With pet ownership continuing to grow among Australians, the demand for reliable pet sitting services has skyrocketed. Whether you’re heading on holiday, a business trip, or just need daily care for your furry friend, finding the right pet sitter has become essential.
But here’s the thing: understanding pet sitting costs can be confusing, especially if you’re new to the process. Prices can vary depending on several factors, from the duration of care to the type of pet involved. Whether you’re a pet owner looking to hire a sitter or a potential sitter yourself, knowing how the pet sitting pricing guide works is crucial.
This guide delves deeper into the various factors that influence pet sitting prices in 2025, with a particular focus on dog sitting prices, enabling both pet owners and sitters to make informed decisions.
What is Pet Sitting and What Does It Include?
Pet sitting is a service where someone looks after your pet while you’re away. Unlike kennels or catteries, pet sitting usually takes place in your home, offering a more comfortable and less stressful environment for pets.
There are a few types of pet sitting services:
- Daily Visits: The sitter drops by once or twice a day to feed, walk, and check on your pet. This is ideal for pets that don’t need round-the-clock supervision but still benefit from regular interaction.
- Overnight Stays: The sitter stays in your home overnight, offering companionship and care during the most critical hours. This is often preferred for pets with anxiety or special needs.
- Live-In Weekly Care: The sitter moves into your home for a set period, making it ideal for long-term travel or pets that require extra attention throughout the day.
In-home pet sitting services refer to an arrangement where the sitter stays at your home to care for your pet in their usual environment. With Happy House Sitters, homeowners can connect with verified sitters (with ID proofs) to find someone they can trust. This exchange is free of charge, where the sitter keeps the house and pet safe and cared for in return for free accommodation.
Pet sitting services generally cover:
- Feeding and Walking: Feeding your pet and walking them (if necessary) are the basics. A daily walk or exercise routine is typically part of the package.
- Playtime: Pet sitters usually engage your pet in playtime to keep them entertained and happy while you’re away.
- House-Sitting Duties: Some pet sitters also take care of the house, including tasks such as watering plants, collecting mail, and ensuring the property’s security.
- Updates and Communication: Sitters will typically provide updates through texts or photos, so you know your pet is doing well.
Average Pet Sitting Rates in Australia (2025 Update)
Pet sitting rates in Australia vary significantly depending on the location, the type of service, and the sitter’s experience. You can expect the average pet sitting costs to be:
- Daily Visits: $20–$35 per visit
- Overnight Stays: $45–$90 per night
- Live-In Weekly Care: $250–$500+ per week
And here is a detailed pet sitting pricing guide for the major Australian cities:
| City | Daily Visit | Overnight Stay | Live-In Weekly Care |
| Sydney | $30–$35 | $70–$90 | $400–$500+ |
| Melbourne | $25–$30 | $60–$85 | $350–$450 |
| Brisbane | $22–$30 | $55–$80 | $300–$400 |
| Perth | $20–$28 | $50–$75 | $280–$380 |
| Adelaide | $20–$25 | $45–$70 | $250–$350 |
Rural areas may charge less, but additional travelling fees may be applied. These averages reflect standard pet sitting prices, but they may increase depending on additional duties, pet-specific needs, or bookings during peak seasons. Sitters with vet training or high customer ratings often charge at the top of the range.
The pricing guide is provided to help you understand the standard market rates. At Happy House Sitters, house and pet sitting services are available free of charge in exchange for free accommodation.
Dog Sitting Prices: What Dog Owners Should Know
Dog sitting prices are generally higher than those for other animals due to the hands-on nature of dog care. Dogs often require more walks, playtime, and interaction with their sitter, which can increase the price.
Here are the factors affecting dog sitting costs:
- Breed and Size: Larger or high-energy dogs often need longer walks and more playtime.
- Age and Health: Puppies and senior dogs may need frequent attention, potty breaks, or medication.
- Exercise Needs: Some dogs require multiple walks per day, which can raise the rate.
- Behaviour: Dogs that are reactive, shy, or aggressive may require a sitter with special experience, which can further increase the cost.
The average dog sitting rates can be expected to be:
- Daily Visit: $25–$35
- Overnight Stay: $60–$90
- Puppy Care or Special Needs: Add $10–$20 per visit or night
The more involved the care is, the higher the dog sitting cost will be. Solo walks, structured playtime, and obedience training may all be considered add-ons.
What Affects Pet Sitting Prices?
Several factors can impact pet sitting costs beyond the type of animal or service selected:
- Location
Urban areas, such as Sydney and Melbourne, have higher pet sitting rates in Australia than rural towns due to the higher cost of living. Rural areas typically charge lower pet sitting prices, but the travelling fees may be higher, which impacts the overall cost.
