Dog walker and daycare costs in the UK
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
If you work long days, a dog walker or daycare can be the difference between a bored dog and a happy one — but it's often the biggest regular cost after food. Here's what to expect.
Dog walker prices
| Service | Typical UK price |
|---|---|
| Group walk with a local walker (about an hour) | £10–£15 in most areas; £15–£20 in London |
| Solo 30-minute walk booked through Rover | around £19 |
| Solo 60-minute walk booked through Rover | around £26 |
| Extra dog from the same household | usually £2–£5 more |
Five walks a week at £12 is about £60 a week — roughly £260 a month.
Doggy daycare prices
Traditional daycare typically costs £25–£30 a day, with London slightly higher; in-home daycare with a sitter can be £31–£55. Half days are usually discounted, but rarely by half.
Sources: NARPS UK, Rover walking rates (2026) and Rover daycare prices (2026). Prices vary a lot by area.
Why prices vary
- Location: cities cost more than rural areas.
- Solo vs group: private walks cost more; group walks suit sociable dogs.
- Regular bookings are usually cheaper than one-off walks.
- Puppies, reactive dogs and extras (feeding, medication) cost more.
What to check before you book
- Public liability insurance and care, custody and control cover.
- A DBS check and pet first-aid training.
- How many dogs they walk at once (some councils set a limit), and how they travel.
- A trial walk or meet-and-greet, and references from other owners.
- For daycare in England, a licence from the local council.
Keeping the cost down
Mix it up: a walker on your longest days, a friend or neighbour on others. Some owners split a walker with a neighbour's dog. And budget it alongside the rest of your dog's costs — see what it costs to feed a dog.
Last updated September 2026.