How to Start a Dog Walking Business

Starting a dog-walking business is a great way to do something you love, make your own schedule, and work with pups and their parents. But, you need to keep many different things in mind when learning how to start a dog-walking business—and it's not as simple as it seems.

LegalZoom’s guide on how to start a dog-walking business covers everything you need to know and do to run your own business. We explain market trends, provide detailed steps to lay the groundwork, and even suggest marketing tips.

 

Is now the time to open your own dog-walking business? 

Professional dog-walking businesses are enjoying increased popularity and demand; the dog-walking market size increased by 0.8% in 2023. Trends driving the surge for pet services are:

• Increase in dog owners. Although not at the numbers seen during the pandemic, there is a steady influx of pet adoptions. 
• Busy lifestyles. The general lifestyle of all people has become more hectic. People need dog walkers for different reasons. Some work in an office full time and have to hire help to care for their dogs. Others work from home and don't have the time to take their pups out during the day.
• People look at pets as part of their family. People are willing to invest in high-quality services that ensure the well-being of their dogs. 

The pet services industry is expected to grow at 11.7% between 2020 and 2023, making it an exciting time to step into the market. A professional dog walker tends to make between $10-$35 per 30 minutes of walk; you can expect to earn around $21,000 to $44,000 as a full-time dog walker. Some other of the benefits of starting a dog-walking business include: 

• Flexibility. You can offer occasional dog walking services to more regular schedules—decide what works best for you and your customers. The ability to choose your clients allows you to maintain a work-life balance. 
• Low startup costs. The barriers to entry are relatively low, and the business doesn’t require heavy capital investment or space. 
• Good for mental and physical health. Being around animals is known to be soothing. Regular walking also gives your fitness a boost. 
• Unlimited earnings potential. As your own boss, you directly control your earnings potential. Some dog walkers in New York earned over $100,000. While that income is not the norm, it’s certainly a possibility in areas with high demand.

How to start a dog-walking business in 10 steps

You could potentially build a lucrative dog-walking business and become an entrepreneurial success just by following these tips.

Step 1: Conduct market research

To set up a successful dog-walking business, you need to know what’s available in the market and whether you can satisfy a pressing need or pain point. Run a Google or online directory search to understand competitors, their services, neighborhood profiles, and potential client demographics. 

You can also visit local parks and speak to dog owners to understand their needs. For example, you might realize that many people own pedigree dogs but don’t have the time to provide them with the required exercise and physical stimulation. You can position your dog-walking business to work specifically with pedigree dogs. 

Step 2: Decide what services to offer

Before advertising your dog-walking service, you need to be clear on what you’re offering. As a dog walker, you can provide the following types of walks: 

• Single walks. Where you walk just a single dog for a fixed time at a predetermined location (around the owner’s house or a park). It allows you to bond with the dog and handle any emergencies well. 
• Group walks. Walking multiple dogs together lets you earn more revenue, but you need to be able to handle accidents and mishaps like a pro. We’d recommend you offer this only if you are a seasoned dog walker and know how many dogs you can safely walk at once.
• In-house playtime. This is where you check in on the pet at the owner’s house, engage them in some play, and give them a quick stroll around the backyard or housing complex.
• Adventure walks. Where you take dogs out on a hike or trail and engage them in specific exercises.

Also, consider offering extra services like grooming, pet sitting, or dog training. Providing more or niche services can help you stand out against other dog-walking companies while establishing multiple revenue streams.

Expert tip: While offering various services and packages is tempting, start with simple services that align with your strengths. As you gain experience, you can always add services.

Step 3: Choose a business model

Think about how you want to set up your business. The chosen structure impacts the legal protection you get, tax burden, and compliance requirements. 

As a small business owner, you can form a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or corporation. An LLC is generally considered the easiest legal entity to form that protects your personal assets from business liabilities and debts. Formalizing your business also makes it easier to secure funding from external sources and qualify for certain tax deductions as you separate personal and business expenses. 

A small business attorney can help you pick the proper legal structure for your dog-walking business based on your goals, funding needs, and risk appetite.

Step 4: Write a business plan

Writing a business plan forces you to put your passion for puppies and play into something tangible. A comprehensive pet care business plan includes the following components:

• Executive summary. Why do you want to start your own dog-walking business? What are the short and long-term goals? 
• Market profile. Describe your market size, trends, and growth opportunities. 
• Competitor analysis. Talk about your top competitors, the services they offer, and how you will stand out against them. 
• Service description. Outline the services provided. If you provide more specialized services, how will those be priced? 
• Operations plan. Explain how you will run your business. What will the process be for booking appointments, pick-ups and drop-offs, basic maintenance, and handling emergencies? 
• Financial projections. What are the expected startup costs? When will you break even? Does your business need external funding? If so, how will you get the funds?
• Marketing strategy. Outline how you will find potential clients and the marketing platforms you will use to drive sales and visibility.

