Professional Pet Sitter and Dog Walker Jobs in Spain 2025/2026

Professional Pet Sitter and Dog Walker Jobs in Spain 2025/2026

Introduction

Spain is one of Europe’s most pet-loving countries. From the lively streets of Madrid and Barcelona to the quiet coastal towns of Valencia and Malaga, millions of Spaniards own dogs, cats, and other pets  and they take pet care very seriously.

Because of this, the demand for professional pet sitters and dog walkers in Spain continues to grow every year. Many people, including foreigners, now earn a steady income working in this field  legally, safely, and sometimes with visa sponsorship support.

If you love animals and dream of working in Europe, this could be the perfect opportunity. This article explains everything you need to know about pet sitter and dog walker jobs in Spain for 2025/2026 including requirements, expected salary, visa options, application process, and real success stories.

Understanding the Job: Who Is a Professional Pet Sitter or Dog Walker?

A pet sitter is someone who takes care of pets while their owners are away. This can include feeding, grooming, walking, cleaning, or even spending time with the pets to ensure they are comfortable.

A dog walker, on the other hand, specializes in walking dogs — either one at a time or in small groups — to give them exercise and fresh air.

In Spain, these jobs are becoming increasingly professionalized. Pet owners often look for trustworthy, experienced individuals who genuinely love animals and understand basic pet care.

Professional Pet Sitter and Dog Walker Jobs in Spain 2025/2026

Why These Jobs Are in Demand in Spain

Spain has over 9 million registered dogs and an estimated 30% of households own pets. With many Spaniards working long hours or traveling frequently, there’s a growing need for reliable people to care for their pets.

Other reasons for demand include:

• Increase in urban pet ownership (especially in Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville).

• Rising pet tourism — people traveling with pets or leaving them in care centers.

• Older pet owners needing assistance walking their dogs.

• Busy professionals who want daily dog-walking support.

This creates thousands of job opportunities every year for both locals and foreigners.

Who Can Apply for Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Jobs in Spain?

These roles are perfect for unskilled or semi-skilled workers, because they don’t require advanced education — just passion, honesty, and reliability.

Minimum Requirements:

1. Valid International Passport.

2. Legal Right to Work in Spain (EU citizen, residence permit, or visa sponsorship).

3. Basic English or Spanish Language Skills.

4. Good Physical Condition (since walking dogs requires stamina).

5. Love for Animals and willingness to learn basic care techniques.

6. Clean Police Record.

7. References (if available, from past clients or employers).

If you are from outside the EU (for example, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, or other African countries), you can apply through sponsorship programs or seasonal work permits.

Visa Options for Non-EU Applicants

If you’re from Nigeria or another non-EU country, you’ll need the right visa to work legally.

Here are the main routes:

1. Work Visa (Employee Contract)

If a pet-care company or household offers you a formal contract, they can sponsor your work visa under Spain’s employment permit program.

2. Self-Employment Visa (Autónomo)

If you plan to work independently as a pet sitter or dog walker, you can apply for a self-employed work visa in Spain. You’ll register as an “autónomo” (freelancer) and manage your own clients.

3. Seasonal or Temporary Work Visa

Some pet care centers and kennels offer temporary or seasonal contracts, especially during summer or holiday travel periods when pet owners travel abroad.

4. Student Visa (Part-Time Work Option)

If you’re studying in Spain, your student visa allows you to work part-time legally. Many international students take pet care or dog-walking jobs for extra income.

How Much Do Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers Earn in Spain?

Earnings depend on the city, client base, and experience level. On average:

• Dog Walker (Per Hour): €10 – €15

• Pet Sitter (Daily Rate): €30 – €50

• Monthly Estimate (Full-Time): €1,500 – €2,500

• Extra Services (e.g., grooming, overnight sitting): can add €200–€400 monthly

Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia pay slightly higher wages due to higher living costs and pet density.

Some workers earn even more by offering extra services such as pet washing, training, or transportation.

