How to Become a Dog Walker in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
Aug 10, 2024TL;DR – Key Takeaways
- No formal licensing required to date, but certification increases earning potential.
- Dog walkers earn $25–$50 per hour on average in Canada
- Liability insurance and local permits may be required, depending on the municipality
- Professional certification through Good Dog Academy provides a competitive advantage, credibility, and client trust
What Are the Requirements to Become a Dog Walker in Canada?
Legal Requirements
Becoming a dog walker in Canada doesn’t require federal licensing, but there are local rules to follow:
- Municipal permits or business licenses may be required (varies by city)
- Liability insurance is highly recommended for client and pet protection
- Business registration if you operate commercially or under a business name
Professional Requirements
- Professional certification (highly recommended but not mandatory)
- Physical fitness to handle multiple dogs safely
- Understanding of canine body language, safety protocols, and behaviour
- Pet first aid knowledge for emergencies
Professional credentials demonstrate competence and responsibility, setting you apart from hobbyists or untrained walkers.
How Much Do Dog Walkers Make in Canada?
Dog walkers across Canada typically charge:
- Solo walks: $25–$45 per hour per dog
- Group walks: $20–$30 per dog per hour
- Premium services: $40–$50+ per hour
Monthly Income Potential:
- Part-time (15 hrs/week): $1,500–$3,000
- Full-time (30 hrs/week): $3,000–$6,000
- Established businesses: $5,000–$10,000+
Rates vary by location and service offerings — for instance, Toronto and Vancouver dog walkers often charge the highest rates due to high demand and the cost of living.
What Do Professional Dog Walkers Actually Do?
Dog walking is more than exercise — it’s about safety, structure, and trust.
Core Services
- Individual and group walks
- Bathroom breaks and enrichment outings
- Monitoring dogs for stress or injury
- Communicating progress and updates with clients
Extended Services
- Puppy socialization walks to build confidence
- Walk and train sessions combining exercise with learning
- Pet sitting and overnight care
- Emergency pet care support
Offering diverse services allows you to meet client needs while expanding your earning potential.
What Skills Do You Need to Be a Dog Walker?
Essential Skills
- Reading canine body language and stress signals
- Physical fitness and safe dog handling
- Clear communication and reliability with clients
- Problem-solving during unexpected situations
Advanced Skills for Higher Income
- Foundational dog training and reward-based handling
- Group management for multiple dogs
- Pet first aid and emergency preparedness
- Business and marketing strategy for growth
A strong skill set ensures safety and sets a professional tone that attracts long-term clients.
Do You Need Certification to Walk Dogs in Canada?
While not legally required at this time, professional certification offers significant advantages:
- Builds trust and credibility with new clients
- Increases earning potential and access to premium markets
- Qualifies you for better insurance coverage rates
- Demonstrates competence in handling, safety, and animal welfare
Good Dog Academy’s Professional Dog Walker Certificate Program teaches:
- Safe dog handling and group management
- Understanding canine body language and stress
- Risk management and safety protocols
- Professional business practices and client communication
Certification positions you as a knowledgeable, responsible professional — a must in today’s competitive pet care market.
What Are the Local Regulations for Dog Walking in Canada?
Each municipality has its own bylaws for professional dog walkers.
Toronto:
- Maximum six dogs per walker in public spaces
- Business license required for commercial dog walking
- Off-leash area rules are strictly enforced
Vancouver:
- Maximum eight dogs per walker
- Business license required
- Liability insurance is mandatory for professional walkers
Calgary:
- Maximum six dogs per walker in most areas
- Business registration required
- Specific park-use permits for commercial walkers
Always verify with your local animal services department for current bylaws before operating.
How Do You Start a Dog Walking Business in Canada?
Step 1: Get Certified
Enroll in a professional dog walker certification program to build credibility and practical skills.
Step 2: Obtain Legal Requirements
Register your business, obtain municipal permits, and secure at least $1–2 million liability insurance coverage.
Step 3: Set Your Rates
Research competitors in your area and create service packages that reflect your expertise and market demand.
Step 4: Build Your Client Base
- Develop professional branding and marketing materials
- Network with veterinarians, groomers, and pet stores
- Use Google My Business, social media, and referral incentives
Step 5: Establish Operations
- Set up scheduling and booking systems
- Create client agreements and emergency procedures
- Use GPS or check-in apps to increase client transparency
What Insurance Do Dog Walkers Need in Canada?
Dog walkers should maintain strong financial protection with:
- General liability insurance: $1–2 million coverage minimum
- Professional liability insurance: Covers care errors or negligence
- Bonding insurance: Protects against theft or property damage
The annual cost typically ranges from $300–$800, depending on the province and coverage level.
Many insurers now offer specialized pet business packages for dog walkers and sitters.
How Do You Market Your Dog Walking Services?
Online Presence
- Build a professional website with clear rates and photos
- Claim your Google Business Profile for local searches
- Share walk updates and client testimonials on social media
Local Marketing
- Partner with veterinarians, trainers, and pet stores
- Attend community events and dog-friendly meetups
- Offer referral rewards or first-walk discounts
Professional Networking
- Join the Canadian Dog Walkers Association (CDWA)
- Connect with other pet care professionals and shelters
- Cross-promote with boarding, daycare, or training providers
Strategic marketing builds your reputation, visibility, and consistent client bookings.
What Equipment Do Professional Dog Walkers Need?
Essential Gear
- Reliable leashes, harnesses, and collars
- Waste bags and sanitation supplies
- Pet and human first aid kits
- Weather-appropriate clothing and safety gear
- High-quality dog treats for reinforcement
Technology Tools
- Scheduling and client management software
- GPS tracking for accountability
- Mobile payment options
- Camera or smartphone for photo updates
Most professional walkers invest $200–$500 in equipment and technology initially.
Can You Expand Beyond Basic Dog Walking?
Advanced Service Options
- Walk & Train: Combine structured exercise with obedience training
- Puppy socialization programs for early development
- Senior dog walks with gentle pacing and comfort care
Career Growth Opportunities
- Earn your Professional Dog Trainer (PDT) certification
- Add pet sitting, enrichment, or boarding services
- Develop your own branded team or franchise model
Expanding beyond standard walking services increases income potential and long-term career sustainability.
Why Choose Good Dog Academy for Certification?
Good Dog Academy’s Professional Dog Walker Certificate Program offers:
- Comprehensive education in safety, behaviour, and business operations
- Guidance from experienced, certified trainers
- Real-world skills for managing multiple dogs safely
- Business development tools to help you launch successfully
- Professional credibility that builds client trust and justifies premium rates
Certification sets you apart as a trained, ethical professional in Canada’s growing pet services industry.
Ready to Start Your Dog Walking Career?
- Turn your love of dogs into a rewarding, flexible career.
- Professional certification gives you the skills, confidence, and credibility to succeed and ensure every walk is safe, enjoyable, and enriching for the dogs in your care.
