Dog Walking in Nairobi: what to know
Nairobi walkers often use compound grounds and forest trails like Karura. Mention how your dog reacts to other dogs, wildlife sounds and traffic.
Where to walk dogs in Nairobi
- Karura Forest — Forest trails within the city where dogs are allowed on a lead.
- Ngong Road Forest — Forest paths in the west of the city — check current access rules.
- Compound and estate grounds — Many walks happen inside gated compounds — follow their rules.
- Not national parks — Dogs are not allowed in Nairobi National Park, home to wild animals.
Weather and seasons in Nairobi
Nairobi is mild thanks to its altitude, with warm days and cool nights. There are two rainy seasons — the long rains around March to May and the short rains around October to December — and July is often cool and grey.
Planning around the seasons
In the rainy seasons, expect muddy paths; dry your dog well and check for ticks after forest walks.
On cool July mornings and evenings, short-haired dogs may appreciate a coat.
Before you book
Walkers can offer extras such as photo updates, a report card, pick-up from home or an extra 30 minutes — you see what each walker offers before booking.
Keep your pet's vaccinations and any local registration up to date and carry the records — providers may ask to see them before the first booking.
Dog Walking in Nairobi — FAQ
Is dog walking available in Nairobi?
Yes. OnlyPaw is available worldwide, including Nairobi. Because it's a marketplace, the dog walkers you can book depend on who has been approved near your address — the app shows who's available before you pay.
How much does dog walking cost in Nairobi?
Dog walkers in Nairobi set their own prices, so you see each provider's rate in the app before you book. At checkout OnlyPaw adds a service fee of 10% of the service price, with a minimum of USD 2 and a maximum of USD 20 (or the equivalent in your local currency), shown before you pay. Your payment is held and only released to the provider after the service is completed.
How are providers vetted?
Every provider submits a government ID and a selfie, passes a knowledge test with a 70% pass mark and uploads service-specific documents — home photos for sitting and boarding, driving licence and vehicle registration for pet taxi, certificates for grooming and training — before the OnlyPaw team approves them.
Can I walk my dog in Karura Forest?
Yes, dogs are allowed in Karura Forest on a lead; follow the forest’s current rules and fees. Dogs are not allowed in Nairobi National Park.
What if I need to cancel?
Each provider uses one of three cancellation policies. Under the default moderate policy you get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start, 50% if you cancel at least 2 hours before, and nothing in the last 2 hours. The flexible policy refunds in full up to 2 hours before the start; the strict policy refunds in full from 48 hours and 50% from 24 hours before.
What happens in an emergency?
Every active booking has an SOS button in the app. It alerts the other party and the OnlyPaw team straight away. If your pet needs urgent medical care, contact a vet or emergency clinic first.
