When most people imagine a side hustle, they picture rideshare apps, food delivery gigs, or selling handmade goods online. But there’s a quieter corner of the gig economy—one that smells faintly of tennis balls and peanut butter treats. It’s pet sitting and dog walking. And in 2025, platforms like Rover are at the center of it.
But before you leap into a leash-laden side gig, it’s worth asking the big question: is Rover worth it?
Let’s dig into what this gig really involves—no sugar-coating, no pitch, just facts and lived experience.
The Side Hustle with Fur and Freedom
Rover connects pet owners with everyday people who are willing to walk dogs, watch pets overnight, or drop in for playdates and feedings. It’s flexible, casual, and—depending on how you approach it—either a weekend windfall or a full-blown lifestyle.
You create a profile, list your services, and set your rates. From there, it’s up to pet parents to find you. Easy, right?
Well, yes and no.
The Gig Behind the Curtain
1. It Pays… Kinda
On paper, average hourly rates on Rover hover around $24. But remember: Rover takes 20% of your earnings off the top. That means if you charge $25 per visit, you’re actually walking away with $20. Subtract gas, doggy bags, and self-employment taxes? That $20/hour is more like $13–$15.
If you’re disciplined, you can pull in a few grand a month. But don’t expect overnight riches. This is a volume game, and reliability is currency.
2. You’re Not Just Walking Dogs
You’re dealing with humans, too. Some will cancel last-minute. Others might hover over you with excessive instructions. Then there are the pets: some are angels, others bite ankles and chew through seatbelts.
The upside? You’ll have some truly wholesome days. A Labrador greeting you like a rockstar. A client texting to say, “Thanks, she hasn’t been this calm in weeks.” That stuff sticks with you.
3. You Are the Boss—and the Marketing Department
Rover gives you the tools, but you’re responsible for the results. You’ll need a polished profile, friendly photos, and a clear service list. Want repeat business? Be punctual. Write thank-you notes. Ask for reviews. Basically, run it like a mini business—because it is one.
When Rover Works (and When It Doesn’t)Rover is ideal if:
- You love animals and don’t mind unpredictable schedules.
- You live in a pet-dense area (urban neighborhoods or suburbs with lots of dogs).
- You want autonomy and flexibility.
It’s less ideal if:
- You need steady, reliable income fast.
- You dislike self-promotion or client interactions.
- You’re in a rural area with low demand.
Lessons from the Leash
If there’s one truth about being a Rover sitter, it’s this: it’s exactly what you make of it.
Put in the effort, and it can be rewarding both financially and emotionally. Take it lightly, and it’ll show up in your reviews (or lack thereof). It’s not passive income—but it’s not corporate drudgery either.
So back to the original question—is Rover worth it? That depends on your goals, your temperament, and how much you’re willing to hustle—with a leash in hand.
