Dog Sitting Prices in 2025: What You Can Expect to Pay for Reliable Pet Care
- Published on:
- By: ASP Team
With pet ownership on the rise across the U.S., the demand for professional dog sitting services is at an all-time high.
Whether you’re traveling for work, going on vacation, or managing a busy schedule, hiring a reliable dog sitter ensures your pet receives personalized care in a safe and familiar environment. But what are the costs associated with dog sitting?
This guide provides a detailed overview of dog sitting prices in 2025, the factors that influence these rates for dog sitters, the various types of services available, and tips on finding the best option for both your pet’s needs and your budget.
Note: For some pet parents, the best option may be bringing their dog along, especially if the dog qualifies as a Psychiatric Service Animal (PSA). PSAs are trained to perform specific tasks that support their handler’s mental health needs, and with a valid PSA letter, they may be permitted to accompany you in places where pets typically aren’t allowed. At American Service Pets, we help facilitate this process by connecting you with licensed professionals for PSA evaluations and providing access to task training resources. Get started with the Psychiatric Service Animal process.
What Is Dog Sitting?
Dog sitting is a professional service where an experienced caregiver looks after your dog in your absence, whether at your home, the sitter’s home, or through scheduled drop-in visits. Unlike traditional boarding kennels, dog sitting provides a more personalized and one-on-one experience tailored to your pet’s specific needs, ensuring comfort and stability in a familiar or welcoming environment.
Sitters handle essential tasks such as feeding, walking, and administering medication, while also providing companionship and emotional support. This dedicated care goes beyond basic needs, offering your dog a sense of connection and comfort. Dog sitting is an ideal solution for pet owners seeking reliable, attentive care for their furry companions.
Average Rates for Dog Sitters in 2025
Dog sitting prices can vary widely depending on your location, the type of service you choose, and your dog’s specific needs. Below is a general breakdown of average U.S. dog sitting costs in 2025:
| Service Type | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
|
Drop-in Visit (30 min) |
$15 – $30 per visit |
|
Hourly Sitting |
$20 – $40 per hour |
|
Day Sitting |
$30 – $60 per day |
|
Overnight Sitting |
$50 – $90 per night |
|
Weekly Sitting (Full Day + Overnight) |
$350 – $600 per week |
Rates pulled from recent data across Rover, Wag!, and independent sitters via Pet Sitters International.
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What Factors Influence Dog Sitting Prices?
Not all dogs, or sitters, are created equal. Here are the main factors that affect what you’ll pay:
Location
Dog sitting services, like housing costs, tend to be more expensive in urban areas. For instance, sitters in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco may charge 30–50% more than their counterparts in suburban or rural regions.
This price difference reflects the higher cost of living in these areas, as well as the increased demand for pet care services in busy cities.
For pet owners living in urban locations, this premium is something to consider when budgeting for a dog sitter, as the cost can add up quickly, especially for longer stays or additional pets.
Type of Service
The type of dog sitting service you choose will significantly impact the specific charges for dog sitting. In-home sitting, where the sitter stays overnight in your home, is typically the most expensive option but provides personalized, round-the-clock care for your pet.
On the other hand, drop-in visits are more affordable, ideal for quick feeding sessions and potty breaks. Deciding between these options depends on your dog’s specific needs and your budget.
While in-home sitting offers peace of mind for pet owners, drop-in visits are often sufficient for pets with lower maintenance requirements or shorter time periods of care.
Duration and Frequency
The length and consistency of your booking can also affect dog sitting prices. Longer stays or recurring bookings often qualify for discounted weekly or monthly rates, making them more budget-friendly for extended travel.
However, one-time bookings or last-minute arrangements are likely to come with additional charges, especially if the sitter adjusts their schedule to accommodate you.
If you plan to travel frequently or for long durations, establishing a consistent schedule with a dog sitter may save costs and ensure your pet receives reliable care. Be mindful of these factors to maximize value for money while prioritizing your pet’s well-being.
Number of Pets
The number of pets you have will directly influence the cost of dog sitting services. Sitters typically charge an additional $5–$15 per extra pet per day due to the increased workload.
