In today’s fast-paced world, dog owners everywhere—from New York to Berlin—are turning to technology to care for their pets. One app that’s exploded in popularity is Wag. But is it truly reliable, and more importantly, is Wag safe for your dog?
In this Wag walking app review, we’ll explore its features, pricing, safety protocols, walker qualifications, and whether it’s worth downloading in 2025. This article also gives insight into how it compares to similar apps like Rover, and how you can get the most value out of it—especially if you’re living in urban areas in the US, UK, Spain, or Germany.
What is the Wag Walking App?
Wag is a mobile-based pet care service that connects dog owners with trusted, background-checked walkers, boarders, and sitters. Launched in 2015, it’s now available in hundreds of cities across the U.S. and expanding abroad.
Main Services Offered:
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20–60 minute dog walks
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In-home sitting and boarding
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Drop-in visits
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Pet training sessions
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Live GPS tracking and report cards
How Does Wag Work for Dog Owners?
Easy Booking & Customization
Once you download the app and create a profile for your dog(s), you can:
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Choose between ASAP or scheduled walks
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Set walking preferences (leash behavior, treats, etc.)
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Access walker profiles and reviews
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Receive live updates and location tracking
It’s a seamless process designed for convenience. But is it reliable enough for your furry family member?
Is Wag Safe for Your Dog?
Vetting of Walkers
One of the top concerns for pet parents is safety. According to Wag, all walkers go through:
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Background checks (criminal + identity verification)
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In-app training modules
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Experience questionnaires
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Community rating system
Still, real-world experience suggests some variability. There are many 5-star rated walkers, but occasional reports of inexperienced walkers do surface.
Safety Features Built into the App
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Live GPS Tracking
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Instant Alerts and Emergency Support
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In-app Tipping and Reviews
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$1M Insurance Policy (covers vet care, property damage)
Overall, Wag scores high in safety, though it’s essential to vet walkers yourself by reviewing their profiles, client history, and photo galleries.
Wag Walking Pricing Structure (2025 Update)
| Walk Duration | Price (avg. U.S.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | $20–$23 | Good for bathroom breaks |
| 30 minutes | $24–$28 | Most popular |
| 60 minutes | $30–$35 | Active dogs or puppies |
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Add-ons: Weekend fees, last-minute bookings, and multiple dogs add to the cost
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Tip: Monthly Wag! Premium Membership ($9.99/mo) gives 10% off all services and priority booking
Pros and Cons of Using the Wag App
Pros:
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Quick bookings, especially in major cities
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Transparent pricing
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Insurance protection
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Wide availability across U.S.
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GPS + real-time updates offer peace of mind
Cons:
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Quality varies by region and walker availability
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Last-minute bookings can be expensive
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Limited presence in some EU countries
Is Wag Available in Europe?
As of 2025, Wag is still largely U.S.-based, but reports show increasing availability in urban centers in the UK and Germany (like London and Berlin).
For Spain, service is limited or nonexistent. However, you can try alternatives like:
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Rover (more widespread in EU)
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Local dog-walking collectives or Facebook groups
Who Is Wag Best For?
Wag is ideal for:
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Busy professionals who need flexible scheduling
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Pet parents in cities where local walkers are scarce
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New dog owners who want insured and tracked walks
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Elderly dog owners unable to walk long distances
Not ideal if:
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You live in a rural area with poor service coverage
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You prefer building a personal relationship with one walker
FAQs About Wag Walking App
Is Wag better than Rover?
Depends. Wag is often better for on-demand walks. Rover excels in long-term sitting and customized care.
Are Wag walkers employees?
No. They are independent contractors, though they must pass screening.
Can I request the same walker every time?
Yes, you can favorite walkers and request them through the app.
Does Wag work for aggressive dogs?
Not recommended. Wag walkers are trained for basic care but not for behavioral issues.
What happens if my dog gets injured during a walk?
Wag’s insurance policy covers medical care in verified cases. Always file a report within 24 hours.
Tips for Getting the Best Out of Wag
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Meet the walker in person the first time if possible
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Leave clear care instructions in your dog’s profile
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Use the in-app chat feature for real-time communication
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Always check the dog’s report card after each walk
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Add a GPS tag to your dog’s collar as an extra precaution
Expert Take: Is Wag Worth It in 2025?
If you live in a high-service area and your dog is friendly, Wag is a convenient, safe, and fairly priced option. The real-time features, walker reviews, and in-app support make it appealing to tech-savvy pet owners.
However, for dogs with special needs, or if you’re outside a major metro, it may be better to find a local sitter or private walker.
Internal Linking Suggestions
Here are related articles that may be useful if you’re considering Wag or similar pet services:
Final Thoughts: Our Honest Wag Walking App Review
In a world where time is short and dogs deserve the best, Wag fills a much-needed gap. It isn’t flawless—but for many pet parents, it’s an efficient and trustworthy option. As long as you do your homework and use the app’s built-in safety tools, Wag can be a helpful companion in your pet care toolkit.
