You’ve always loved dogs, but you’ve always been the person who had to get up and leave when they came over to play.
That’s probably because you live in an apartment, you live with allergies, or you’re just not home enough to give them the attention they need.
But now you have an idea. You want to start a dog walking business.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to start a dog walking business.
Getting started
The first thing you need to do is to start a website. It can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like, and can be dedicated to anything you’re passionate about. It could be all about dogs, gardening, or perhaps you’re an artist or photographer.
Whatever your niche is, I would recommend going in with a laser-like focus. This will ensure that you’re working with a trusted website builder that has all of the features and options that you need.
For a no-frills, simple website, I recommend Squarespace.
Your first step
When you create your website, you’re going to be encouraged to create an account with a network like DogVacay.
Don’t worry, this is totally optional.
What is a dog walker?
A dog walker is the person you hire to come to your house and walk your dogs for you.
A dog walker is also the person you may contact if you want to sell a dog or one of your dogs to someone else.
When you want to start a dog walking business, you will need to hire a dog walker.
But what does a dog walker do?
A dog walker will come to your house and walk your dogs while you are at work. They will take your dogs on a short walk so that you can concentrate on your work. They will also walk the dogs on a longer walk so that you have time to spend with them.
When you’re not at home, they will walk the dogs at the dog park or on a trail nearby.
Dog walking business expense tips
As with anything else, there are some costs involved in starting a dog walking business.
Why would people hire a dog walker?
People hire a dog walker when they have dogs that need to be walked regularly. They usually have dogs that are too large for a pet sitter and they don’t have the time, money, or both to take their dogs for walks.
Even though dogs need daily exercise, they don’t always need to be walked every day. In fact, some dogs need only a little bit of exercise.
Start a dog walking business with a few friends. Or maybe even start a dog walking business with a new pet that you just got. Once you have a few clients, expand your operation.
There’s also an opportunity to get additional clients in other areas. Some of your clients will come to you from friends and family members, while others will come to you because of the service you offer.
READ MORE:
- Puppy Training Schedule: A Guide To Train Your Puppy At Different Ages.
- 15 Of The Best Apartment Dogs You Could Ever Wish For
What skills do I need to be a dog walker?
If you want to run a business that involves walking dogs in your neighbourhood, you’ll need to have some of the following skills.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
Ability to interact with dogs
Ability to stand up for yourself, as you’ll often be criticized by other dog owners for letting dogs off the leash or for not walking dogs on time
Ability to work flexible hours
Basic ability to operate power tools and equipment
The type of business you want to run
Dogs are not just people’s friends. They’re members of the family. And as such, owners treat them like family.
And if you want to become a dog walker, you’ll need to act like family. Because when you’re with dogs, you’re always on display.
What are some benefits of being a dog walker?
Your pet would get the best of care.
You would get to play with other dogs and take them on walks!
You could make your own schedule, at a time that works best for you.
Being a dog walker would help your career.
In fact, the average dog walker makes about $15 per hour! You wouldn’t have to worry about making ends meet if you don’t want to.
What are the downsides of being a dog walker?
Running a business is hard work!
Training dogs takes time.
It’s physically hard to carry 45 pound dogs up and down stairs.
Hiring someone else to do your job may be a good idea.
When should I start a dog walking business?
You don’t need to start immediately. You can start working toward your business when you have a steady schedule.
The Best Ways To Start A Dog Walking Business
Have you always wanted to start a dog walking business?
If you're a dog lover, it makes perfect sense: You can use a dog walking business to serve as your side hustle, market your expertise or find new clients. Dog walking can also be a great way to exercise and spend time outdoors.
If you're looking for a good way to make some extra money, now is a great time to start a dog walking business.
Step 1: Pick a name for your business
Finding a good name for your dog walking business can be challenging. After all, you probably won't get a lot of business unless people can recognise your name.
So, the first thing you should do is choose a name you'll be able to manage. That way, you'll have a lot more flexibility to choose a logo and business name that will make sense for your business.
