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If you find more joy in spending time with your furry friends than your human friends (no judgment from us), then working as a dog walker can be incredibly fulfilling. However, knowing how to become a professional dog walker and turning it into a successful business is a very different breed from occasionally walking your friend’s puppy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to build a sustainable, safe (and fun!) dog walking business.
1. Understand What’s Required of a Dog Walker
For many dog lovers, starting a dog walking business sounds like the perfect job. And while there’s certainly an element of play built into dog walking, it’s not all fun and games all the time. Here are a few considerations to sniff out before committing to a dog walking business:
Are you willing and able to work in all weather conditions?
Dogs need to go on walks no matter what the weather is like. Depending on where you live, this can mean working in rain, snow, extreme heat or cold, or other less-than-ideal conditions.
Do you feel comfortable working with all kinds of dogs?
Some of the dogs you walk will be sweet and well-behaved. Others, not so much. When you’re a dog walker, you’ll need to be able to handle dogs in a variety of sizes, strengths, breeds, and temperaments.
Are you physically able to walk all day, most days of the week?
Being a dog walker means being on your feet all day. Depending on where you’re working, this might also include walking or biking between client residences. You need to feel confident in your ability to be active all day long to do this job.
If you answered “yes” to all of the above, then you can move on to planning your business.
2. Determine Your Business Model
There are three main paths toward becoming a professional dog walker: sign up for a dog walking platform or app, work for a local agency, or work for yourself. Each has its own set of pros and cons, described below.
Become a dog walker using an app
App-based platforms, for example Wag and Rover, connect dog walkers with dog owners in their local area. The benefit is that dog walkers don’t have to do the legwork to build their own clientele. These platforms offer dog walkers tons of flexibility, too, allowing them to choose their work schedule, their rates, and the clients they accept. They can also provide other services like house-sitting or doggy daycare.
Luckily, the application process for both Wag and Rover is easy and entirely online. You’ll need to provide some contact information, your relevant experience, and professional referrals, among other details.
The downsides are that some apps require applicants to pass a background check, prove that they’re at least 18 years old, and legally able to work in the U.S. They also take a hefty cut of your earnings.
Also, keep in mind that these agencies may not offer insurance to their dog walkers. You’ll likely need to look into purchasing your own liability insurance and accident and health coverage, which protects you from accidents that may arise when a dog is in your care. (Don’t worry about this step–we’ll get into more details later.)
Become a dog walker with a local dog walking agency
Another option is to work for a small, local dog-walking agency. Typically, these agencies enjoy close relationships with their clients and know their markets quite well. They’re also going to provide more consistent schedules for their dog walkers.
However, you’re still going to sacrifice a significant portion of the money from each walk, and there may not be much room for professional growth on your end.
Start your own dog walking business
Building your own business requires more logistical work, but it provides greater freedom and opportunity as well.
To do so, start by writing a business plan that sets out your long- and short-term goals and an overview of your target market. You also need key financial information, including how much cash you have on hand and how much money you need to launch and run your business. Your business plan should also include the services you’re offering and your price list.
Then, you’ll need to name and structure your business. Your business structure affects your taxes, the paperwork you need to file, and personal liability. Next, you must register your business with your state and get a Tax Identification Number through the IRS to legally form your business.
Now, it’s time to gather your supplies and start marketing your dog walking business.
3. Gather Your Supplies
Professional dog walkers need an arsenal of supplies to keep their clients happy–both the dog and human variety. Here are some essentials you’ll need to stock up on:
Leashes and harnesses
It’s up to you or your agency whether you’d like to use the leash and harness provided by the client or your own — but either way, it’s a good idea to have a few extras with you. If you’re walking more than one dog at a time, you’ll need to invest in a multi-dog leash.
Waste bags
Always have more waste bags on hand than you think you need.
Treats
These can be a lifesaver if you’re in a situation where a dog isn’t cooperative. Make sure you ask dog owners if there’s anything their pet can’t eat.
Water dish
Bring a collapsible water dish with you so you can keep dogs hydrated on hot days or during especially long or strenuous walks.
Reflective clothing
Safety is a top concern when you’re walking dogs, especially at night. Wear a reflective vest if you’re walking dogs in the dark and consider purchasing reflective leashes.
As soon as you’re ready to walk, begin spreading the word about your business.
4. Market Your Dog Walking Business
If you start your own business, word of mouth will likely become your best leverage for bringing in new clients, as dog walking is inherently based on trust. Still, having an online presence is crucial for modern businesses.
Having a streamlined, easily navigable website that is easy to find on Google makes your business look more professional. It will also help people searching for dog walkers find you online. On your website, be sure to include your contact information, which services you offer, and some positive reviews from happy clients. Also include links to your business’ social media platforms, if you have them.
Having a social media presence is a good way to interact with current and prospective clients. Instagram provides an excellent opportunity for you to show off all the fun your clients’ dogs are having; just be sure to receive your clients’ permission to post photos of their dogs.
Just as you think ahead to grow your business, you must plan to protect your income.
5. Protect Your Business
Dog walking is an inherently risky business, but there are a few steps you can take to protect both your business and your clients.
