Dog Walking Santa Cruz
Book a dog walker to give your dog a 30-minute walk around your neighborhood.
Over 307 pet parents in Santa Cruz have booked dog walking
Santa Cruz, Find top rated dog walking
Prices are estimates per walk for 1 dog. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.
“Emma was fantastic! She was enthusiastic, communicative and incredibly sweet to our big anxious guy. She was engaged, comfortable with his size and energy, and it was clear she genuinely enjoys dogs like him. We’d recommend her to anyone with a dog that needs a bit more experience and patience!”
About: Hello! My name is Leo, and I have been in and out of dog-related jobs since I was fifteen years old. I am only twenty years old and a college student; however, my passion for animals (specifically dogs) is what drives me the most, and I would be as committed as necessary to your pet in all cases. I would provide your pet with premium care to the fullest extent! I worked at AlphaDog Lodging (a dog boarding/daycare) for just under two years, followed by a 9-month unpaid intership at Camino Alto Veterinary Clinic. I have also recently been dog-sitting quite a bit, my longest stay being two weeks. My experience in animal care is to achieve my ultimate goal of becoming a Veterinarian, and Rover gives me the opportunity to keep working hard for you and your pet! June 23rd - July 26th: Free every day, anytime. July 28th-August 28th: Downtown Santa Cruz, available all day Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun. Unfortunately, gone from 9am-4pm on Tues and Thurs (can stop by at noon though). Can do any night, if you are comfortable with your dog being alone for four hours at a time. August 28th-September 23rd: Downtown Santa Cruz, free any day, any time! Santa Cruz: I live in a studio attached to a house with a large front and back yard. Our backyard is fenced in and quite exciting for dogs to explore. We get lots of birds and squirrels, and sometimes a neighbor's cat comes by to visit. I would have your pet stay in my room on a cot, bed, or crate (I only have a cot and a small dog bed here). Kenwood: I live on a large property with my parents, where I could bring your pet home, and they could run forever. Everything is fenced in here; however would prefer bringing a smaller dog home. I am very open to staying in your home as well, for a greater price.
“Jade is an absolute gem to work with! She was so attentive to our elder dogs many detailed needs. She communicates frequently, asking questions and letting us know how our little ones are doing. She sends plenty of sweet photos and really exhibits so much care. I recommend her without hesitation!”
“Skye , is a lovely professional dog walker. My dog Scooby warmed up to her right away. After just a few days of service Scooby is now very excited to see her knowing a good walk is on the way. He can tell she’s an animal person. Skye is easy to communicate with, friendly and very professional. Can’t say enough of what a find skye is on rover. Happy new customer, highly recommend!”
About: I have taken care of all kinds of pets for as long as I can remember. I am a go to pet sitter for all of my family, friends, and others I am recommended to. I am currently a full time student. I can take care of your pets before, between, and after classes. I have plenty of time to make at home visits and plenty of time for walks/enrichment! I do not have any pets here in Santa Cruz, but my first priority is ensuring your pets are safe and well taken care of!
“Jaden was great with Apollo! Last-minute, I ended up needing a dog walker, and Jaden was super communicative and flexible, which I really appreciated. She gave a detailed report and several pictures, which I really appreciated! She was great at following my instructions. Should I need a dog walker again, I'll definitely reach out to Jaden!”
About: I've been taking care of animals for quite some time now! I have two senior dogs myself and snakes. I look forward to meeting you both! I usually have a routine with my senior puppies, therefore creating one that suits your dog's needs will be no problem at all! I'm flexible at the moment since it's summertime. I will follow the safety protocols! If there are any additional instructions or care needed that will be applied to the routine as well. Ensuring all doors and windows are locked while all food is put away.
“Amanda was amazing with my dog, Luna. She took her on long walks and Luna came back tired and a very happy camper. It’s clear that Amanda is wonderful with dogs and genuinely cares about them. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable and caring dog walker!”
