Short answer: A regular dog walker is usually tipped at the holidays, about one week's pay. For an occasional pet sitter, 15 to 20% of the bill is customary. With no cash on you, the options are: tip in the app, add it to your regular payment, scan their code, or send it when you get home.
How much to tip a dog walker or pet sitter
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Regular walker, at the holidays | About one week of walks |
| Pet sitting for a week away | 15 to 20% |
| Booked through an app | 15 to 20% in the app |
| Emergency vet run or last-minute cover | Add extra |
These are customary amounts in the United States, in US dollars. They are a guide, not a rule: tip more for exceptional service.
Do you have to tip a dog walker or pet sitter?
Per walk, no. A year-end tip is the convention. For sitters who stay in your home or deal with a problem while you are away, a tip is customary.
Can you tip a dog walker or pet sitter by card?
Apps such as Rover and Wag include tipping. Independent walkers are paid by bank transfer or payment app, and you can add the tip there.
4 ways to tip a dog walker or pet sitter without cash
- Tip in the app. After the booking is marked complete.
- Add it to your regular payment. Label it as a tip.
- Scan their code. Some walkers put a QR code on the report card they leave after each visit.
- Send it when you get home. For sitters, a tip on your return with a thank-you message is normal.
What a tip QR code does
If a dog walker or pet sitter shows you a QR code, point your phone camera at it. A payment page opens in your browser, you choose an amount, and you pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. You do not install anything or create an account, and it works with cards from other countries.
If you cannot tip on the day
Tip on your return. Sitters do not expect it mid-booking.
Outside the United States
The holiday tip custom is the same in the UK and Canada. In Australia a gift is more common than money.
Do you work as a dog walker?
Your clients are at work or on holiday when you do the job. You never meet at a till, and anything they want to add has to travel through whichever app happens to hold the booking.
See how dog walkers and pet sitters take card tips with a QR code: where to put it, what to write on the sign and how to mention it.
Common questions
How much should I tip a dog walker or pet sitter?
A regular dog walker is usually tipped at the holidays, about one week's pay. For an occasional pet sitter, 15 to 20% of the bill is customary.
Do I have to tip a dog walker or pet sitter?
Per walk, no. A year-end tip is the convention. For sitters who stay in your home or deal with a problem while you are away, a tip is customary.
Can I tip a dog walker or pet sitter with a card or Apple Pay?
Apps such as Rover and Wag include tipping. Independent walkers are paid by bank transfer or payment app, and you can add the tip there.
What if I have no cash to tip a dog walker or pet sitter?
Tip on your return. Sitters do not expect it mid-booking.