How to Start a Dog Walking Business

Issue #01 | July 01, 2023

Welcome to Pawpreneurs! We're more than just a bi-weekly newsletter – we're your partner in turning your passion for pets into a thriving business. Whether you're a solo operator, a weekend side hustler, or a growing team, we've got your back. Your passion for pets deserves a profitable outlet. Let's transform your dream into a bustling business, one paw at a time. Pawpreneurs is here to guide, support, and inspire.

If you're looking for a fun and profitable side hustle, starting a dog-walking business might be just the thing for you. It's a great way to make some extra money and is perfect for anyone who loves dogs. The question that may have crossed your mind is, what do I need to start a dog walking business? Here are a few tips to get you started!

Starting a dog walking business is a straightforward and low-cost method to create the animal-related business world. You can get your business off to a terrific start by following a few procedures. Most people will likely start their business as a Sole Proprietorship or Limited Liability Company (LLC). While establishing your dog walking business, you should consult with someone experienced and trustworthy when it comes to an accountant or attorney.

Start your dog walking business

When starting a dog-walking business, the main topic is what you need to start a dog-walking business. So, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as acquiring the proper licenses and insurance, finding the right finance, and establishing a good reputation. And ultimately deciding if you will be a one-person business, side-hustler, or hire a team.

A Sole Proprietorship business is one in which the business owner makes all of the decisions and is solely responsible for paying all obligations and taxes incurred by the company. To legally operate a business in your area, you may be required to apply for a business license. Suppose you do business under a fake name other than your legal name. In that case, you will be required to register the fictitious name with the appropriate state agency.

Most dog-walking businesses are established as single proprietorships or Limited Liability Organizations (LLCs). An LLC distinguishes between personal and corporate support, releasing the firm's owner from personal liability for the corporation's obligations. A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single individual who does not keep their personal and business assets separate from the company's. All debts are held against the owner's private property.

Be sure to get insurance

Being a responsible dog walker means being prepared for anything. Getting bonded and insured as a dog walker business Pet sitters and dog walkers can be insured with insurance expressly geared to their needs, such as Pet Sitter Insurance. If a pet causes harm while under your supervision, this insurance will protect you from possible legal action on your behalf.

Even though it will only cost a few hundred dollars, it might spare you from major legal trouble in the future. Several companies, like Pet Sitters Associates LLC and Pet Sitter Insurance, offer pet services industry insurance.

Defining your pricing and services

Most dog walkers provide services in blocks of time (15 minutes, 30 minutes, and one hour). Single dogs or a small "pack" of dogs can be walked from the same apartment complex or residential street as their owners.

Similarly, you may provide complementary services such as pet sitting, behavior training, and pooper scooper services. If you want to know the going fee for dog walking services in your region, look into it with the local competition.

Get a signed contract.

It would be best to always work under a written agreement with your clients. The terms of service agreements define the connection that exists between the customer (the dog owner) and the service provider (the dog groomer) (you). Make a clear distinction between what is and is not covered in the contract. It should indicate if the dog will be walked as part of a group or whether it will be walked alone.

The agreement or contract should cover the details of your service offerings, payment choices, cancellations, damages, and emergency medical conditions. Before working with a new customer, please double-check that you have their complete contact information and a signed agreement.

You may wish to incorporate a veterinarian release as part of your contract. According to the release, you will make every effort to contact the dog's owner in an emergency. You will be granted the authority to seek veterinarian treatment for the dog. In addition, the release should clarify who will be responsible for any vet fees.

Log details in your records

Maintain a contact sheet for each property owner who utilizes your service, including their address, phone number, email address, and emergency contact information. Please note the breed, color, and date of birth of each dog and their health history (including allergies and any past injuries), the veterinarian's name, and clinic contact information.

A basic veterinary release form will allow you to take the animal to the veterinarian. At the same time, the owner agrees to pay any fees that may arise due to the visit.

Get the word out

Create a flier and business card that may be displayed on entrance bulletin boards in vet clinics, supermarkets, dog groomers, and pet stores, among other places. Take into consideration having your contact information and logo printed on giant magnets that you can stick to the doors and back of your car.

Advertise on places like NextDoor, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or Groups, in church bulletins, condo and apartment buildings, cafes, and in the neighborhood newsletters to reach the most people possible. Create a website with a domain name that is unique to you.

Word of mouth will ultimately surpass all other sources of referrals as your most important source of business. Whenever a client comes to you, please note how they learned about your business (via a recommendation, a website, or a flier), so you will know what areas to concentrate your efforts on. In the beginning, you might want to consider joining marketplaces like Rover to get a good feel for the services you want to offer, test out pricing, and get your initial first clients.

We’ve shared more about how to get dog-walking clients here and why niching down is important to your success.

Get the right accessories for dog walking

You might consider taking pepper spray if you walk your dogs and stray dogs approach them. Also, get appropriate footwear and apparel for the season and environment. Wearing clothing with your company logo and phone number printed on it while at work is an excellent way to promote your brand. It’s important to get the right accessories, products and tools for dog walking. If you are unsure on where to start or what you should need, we’ve rounded up a guide The 12 Essential Must-Have Items For Any Dog Walker, that is sure to help!

The bottom line

Taking care of animals has its own unique set of challenges. If you're thinking about beginning a dog-walking business, you might be startled to learn that it requires some planning. While starting your own business is exciting, making sure it's legal and you'll be covered in an accident or mishap is essential.

Until next time!

Valerie & the team at Pawpreneurs!

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