Straight answers about RuffRuff's 12% provider commission, 8% client booking commission, identity verification, payouts, and how it compares to Rover and Wag.
The 30-second version
Providers keep 88% of every booking. RuffRuff takes 12%.
Clients pay an 8% on top of the listed price.
Total platform commission is 20% — the same as Rover takes from the provider alone, split so providers keep more.
Every provider is government-ID verified before going live.
No monthly subscriptions, no listing charges, no boost upsells — ever.
Pricing & Payments
What does it cost to use RuffRuff for pet care?
RuffRuff takes a 12% commission from providers and 8% from clients — 20% total on every booking. On a $50 walk, the client pays $54, the provider keeps $44, and RuffRuff keeps $10 ($4 from the client + $6 from the provider). There are no monthly subscriptions, no listing charges, and no charge to create a profile.
What exactly does that commission pay for?
Every dollar RuffRuff collects goes back into running a safe, trustworthy marketplace. Specifically: platform management — keeping the apps and servers running, payments processing reliably, and bookings/calendars in sync. Client management — secure checkout, in-app messaging, dispute mediation, refunds and cancellations, and customer support. Quality assurance — review moderation, safety reporting, fraud detection. Service provider verification — government-ID checks with matching selfies, ongoing identity re-verification, and Stripe-backed payout setup.
How does RuffRuff's commission compare to Rover and Wag?
Rover takes a 20% cut from providers alone (you keep 80%). Wag takes around 20% as well. RuffRuff's 12% provider commission means walkers and sitters keep 88% of what their service is priced at — meaningfully more per booking on the same rate. Total platform take across both sides is 20%, the same as Rover takes from the provider alone, but split so providers keep more.
Why does the client also pay a percentage?
The 8% client side funds the safety and support infrastructure on the client side — secure payment processing, government-ID-verified providers, in-app messaging, dispute mediation, the help center, and platform reliability. It's shown clearly at checkout, never hidden.
Why does the provider also pay a percentage?
The 12% provider commission funds provider-side platform operations — booking management, scheduling and calendar tools, payouts via Stripe, ID verification, review moderation, and ongoing client acquisition. It's only ever charged on a completed, paid booking — never on profiles, listings, or messages.
When do I get paid?
Payouts run through Stripe directly to your bank account after a booking is completed. Standard Stripe payout timing applies — typically 2 business days after the booking finishes.
Are there any other charges? Listing charges, monthly subscriptions, boost upsells?
No. Creating your provider profile is free, staying listed is free, and there are no upsells to be visible in search. The only money RuffRuff ever takes from a provider is the 12% commission on a completed, paid booking.
What about cancellations and refunds?
If a client cancels before the booking starts, the booking total is refunded per the cancellation policy. RuffRuff only collects on bookings that actually happen.
For Providers (Walkers & Sitters)
Who can become a RuffRuff pet care provider?
Anyone in the U.S. who's 18+, can pass identity verification, and has experience caring for dogs. You sign up directly in the app — no waiting list, no application interview.
Is identity verification required?
Yes. Every provider must upload a government-issued photo ID and a selfie before their profile can go live. This protects clients and protects you from fraudulent bookings. There's no way to skip this step.
Why do you ask if I have a pool?
Pools are a real safety consideration when dogs are in your care, especially for breeds that aren't strong swimmers. Disclosing whether you have a pool — and whether it's gated or fenced off — helps clients make an informed choice.
Why do you ask about a fenced yard?
A fenced-in yard is a top filter clients search by, especially for high-energy or escape-prone dogs. Listing it accurately gets you more relevant booking requests.
Do I need pet care insurance to list?
It's not required, but it is shown on your profile when you have it. Many serious clients prefer insured providers, so it can help conversion.
How do clients find me?
Clients search by location, services offered (walking, sitting, daycare, overnight), dog size, and home features. RuffRuff matches by distance using the address you set.
For Dog Owners
Is RuffRuff free for dog owners to use?
Yes — the app is free to download and use for finding parks, meeting other dogs, and joining the community. The 8% only applies when you book a paid pet care service through the app.
How do I know a provider is trustworthy?
Every provider on RuffRuff has passed government-ID verification with a matching selfie before their profile can go live. You can also see their experience, rates, home features, reviews from past bookings, and message them directly before booking.
What if something goes wrong during a booking?
Reach out through in-app messaging first to resolve directly with your provider. If you can't, contact RuffRuff support and we'll help mediate. Booking through the platform is what protects both of you.