How to Find a Dog Walker Job in Austalia as an International Student?

If you are an international student in Australia, a dog walker job could be a great way to earn extra money. It is flexible and enjoyable. Dog walking allows you to combine your love for animals with a part-time role that fits neatly around your study schedule. In this guide, you will learn why dog walking is popular. You will also find out how much dog walkers earn. We will show you where to find dog walking jobs. Lastly, we will give tips to stay safe and follow Australian rules.

Why Choose Dog Walking as a Part-time Job?

As an international student in Australia, your working hours are limited by visa regulations. During teaching periods, international students in Australia are generally limited to 48 hours per fortnight of work.They can work unlimited hours during official holidays and breaks. But  postgraduate research students can work unlimited hours at any time. So, you’d better check the local regulations before starting your dog walker job.

Due to the work hour limitation, dog walking becomes a very flexible part-time job. It doesn’t need long shifts and can fit your study schedule. Here are some of the key benefits of taking a job for dog walker:

• Flexible scheduling: You can fit dog walking jobs around your lectures, tutorials, and exams.
• Low entry barrier: Unlike in hospitality or retail, you don’t need experience or special qualifications. You just need to be reliable and care for animals.
• Healthy lifestyle: Walking dogs helps you stay active, enjoy fresh air, and reduce study-related stress.
• Decent income: The pay for dog walkers is competitive compared to other casual roles in Australia.

How Much Do Dog Walkers Earn?

One of the most common questions asked is how much do dog walkers make in Australia. Rates vary depending on the city, the length of the walk, and whether multiple dogs are included. On average in 2025, dog walkers in Australia earn:

Most walks last between 30 to 60 minutes. This means you could earn between $20 to $35 per walk, and more if you handle multiple dogs at once. Some students who manage their schedules well report making up to $400–$600 per week just from part-time dog walking.

Where to Find Jobs for Dog Walkers?

Finding jobs for dog walkers is easier than ever thanks to digital platforms and strong community demand. If you want a dog walker job in Brisbane or Adelaide, you can find opportunities online and offline.

Online platforms for Dog Walkers Job

Many Australians use pet service platforms to connect with reliable dog walkers. Popular platforms include:

These websites allow you to set up a profile, list your rates, and attract pet owners in your area. Many provide built-in insurance and safety guarantees, which makes pet owners more comfortable hiring international students.

Offline jobs for dog walkers in Australian cities

If you prefer word-of-mouth referrals or direct community engagement, you can offline connect with potential clients.

• Community notice boards: Post flyers in libraries, cafes, or student unions where people gather. If you have trobles finding the nearest boards around you, you can search it on List of Community notice boards
• Council connections: Some city councils actively run pet care programs. They often require the assistance of dog walkers, providing a great opportunity to get involved.
• Networking: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your landlord, neighbors, or classmates. They may know pet owners in need of help, and personal recommendations can lead to valuable connections.

Tips for Working as Dog Walker

Before you take a job as a dog walker, you should understand the responsibilities. It’s also important to know the safety rules in Australia

1. Understand Local Laws and Regulations:
   • Leash rules: Every city has different regulations on leash use. For example, in Brisbane, only two dogs can be walked off-leash by one person.
   • Dog-friendly zones: Familiarize yourself with designated off-leash areas, dog parks, and restricted zones to avoid fines.
   • Council permits: Some local councils may require professional dog walkers to have permits—check before starting.
2. Build Pet First Aid Knowledge:
   • Heat stress: Learn how to recognize signs of overheating (excessive panting, drooling, weakness). Carry water for dogs and avoid hot pavement.
   • Minor injuries: Know how to handle paw cuts, ticks, insect bites, or sprains during walks.
3. Prioritise Safety (for dogs and yourself):
   • Carry essentials: Always bring a phone, dog poop bags, water, treats, and a small first-aid kit.
   • Personal safety: Wear high-visibility clothing for evening walks, and choose well-lit, familiar routes.
   • Dog behaviour management: Learn basic training cues and how to handle dog-to-dog interactions safely.
4. Manage Insurance and Liability:
   • Platform coverage: If you work via platforms like MadPaws or PetCloud, check if insurance is included.
   • Independent work: Consider public liability insurance and pet care insurance to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
   • Client agreements: Use written agreements to clarify walk duration, responsibilities, and emergency procedures.

Frequently Asked Quesitons

How much do dog walker job get paid per hour in Australia?

Most dog walkers earn between $20 and $35 per hour depending on the city and the service offered. Some experienced walkers handling multiple dogs may earn up to $50 per hour.

Can international students legally take jobs for dog walkers?

Yes. As long as you follow your student visa’s work hour rules, you can work as a dog walker. Usually, you can work 48 hours every two weeks during study times.

Is dog walking a reliable part-time job in smaller cities like Adelaide?

Yes. While demand is not as high as in Sydney or Melbourne, dog walkers in Adelaide can still find opportunities. These often come from personal referrals, local councils, or platforms like PetCloud.

Conclusion

Becoming a dog walker job as an international student in Australia offers flexibility, enjoyable work, and decent pay. If you are looking for a dog walker Brisbane job or one in smaller cities like Adelaide, there are many options. You can find dog walking jobs both online and offline. Dog walking is a great part-time job for students. It pays between $20 and $35 per hour. The demand for dog walkers is expected to grow in 2025.

Reference

More

What is Naturopathy? A Complete Guide for Naturopathy Study in Australia

Natalia

+ postsBio ⮌

Hi, I’m Natalia, a passionate education advisor committed to helping students pursue their dreams through international study. Growing up in a small town and later attending a prestigious university, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative education can be. I created this platform to support families and students on their journey to studying in Australia, offering practical guidance, strategic planning, and inspiration. My mission is simple: to make quality education accessible, joyful, and empowering for every learner.

This author does not have any more posts