“First time using Rover and so glad we picked Jasmine! She is quick to respond and so kind. It’s always nervewracking to let someone you’ve never met into your home while you’re away, but I know Mika was in good hands and we’ll definitely be booking with Jasmine again in the future. She took lots of photos during the walk and followed our instructions - even opened the door for our cat so she could roam around while they were away. I could tell from the photos that Mika had so much fun and let out all of the midday zoomies :)”
“Megan is the best. She is responsible, respectful and a total pup whisperer for our black lab, Duchess. In fact she is the only person, us included, who can coax Duchess into her harness. We began with the plan to do just a couple of walks but it has worked out so well that Megan is now on a regularly recurring weekly schedule. Speaking of which, she has kindly accommodated some last minute changes in walk times. Thanks Megan.”
About: I have experience with dogs of all sizes and all ages! I grew up training and caring for a strong and stubborn German Shepherd. In the past few years, I’ve lived with a Retriever puppy - training him to be a sociable young man that goes potty outside. I’m the go-to for my friends and family when it comes to pet sitting. They trust me with their fur babies and appreciate how I maintain the routine their pet is familiar with. I work fully remote, so I have lots of flexibility when it comes to walks, playtime, and housesitting! On weekdays, I’m most available after 11:00am PT. I’m occasionally available on weekends! I want to care for your pet in the way you do! Please fill me in on their routine and their sensitivities! I want them to care for them in a way that feels familiar and safe.
About: I grew up in the country with many different animals, mostly rescues. I am very familiar and comfortable with caring for and training many different animals. I currently do independent work dictated by my own schedule. I am usually pretty flexible and able to take last minute requests for walks, pet care and training. I don't offer pet care in my home but I try to accommodate the unique needs of every animal with sensitivity and compassion. I'm very used to a wide range of animals, mostly rescues and some formerly abused animals.
About: I’ve been taking care of dogs since I can remember and would always volunteer at my local adoption center. I’ve been trusted to dog sit many times and can’t wait to care for your pets! I’m available most days, including week days. I’m currently taking online classes at UCSC, but still have plenty of time to care for your pets! I am able to walk your pets, feed, play, and spend time with them. I will do anything to make sure your pups are doing great and are cared for!
About: I have been a dog lover since I got my first dog, Kiwi the puggle, about 20 years ago. While I can't have a dog at my current place, I love to hang out with my friends dogs and dog walk/sit when I can. I have experience dog sitting a variety of dogs - from a senior german shepherd/mastiff mix to a bernadoodle puppy, to high energy australian shepherds and golden retrievers. I would be more than happy to take your dog for a long walk or hike (if that's what they'd like), and am fine with just hanging on the couch and giving pets. I also have experience cat sitting! I had a rambunctious tuxedo cat in college named Chia who I loved dearly. I was the regular sitter for my friends cat who required oral medication. I've cat sat for a number of other cats, from a range of playful to timid to independent. Happy to tell you more about myself and my experience, and I hope to have the chance to look after your adorable fur baby! I work from home Monday and Friday, so on those days I have flexibility to provide the care your pet specifically needs. While I am caring for a pet, I want to make them as comfortable as possible and prioritize attending to their needs. I try to respect your pets needs and boundaries as well as respecting the home that I am sitting in. If a dog seems high to medium energy, I try to provide stimulation through walks and play. I also make it a priority to respect the boundaries of your pet. I will give them space and let them come to me if they are shy, will be gentle and patient if I sense anxiety, all the while trying to let them know that they are safe & that I am a friend.
About: I’ve always had dogs and cats growing up. Being with animals is a passion of mine! I am currently working at Animal Hospital of Soquel as a kennel tech. I Wouldn’t mind caring for other kinds of pets! I am currently working at Animal Hospital of Soquel, Im available for drop ins and dog walks most days, currently working Sunday through Wednesday and some Saturdays. I will update my schedule as much as I can! 🫶✨ If you have a certain schedule you follow at home, I can follow that no problem! Just let me know what needs to be done and I can do that for ya!
