Time & Money

Difficulty
2/10

Weekly Time Commitment
5-15 hours (depending on the number of clients and how often you schedule walks)

Earnings Per Month
$500 - $2,500+ (depending on the number of dogs, your rates, and hours worked)

Is Starting a Dog Walking Business the Right Gig for Me?

A dog walking business is ideal for people who love animals, don't mind getting muddy, and have a flexible schedule. You might be a good candidate if you like being active and enjoy the great outdoors. In particular, dog walking businesses are a great low-startup option with minimal overheads. This is a flexible side hustle that can be scaled up with relative ease. Not to state the obvious, but if you are allergic to dogs, or can't handle a bit of slobber, this likely isn't the gig for you.

Preparation: How to Start a Dog Walking Business

Before starting a dog walking business, make sure you’re prepared physically and mentally to handle dogs of different sizes, breeds, and temperaments. Having basic knowledge of dog behavior can help ensure both you and the dogs are safe and comfortable during walks. Additionally, getting liability insurance can be a smart move to protect yourself and your clients in case of accidents. You'll also need to decide on your service area and set competitive rates based on your location. Finally, you might want to invest in some basic equipment, such as leashes, waste bags, and treats, to ensure you’re fully prepared. Once you've completed these steps, you'll be ready to start a dog walking business. Let's have a look at each of the stages in a bit more depth, so that you feel confident in the process.

Execution

Get Certified (Optional but Beneficial)

While formal certifications aren’t required to be a dog walker, completing a dog walking or pet first aid course can be incredibly beneficial. Having a certification, like the Pet First Aid & CPR Certification from the American Red Cross, shows potential clients that you are serious about your side hustle and committed to the safety of their pets. A certification can also give you confidence when handling difficult situations and add credibility to your service.

Define Your Services and Rates

Once you’re prepared to start a dog walking business, it’s time to define your services. Offer solo walks, group walks or even special services such as dog park trips or overnight sitting. Research local dog walking rates so you are competitive but also reflective of your experience and location.

Create an Online Presence

Standing out online will help you get more clients. It doesn't need to be anything overly glamourous - just a simple website or social media page for your services will get you started. Collect testimonials and make sure your availability is visible for anyone who visits the site. Posting pictures or videos of happy dogs on walks with client consent may help to establish trust among your followers. Connect with local pet owners and community groups looking for dog walkers on platforms like Instagram or Facebook.

Build a Network and Ask for Referrals

Word of mouth is an effective advertising medium for dog walkers. Once you get your first few clients, start asking for referrals & reviews. Offering incentives like a free walk after a certain number of referrals may encourage clients to spread the word. Also connect with local veterinarians, pet groomers, and pet supply stores that may refer clients to you. Networking with other dog walkers nearby may also lead to collaboration and advice sharing.

Set Up Scheduling and Payment Systems

At this stage, it's time to start booking more dog walks, while keeping everything nicely organized. Use an app or calendar to schedule and avoid double bookings. Communicate with clients about preferred times, special requests and specific accommodations that need to be made for their beloved canine. Online payment options include Venmo, PayPal or cash - but always spell out the payment terms and when you need to be paid by.

Market Your Services

Even thought it can feel scary, you need to market yourself to get clients. Other local advertising options might include flyers in pet stores or community centers and vet clinics. You can also offer discounts or bundle deals for first time clients, or create packages for regular walks (e.g. weekly bundles). Social media is your friend, and posting regularly to build awareness of your business will help you source clients.

Manage Client Expectations and Be Reliable

Reliability is crucial if you want to succeed in starting a dog walking business. Pet owners trust you with their dogs, so always be punctual and follow through on your commitments. It’s also important to keep clients updated—some may want you to send a quick text or photo to reassure them that their pet is doing well. Establish clear communication upfront regarding any special instructions for their dogs, and always have a backup plan in case of inclement weather or other disruptions.

Bumps In The Road

Dealing with Unpredictable Dogs

Every dog is different, and some may be more challenging to walk than others. Whether a dog pulls on the leash or has behavioral issues like aggression or fear, these situations can be tricky to handle. The key is patience and knowing when to seek help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Having the right tools, like a no-pull harness, and understanding dog behavior can help mitigate these issues.

Client Cancellations and No-Shows

Cancellations and no shows can be frustrating - especially when you planned a walk into your day at the expense of something else. A clear cancellation policy will avoid this. You might require 24-hour notice of cancellations or something similar. This will minimize last-minute changes and make your schedule more predictable.

Weather-Related Challenges

Dog walking businesses are an outdoor job, and while this sounds like a lovely prospect on a sunny day, you need to be prepared for all sorts of weather. You'll probably experience torrential rain, extreme heat, or a snowstorm, at some point in your dog walking journey. If you do experience unpredictable weather, you can take precautions such as You could for example make shorter walks or indoor playtime available on rainy days. In hot weather, walk dogs during cool parts of the day and get them water. Know what to expect for different weather so you and the dogs are safe and comfortable.