First, create a contract outlining your terms of service, payment authorization, and cancellation policy. Other important information can include house rules if you’re dog sitting, and emergency protocols in case something goes wrong. Furthermore, request a full medical history of your clients’ dogs. Also consider having your client sign a veterinary release form, which authorizes you to contact a vet in case of emergency.
Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen even to the most careful dog walkers, so you should get general liability insurance. This insurance keeps your business protected from third-party bodily injury and third-party property damage that may occur on the job.
For example: A dog you’re walking bites a stranger that gets a bit too close. In this scenario, your insurance could help cover medical costs to treat their injury.
Or: A dog is really excited after coming back from a walk. You let it off the leash and it zooms around the client’s home, knocking over a table full of expensive glassware. Dog walking insurance can help repay the client.
Plus, we’re adding coverage for animals in your care, custody, and control to general liability insurance in more and more states. That means that as a dog walker, you could have coverage for a loss if a client’s pet is injured while in your care.
6. Learn How to Start and Manage a Small Business
If you have no business past, it’s more than just a good idea to take some classes and get your feet wet. Enlist the help of others that have a good grasp on the endeavor, can get you through the red tape, and form a solid business plan. If you want a large business, are you prepared to manage employees and cover a larger part of the city than you could do alone? Instead of just you, you’ll be taking care of an entire team. You will need to:
- Get insurance and become bonded.
- Interview pet sitters, check them for reliability, train them and pay them.
- Be able to trust them to do their dog-walking according to your instructions.
- Keep good financial records, manage a payroll system, pay taxes on business income, and manage other worker’s requirements.
- Keep a tight leash (no pun intended) on the client arrangements. As owner of the business, you should make all arrangements for dog-walking directly with clients and then provide the instructions, keys, etc. to your employees. That way, if things don’t work out with your dog-walker employee, you keep the client and substitute with a new employee.
7. Develop Your Skills and Knowledge
There are no formal education requirements to become a Dog Walker. The primary qualifications you need are a love of dogs and the ability to handle them well during walks. Most owners require references to prove that you are capable of walking their dogs competently. You can start your career by walking dogs of relatives, friends, and neighbors. Once you are comfortable walking different breeds of dogs, market your services to others in your community. Joining a pet care agency is another way to begin your career as a Dog Walker. An agency may help you with the legal aspects of dog walking, such as being covered by liability insurance.
8. Understand Employment Law
Employment law is tricky, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with what might apply to you, as there may come a time when you need more hands to help juggle all the dog walking jobs.
When it’s time to hire your first employee, you’ll want to be fully aware of the costs associated with staffing, the rights of the employee and your rights. Even if it seems like a hassle for a small operation, make sure you do everything properly from day one to protect yourself and avoid getting involved in any sticky situations down the line.
9. Research Your Competition
What do the top dog walking services in your area offer? What do they charge? Do they sell packages? Any information you can gather is helpful, even if it’s not in line with your own business plan or goals.
It’s worthwhile drawing up a spreadsheet of competitors so you can compare their rates, their details, and their different approaches at a glance. This will help you work out where to land with your own pricing–just below average but still enough to pay what you’re worth is a good rule of thumb when starting out.
10. Stay Persistent and Keep Learning
Dog walking can be a highly rewarding profession, but it requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to learn. Don’t get discouraged if you face challenges along the way – remember that every successful dog walker has faced obstacles too. Keep refining your skills, learning from your experiences, and adapting your business strategies to stay ahead in this competitive industry.
By following these ten steps, you’ll be well on your way to stepping out on your own as a professional dog walker. Your passion for dogs, combined with your newfound knowledge and skills, will set you up for success in this exciting and rewarding career.
Here are some resources for dog walking:
Dog Walking Apps:
Platforms such as Wag and Rover connect dog walkers with pet owners who are seeking dog walking services. These apps provide a convenient way to find clients and manage appointments.
Professional Organisations:
Becoming a member of professional organisations, such as the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) or Pet Sitters International (PSI), can provide resources, networking opportunities, and educational materials for dog walkers.
Online Communities and Forums:
Participating in online communities and forums dedicated to dog walking and pet care can allow you to connect with other professionals in the field, share experiences, and seek advice.
Dog Walking Courses and Certifications:
Consider enrolling in dog walking courses or obtaining certifications in pet care and dog behavior. These programs can enhance your knowledge and skills as a dog walker, making you more marketable and confident in your services.
Local Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations:
Reach out to local animal shelters and rescue organizations to inquire about potential partnerships or referrals. They may have information about pet owners in need of dog walking services or recommendations for reliable dog walkers.
Business Resources:
Utilize business resources and tools to help manage and promote your dog walking business effectively. This may include creating a professional website, using scheduling and invoicing software, or employing marketing strategies to attract clients.
Books and Publications:
There are various books and publications available that focus on dog walking techniques, business management, and pet care. These resources can provide valuable insights and tips to improve your dog walking skills and business operations.
Remember to adapt these resources to your specific needs and local regulations. Building a strong network, staying informed, and continuously learning will help you thrive as a dog walker.
Want to know regarding other oportunities as well? Head to my comprehensive guide on which job will be best for your specific needs. You can click here to know more.