- Number of Pets
Prices can rise when caring for multiple pets, particularly dogs or other high-maintenance animals. Sitters typically charge an additional $10–$20 for each extra pet due to the increased workload and attention required for them. Additionally, some pets require specialised care, such as puppies or elderly dogs, who need more attention. This could increase the sitting rate.
- Time of Year
Holidays, weekends, and school breaks are peak times, and pet sitting costs tend to rise. This is because demand increases, and sitters may charge a premium for these peak times. If you’re planning to be away during these periods, be sure to factor this into your budget.
- Experience Level
Experienced sitters with qualifications or certifications in animal care will often charge higher rates. Sitters with specialised training, such as behavioural training or first aid, may justify their higher prices, especially if you’re looking for someone who can manage pets with special needs.
- Additional Services
If you need your sitter to perform extra tasks, such as administering medication, grooming, or training, you can expect to pay an additional fee. Some sitters may even water your plants or collect your mail, which may incur an additional cost. Always confirm what’s included in the service to avoid confusion.
- Booking Window
It’s always recommended to book your pet sitting service in advance. A last-minute booking will always result in hiked prices.
This pet sitting pricing guide recommends getting quotes upfront, in writing, and clarifying what’s included to avoid surprise fees.
Pet Sitting Cost Comparison: Sitters vs Boarding Kennels
When choosing between in-home care and a traditional boarding kennel, cost is just one factor to consider. Both have pros and cons depending on your pet’s temperament and your travel plans.
In-Home Pet Sitting:
| Pros | Cons | Average cost per night |
| Pets stay in a familiar environment, less stress, personalised care, and added house-sitting perks like plant care and mail collection | Typically more expensive, requires more trust and communication with the sitter | $50–$120 |
Boarding Kennels:
| Pros | Cons | Average cost per night |
| Often cheaper, particularly for long stays; some provide structured schedules and professional staff | It be stressful for pets, especially those who are shy, elderly, or anxious; risk of illness exposure | $30–$70 |
For pets that require one-on-one attention or have specific health needs, in-home care often proves to be more cost-effective in the long run.
** Table provided as indicative os standard market rates.**
Long-Term Pet Sitting: How Rates Are Calculated
Long-term pet sitting, classified as anything over a week, is usually priced differently from one-off bookings. Many sitters prefer longer jobs and offer discounts as a result.
- Weekly Discounts: A sitter who charges $80/night might drop to $500/week.
- Package Deals: Monthly bookings may include perks such as a complimentary walk, extended playtime, or waived holiday surcharges.
- Fewer Transitions: Long stays provide continuity for your pet and simplify scheduling for sitters.
A month-long live-in pet sitting arrangement could range from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on the pets, duties, and location. Always discuss your expectations in detail upfront.
Tips for Pet Owners: Getting the Best Value
To get the most out of your investment in pet care, consider these tips:
- Ask for References and Reviews: Reliable sitters should have positive feedback and a history of returning clients.
- Check for Insurance and Police Checks: These provide peace of mind and show professionalism.
- Clarify What’s Included: Ask for a written agreement outlining specific services, visit times, and fees.
- Use Reputable Platforms: Sites like Happy House Sitters offer ID checks to their users and allow you to read verified reviews.
- Book in Advance: Especially during school holidays and the Christmas season.
- Do a Trial Visit: A short trial day helps test compatibility between sitter and pet.
Tips for Sitters: How to Set Your Rates
If you’re a sitter, smart pricing can help you attract more clients without undervaluing your time.
- Know Your Local Market: Review other listings in your area to ensure your rates remain competitive.
- Offer Tiered Packages: Create clear options for daily visits, overnight care, and live-in support.
- Raise Rates Gradually: As you collect more positive reviews and gain loyal clients.
- Highlight Qualifications: Promote any relevant training, insurance, or animal health experience.
- Bundle Extra Services: Include things like plant watering or poop scooping to justify higher pricing.
Clients are often willing to pay more for reliability, communication, and professionalism.
Final Thoughts
Pet sitting costs are worth it if you value peace of mind, convenience, and personalised care for your pet. Not only do you get someone who understands your animal’s needs, but you also gain the added bonus of house care and security while you’re away.
For sitters, pet care offers flexibility, income, and the joy of working with animals. With transparent pricing, a strong track record, and excellent communication, sitters can build a thriving business.
At Happy House Sitters, we connect homeowners with reliable and verified sitters. The sitters found on our platform don’t charge anything. Their service is a swap in return for getting free accommodation. Visit https://www.happyhousesitters.com.au/ to find someone you can trust today.
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