walker will be required to walk the dog at specific times or on specific days.
3. Payment Details
The contract must include the details of how much the client will pay the dog walker and on what basis. Dog walkers are often paid on an hourly basis, but they can also be paid per walk, per day, or per week.
4. Duration of Contract
The start date and duration of the dog walking agreement must be described in the contract. Additionally, the form must state whether the agreement will conclude on a specific date or on an at-will basis.
How to Get Started as a Dog Walker
- Volunteer at a Shelter: Animal shelters that house dogs offer volunteers the opportunity to walk and help take care of dogs in need. Note that you may need to undergo some training before working directly with the animals.
- Gain Experience: Offering to walk dogs for your friends and neighbors is a good way to not only gain dog walking experience, but also develop a network of references who can vouch for you to future clients.
- Look for Freelance Opportunities: There are several apps and websites that match dog owners with freelance walkers. This is an excellent way to gain experience as a professional dog walker.
Sample
DOG WALKING CONTRACT
I. THE PARTIES. This Dog Walking Contract (“Agreement”) is entered into as of [Date], by and between:
Dog Walker: [DOG WALKER’S NAME] with a mailing address of [MAILING ADDRESS] (“Dog Walker”), and:
Owner: [OWNER’S NAME] with a mailing address of [MAILING ADDRESS] (“Owner”).
Dog Walker and Owner are each referred to herein as a “Party” and, collectively, as the “Parties.”
II. DOG(S). The Dog Walker shall be responsible for walking the following dog(s):
1. [NAME OF DOG#1]
2. [NAME OF DOG #2]
3. [NAME OF DOG #3]
Hereinafter referred to as the “Dog(s)”.
III. PAYMENT. The Owner agrees to pay the Dog Walker: (check one)
☐ – $[AMOUNT] per hour.
☐ – $[AMOUNT] per Walk.
☐ – $[AMOUNT] per [DESCRIBE].
IV. SCHEDULE. The Dog Walker is: (check one)
☐ – Not required to adhere to a weekly schedule.
☐ – Required to adhere to the following schedule:
☐ – Monday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
☐ – Tuesday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
☐ – Wednesday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
☐ – Thursday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
☐ – Friday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
☐ – Saturday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
☐ – Sunday Start: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM End: ___:___ ☐ AM ☐ PM
V. RESPONSIBILITIES. The Parties agree that the Dog Walker shall have the responsibility of the general supervision and care of the Dog(s) while on Walks, as well as the removal of the Dog(s)’s feces from all public places. Furthermore, the Dog Walker shall have the following responsibilities: [DESCRIBE]
VI. SUPPLIES. The Dog Walker shall: (check one)
☐ – Be responsible for providing their own supplies, such as leashes, a scooper, and waste bags.
☐ – Receive all necessary supplies, such as leashes, a scooper, or waste bags, from the Owner.
VII. TERM. This Agreement starts on [START DATE] and ends: (check one)
☐ – On the Date of [END DATE].
☐ – Upon Written Notice by either Party of at least [NUMBER OF DAYS] days.
VIII. GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION. The following are grounds for immediate termination:
- Safety of any Dog(s) to be compromised;
- Mistreatment of the Dog(s);
- Non-performance of job responsibilities;
- Dishonesty;
- Theft; and/or
- The breach of any statute or clause in this Agreement.
IX. ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS. [ADDITIONAL TERMS & CONDITIONS]
X. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement, along with any attachments or addendums, represents the entire agreement between the Parties. Therefore, this Agreement supersedes any prior agreements, promises, conditions, or understandings between the Parties.
Dog Walker’s Signature: __________________________ Date: _______________
Print Name: ___________________________
Client Signature: ___________________________ Date: _______________
Print Name: ______________________