How much does it cost to start a pet sitting business?

Between $500 and $1,500 for the basics: LLC filing ($50–$500), insurance ($300–$600/year), certifications ($50–$200), and gear/supplies ($100–$200). It's one of the lowest-cost businesses to start.

How much can I make as a pet sitter?

Part-time sitters earn $10,000–$25,000/year. Full-time professionals with established client bases earn $30,000–$60,000+. Adding dog walking, holiday bookings, and special needs care can push income past $75,000.

Do I need a business license for pet sitting?

Most cities require a general business license. Check with your local clerk's office. Costs are usually $25–$100/year. Some states may have additional requirements for home-based businesses.

Should I form an LLC for my pet sitting business?

Yes, in almost all cases. An LLC separates your personal assets from business liability. If a pet is injured in your care and you get sued, your personal savings and property are protected. Filing takes an afternoon and costs $50–$500 depending on your state.

What's the best platform for pet sitters?

Rover has the largest client base but takes a 20–40% commission. RuffRuff Let's Play offers a community-first model where clients already know you from the dog park and Community Packs — higher trust, real relationships, and lower commission.

How do I get my first pet sitting clients?

Start with friends and neighbors. Post on Nextdoor and local Facebook groups. Hand out cards at dog parks and vet offices. List yourself on RuffRuff Let's Play and other platforms. Offer a small discount for your first few clients in exchange for reviews.

How to Start a Pet Sitting Business in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to start a pet sitting business? This 2026 guide covers LLCs, insurance, certifications, pricing, marketing, and the best platforms to build your client base.

There's a particular kind of trust that happens when someone hands you their house key, shows you where the dog food is, and says "we'll be back Sunday." It's not just a transaction — it's a relationship. And if you're the kind of person dogs gravitate toward, the one who always ends up on the floor at parties surrounded by pets, pet sitting might be the business you were born to run.

The pet sitting industry generates over $6 billion annually in the US, and it's growing every year. More pet owners travel, more dual-income households need help, and more people want personalized care instead of kennels. If you've been thinking about starting a pet sitting business, 2026 is the year to do it. Here's every step, from paperwork to your first overnight client.

The pet sitting business lives and dies on trust. Here's how to build it:

Tax Considerations for Pet Sitters

Scaling From Side Hustle to Full-Time

Your Business Starts With One Booking

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start a pet sitting business?: Between $500 and $1,500 for the basics: LLC filing ($50–$500), insurance ($300–$600/year), certifications ($50–$200), and gear/supplies ($100–$200). It's one of the lowest-cost businesses to start.
How much can I make as a pet sitter?: Part-time sitters earn $10,000–$25,000/year. Full-time professionals with established client bases earn $30,000–$60,000+. Adding dog walking, holiday bookings, and special needs care can push income past $75,000.
Do I need a business license for pet sitting?: Most cities require a general business license. Check with your local clerk's office. Costs are usually $25–$100/year. Some states may have additional requirements for home-based businesses.
Should I form an LLC for my pet sitting business?: Yes, in almost all cases. An LLC separates your personal assets from business liability. If a pet is injured in your care and you get sued, your personal savings and property are protected. Filing takes an afternoon and costs $50–$500 depending on your state.
What's the best platform for pet sitters?: Rover has the largest client base but takes a 20–40% commission. RuffRuff Let's Play offers a community-first model where clients already know you from the dog park and Community Packs — higher trust, real relationships, and lower commission.
How do I get my first pet sitting clients?: Start with friends and neighbors. Post on Nextdoor and local Facebook groups. Hand out cards at dog parks and vet offices. List yourself on RuffRuff Let's Play and other platforms. Offer a small discount for your first few clients in exchange for reviews.