Tips and recommendations 

How do I start a dog walking and sitting business?

Leia Doyle

How do I start a dog walking and sitting business?

Start a pet-sitting business by following these 10 steps:

  1. STEP 1: Plan your business.
  2. STEP 2: Form a legal entity.
  3. STEP 3: Register for taxes.
  4. STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card.
  5. STEP 5: Set up business accounting.
  6. STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
  7. STEP 7: Get business insurance.

How do I start a successful pet-sitting business?

To maintain the success of your pet-sitting business:

  1. Diversify your services. Pet owners have many different needs.
  2. Re-examine your service area.
  3. Broaden your (marketing) horizons.
  4. Maintain excellent service.
  5. Network, Network, Network!

How do I get my first dog walking client?

Here are five ideas for getting your first dog walking clients.

  1. Begin dropping off dog walking fliers 6 weeks in advance.
  2. Network with established dog walkers and pet sitters.
  3. Attend local dog events in your community.
  4. Create a Yelp profile for your business.
  5. Invest in your website.

Is a dog walking business profitable?

Dog walking is undoubtedly a viable business venture to consider if you’re passionate about dogs. Not only is the demand for dog walking high, but the business also has a relatively low barrier to entry and is highly profitable.

How do I market myself as a dog walker?

10 Simple Ways To Market Your Dog Walking or Pet Sitting Business

  1. Get a website for your business.
  2. Get licensed & insured!
  3. Get booking software.
  4. Get a Facebook business page and use it strategically.
  5. Stick out on social media.
  6. Start a blog on your website.
  7. Get business cards and start handing them out!

Can you make a living as a dog walker?

We talked to dog walkers to find out. Wag cofounder and CEO Joshua Viner told BuzzFeed News that “on average, a walker makes around $17.50 per walk.” Private, professional walkers, however, can make between $20 and $40 — and, because they don’t need to pay Wag a cut, they keep more of that cash for themselves.

What qualifications do you need to be a dog walker?

Qualifications and training Whist there are no specific qualifications required to become a dog walker/pet sitter, having qualifications in areas such as animal first aid, animal behaviour, or animal care, will enhance your professional standing.

How do I become a successful dog walker?

10 Ways to Become a Successful Dog Walker

  1. Decide Your Goals. Like any big decision in life, choosing to start your dog walking business requires preparation.
  2. Make a Business Plan.
  3. Be Knowledgeable About Dogs.
  4. Know Your Limits.
  5. Toot Your Own Horn.
  6. Practice Safety.
  7. Learn to Read Bad Situations.
  8. All Walking Paths Are Not Equal.

What should a dog walker carry with them?

As a professional dog walker, you need to be able to carry everything in a backpack or a fanny pack.

  • Fanny pack/Leash Duo. As a professional dog walker you most likely already have a favorite leash brand.
  • Poop bags.
  • First Aid Kit.
  • Water.
  • Treats.
  • Dog Wipes.
  • Headlamp.
  • Dog Walkers Insurance.

How many dogs can a dog walker legally walk?

four dogs
It is recommended that no more than four dogs are walked at any one time. ALL dogs under a dog walker’s care should be reliably under control at all times and transported in accordance with the guidance in this document.

Can I walk dogs without experience?

Though it’s absolutely not essential for a person to have previous pet care experience to excel in the dog walking world, there are some prerequisites. It’s hard to make money as a dog walker without working at least some strange hours or holidays every now in then.

Do you need insurance to be a dog walker?

You are also likely to need public liability insurance no matter if dog walking is your sole business activity or if you other businesses. If you employ any staff, you would also need employers liability cover.