Dog Walking contract template
A short written agreement covers recurring access to a client's home and dog even for casual, referral-based clients, and matters more here than for one-off services since you'll likely hold a key long-term.
Scope of services
List walk length, leash-only vs off-leash park access, route/area covered, and whether group walks with other clients' dogs are included or require separate consent.
Schedule and cancellation policy
State the recurring schedule, your notice requirement for skipped walks, and whether missed-walk fees apply for late cancellations (common since a skipped slot can't usually be resold same-day).
Emergency authorization
Get written permission to seek veterinary care and a spending limit if the owner can't be reached, plus what to do if the dog escapes or is injured mid-walk.
Key/access handling
Document how you'll receive and return keys, codes, or garage openers, and what happens if access is lost or the owner changes locks.
Liability and insurance
Note whether you carry dog-walker liability/bonding insurance and clarify responsibility for property damage, dog-on-dog incidents (especially relevant for group walks), or injury outside your control.
Payment terms
Specify per-walk rate, billing cadence (many walkers bill weekly or biweekly for recurring clients rather than per visit), accepted payment methods, and late-payment policy.
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Consider having a local attorney review your final agreement.