Greyhounds, for example, are known for their mild, sweet temperament while Siberian Huskies can be very challenging and independent due to their high level of intelligence. [2] X Research source Learn about the different exercise requirements for different breeds. Herding and working breeds, for example, will need longer and more frequent exercise, as will puppies. Older and very young dogs will need to go out more because they can’t control their bladders as well.
Search on the Internet for new and exciting places to take the dogs, like a puppy pool, an open agility course, or a trail in the woods. These places will interest and stimulate the dogs, something you can use to advertise your business. If you live in a city, for example, consider driving the dogs a couple miles away from downtown where there is more nature and fewer people. If you live somewhere hot, such as Arizona, you may need to adjust your hours in the summertime for the safety of the dogs. [5] X Research source
If the dog you’re walking has aggressive tendencies with other dogs, avoid taking the dog to a dog park. [6] X Research source
For an open-ended model, you can describe your business as “Pet Care,” “Pet Sitting and Services,” or as a “Pet Companion. ”
On average, dog walkers charge somewhere between $15 and $30 an hour. For the sake of getting your business going, it’s a good idea to start with low prices and move up as you acquire customers. [7] X Research source Research other dog walkers in your area to come up with fair, competitive prices.
If you make your business a corporation or LLC, your personal and business assets will be kept separate, which protects you financially if any dogs cause damage or harm, or if harm is done to them. [8] X Research source
Many areas have strict dog sanitation regulations that require you to pick up dog waste immediately. Many areas have leashing laws, which allow dogs to be off leash in specified spaces and require that they’re leashed in others. [10] X Research source
Even if you’re very careful, there’s always a chance that a dog you’re walking can hurt someone, cause damage to personal property, get detached from the leash, get attacked by another dog, etc. [11] X Research source
Where you walk dogs How long you walk dogs for How you handle billing and payment Whether there are certain breeds you don’t handle How many dogs you walk at once Statements regarding liability if your dog gets aggressive or out of control[12] X Research source
Share your business’s website on social media to spread the word even more.
Post lots of pictures of the places you go and ask owners for permission to include their cute dogs in your pictures. You can add a clause in your contract that asks for permission to post pictures of the customer’s dog.
Your business card should be attractive and include at least your business name, website, and contact information (phone number and email address). [14] X Research source
Consider giving a referral discount to clients who bring in new clients. By sharing that you’ll give anyone who gets you a new client 2 free 30 minute walks, for example, you’ll give them an extra incentive to spread the word.
