How Much To Pay a Friend for Dog Sitting

When it comes to finding a dog sitter, most people tend to think of professional services which typically require some financial commitment in the form of a deposit.

 However, that’s not the only option you have—you can also ask a friend or family to dog sit.

Not only is it cheaper to have someone you know watch your dog but you can also be confident that your dog will be well cared for by someone you trust.

Besides, your friend or family member may already be familiar with your dog’s routine and habits, which can make the transition easier for both you and your pet.

Should You Pay Your Friend To Watch Your Dog?

This is a tricky question to answer because on one hand, most friends will happily watch your dog for free, and on the other hand, you will probably not want to inconvenience them.

Most friends do not expect to be paid and even if you were not to pay them, they will probably enjoy taking care of your dog anyway, especially if they have met the dog before.

The thing to remember, however, is even though they are your friend, it takes time and effort to sit a dog—time that they could be spending elsewhere.

So, even if your friend says they are not expecting payment, it is always a good idea to pay them anyway.

Just think of it as a way of appreciating them for their sacrifice.

How Much Should You Pay Your Friend To Watch Your Dog?

Well, just figure out how much you would pay a professional sitter and then pay your friend about 60%-70% of that.

So, for instance, if you would pay a professional $100 per day to watch your dog, then you should pay your friend around $60-$70.

The main rationale for paying lower than you would a professional is that you will be paying them in cash, which means there are no taxes, background check fees, or other professional costs that come with using a service.

Besides, the friend is sitting your dog as a favor anyway and they will happily appreciate any amount you give them.

Of course, how much you pay your friend is ultimately up to you and will also depend on other factors such as how long they are watching your dog and how many dogs they are sitting at once (if more than one).

If you want to be extra generous, you could also include a nice thank-you note or gift along with the cash.

How Much Should I Pay My Friend To Watch My Dog For A Day?

If your friend is watching the dog for the whole day, then it is best to pay them a fair hourly rate.

You can discuss with them an agreeable hourly rate beforehand.

For instance, if you go with a $10 per hour rate, then you would pay them $80 for an 8-hour day.

 If they are only available for a 4-hour day, then you would pay them $40.

If your friend says they are not expecting payment, you can still use an hourly rate to decide on the amount to give them at the end of the day.

How Much Should I Pay A Friend For Dog Sitting Overnight?

Overnight dog sitting typically costs more than daytime dog sitting.

For instance, a daily dog sitting fee may be less than $40 while overnight dog sitting could be anything from $50-$100.

In light of these, it is only fair that you also pay your friend more for overnight dog sitting than you would typically pay them for the day.

A good rule of thumb is to pay them 50% more than you would for daytime dog sitting.

So, if you would normally pay your friend $40 for a day of dog sitting, then you should pay them $60 for overnight dog sitting.

Of course, this rate may vary depending on how many dogs they are sitting and how long they are required to stay overnight.

How Much Should I Pay My Friend To Watch My Dog For A Week?

It is customary to use an hourly rate to determine a daily rate which will then be used to come up with a weekly rate.

So, for instance, if you and your friend agree on a $10 per hour rate, then the daily rate would be $80 (8 hours x $10).

The weekly rate would be 5 times the daily rate or $400 (5 days x $80) assuming a 5-day week.

Of course, these are just ballpark figures and you can ultimately decide on the rate based on other factors such as how long they are sitting the dog and how many dogs they are sitting.

Important Considerations to Make to Help You Reach a Fair Price Point 

When trying to come to a fair price point, it is important to consider all the associated costs.

This includes not just the food and shelter for the dog but also any other activities that the dog needs such as walks, playtime, and visits to the vet.

You should also think about the time that will be spent by your friend. This includes not just the time spent sitting the dog but also any time spent getting to and from the dog’s house as well as any time spent caring for the dog.

If they have other commitments such as school or work, then it is only fair that you pay them more for their time.

Another important consideration is the number of dogs that your friend is sitting. If they are sitting more than one dog, then it is only fair that you pay them more for their time and effort.

When Should You Pay Your Friend For Dog Sitting—Before Or After?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question.

It is ultimately up to you and your friend to decide when the payment should be made.

Paying your friend beforehand may be a good option if you are worried about forgetting to pay them afterward.

It may also be the best way to go if your friend is broke and needs the money right away.

On the other hand, you may decide to pay them after just to make sure that you are satisfied with the job they did first.

This approach is best when you haven’t agreed on an amount yet and are waiting to see how everything goes.

Your friend may also be more motivated to show up knowing that they will be paid for the hours they put in.

Ultimately, you will have to analyze the unique situation and decide on which approach works best for you and your friend.

Learn more here: Do You Pay A Pet Sitter Before Or After?

What to Do If Your Friend Refuses Payment After Sitting Your Dog

If your friend refuses payment after sitting your dog, you should try to have a conversation with them about it.

It could be that they misunderstood and thought that you didn’t want to or couldn’t pay them. It is also possible that they are just being generous and don’t expect to be paid.

If they still refuse payment after discussing it, you should respect their decision and not force the issue.

Just be thankful that you have a generous friend who was willing to help you out.

But you can always show your appreciation in other ways such as buying them a thank you card or taking them out to lunch.

Top Tips to Ensure That Your Agreement Is Smooth Sailing

• Discuss with your friend about the rate before they start sitting the dog. This will help to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding about the amount of money that will be exchanged.

• Make sure that you are both on the same page about when the payment will be made. Will it be paid upfront, after the job is completed, or in installments?

• Make sure that you are clear about what is expected of your friend. Are they just responsible for feeding and walking the dog or are they also expected to take them to the vet or groomer? The more specific you can be, the better.

• Have a backup plan in place in case your friend is unable to fulfill their obligations. This could include finding another friend to sit the dog or making arrangements with a professional dog-sitting service.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your agreement with your friend goes smoothly. And you can rest assured knowing that your dog is in good hands.

How to Ask To Be Paid By a Friend for Dog Sitting

What about if you want to be paid for sitting a friend’s dog—how do you ask for it?  

Well, make sure to ask about the payment well in advance.

Otherwise, your friend may assume you do not expect compensation and that could result in unnecessary conflict afterward.

The best way to go about it is to ask your friend how much they will pay you.

If they were not planning to, this question will make them know you expect to be paid.

After this, you can discuss and agree on a rate. Make sure that you are both on the same page about when the payment will be made.

Parting Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision of how much to pay your friend for dog sitting is up to you.

When deciding how much to pay, make sure to consider the time commitment involved as well as the costs of any supplies that will be needed such as food, toys, and dog beds.

Keep in mind that you can always show your appreciation in other ways such as buying them a thank you card or taking them out to lunch.

But if you do decide to pay your friend, make sure that you are both on the same page about the rate and when the payment will be made.

This will help to ensure a smooth and conflict-free agreement.