Getting Started in the Dog Walking Business
As a dog walker, you face risks. Insurance provides liability coverage if a dog gets injured or causes damage. Without insurance, you could be personally responsible for incidents, jeopardizing your livelihood.
Pricing Structure
- A 20-minute walk costs $10 to $20.
- A 30-minute walk costs $15 to $30.
- Discounts offered for ongoing service.
Qualifications like animal first aid enhance professional standing. Backup walkers ensure dogs get exercise if the regular walker has an emergency.
Pet insurance aims to spare unexpected costs. Average vet bills are $300-600 per year. Annual premium is the yearly amount paid to maintain coverage.
Discover the ins and outs of the dog walking business with our guide highlighting vital skills, client-finding strategies, organizing operations, pricing, and liability insurance needs. The market for dog walkers is expanding, with 59% of Canadians owning at least one pet.
In this article, we’ll cover steps to start your dog walking business, choosing the right business structure, and necessary permits or licenses to build a strong foundation.
According to Jones, marketing is essential, with current clients helping through word-of-mouth.
Dog walking is a viable business venture with high demand, low entry barriers, and high profitability.
We’ll break down considerations before becoming a business owner, like naming, safety tips, franchise opportunities, promotion, and time, effort, and dedication required.
Setting up a dog walking business requires understanding what to charge and what to include in a contract.
Dog Walking as a Side Hustle
Dog Walking Side Hustle Benefits
- Financially rewarding, with average pay exceeding other side jobs.
- Health benefits from outdoor walking, improving physical and mental wellbeing.
Starting a dog walking side hustle involves getting the necessary training.
Dog walking is a top paying side gig averaging $43 hourly according to a Preply study.
Wag connects users with local dog walkers who are provided with training, insurance, and assistance. Set your own hours for earnings potential.
The amount you make can exceed $1000 monthly with consistent clients, depending on location, clients, and services.
5 Tips for Dog Walkers
- Love for dogs: Spend quality time with them.
- Flexibility: Decide rates and times as your own boss.
- Stay active: Good for health and can involve family.
- Explore related gigs: pet sitting, grooming, training, dog photography, or monetizing a dog blog.
- Business growth: Be reliable, insured, and maintain a flexible schedule to attract clients.
Marketing Tips
- Word of mouth: Offer to walk dogs for friends/family.
- Hand out business cards and flyers.
- Post on neighborhood pages and apps.
- Create social media pages.
- Partner with dog trainers and groomers.
- Offer discounts for referrals.
Flexibility, health benefits, and enjoyment make dog walking an appealing side hustle.