Step 5: Obtain necessary permits, licenses, and liability insurance

Any new dog-walking business needs the correct state and local licenses, permits, and insurance. Securing proper permits and licenses builds business credibility and shows customers that you’re a reliable and trustworthy provider. 

Standard licenses and permits you could need include:

• General business license to legally operate within a jurisdiction. 
• Doing business as (DBA) registration if you are operating under a different name.
• Sales and tax permits if you sell products like leashes or dog shampoo.
• Zoning permit if you walk the dog in areas not permitted for commercial use.
• Regional or local permits to bring dogs to municipal parks.

LegalZoom’s Business Licensing Services can help you understand the regulatory environment and protocols impacting your dog-walking business.

Liability insurance is also essential when you're providing pet-walking services. The insurance can cover you if one of the dogs you're walking gets sick or injured or if the client’s property gets damaged.

The business insurance shouldn't cost too much, but it can save you thousands of dollars that you'd have to pay out of pocket if anything happened. You can also get an additional level of insurance, also called bonding.

“I would suggest getting pet insurance and bonding," says Diana Ludwiczak, a canine scent-detection trainer and CEO of Wolfie's Place. "Having this will let your clients know that you take the safety of their dog very seriously."

With so many liability insurance providers out there, go for the one with the most coverage at the lowest price point, and make sure they have a good reputation. Speak to your local government body or insurance provider to get the appropriate dog-walking insurance.  

Step 6: Get first-aid certification, safety protocols, and equipment

Yes, you read that right. When clients use pet-sitters or pet-walking services, they want to know that their dog is safe with you. That's why Colby Lehew, who owns the Chicago-based dog-walking business Dogletics, recommends learning first aid for dogs. She says, "The canine first aid is a must. Most customers will not use you without it."

Along with becoming first-aid certified, take extra precautions by learning about dog-walking safety and the different types of equipment you'll need. For instance, you could enroll in a dog-walking certification course online with PetProHero or PetTech or do a physical course at a local veterinary clinic or animal shelter. The American Red Cross also offers a self-paced pet first aid class. Also, go to a pet store to investigate the best leashes, collars, and harnesses to use.

While there, pick up some essentials for your dog-walking business, too. "I would recommend [buying] a leash, poop bags, and treats," Lehew says. "It is crazy that most clients do not have the basics."

Besides increasing your knowledge, the proper certifications and training serve as great advertisements for your professionalism. 

Step 7: Invest in a petcare software system

To ensure your dog-walking business runs smoothly, you need the right tools, such as pet software. Lehew says you can use companies like TimeToPet and Barkly Pets for online scheduling, invoicing, GPS tracking, and more. They will not only make your job easier by increasing productivity but are much more convenient for clients as well. 

"Doing it by paper and pen is super frustrating to clients," Lehew says. "Also, people do not want to deal with cash these days."

Step 8: Establish pricing and client contracts

As you’re manifesting your pup-loving dreams as a full-time business, there's one thing you'll want to keep on a tight leash—your finances.

Your pricing has to be tied to the services offered, availability, and overhead expenses. For instance, if you plan to work with a partner or a small team, you will have to charge higher to ensure you can pay your staff. Other considerations include:

• Whether you will provide new poop bags, or is that an additional cost? 
• How will you charge for a second dog in the family? 
• Will you charge higher because of your certifications? 

Most dog walkers charge by the hour or then per visit. If you’re struggling to set a price point, reference the market research you did to understand average rates. 

Expert tip: Ensure your pricing is easy to understand and clearly stated on your website, social media platforms, and contract.

It’s equally essential to have signed written contracts with clients. Well-defined agreements include payment terms, cancellation or rescheduling policies, emergency services protocols, vaccination policies, and liability waivers. These written agreements inform clients about what to expect from your services, avoid potential conflict, and show them you’re serious about your work.

Step 9: Market your business

When starting a dog-walking business, you need to set aside time and money to market it. According to Jones, you should ask current clients for help with word-of-mouth marketing since dog-walking businesses are usually local.

Dale Buchanan, owner of K9 Business Coach, says you should start building a following on social media sites such as Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. "Post photos and videos of the dogs you walk daily," he says.

Here are a few more ideas to start your pet-sitting business on the right paw: 

• Build a website to create an online presence. 
• Leave flyers or business cards at local pet stores, pet clinics, pet groomers, grocery stores, and coffee shops.
• Network with established dog walkers and offer to fill in for them in case of illness or emergency.
• Attend local pet events and meet-up groups to connect with dog owners and industry professionals.
• Get listed in online directories like Google, Yelp, Angie's Lists, PetSitUSA, and Rover.

Step 10: Launch and manage your business 

When starting your pet-walking service, keep in mind that it takes a commitment. "This is a serious business and should not just be treated as a side hustle," Ludwiczak says. "The most important thing to consider is that dogs are treated as family members, and caring for someone's beloved family member needs to be taken seriously."

