How to Start a Dog-walking Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Starting a Dog Walking Business: The Complete Guide
If you’re an animal lover looking for a fun and flexible career, starting a dog walking business could be the perfect move. As a dog walker, you get to spend your days hanging out with adorable pups while also being your own boss. But turning your passion into a profession takes a bit of work. Here’s how to get your doggy daycare up and running.
Do Your Homework
Before diving in, do some recon work to assess the local landscape. Reach out to other walkers and see what services and rates are standard in your area. Check out the competition and spot opportunities to fill unmet needs. Maybe offer weekend walks or hiking packs for high energy breeds. Getting some experience under your collar through volunteering at shelters is also a great way to build skills and make connections.
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Map Out a Plan
Like any business, successful dog walking requires thorough planning. Figure out your legal structure, projected finances, services offered, target demographic, marketing strategy, and growth goals. Mapping it all out in a formal business plan will help you determine if this pup enterprise has legs to stand on.
Get Licensed and Insured
Make sure your business is fully legally covered. Choose and register your official dog walking name and entity. Look into any licenses or permits required locally for animal businesses. And don’t skip the insurance — general liability and bonding insurance will protect you in case of any injuries or mishaps on a walk.
Price Yourself Right
Set competitive rates by researching other walkers in your area and considering your business costs. An average starting rate is $15–25 for a 30 minute walk and $20–35 for an hour. Have tiered pricing for multiple dogs, puppies, and regular customers. This is skilled labor, so don’t low-ball yourself!
Spread the Word
Promote your services across all channels — online and off. Design professional branding you can use on business cards, flyers, websites and social media. Reach out to local pet businesses like groomers and vets to form referral partnerships. Stay top of mind with holiday cards and email updates for current pup clients.
Build Your Pack
Streamline client management with intake forms, scheduling software and solid organization systems. Always get vet and emergency contact info before the first walk. Bring backup supplies like extra leashes and plastic bags. For pets with special needs, walk them solo before integrating into group walks. And don’t be afraid to hire help as your pack grows!
Follow this roadmap and you’ll be on the path to living your dog walking dreams! Let your business intuition lead the way as you embark on this exciting pet venture.
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Dog-walking Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
FAQ
How much should I charge for dog walking?
Pricing varies depending on your location and experience level. As a baseline, charge $15–25 for a 30 minute walk and $20–35 for an hour. Take into account your commute time and costs. Establish different rates for puppies, additional dogs, etc.
Do I need insurance and permits?
You need general liability insurance in case a dog gets injured under your care. Look into bonding insurance too. Check your state and local laws regarding business permits and licenses for dog walkers. Stay compliant.
How do I attract dog walking clients?
Start with friends, family, neighbors and ask for referrals. Promote your business through vet offices, rescues, groomers, pet stores and online groups. Offer promos like first walk free. Partner with dog trainers and pet sitters to exchange leads.
What supplies will I need?
Leash, collapsible water/food bowls, poop bags, hand sanitizer, treats, first aid kit. Have an extra leash in case one breaks. Get bandanas, belts, vests to ID dogs. Keep dogs safe in extreme weather with booties, coats, sunscreen.
How do I hire dog walking employees?
Find dog lovers with pet care experience. Do criminal background checks. Call references. Make sure they have transportation and availability for shifts. Require proper dog handling training. Start as a trial period before fully hiring.
Should I walk dogs solo or in a group?
Take your cues from the owner and the dogs. Puppies and dogs new to group walks do best solo. Confident walkers with experience can handle 2–4 dogs per group. Walk aggressive, reactive or high energy dogs alone.
What if a dog gets loose or hurt under my care?
First focus on finding and securing the dog if one gets loose. Contact the owner immediately in any emergency. Provide any needed care within reason. File an insurance claim if relevant. Be transparent to retain trust.
How do I scale my dog walking company?
Hire part time dog walkers to increase capacity. Implement a scheduling and invoicing system. Focus on retention and regulars rather than one-time clients. Expand to pet sitting, daycare or training. Create a referral program to incentivize word of mouth.