How to Find Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Jobs in Spain

Here are the most common and trusted methods:

1. Online Job Platforms

   • Indeed Spain

   • InfoJobs

   • Jobrapido

   • Workaway (for live-in pet care opportunities)

2. Pet Care Apps and Marketplaces

   • Rover

   • Gudog

   • PetBacker

   • Holidog

3. Local Classifieds and Community Boards
   Many expat communities and local bulletin boards advertise such roles.

4. Direct Applications to Pet Hotels or Animal Shelters
   Kennels, pet hotels, and animal rescue homes often need full-time carers.

5. Networking and Referrals
   Once you work for one client, referrals can spread quickly — Spaniards value trust and reputation.

Professional Pet Sitter and Dog Walker Jobs in Spain 2025/2026

Required Documents for Application

If you’re applying from abroad, prepare:

1. Valid International Passport

2. Visa or Work Permit

3. Police Clearance Certificate

4. Medical Fitness Certificate

5. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

6. Cover Letter

7. Proof of Experience (if available)

8. Pet Handling Certificates (optional but impressive)

Job Benefits

Working as a pet sitter or dog walker in Spain has several benefits:

1. Flexible Working Hours – You can choose morning, afternoon, or evening shifts.

2. No Need for High Education – Your passion and reliability matter most.

3. Steady Income – You can earn €1,500–€2,500 monthly.

4. Visa Sponsorship Opportunities – Some companies help with work authorization.

5. Cultural Exposure – A chance to experience European work ethics and lifestyle.

6. Pathway to Permanent Residency – After 5 years of legal stay, you may qualify for Spanish residency.

Key Challenges to Expect

1. Language Barriers – Spanish is widely spoken; basic language skills help a lot.

2. Competition – Many locals also offer pet services, so professionalism matters.

3. Seasonal Demand – Work may fluctuate depending on travel seasons.

4. Physical Demands – Walking dogs or cleaning kennels requires stamina.

5. Paperwork for Non-EU Workers – Visa processes can be slow.

Tips for Success

Get Basic Training: Learn pet safety, feeding, and behavior basics (available online).
Be Reliable: Clients trust those who are consistent and punctual.
Learn Spanish Phrases: Helps build rapport with local clients.
Take Photos and Reviews: Social proof helps attract new customers.
Avoid Scams: Never pay huge fees to fake “agents” for jobs.

Real-Life Testimonies

1. Ngozi from Abuja, Nigeria

“I moved to Spain on a student visa in 2023 and started walking dogs in Madrid part-time. Within a year, I had 10 regular clients. It’s flexible, honest work, and I’ve even learned Spanish!”

2. David from Ghana

“A friend in Valencia helped me find a live-in pet care job. The family sponsored my stay, and I now manage their dog and cat while earning €1,800 monthly.”

3. Maria from Kenya

“I was surprised how easy it was to find pet-sitting clients on Rover. I started small but now manage several bookings a week. It’s also a great way to explore Spanish cities.”

4. Aisha from Nigeria

“My employer in Barcelona paid for my visa sponsorship after three months of good work. I’m now working full-time at a pet hotel, and it’s been a life-changing opportunity.”

5. Peter from Cameroon

“I never imagined walking dogs could pay this well. It’s not an office job, but I’m outdoors, active, and saving money for my future.”

Professional Pet Sitter and Dog Walker Jobs in Spain 2025/2026

How to Build a Pet Sitting Career in Spain

If you plan to make it long-term:

1. Register as a Freelancer (Autónomo) to work independently.

2. Build a Client Base – use apps like Rover or Gudog.

3. Get Insurance – for pet care or accidental injury protection.

4. Join Pet Care Associations – helps with networking.

5. Offer Additional Services – such as grooming or pet pickup.

Conclusion

Working as a professional pet sitter or dog walker in Spain is a real and growing opportunity especially for foreigners who love animals and want to work legally in Europe.

With an average monthly income of €1,500–€2,500, flexible hours, and visa sponsorship potential, this path offers both financial stability and a gateway to long-term residency.

The secret to success is honesty, reliability, and a genuine love for pets. Spain rewards hardworking and trustworthy people, and with proper application, documentation, and consistency, you can build a rewarding life in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries.