10 Tax Write-Offs for Dog Walker / Pet Sitters in 2026

Pet Supplies

Schedule C Line 22 · $100 — $800/yr

Treats, poop bags, water bowls, travel crates, food containers, and other supplies you provide for client pets.

Vehicle / Mileage

Schedule C Line 9 · $2,000 — $8,000/yr

Driving to client homes, dog parks, vet visits, and pet supply stores. Use standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Keep a mileage log.

Business Insurance

Schedule C Line 15 · $200 — $800/yr

Pet care liability insurance covering injuries to pets in your care and bites to third parties. Some platforms provide basic coverage.

Leashes & Equipment

Schedule C Line 22 · $50 — $300/yr

Backup leashes, harnesses, collars, muzzles, gentle leaders, and other walking and handling equipment.

Marketing & Advertising

Schedule C Line 8 · $100 — $1,000/yr

Rover or Wag platform fees, website, business cards, flyers, Nextdoor advertising, and social media promotion.

Bonding & Background Checks

Schedule C Line 27 · $50 — $200/yr

Surety bond costs and background check fees required by pet care platforms or to build trust with private clients.

Phone & Communication

Schedule C Line 25 · $300 — $800/yr

Business percentage of your cell phone for client communication, GPS tracking, and photo updates during walks.

Pet First Aid Training

Schedule C Line 27 · $30 — $150/yr

Pet CPR and first aid certification courses that enhance your professional qualifications and build client confidence.

Pet Sitting Supplies

Schedule C Line 22 · $50 — $300/yr

Lint rollers, cleaning supplies for accidents, pet gates, and other supplies needed when sitting at client homes.

Vehicle Seat Covers & Protection

Schedule C Line 9 · $50 — $200/yr

Seat covers, cargo liners, and vehicle cleaning supplies specifically for transporting dogs in your car.

Home Office Deduction

30 (Form 8829)

If you use a dedicated space in your home regularly and exclusively for business, you can deduct it. Simplified method: $5 per square foot, up to 300 sq ft ($1,500 max). Regular method: proportionate share of rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, and repairs.

Self-Employment Tax Deduction

Form 1040, Line 15

You can deduct the employer-equivalent portion of self-employment tax (7.65% of net earnings) as an above-the-line deduction on your Form 1040.

Health Insurance Premiums

Form 1040, Line 17

Self-employed individuals can deduct 100% of health, dental, and vision insurance premiums for themselves, their spouse, and dependents.

Retirement Contributions

Form 1040, Line 16

Contributions to a SEP-IRA (up to 25% of net earnings), Solo 401(k), or SIMPLE IRA are deductible and reduce both income tax and self-employment tax.

Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction

Form 1040, Line 13

Most self-employed individuals can deduct up to 20% of qualified business income under Section 199A, subject to income limits and business type.

Can dog walkers deduct mileage driving to client homes?

Yes. Driving from one client to another and to dog parks is deductible business mileage. However, your first trip from home and last trip back home may be considered commuting if you do not have a home office.

Are Rover and Wag platform fees tax-deductible?

Yes. Platform service fees taken from your earnings are deductible as commissions on Schedule C Line 10. Note: Rover and Wag typically issue 1099-NEC for earnings over $600.

Do I need insurance as a dog walker?

It is not legally required in most areas, but pet care liability insurance is a smart and deductible business expense. Some platforms provide basic coverage, but a personal policy offers better protection.