About: Hello! My name is Scottie T., i’m a recent college graduate with a bfa in theatre, perusing an MA at Santa Cruz. I have two dogs i miss back in Brentwood - so i’m more than excited to care for and play with another buddy. I have experience with a wide range of dogs: from raising chihuahua, dachshunds, golden retrievers, and french bulldogs. I’m a very active and outdoorsy person and I’m more than happy to give your best friends an outdoor experience that will either burn off steam for the active ones or take the brisk walks for the ones who just want to enjoy the fresh air. Tell me everything you want me to know about your specific furry friend! I want to make sure the dog is properly cared for and gets all his needs fulfilled! I am working remote, and will have plenty of time for your pets! I’m an early riser, and very active to fit your pets wants and needs! Currently in a one bedroom apartment and can have the dogs over for the day on weekends and nights on occasion. We don’t currently have other pets so your pet will have our full attention!
About: Hi! I am an adventurous person looking for new experiences while caring for pets of all kinds. I have been around animals my entire life and love them dearly. I independently pet sit often so I’m not always available on Rover. I also do pet sitting on another app and posted my reviews! I don’t drink, or smoke. Your home and pets will always be taken care of while I’m there. I enjoy nature and hiking is a part of my daily life. Your pups will always get walked for the time you recommend. I hope to meet you soon and be of service to you and your pet babies :) I currently have a flexible schedule so please reach out so we can set up a time and days that work best for you :) I can easily follow whatever directions are given to me. My goal is to care for your pet just as if it is you caring for it yourself. I’m comfortable going to houses and can send updates to assure you they are taken care of.
The median cost per walk for dog walking in Santa Cruz is $25
Dog parents share their Rover experiences - Santa Cruz
Skye , is a lovely professional dog walker. My dog Scooby warmed up to her right away. After just a few days of service Scooby is now very excited to see her knowing a good walk is on the way. He can tell she’s an animal person. Skye is easy to communicate with, friendly and very professional. Can’t say enough of what a find skye is on rover. Happy new customer, highly recommend!
Jaden was great with Apollo! Last-minute, I ended up needing a dog walker, and Jaden was super communicative and flexible, which I really appreciated. She gave a detailed report and several pictures, which I really appreciated! She was great at following my instructions. Should I need a dog walker again, I'll definitely reach out to Jaden!
Delaney is the BEST and such a sweet person. She took amazing care of Lucky and I’m so grateful for her help. She sent me adorable photos and videos of their adventures which I loved! It’s always stressful finding a new pet sitter because I want someone who not only keeps my pup safe but also loves him almost as much as I do, but that clearly wasn’t a worry with her. Delaney went above and beyond, highly recommend and will use her in the future! :)
Naomi has been the best sitter for my dog and I’m so grateful! 🥳 Naomi has been so sweet and so attentive and caring for my sweet baby angel princess 💅🏼 she’s been treating my dog like a member of her own family and has always been there for me when I’ve needed her. 💖 I’m really lucky that I found her as my dog sitter/dog walker 🐕 and she is also just a genuinely kind sweet person as well!!! 🥰 You would be silly 🪿 to not have Naomi walk your dog! 🐶 thank you Naomi!
Amanda was amazing with my dog, Luna. She took her on long walks and Luna came back tired and a very happy camper. It’s clear that Amanda is wonderful with dogs and genuinely cares about them. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable and caring dog walker!
Book with peace of mind
- Screened pet sitters have passed a third-party background check and show verified reviews from other pet parents, like you.
- Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 reimbursement for eligible vet care. Learn more
- 24/7 support from the Rover team–here to help if you ever need someone to talk to.
Why Choose Rover?
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Book and pay through Rover’s secured platform—no cash or checks required.
Reservation protection
It doesn’t happen often, but if your sitter has to cancel, we’ll work with you to find a new sitter.
World-class support
We’re friendly, knowledgable, and total pet fanatics. You can get in touch with us anytime.
