Dog walking prices have risen steadily as more people have gone back to the office. Here is what UK owners typically pay in 2026, what pushes the price up, and when a local teenager is a sensible alternative.
Average dog walking prices in 2026
Typical UK prices for a professional walker, according to Protectivity's 2026 guide:
- 30-minute solo walk: around £10 to £15
- 60-minute solo walk: around £16 to £25
- 30-minute group walk: around £8 to £12
- 60-minute group walk: around £12 to £18
- Each additional dog from the same household: around £4 to £8
In London, Rover puts the average 30-minute walk at about £14 and an hour at about £22.50.
What affects the price
- Solo or group. Solo walks cost more because the walker's full attention is on your dog.
- Length of walk. Most walkers price in 30 and 60-minute blocks.
- Location. London and big cities are the most expensive.
- Your dog. Puppies, reactive dogs and dogs needing medication often cost more.
- Timing. Early, late and bank holiday walks can carry a premium.
- Regular bookings. Weekly packages often bring the per-walk price down.
When a local teenager makes sense
For a calm, well-behaved dog that needs a short midday or after-school walk, a responsible local teenager can be a good fit. They are usually nearby, available after school and at weekends, and cheaper than a professional, at around £5 to £8 for a 30-minute walk. A professional is the better choice for reactive or very strong dogs, long daily walks while you are at work, puppies needing training, or dogs with medical needs.
Questions to ask any walker
- How many dogs do you walk at a time?
- Where will you walk, and will my dog stay on the lead?
- What happens if something goes wrong, and how will you contact me?
- Can we do a short trial walk together first?
Setting a teen walker up for success
- Do a first walk together so your dog gets to know them.
- Explain your dog's habits, triggers and the route you use.
- Agree that the dog stays on the lead unless you have tried off-lead together.
- Keep it to one dog, or dogs from one household, at a time.
Teen walkers can read our guide to starting dog walking, which covers the same safety rules.
Find a walker nearby
On KidsHustle any adult can post a dog walking job for local 13 to 17 year olds. You verify your identity once, every listing is checked before it goes live, parents approve their teen's applications, and payment is held until the walk is done. Post a dog walking job.