Start a Dog Walking Business

Despite the fact that dog walking is not considered a true profession to many, it has become big business for those who are good at it. And, being one of the easiest businesses to start and maintain, there are newcomers every day. Especially since we are a nation of busy, dog lovers.

So, although most people are committed to ensuring that their dogs get the proper exercise. They usually lack the time, and in some cases the physical ability to do it themselves. This is where you step in, by offering your dog walking services.

Before You Start

Before you pass out a flyer or add your first customer it is important to determine what you will charge as your fee. This is important and will prevent you from showing favoritism or giving different prices to different owners. Remember, people talk; and, you do not want customers who feel they are being charged unfairly. Be sure that your rates are fair to both you and your customers. If you are renting, check with your landlord to see if there will be any problems on the off chance that you need to bring clients home, especially if you are thinking of offering dog washing or feeding as an additional service. Finally talk to your neighbors about your plans.

Start Up Costs and Needs

Though a dog walking business is relatively inexpensive to start there are a few key things that you will need. The most important, being a love of dogs, the outdoors, and long walks. Many underestimate the physical stamina needed to keep up with dogs. They also fail to consider the time and commitment involved. It is often over looked; but, you will need a good memory to distinguish between your clients and their needs. There are dogs on special diets, with special medicines, and special needs. A good dog walker can stay on top of and eventually anticipate these needs.

You will need money for marketing, which should consist predominately for making copies of flyers. Yet, you may also consider keeping dog food, toys, and dog washing products on hand as well. If you don't have any, a good pair of walking shows couldn't hurt.

Marketing

Again, you should focus your marketing strategies on inexpensive, but effective methods. Such as using word of mouth, passing out flyers, online classifieds advertising, and knocking on the doors of any elderly or disabled people you may know who have a dog.

Things to Consider

Due to the number of new dog walking businesses springing up everyday, consider the things that you could do to set your business apart from the pack. For an additional fee you may want to offer services like dog washing or feeding. If you are a stay at home mom, you can get you smaller children to help creating a fun family business.

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