If you have a business already, you can use your company's brand. Or, you can consider using your own name. Either way, the name will be a simple way for customers to identify you.
Step 2: Register your company
When you decide to start a dog walking business, you'll need to register with the state. You may also want to consider registering with an industry association.
Obtain business licence
Most states require you to obtain a dog walking business licence before you can provide dog walking services to the public. Once you have your dog walking business licence. you can contact local officials to set up a dog walking permit.
You'll also need to purchase liability insurance to cover yourself if an owner or an accident were to occur while you are working. Don't forget to purchase workers' compensation insurance as well.
Step 3: Make sure you're insured
Your insurance premiums are higher than they would be if you were driving a car. You also need to understand the fees associated with insuring your dog walking business. Do you need a liability policy? Will you be responsible for any medical bills that your dog may have incurred? These are all things to ask your agent about.
By now you should have a general idea of what your insurance premiums will be. Your insurance company should provide you with some forms so you can get started with your business.
Get your business licence
To make sure that your business will be eligible for insurance coverage, you'll need to have your business licence. If you want your business to be allowed to operate during inclement weather, you'll need to get a permit from your local city or town.
Step 4: Choose the correct equipment
Once you've decided on the type of business you want to start, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. It's usually a good idea to start small, so you have something to maintain as you grow. You can start small by investing in a few pieces of essential equipment, or you can purchase a complete package.
In choosing the right equipment, it's good to consider your customers' needs. A dog walker that walks multiple dogs will need to have multiple sets of equipment, including leash and harness, a dog jogger, towels, a backpack and dog bowls. These are important items that will help you stay consistent in your business. It can also help you promote your business in a social media-friendly way.
Step 5. Find clients
Once you've decided to start a dog walking business, you'll need to find your first clients. This could be difficult if you haven't previously done this type of work. Your first client may not be the right fit for you, and your second client may want to keep the dog walking as their sole form of dog walking.
If you're hoping to earn a steady income from a dog walking business, it may be a better idea to open your own business. You will have more opportunities to find your first clients, and also keep clients through promotions. In most cases, it's easier to find a steady stream of clients than it is to find a few good clients.
So, how do you find your first clients? It's not as hard as you might think, though you will have to work harder than you're used to.
Step 6. Start making money
Start a side hustle to bring in extra income.
Whether you decide to sell items, pitch your expertise or offer your services, there are a variety of ways to make money on the side.
Take, for example, attorney Len Schneider. He started a book service after noticing that people couldn't afford professional copies of their own legal documents. When his side hustle brought in $10,000, he figured out the best way to package the service and sell it. The rest is history.
As long as you have the right market research, know your subject matter, and have a plan for how to market your service or product, you can create a new source of income.
Additionally, you don't have to be a full-time attorney to find side hustles that you can do for fun.
Getting the word out
Your main goal should be getting your business up and running.
As I mentioned, dogs are much happier when they are outside of the house.
That is why your first few customers should be people who live on, or near, an acreage.
They’ll have an excuse to bring the dog out for walks and you’ll make some money.
If you are going to be starting your dog walking business, make sure you are able to be out in the sun and on your feet for hours a day.
And, make sure to get some professional business cards to put out.
When you’re able to get your dog walking business up and running, your next step should be advertising.
If you’re having trouble finding people in the area to walk your dogs, there are a few ways you can advertise.
Dog walking equipment you’ll need
Before you start your dog walking business, you’ll need to purchase some dog walking equipment and supplies.
Pet first aid kit
This dog walking essentials kit should include:
Bowl (to hold water and food)
Leash (for the dog and for yourself)
Small towel
Dirt bags
All you need to do is walk your dog, sit down, and give them treats!
Dog sweaters and vests
You’ll need some nice clothes for your dog when it comes time to walk them, so consider buying them a dog sweater or vest.
Your dog will get cold when it’s really cold outside, and you’ll have a snug fit around your dog to keep them warm.
Vest: $7.99
Sweater: $11.75
0 Comments