Wag! Caregiver Requirements

Wag! is a popular platform connecting pet owners with dog walkers and sitters. If you’re considering becoming a Wag! walker, it’s important to know the requirements, application process, and expectations before you start. This guide breaks down what you need to qualify, how to get approved, and what it takes to succeed on the platform.

Eligibility and age requirements

Wag! sets some basic rules to ensure safety and professionalism:

• Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to sign up.
• Legal eligibility: You must be legally allowed to work in the country where you plan to offer services.

These requirements ensure all walkers can legally accept paid work and comply with local laws.

Creating your Wag! account

To begin, you’ll need to set up an account on the Wag! platform:

• Email and password: Provide a valid email address and create a secure password.
• Basic personal details: Include your name, phone number, and location.
• Profile photo: Upload a clear, friendly photo of yourself. Pet owners like to see who will be caring for their pets.

A complete account profile helps clients trust you before booking services.

Completing your application

Wag! has an application process to ensure walkers are prepared and responsible:

• Questionnaire: Answer questions about your experience with dogs, availability, and expectations.
• References: Wag! may ask for personal or professional references to confirm your reliability.
• Background check: All walkers must pass a background check. This helps ensure client safety and trust.
• Application fee: In some markets, Wag! charges a small fee to cover the cost of the background check. Make sure to read the fine print before submitting.

Experience requirements

Wag! does not require professional dog walking experience, but they do want people who are:

• Comfortable with dogs of all sizes and breeds.
• Able to handle energetic or shy pets calmly.
• Knowledgeable about basic pet care and safety.

Having prior experience with your own pets or volunteering at shelters is a plus. You should be prepared to communicate confidently with pet owners about their dog’s needs and habits.

Training and onboarding

After your application is approved and your background check is complete, you may be asked to:

• Complete Wag!’s onboarding materials, which often include safety guidelines, best practices for dog walks, and using the Wag! app.
  
• Watch instructional videos or pass short quizzes confirming your understanding.
  

This step helps ensure all walkers deliver consistent, safe service.

Required equipment

Walkers are responsible for bringing and using appropriate gear:

• Leash and collar or harness: Ensure a secure, safe walk.
  
• Dog waste bags: You are expected to clean up after dogs during walks.
  
• Phone with the Wag! app: The app tracks walks, updates pet owners, and manages bookings.
  

Reliable equipment is key for safety and a professional experience. These Wag! expenses can be tax deductions

Service types on Wag!

Wag! offers more than just 30-minute or 60-minute dog walks. As a walker, you may also qualify for:

• Drop-in visits: Quick check-ins to feed, water, or let pets out.
  
• Pet sitting: Overnight stays at the owner’s home or yours.
  
• Boarding: Hosting pets in your home.
  
• Training sessions: If you’re qualified and approved for these services.
  

You can choose which services you want to offer based on your experience and availability.

Scheduling and availability

Wag! offers flexible scheduling, but your success depends on responsiveness:

• Set your availability in the app so clients can see when you’re open.
  
• Respond quickly to booking requests to secure more jobs.
  
• Reliability is critical. Last-minute cancellations can hurt your reputation and lead to fewer bookings.
  

Many successful Wag! walkers check the app multiple times a day and maintain consistent hours.

Payment and tax requirements

Wag! pays walkers via direct deposit or other available methods in your region:

• Rates can vary by city, service type, and duration.
  
• Wag! takes a platform fee from each booking.
  

Walkers are independent contractors, not employees. That's a change for many, it means you are responsible for:

• Tracking your Wag! earnings
  
• Reporting your own earnings on your taxes with the applicable tax forms‍
• Paying your Wag! taxes. They are not withheld from your paycheck like a W2 job.
  

Consider using an app like Everlance to help categorize income and track business write offs, which can help you save on your Wag! taxes.

Professionalism and expectations

Pet owners rely on Wag! walkers to keep their pets safe and happy. Here are some expectations:

• Punctuality: Always arrive on time for bookings.
  
• Communication: Send updates, photos, and notes through the app.
  
• Safety: Follow owner instructions and be cautious in public areas.
  
• Cleanliness: Pick up pet waste and leave client properties tidy.
  

Maintaining a professional approach helps you earn repeat clients and positive reviews.

Maintaining good standing on Wag!

Wag! uses ratings and reviews to match walkers with clients. To succeed:

• Aim for 5-star service with every walk.
  
• Be responsive to messages and booking requests.
  
• Avoid late arrivals or cancellations.
  
• Handle any issues calmly and professionally.
  

High ratings and reliability lead to more bookings and even priority access to premium requests.