Caring for multiple dogs involves more feeding, walking, and attention, which adds to the sitter’s responsibilities. If you have two or more dogs, these fees can quickly increase the overall cost.
For pet owners with multiple pets, it’s essential to discuss pricing with the sitter upfront and consider the added expense when budgeting for their care. Multi-pet households should plan accordingly for this surcharge.
Special Needs or Services
Dogs requiring special care will often come with higher sitting costs due to the added responsibility. Services like medication administration, behavioral handling for anxious or reactive pets, or frequent walks often incur a premium.
Puppies, with their higher energy levels and need for more supervision, also fall into this category. These additional fees reflect the extra time, attention, and expertise required to care for pets with special needs.
If your dog falls into this category, ensure you communicate their requirements clearly with the sitter to receive a tailored service that prioritizes your pet’s comfort and well-being.
Types of Dog Sitting Services
Not sure what kind of sitting service is best? Here’s a quick guide:
In-Home Sitting
A sitter stays overnight in your home with your dog.
Pros:
- Minimizes pet anxiety
- Maintains familiar routine
- Added home security while you’re away
Best For: Senior dogs, anxious pets, multiple-dog households
Boarding at Sitter’s Home
You drop off your dog at the sitter’s residence.
Pros:
- Often cheaper than in-home
- Ideal for social dogs
Cons:
- Less control over the environment
- Risk of interaction with other pets
Drop-In Visits
Sitter stops by 1–3 times per day to feed, walk, and play with your dog.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Great for short trips or independent dogs
Best For: Low-maintenance dogs or daily workday visits
Dog Daycare Sitting
Full-day care—either in your home or at a facility.
Pros:
- Great socialization
- Continuous supervision
Best For: Puppies or high-energy dogs
What's Included in Dog Sitting Charges?
Each sitter may offer slightly different packages, but most basic dog sitting prices include:
- Feeding and providing fresh water to ensure your pet stays nourished and hydrated.
- Regular potty breaks or walks to keep your pet comfortable and maintain their routine.
- Administering medication if needed, following all instructions carefully for your pet’s health.
- Basic grooming, including brushing and cleanup, to keep your pet looking and feeling their best.
- Updates sent via text or app, complete with photos and notes, so you’re always in the loop.
- Playtime and affection to keep your pet happy, active, and feeling loved while you’re away.
Always ask what’s included in your sitter’s rate. Some may charge extra for:
- Bathing or nail trims
- Long-distance travel
- Holidays or weekend surcharges
Rates for Dog Sitters: Hidden Fees to Watch For
Before finalizing your booking, it is essential to confirm any additional fees or charges to avoid unexpected costs. Many sitters increase their rates by 20–50% during holidays, and some may apply fees for last-minute bookings made on short notice.
If your sitter needs to travel a significant distance, they may request reimbursement for transportation costs. Additionally, for in-home jobs, certain sitters might require a damage deposit as a precaution.
It is also advisable to discuss early return policies, as some sitters impose cancellation fees if plans change. Establishing clear communication on these matters in advance promotes transparency and helps ensure a smooth and professional experience for all parties involved.
How to Find a Dog Sitter You Can Trust
You’re not just hiring a babysitter—you’re trusting someone with a beloved family member. Here’s how to ensure a great match:
Ask for Credentials
When choosing a pet sitter, ask about their credentials to ensure your furry friend is in safe hands. Look for sitters with Pet CPR or First Aid training and certifications from organizations like Pet Sitters International or NAPPS.
Additionally, platforms like Rover or Wag! often verify identities and conduct background checks for their sitters. These qualifications provide peace of mind and show a commitment to professionalism. Taking the time to verify credentials helps you find a sitter you can trust with your pet’s care.
Read Reviews
Reading reviews is essential when selecting a pet sitter. Go beyond the star ratings and dive into detailed feedback about their punctuality, communication skills, and how pets behave after their care. Reviews often reveal important insights about a sitter’s reliability and ability to handle unexpected situations.
