Wag is Rover’s main competitor in the pet care space and operates with one key difference in model. Where Rover is more browse-and-book, Wag uses an on-demand dispatch system similar to a rideshare app, automatically matching available caregivers with pet owners who need last-minute help. This means you can get booked faster without waiting for someone to find your profile. Wag covers dog walking, pet sitting, boarding, drop-in visits, and even in-home dog training. You set your own rates for scheduled services, though on-demand walk rates are set by the platform.
Pay
30-minute walks average $17 to $27. Hour-long walks average $25.50 to $37. Overnight boarding averages $39 to $59 per night. Wag takes a 40% commission from your earnings.
How You Make Money
You download the caregiver app, complete your profile and background check, toggle available when ready, get matched with pet owners for on-demand requests, or receive scheduled bookings. Wag pays weekly every Friday via Stripe to your bank account.
Payment Method
Stripe direct bank transfer
Skill Level
Beginner (must be 18+, US only, background check required)
Pros
On-demand matching system gets you booked faster than profile-browse platforms
Weekly Friday payments provide consistent cash flow
Includes in-home dog and cat training as a paid service option, unique versus Rover
Good for walkers who prefer quick, frequent short bookings over long commitments
No profile fee required to join unlike Rover's one-time review fee
Cons
40% commission taken by Wag is significantly higher than Rover's 20%
High commission discourages some experienced caregivers from staying long-term
On-demand matching means you may get assigned to pets or locations you wouldn't have chosen
Only available in cities where Wag operates, limiting availability for rural users
Best For
Pet care workers who want fast, on-demand bookings without waiting to build a profile reputation, especially in cities with strong Wag presence