Meet local walkers who will treat your dogs like family
1. Search
Browse profiles of walkers near you who offer dog walking
2. Meet In Person
Schedule a free in-person Meet & Greet to find the perfect fit
3. Book & Pay
It's that easy! All payments are processed through Rover's secured platform
Popular requests for dog walking - Santa Cruz
Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering dog walking.Sitters in Santa Cruz average 3 repeat dog walking clients
FAQs for Dog Walking - Santa Cruz
Frequently asked questions about Rover
The average cost for Dog Walking in Santa Cruz on Rover is $25.68 per walk (as of August 2026). However, all sitters set their own rates based on experience, location, and availability.
Rover makes budgeting the cost of Dog Walking easy. As long as your dates and pet profiles are correct, the price you see before you book is the same price you pay for Dog Walking. For more information on service fees, click here .
As of August 2026, there are 4,748 sitters on Rover offering Dog Walking across Santa Cruz. Enter your ZIP code to see which available sitters are closest to your home.
Whether you want a solo or group walk depends on your dog's personality. Solo walks can be beneficial for dog parents with reactive dogs, puppies, or dogs who are anxious around unfamiliar animals. Many dog walkers on Rover offer private, one-on-one walking services.
Group walks are a good fit for social dogs who enjoy structured walks. If your dog prefers the energy of a group stroll, ask your dog walker about group walks in your Santa Cruz. Since all dog walkers are local, they may have a neighborhood dog who is a good walking companion to yours.
For dog walking services, you can request a report card update with specifics about your dog’s walk. Report cards require photos and can include a map of the walking route , total walk time, poop and pee breaks, and distance traveled, so you know exactly where your dog has been walking in Santa Cruz.
Got specific details you'd like the dog walker to include? Message them in the app before your dog’s walk begins.
The Rover Guarantee is Rover’s commitment to your peace of mind every time you book. It includes 24/7 customer support, sitter access to advice from qualified veterinary professionals for diagnostic issues, and a reimbursement program for eligible veterinary care in the rare event something goes wrong.
All bookings are backed by the Rover Guarantee , which provides up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care reimbursement.
Every walker on Rover is required to pass a background check before listing their services. This process confirms their identity and indicates they are not on the Department of Justice’s National Sex Offender Public Website or have any disqualifying offenses.
Beyond ID checks, you can review each sitter's star rating, read verified reviews from other pet parents, and see how many repeat clients they have. Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care. For more details, visit Rover's Trust & Safety page .
Yes, you can find walkers who have experience with handling special pet needs in Santa Cruz. On Rover:
- 91% of walkers can help with special care needs
- 95% can help with giving oral medications or injections
- 94% can help with daily exercise
You can also find pet sitters on Rover who accept only one pet at a time, which is ideal for anxious puppies, kittens, or senior pets who move at a gentler pace. Some sitters will also list availability for 24/7 care, also known as constant care, in their profiles.
Use the search filters to narrow down sitters whose specific experience or environment meets your pet's needs. When reaching out to your sitter, outline your pet's care routine and use the Meet & Greet to walk your sitter through your expectations.
A Meet & Greet is a short introductory meeting between you, your dog, and a walker. It can take place in person or virtually, although we recommend in-person so that your pet can get to know your walker or the new environment. During the Meet & Greet, you will have a chance to walk through your pet's routine, medical needs, and unique quirks. Take the time to ask your walker questions about their skills and expertise, and make sure the fit feels right for everyone. Most pet parents and walkers on Rover welcome Meet & Greets because the process can give confidence and peace of mind for service experiences, especially for longer stays or first-time bookings.
Sitters on Rover set their own cancellation policy, which you can find on their profile under their calendar availability.
Cancelling before a booking begins and before the sitter's cutoff time qualifies you for a full refund. Same-day cancellations for walks, day care, and drop-ins follow the full refund policy. Otherwise, for dog boarding and house sitting, you will receive a 50% refund for the first seven days of the booking and a 100% refund for the remaining days when you cancel the same day a booking should begin.
If your sitter needs to cancel within seven days of the booking's start date, then our reservation protection will kick in. This means our support team works with you to find a replacement walker.
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