Here are some final “to-dos” to tick before you announce you’re open for business. 

• Register your business or reserve your name so no one else uses the same name.
• Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes. 
• Open a business bank account to track sales and keep personal and business expenses separate. 
• Join professional societies like The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) or The Professional United Pet Sitters (PUPS) to network and continue your professional development. 
• Use a scheduling software to book and track appointments and store client information.

That’s it! You have done the legwork and are ready to live your dream and provide the best service. 

Expert tip: Consider rolling out an introductory offer to lure customers to sign up. 

How much does it cost to open a dog-walking business? 

Starting a dog-walking business with just $500 in your bank account. While this is relatively cheaper than other businesses, it doesn’t mean there are no startup costs. Below, we highlight common startup expenses and provide an approximate range for each. 

Registering your business 

If you decide to form an LLC (which is advisable), you’ll need to pay your state’s filing fees, which typically range from $35-$300. The average cost of a DBA is between $10-$150. While registering as an LLC bumps startup costs, it provides comprehensive protection. 

Equipment and software

Leashes, collars, poop bags, water bowls, and dog treats—these are essential supplies that you can’t walk dogs without. Luckily, these tools are readily available online or at a local pet shop and are quite economical. All of them shouldn’t cost more than $100. 

A pet management system or accounting software might run a bit more, but don’t worry; the investment pays off. Popular pet-sitting software like Time To Pet and PetSitter offer different pricing tiers, the cheapest being $20 per month. 

Licenses, permits, and insurance

The cost of obtaining the licenses, permits, and insurance varies by state but is generally around $25-$550. For instance, comprehensive dog walking insurance costs between $8-$14 per month. The final figure depends on the required licenses and insurance coverage limits. Your local Small Business Association (SBA) can help you identify required licenses and permits and their approximate costs.

Certification and safety classes

Pet parents appreciate when a professional dog walker is certified. Basic first-aid and safety courses can cost you around $25 to $100, depending on whether they are online or in person classes. 

Marketing

You don’t need a big marketing budget to make an impact. By using a builder like Wix or WordPress, you can create a professional website for free. Printing flyers and business cards can cost around $15-$20, depending on the required quantities.

How to decide which business structure is right for you

We understand it’s difficult to determine the right structure for your business. Multiple considerations need to be evaluated, such as: 

• Liability
• Tax implications 
• Costs and complicity 
• Management and compliance requirements
• Funding needs 

Legally registering your business as an LLC, partnership, or corporation definitely has some advantages over a sole proprietorship. A sole proprietorship doesn’t separate your business from you. Therefore, you can be personally responsible if there's a legal issue. Also, securing funds gets more challenging because it’s not a recognized legal structure. 

An LLC, as described by its name, offers limited liability protection and tax breaks. For instance, you can opt for pass-through taxation or file as an S corp. LLCs are pretty easy to set up and have minimal compliance requirements. LegalZoom can help you form an LLC for just state fees.  

A partnership would be the way to go if you form your dog-walking business with one or more people. With a general partnership, you share both ownership and profits, but there’s greater potential for disagreements, and partners are liable for business debts.

FAQs

What are the risks of starting a dog-walking business?

There are many challenges in this business. For example, it’s physically intensive work that may require you to be out and about come rain, snow, or shine. The nature of your work can also be unpredictable, often with holidays dedicated to caring for your clients’ pets. You could be dealing with a difficult dog or pet owner. Yet, planning, setting contracts, forming a legal entity, and being realistic about the nature of work can make this a rewarding career choice.

How do I price my dog walking services?

Several factors go into pricing your services, including area of service, number of dogs you will walk, length of walk time, and travel to the client’s location. The average rate for a dog walker ranges between $10-$35 for half an hour; you want to charge a rate that offers value for money while being profitable.

How do I find clients for my dog-walking business? 

There are several creative ways to find potential clients, from asking friends and family for referrals to running social media ads, partnering with local vets and pet shops, and volunteering at a pet shelter. To gain more clients, you can even offer packaged services like house sitting, house checks, grooming, or dog training.

That said, there’s nothing stronger than good word of mouth for securing new clients. Put your best foot forward and let your work speak for you. A referral perk like a free walk can further incentivize customers to recommend your business.  

What are some tips for hiring dog walkers for my business? 

According to Jen Jones, founder of Your Dog Advisor, you shouldn't hire just anyone. "Hire people who are experienced and well-versed in dogs," she says. "Do not hire people who have no experience with animals, as this could be detrimental to your company. Remember, your employees are the face of your business."

Other tips include finding someone with their own transportation, conducting an interview with scenario-based questions, performing a background and reference check, and possibly even having them shadow you on a walk.

 

Kylie Ora Lobell contributed to this article.