If you’re new to the city—or new to dog ownership—navigating dog life in NYC can feel like its own breed of chaos. That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you just adopted your first puppy or you’re comparing dog walking options after a move, this guide pulls together everything a NYC pet parent needs to know—from park etiquette to real-world service pricing.
First Things First: Is Your Home Puppy-Ready?
Before you even start looking for a dog walker, make sure your space is safe for your pup. Puppies are curious and NYC apartments are most certainly not puppy-proofed by default—there are cords to chew, windows without screens, and small spaces that quickly become disaster zones.
📍 If you’re just starting out, check out our post on creating a puppy-friendly home for specific dos and don’ts.
And here’s a puppy-proofing checklist you can print and keep handy while setting up your space.
So You Need a Dog Walker. What Should You Expect?
When you’re trusting someone with your pup, your home, and your keys—it’s not a decision you want to take lightly. In NYC, professional dog walking services typically include:
A meet-and-greet to assess fit and routines
GPS-tracked walks with time stamps
Notes or photos after each visit
Options for solo or group walks
For a more detailed breakdown of what to expect, read our post: New to Dog Walking in NYC? Here’s Exactly What You Can Expect.
What Do NYC Dog Walkers Cost in 2025?
Pet care isn’t cheap in the city—but understanding the pricing model helps. Most services charge $25–$30 for a 30-minute walk. Read our full pricing breakdown in our guide: How Much Does Dog Walking Cost in NYC? and if you just want to check out our rates, you can find them here: MixyPaws Services & Rates
Need a Dog Walker in Brooklyn or Chicago?
We focus exclusively on Manhattan, but if you’ve got friends across the bridge or across the country, we’re happy to share trusted referrals:
Brooklyn: Brooklyn Bark offers professional dog walking and pet sitting throughout the borough.
Chicago: We recommend Chicago Dog Walkers, Windy City Paws, and Urban Tailz for a mix of consistent service and flexible scheduling.
Where Should You Walk Your Dog?
One of the joys of city dog ownership is exploring its green spaces. Here are some of our favorite NYC spots, whether you’re strolling solo or letting your pup burn off energy in an off-leash run:
Central Park – Dogs are allowed off-leash before 9AM and after 9PM.
Carl Schurz Park – An Upper East Side gem with beautiful views and well-kept dog runs.
Hudson River Park – Great for sunset walks and playtime at Pier 84.
Tompkins Square Dog Run – Home to the famous Halloween Dog Parade and one of the best dog parks downtown.
Need more options? Our full guide has you covered: Best Dog Parks and Pet-Friendly Spots in NYC
How to Choose a Dog Walking Service That’s Actually Reliable
There’s no shortage of dog walking apps or solo operators out there, but reliability and consistency still matter. Look for companies that:
Use professional scheduling systems
Vet and train their walkers
Offer insurance and bonding
Use safety gear during each walk
Have customer service teams for emergencies
We break down the pros and cons of different service models in our post: Dog Walking Services Near Me: What NYC Pet Parents Should Know
Need Help Getting Started?
If you’re in Manhattan, we’ve got you covered. MixyPaws offers dog walking, puppy visits, and pet sitting across nearly every neighborhood in the borough.
Learn more about our services and check if we serve your block:
👉 View Our Manhattan Service Area
Still not sure what’s right for you? Reach out anytime—we’re happy to help.
