How to Set Pet Sitting Rates (Without Undervaluing Yourself)
Setting your rates as a pet sitter can feel intimidating. Charge too little and you burn out. Charge too much and you worry no one will book.
The goal isn’t to be the cheapest sitter in your area — it’s to price yourself sustainably, competitively, and professionally.
Step 1: Research Your Local Market
Start by checking what other sitters in your city charge for:
- Boarding (per night)
- House sitting (per night)
- Drop-ins (30 minutes)
- Dog walking (30 minutes)
Look at sitters with similar experience levels, not just the lowest price you can find.
Pro tip: Don’t match the cheapest sitter. Compete on professionalism, not price.
Step 2: Calculate Your Real Costs
Even if this feels like “just pet sitting,” you are running a business.
Factor in:
- Gas and transportation
- Time spent messaging and scheduling
- Supplies (bags, treats, cleaning materials)
- Platform fees
- Taxes (self-employment income)
If you charge $40 for a service but lose 12% in platform fees and spend gas money, your take-home is lower than you think.
Step 3: Understand Platform Fees
Every marketplace structures fees differently.
For example:
- Standard sitters may pay a 12% platform rate.
- Partnered sitters may pay 9%.
- Clients may also pay a small platform fee.
Always price knowing what your actual payout will be after fees.
Step 4: Decide Your Positioning
Are you:
- A budget-friendly option?
- A mid-tier professional sitter?
- A premium, high-touch provider?
Your rate should match your service level.
If you offer detailed updates, flexible scheduling, and strong communication, your pricing should reflect that.
Sample Rate Strategy (Example)
| Service | Starter Range | Experienced Range |
|---|---|---|
| 30-min Drop-in | $18–$25 | $25–$35+ |
| Dog Walk | $18–$28 | $30–$40+ |
| Boarding (per night) | $35–$55 | $60–$85+ |
| House Sitting (per night) | $50–$75 | $80–$120+ |
Rates vary by region. Major metro areas may support higher pricing.
Step 5: Don’t Forget Add-Ons
You don’t need to raise base rates to increase income. Add-ons can reflect additional time and responsibility.
- Extra pet fee
- Puppy rate
- Holiday rate
- Medication administration
- Extended care / late pickup
These protect your time and prevent burnout.
Step 6: Raise Rates Strategically
Once you’re consistently booked, it may be time to increase rates.
Signs you should raise your rates:
- You’re fully booked weeks in advance
- You’re turning down clients
- You’re working long hours for low take-home pay
- You’ve gained strong reviews and repeat clients
Increase gradually and communicate professionally.
Common Pricing Mistakes
- Undercutting everyone just to get bookings
- Not factoring in platform fees
- Forgetting about taxes
- Not charging extra for holidays
- Burning out by overbooking low-rate services
Final Thoughts
Your rates should reflect your professionalism, time, and reliability.
Sustainable pricing allows you to provide better care, stay consistent, and build long-term client relationships.
Remember: serious clients look for value and trust — not just the lowest number.