I'm not the only one who thinks Rover is better than Wag. The market agrees. In the dog-app industry, Rover has an 80% market share versus Wag's 20%, according to the Wall Street Journal [paywall].
Of course, market share doesn't necessarily mean that one is better than the other. You might love Pepsi more than Coke.
Why Rover Beats Wag
1. Rover's user-friendly interface is so much better than Wag's clunky interface.
Rover's interface doesn't just look better, but it offers far more options than Wag.
2. You can't book an overnight stay on Wag's website.
You must use their app. That's just more evidence of their poor usability.
3. Rover is more transparent than Wag.
Rover lets you search and compare prices without having to create an account. Wag forces you to not just create an account, but also to give them your credit card. And even then, they won't give you much info about who is taking care of your dog.
For example, I wanted to see how much two nights would cost. Even after creating the account and giving my credit card, all Wag told me is that I have to pay $158 ($79/night). They wouldn't tell me where the dog would be staying or any other details until I paid $158.
4. Wag treats dog services like a commodity.
Wag sets the price, not the sitter.
The dog owner announces he needs a dog walker and the first dog walker who replies gets the business. The owner has little choice. Meanwhile, the dog walker also has little choice. Walkers get $20/walk ($25/walk in San Francisco).
The advantage for the owner is that they can find a dog walker quickly. If you're in a hurry, Wag is useful.
On Rover, the dog walker sets his prices. The owner picks her walker.
Wag's idea is that they offer the owner a standard level of service and that all the Wag contractors deliver that. It's like Jiffy Lube: no matter where you go, you get a similar oil change service.
Therefore, dog walks, boarding, sitting, and daycare all have fixed prices.
This might work for some owners, but many owners (and their dogs) have special needs. Also, some sitters/walkers deliver special service. Wag doesn't let the sitter standout. It doesn't give owners much of a choice.
Wag forgets that pets are like children to most owners. Just like you want to carefully investigate your babysitter or daycare center, you want to know who is caring for your dog.
Similarly, pet owners are often willing to pay extra for premium service. Wag doesn't offer that option.
Wag's business model fails more most people, both owners and sitters.
If you love Wag, say so in the comments below. I'd be happy to update my article with your feedback.
If you want to try Rover, you can get a $20 signup bonus with this link.
If you're interested in becoming a dog sitter, check out my long article about how to be an effective Rover dog sitter.
