A service robot and a method for controlling the same are disclosed. The service robot comprises a main body (101) and a base (102). A motor (1021), a transmission mechanism (1022) and a wheel (1023) are provided in an inner cavity of the base (102). The transmission mechanism (1022) is connected with the motor (1021) and the wheel (1023) respectively. The wheel (1023) is disposed below the transmission mechanism (1022). A space for the transmission mechanism (1022) to move up and down is formed in the inner cavity of the base (102). After the motor (1021) is started, the transmission mechanism (1022) is driven to move in the inner cavity of the base (102, 26) according to a predetermined stroke, and the transmission mechanism (1022) drives the wheel (1023) while the transmission mechanism (1022) is moving so that the wheel (1023) can retract into the inner cavity of the base (102) or extend out of the inner cavity of the base (102).