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How to Become A Pet Exerciser

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What is a Pet Exerciser

Pet exercising is one of the most active and hands-on careers in animal care. Pet exercisers spend their days walking dogs, running play sessions, and keeping pets happy and fit. If you love animals and hate sitting at a desk, this career could be perfect for you.

Every pet has different needs, so pet exercisers create routines that fit each animal’s breed and energy level. They may work with one dog at a time or manage a small group. Safety and care are always the key focus during sessions.

Common daily tasks include walks, play, and health checks. Pet exercisers take notes after each session and keep owners up to date. Some pet exercisers also help with basic training to reinforce good behaviour.

Australia’s pet industry is growing fast, with more families choosing expert pet care. This means strong demand for skilled pet exercisers. The role offers real flexible hours and a chance to work outdoors every day. For anyone who loves animals, making a difference in their lives is the best part.

Explore study options in Animal Care

Career Outlook for Pet Exerciser

The outlook for pet exercisers in Australia is positive. Around 1,300 new jobs are added to the animal attendants group each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The group employs 27,200 people in Australia. The median age is 36, and many people start this career in their early 20s.

Work is often part-time or casual, averaging 20 to 30 hours per week. About 48% of animal attendants work part-time (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Future demand is rated as moderate (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). This makes the role great for people who want flexible hours or plan to work for themselves.

Pay averages around $66,000 per year for this group (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Entry-level roles can start from about $46,000 per year. Self-employed pet exercisers who build a strong client base may earn more. This career is a solid first step into the broader animal care field.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Pet Exerciser

Step 1: Get Hands-On Experience with Animals

Start by working or volunteering with animals. Local RSPCA shelters, animal rescue groups, and kennels all take volunteers. Aim for at least 6 to 12 months of regular contact with dogs and other pets. This builds your handling skills and shows clients you know what you are doing.

Step 2: Complete the Certificate III in Animal Care Services (ACM30122)

Enrol in the Certificate III in Animal Care Services (ACM30122) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This takes 12 to 18 months full-time and covers animal handling, health and safety, and basic care routines. It is not legally required, but it lifts your skills and gives clients trust in your service.

Step 3: Complete a Pet First Aid Course

Book a pet first aid and CPR course from a recognised provider such as the RSPCA. These courses run for one day and cover injuries, heatstroke, and choking in dogs and cats. Many clients expect pet exercisers to hold this cert.

Step 4: Register Your Business

Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) through the Australian Business Register at abr.gov.au. This process is free and takes about 15 minutes. You will also need public liability insurance to cover accidents during walks. Check your local council rules for any permit needs for group dog walking.

Step 5: Join the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA)

Apply for membership with the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) at piaa.org.au. PIAA gives you access to industry guides, insurance options, and a network of other pet care professionals. It also signals to clients that you follow industry standards and best practice.

What does a Pet Exerciser do?

A pet exerciser’s day is full of activity. They walk dogs, run play sessions, and keep pets moving and happy. They check each animal’s condition at the start and end of each session. They also keep notes and talk to owners about how each pet is going. Some sessions include basic training drills or group time with other animals. No two days are exactly the same, which is part of what makes this role so enjoyable.

Tasks

Working as a pet exerciser means staying active while doing something you love. Each day, you exercise animals, build bonds with pets and their owners, and help pets thrive. This role is hands-on, varied, and great for anyone who loves the outdoors.

  • Daily Walks – Take pets on scheduled walks to keep them fit and well-stimulated.
  • Play Sessions – Run fetch, tug, and active games to build fitness and fun.
  • Health Checks – Watch for signs of discomfort or illness at the start of each session.
  • Socialisation – Introduce pets to other animals and people to build their confidence.
  • Hydration and Rest – Make sure pets have water and rest breaks during longer sessions.
  • Record Keeping – Log each session and share notes with pet owners.
  • Client Updates – Keep owners informed about their pet’s progress and any concerns.
  • Enrichment Activities – Use puzzle toys, agility steps, or sniff walks to keep minds active.

Skills for Success

To do well as a pet exerciser, you need a genuine love of animals and good physical fitness. Dogs pick up on your energy, so patience and calm handling matter a lot. You do not need years of training to get started, but you do need reliable instincts around animals.

Talking to pet owners well is just as important as caring for their pets. You need to give honest updates, spot health changes early, and build trust. Basic pet first aid knowledge is a bonus that many clients will actively look for.

Skills & Attributes

  • Animal behaviour knowledge
  • Physical fitness and outdoor stamina
  • Dog handling and leash skills
  • Patience and calm with animals
  • Clear communication with pet owners
  • Time management across multiple clients
  • Observation of animal health and behaviour
  • Basic pet first aid
  • Record keeping and client notes
  • Organisation and scheduling
  • Problem-solving in unexpected situations
  • Reliability and trustworthiness

Average Salaries

Pet exercisers in Australia earn around $66,000 per year on average (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This is based on a median weekly wage of $1,276 for animal attendants and trainers. Starting pay or part-time work pays from about $46,000 per year. Skilled pet exercisers who run their own business can earn up to $90,000 or more.

min $46 K

max $90 K

av $66 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.