Look for consistent positive comments and take note of any red flags. This process ensures you choose a sitter who not only meets your expectations but also makes your pet’s comfort and safety a priority.
Schedule a Meet-and-Greet
Scheduling a meet-and-greet is a crucial step in finding the right pet sitter. Allow your dog to meet the sitter beforehand to observe how they interact with each other. Watch for signs of comfort and trust from your pet, as these interactions often indicate compatibility.
Trust your instincts during this meeting, as your pet’s well-being depends on building a good rapport with the sitter. This step ensures both you and your pet feel confident in their care.
Review Policies
Before finalizing your choice, review the sitter’s policies to avoid surprises later. Ask about their emergency protocol, such as how they handle unexpected situations like illness or injury. Clarify their cancellation policy and whether it aligns with your needs.
Additionally, discuss how they provide updates about your pet’s daily activities and well-being. Knowing these details upfront ensures a smooth experience and helps you choose a sitter who aligns with your expectations for responsible and professional care.
Comparing Dog Sitting to Other Options
| Service Type | Price Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dog Sitting |
$15–$90/day |
Personalized care, in-home option |
Can be expensive for long trips |
|
Kennel Boarding |
$25–$60/day |
Secure, 24/7 staff |
Stressful for some dogs |
|
Friend/Neighbor |
Free–$20/day |
Budget-friendly |
May lack professional training |
|
Doggy Daycare |
$20–$45/day |
Social, structured environment |
Not ideal for shy or senior dogs |
Should You Tip Your Dog Sitter?
While tipping is not obligatory, it is highly appreciated—particularly for longer assignments, exceptional care, or services rendered during holidays. It is a thoughtful way to recognize the effort and dedication of dog sitters.
A common guideline is to tip between 10–20% of the total bill, based on the quality of service and your satisfaction with their work. Alternatively, you might consider offering a gift or bonus as a token of appreciation, especially for outstanding service.
Such gestures help foster goodwill and strengthen relationships with professionals who consistently exceed expectations. Although optional, tipping or providing a small token of gratitude is a meaningful way to express your acknowledgment and respect for their contributions.
Can Dog Sitting Be Combined with Other Services?
Absolutely! Many professional pet sitters go beyond standard pet care to offer extra services that make life easier for pet owners.
These can include things like watering your plants, bringing in the mail, basic grooming to keep your pup looking sharp, dog training to reinforce good behavior, or even care for cats and other small animals. These added perks can be super convenient if you’re looking for well-rounded support.
If you’re booking through a platform like Rover or hiring an independent sitter, don’t hesitate to ask about bundled packages! It’s a great way to save money while getting exactly what you need. Keeping communication clear ensures everything runs smoothly and that your pet—and your home—get the best care possible.
Final Thoughts: Is Hiring a Dog Sitter Worth the Cost?
Engaging a professional dog sitter offers more than just convenience—it provides invaluable peace of mind.
Knowing that your dog is in experienced and caring hands allows you to focus on your travel or other responsibilities without unnecessary worry. A professional sitter prioritizes your pet’s safety and comfort, delivering a level of personalized care that informal arrangements often cannot match.
While the cost of hiring a professional sitter may be higher, the benefits significantly outweigh the expense.
Your dog’s well-being and happiness should always be a priority. By planning in advance, asking the right questions, and selecting a sitter who treats your dog with the same care and attention as their own, you can ensure the highest standard of care for your pet.
If you’re looking for an alternative to leaving your dog behind altogether, consider whether your dog may qualify as a Psychiatric Service Animal (PSA). With a PSA prescription letter and proper task training—both of which American Service Pets can help you obtain—your dog may be able to accompany you in many public places and on your travels. This can be a meaningful solution for individuals who rely on their dog for mental health support and prefer not to be separated. Does this apply to you? Start the PSA process now.
The benefits of an Emotional Support Animal certification and a Psychiatric Service Dog certification are drastically different. Fortunately for you, American Service Pets’ network of active board certified doctor or other licensed mental health providers can help you find the right path to certification. To find out whether you need an ESA or PSD letter, take our easy, three-step Pet Owner Survey!
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