If you’ve ever dreamed of living and working in the United States, now’s your chance to turn your love for animals into a high-paying career. Dog walker jobs in the USA are booming, and surprisingly, many employers are willing to offer visa sponsorship for reliable and passionate pet care workers.
This guide reveals how you can earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year walking dogs in the U.S., the visa pathways that make it possible, and where to apply for the best pet care jobs that sponsor foreigners.
Why Dog Walking Is a High-Income Job in the U.S.
Dog walking isn’t just a hobby; it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S. The demand for professional dog walkers continues to soar as more Americans adopt pets and spend longer hours at work.
Here’s why it’s so lucrative:
- High Pet Ownership: Over 65 million households own dogs.
- Busy Lifestyles: Professionals pay for reliable pet care during work hours.
- Repeat Clients: Once you gain trust, you earn steady, recurring income.
- Flexible Hours: You can work part-time or turn it into a full-time business.
In cities like New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago, experienced walkers earn $100–$250 per day walking multiple dogs.
Dog Walker Salary in the USA (2026 Estimates)
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Walker | $35,000 – $50,000 | $15 – $25/hour |
| Experienced Walker | $55,000 – $75,000 | $25 – $40/hour |
| Premium/Private Clients | $80,000 – $100,000+ | $40 – $70/hour |
Some independent dog walkers in premium neighborhoods even cross six figures annually, especially when they handle multiple dogs per client or offer extras like training and overnight sitting.
Visa Sponsorship Options for Dog Walkers
If you’re an international job seeker, several U.S. visa programs can help you work legally as a dog walker or animal care assistant.
1. EB-3 Visa (Skilled & Unskilled Workers)
- Allows foreigners to work in the U.S. for employers who can’t find local labor.
- Dog walking and pet care can qualify under the “unskilled worker” category.
- Requires a permanent job offer from a U.S. employer.
2. H-2B Temporary Work Visa
- Ideal for seasonal or contract-based dog walking roles.
- Common among pet resorts, kennels, and animal care centers.
- Valid for 1 year and renewable.
3. J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa (Internships)
- If you have a background in animal science or veterinary care, you can apply as a trainee or intern with U.S. pet companies.
Requirements to Work as a Dog Walker in the USA
To qualify for these jobs, you’ll typically need:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience or passion for pet care
- Good physical health and stamina
- Clean background record
- Basic English communication skills
- Driver’s license (for travel between clients)
Optional certifications that can boost your pay:
- Pet CPR or first-aid training
- Dog behavior & handling certification
Top Websites to Find Dog Walker Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
If you’re ready to apply, start with these trusted platforms that often list
- Rover.com – Largest pet care network in the U.S.
- WagWalking.com – Offers nationwide dog walking gigs with flexible hours.
- Care.com – Features pet sitter and dog walking jobs (some employers offer visa help).
- SimplyHired.com – Search “dog walker with visa sponsorship USA.”
- Glassdoor.com – Filter jobs by employer sponsorship.
- Indeed.com – Type: “pet care visa sponsorship USA.”
How to Apply for Dog Walker Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
- Search for employers offering sponsorship.
Use keywords like “dog walker visa sponsorship USA” on job portals. - Prepare your resume highlighting pet care experience and customer trust.
- Contact employers directly; small businesses and agencies are more open to sponsorship.
- Attend virtual interviews to discuss availability, care skills, and reliability.
- Secure your job offer letter before applying for your visa.
Emphasize your reliability, communication, and ability to handle multiple pets; these are the top traits U.S. employers value most.
Benefits of Working as a Dog Walker in the USA
- Free or discounted accommodation (in some pet care programs)
- Flexible schedule and outdoor lifestyle
- Visa sponsorship from employers who need dependable caregivers
- Potential to start your own pet business once you settle in the U.S.
- Exposure to a growing, recession-proof industry
Example Job Listing
Position: Professional Dog Walker – Visa Sponsorship Available
Location: Los Angeles, California
Salary: $60,000 – $85,000 per year
Employer Type: Private household / Pet agency
Visa Type: EB-3 or H-2B
Job Description:
Walk, feed, and care for 2–3 family dogs daily. Report to the owner, ensure pets’ safety, and maintain cleanliness.
Conclusion
Dog walking in the U.S. is no longer a side gig; it’s a profitable, visa-sponsorable profession with real financial potential. Whether you’re a pet lover in Africa, Asia, or Europe, this could be your ticket to earning $50,000 to $100,000 per year while enjoying a flexible lifestyle surrounded by furry friends.
Start your application today, explore openings on trusted job portals, and take the first step toward a rewarding pet care career in America.
FAQs: Dog Walker Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
1. Can foreigners apply for dog walker jobs in the USA?
Yes, many U.S. pet care agencies and private households hire foreigners through the EB-3 and H-2B visa programs.
2. How much do dog walkers earn per year in the USA?
Between $50,000 and $100,000+, depending on experience, location, and number of clients.
3. Do dog walking jobs offer free visa and accommodation?
Some agencies provide sponsorship and housing assistance, especially for full-time caregivers.
4. What qualifications do I need to work as a dog walker in the USA?
A love for animals, basic English, good physical condition, and a clean record. Certifications in pet care can increase your pay.
5. How do I find a dog walking job with visa sponsorship?
Use platforms like Rover, Wag, Care.com, or Indeed and search for listings mentioning “visa sponsorship available.”
