A new pet-sharing service in China is attracting attention after allowing people to “rent” dogs for short walks, offering companionship without the long-term responsibility of pet ownership.

The service, launched by the Chinese platform Wangfu, is currently available in major cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen. It targets individuals who enjoy spending time with dogs but are unable or unwilling to take on permanent care responsibilities.

Under the system, pet owners upload details and photos of their dogs on the platform, allowing users to book them for one- to two-hour walking sessions. Fees reportedly range from 10 to 60 yuan (around $1.5 to $9), depending on the dog and service duration.

The platform has introduced several safeguards, including identity verification for both owners and users, as well as insurance coverage for pets. Pickup and drop-off arrangements are agreed upon mutually, and walks are typically limited to familiar areas for the animal.

Real-time location tracking is also used to monitor the dog’s movement during the session, with users required to notify owners immediately if any unusual behaviour is observed.

According to the company, the service is gaining popularity in urban areas, though it has also sparked mixed reactions. Supporters say it could encourage greater interaction with pets, while critics argue that frequent changes in environment and handlers may cause stress for animals and raise ethical concerns.

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