The 5 Best Dog Sitters in Exeter: Verified Local Pet Care (2026 Guide)

dog sitters

If you are searching for dog sitters near me in Exeter, you are in luck. Between the sprawling beauty of Haldon Forest, the riverside paths of the Quayside, and the hidden trails of Mincinglake Valley Park, Exeter is a paradise for dogs.

Whether you’re living in the historic city centre, the family-friendly streets of Pinhoe and Heavitree, or the newer communities like Cranbrook, finding a reliable sitter is essential for your peace of mind. If your dog is due a trim while you are away, our roundup of Exeter’s top dog groomers covers the same postcodes. We have vetted the top 5 dog sitters in Exeter for 2026, ensuring they are active, licensed, and highly rated. It is also worth having a Devon vet you trust on file before you hand over the keys. Looking for dog sitters elsewhere in the UK? Search in our full UK database of dog sitters near you.


The Best Dog Sitters in Exeter

Verified active businesses with up-to-date 2026 reputations and valid licenses.

1. Dogs Day Care – Best for Farm Adventures

Dogs Day Care

The Real Deal: Based on a 30-acre family farm, this service offers a 5-star rated countryside escape. With private meadows and woodland to explore, it’s perfect for high-energy breeds. They use a controlled introduction process for new dogs and limit numbers to ensure every pup is safe and socialised.

2. Sunflower Cottage Pet Care – Best for Small Breeds

Sunflower Cottage Pet Care

The Real Deal: Run by Cassie (and her Miniature Schnauzer, Bud), Sunflower Cottage specialises in small and medium-sized dogs. This is a cosy “home-from-home” haven. Cassie is a solo operator with decades of experience, offering enriched walks on Woodbury Common and local beaches. It’s the top choice for owners who want personalised, one-on-one attention in a quiet cottage setting.

3. Amigo Pet Services – Best for Professional Standards

Amigo Pet Services

The Real Deal: A highly established, family-run business led by Frank and Debbie. The rating above reflects Google’s public reviews rather than our own inspection, so it’s worth asking to see their current council licence directly. They are famous for their reliability and “will-do” attitude, offering popular group walks and home-based daycare. They even provide a pick-up and drop-off service in their professional pet van to make your life easier.

4. Sunny Pet Sitting – Best for Individualised Care

Sunny Pet Sitting

The Real Deal: If your dog prefers solo attention over big groups, Sunny Pet Sitting is the answer. They exclusively offer one-on-one dog walking and puppy visits. If you’re booking puppy visits, it’s worth being specific with them about what you want from the half hour — a garden trip on arrival and again before they leave matters more to a puppy who’s still learning than the company does (our toilet-training guide covers the routine worth writing down for them). They are fully insured, DBS checked, and trained in pet first aid. They are particularly praised for their detailed photo updates and GPS-tracked walks.

5. Running Duck Pet Services – Best for House Sitting

Running Duck Pet Services

The Real Deal: Run by Jenny and George, this service specialises in “live-in” house sitting. Instead of your dog going to a kennel, the sitters stay in your home. This is ideal for senior dogs, multi-pet households (including chickens or alpacas!), or pets that find new environments stressful. They are mature, dependable, and highly respected in the Exeter community.


Top Exeter Walking Spots

Your Exeter sitter will likely frequent these iconic local gems:

  • Haldon Forest Park: Vast woodland trails perfect for adventurous pups.

  • The Quay & Riverside Valley Park: Great for flat, scenic strolls along the Exe. There are five more places in Devon to swim if your dog would rather get in.

  • Woodbury Common: A favourite for Sunflower Cottage, offering wide-open heathland.

  • Mincinglake Valley Park: A hidden hilly gem with great views over the city.


Typical Prices for Dog Sitting in Exeter (2026)

Service Estimated Price Range
Group Dog Walk (1 hour) £14 – £17
Solo Dog Walk (1 hour) £18 – £22
Doggy Day Care (Full Day) £25 – £35
Overnight Boarding £35 – £45 per night

What We’d Look For in an Exeter Sitter

With prices ranging from around £14 for a group walk up to £45 for overnight boarding, it’s worth matching the service to what your dog actually needs rather than going purely on cost — a farm romp at Dogs Day Care suits a dog who wants space to run, while Sunny Pet Sitting’s one-on-one visits are kinder for a dog who finds groups overwhelming. Figo’s the sociable sort, but plenty of dogs aren’t, and a good sitter will ask about that before they ask for a deposit. If you’re stocking up before a stay away, Calmshops.co.uk has some lovely calming chews and comfort toys worth packing alongside the usual lead and bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions dog owners may have about this topic.

What should I consider when choosing a dog sitter in Exeter?

When selecting a dog sitter in Exeter, consider their experience with your dog’s breed and energy level, the environment they provide, and whether they offer personalised care or group activities. Verified licences and positive local reputations also ensure your dog is in safe, reliable hands.

Are there dog sitters in Exeter that specialise in small breeds?

Yes, some sitters in Exeter, like Sunflower Cottage Pet Care, focus specifically on small and medium-sized dogs. They offer a cosy, home-like setting with one-on-one attention, ideal for owners who want a quieter environment tailored to smaller breeds.

Can dog sitters in Exeter accommodate high-energy dogs?

Absolutely. For high-energy dogs, sitters such as those at Dogs Day Care near Exeter provide farm-based adventures with large meadows and woodland areas. These settings are perfect for active breeds that need plenty of exercise and socialisation in a controlled environment.

Do any Exeter dog sitters offer pick-up and drop-off services?

Yes, Amigo Pet Services provides a convenient pick-up and drop-off service using their professional pet van. This makes it easier for busy owners to ensure their dogs are safely transported to and from the sitting location without added stress.

How can I verify that a dog sitter in Exeter is trustworthy and licensed?

Look for sitters who hold valid licences from local authorities. Additionally, verified local reputations, active business status for the current year, and positive reviews from other dog owners can help confirm their reliability and professionalism — it’s always worth asking to see a current licence yourself.

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