🐕 Dog Walking Jobs in Chicago – Build a Career You’ll Love with Windy City Dog Walkers

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Job Overview

Windy City Dog Walkers is expanding its Chicago team and needs long-term 1099 dog walkers who love fresh air, flexible hours, and four-legged clients. Build a steady route in Lincoln Park, South Loop, Logan Square, West Loop, or the neighborhood you know best and earn up to $22.50 an hour, plus tips and bonuses.

You’ll work as an independent contractor: set your own schedule, walk on-leash dogs one-on-one or in pairs, log visits with our mobile platform, and keep pet parents updated. To qualify you must be 18 +, legally able to work in the U.S., own a smartphone and bike or car, pass a background check, and commit for at least a year. Expect to cover five-plus walking miles daily in all weather.

We provide paid orientation, route-planning help, client introductions, and a $250 start bonus once onboarding is complete—no algorithm drop-offs here. High-volume walkers see evening/weekend premiums, multi-dog surcharges, and referral rewards.

Ready to turn strolls into income? Apply online, meet us for a quick Zoom chat, finish orientation, and start taking bookings right away. Questions? Visit windycitydogwalkers.com and click “Join Our Pack.”

Dog Walking Jobs in Chicago


📍 Service Areas (Neighborhood-Based Routes)

We’re actively seeking Chicago dog walkers to manage neighborhood routes in:

  • Lincoln Park
  • South Loop
  • Logan Square
  • West Loop
  • Other vibrant neighborhoods in Chicago

Each walker selects their preferred zones and builds their dog walking routes in areas they love and know well.


💼 Job Overview

Position Type: 1099 Contractor
Employment Model: Self-Employed / Freelance
Schedule: Flexible hours — weekdays, evenings, weekends
Category: Dog Walking & Pet Care

This contracted position is ideal for:

  • Students seeking flexible work
  • Outdoor job seekers
  • Dog enthusiasts
  • Freelancers looking for a consistent side hustle with dogs

🐶 Key Responsibilities

  • Provide safe, structured, on-leash walks to client dogs in their neighborhood
  • Maintain a consistent routine for assigned pets and ensure their safety at all times
  • Communicate with pet owners via voice, text, or email
  • Update service logs after every walk and report any health/behavioral concerns
  • Accept or decline service orders through our platform
  • Cover occasional evening, weekend, or holiday walks for off-peak incentives

🧾 Requirements

RequirementDetails
Age18+ years
Legal AuthorizationMust be legally allowed to work in the U.S.
Smartphone RequiredYes — with a valid data plan
Transportation RequiredCar or bicycle preferred (no public transport or ride-share allowed)
Long-Term CommitmentShort-term or seasonal work not accepted
Physical StaminaCapable of walking 5+ miles per day
Weather ReadinessMust be comfortable working outdoors year-round
Background CheckRequired before onboarding

🔑 Ideal Candidate Traits

We’re looking for individuals who:

  • Are passionate about animal care jobs and enjoy working independently
  • Can manage their own time and make their own schedule
  • Are comfortable with all dog breeds, sizes, and temperaments
  • Can walk multiple dogs simultaneously when needed
  • Value long-term client relationships over short gigs
  • Want to build their own dog walking route with stability and freedom

💸 Compensation & Incentives

You’ll be paid per service, with added perks to reward extra effort and performance:

Payment ElementDetails
Paid Per WalkVariable depending on number of dogs and walk duration
Average Hourly RateUp to $22.50/hour for high-volume walkers
Tips and BonusesYes — directly from clients
Off-Peak IncentivesEvening, weekend, and overnight premiums available
Multi-Dog BonusesEarn more for households with 2+ dogs
Orientation Bonus$250 after completing onboarding
Client Referral BonusFor every client you refer who books service
New Walker Referral BonusFor every new walker you bring into the team

🎓 Onboarding & Support

Unlike many app-based services, we offer:

  • Paid orientation sessions
  • One-on-one route planning support
  • Client introductions and profile reviews
  • A growing community of Chicago dog walkers
  • Access to training tools and educational content

“You’re not dropped into an algorithm. You get real support, real people, and real growth.”


🌎 Why This Is More Than a Gig

This is a career in dog walking, designed for those who want to build a meaningful relationship with both dogs and humans. You’re not running errands—you’re providing companionship, safety, and enrichment to pets whose owners rely on your consistency and professionalism.

As a freelance dog walker, you’ll:

  • Choose your availability and adjust it at any time
  • Combine walks with pet sitting services for extra income
  • Explore new neighborhoods in Chicago while staying active
  • Enjoy the autonomy of self-employment with the support of an established team
  • Take on as many or as few clients as you want

Whether you’re walking a Frenchie in South Loop, a Lab in Lincoln Park, or a rescue mix in Logan Square, each day offers a new adventure—and a real connection.


📹 What’s It Really Like?

Check out real walker experiences on our YouTube Channel:
🎥 Windy City Dog Walkers on YouTube


📝 How to Apply

Applying is simple and fast:

  1. Fill out our online application
  2. Join a brief Zoom interview to meet our team
  3. Complete your paid orientation
  4. Start building your dog walking business!

📈 Summary

If you’re ready to earn extra money, enjoy flexible hours, and thrive in a role that offers both independence and community, this could be the beginning of your long-term opportunity in dog walking. At Windy City Dog Walkers, you’re not just walking dogs — you’re creating connections, growing a business, and doing what you love.

🐾 Apply today. Join our pack. Walk your way to freedom.

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