Starting a dog walking business is one of the easiest ways to turn your love for animals into a steady income. With low startup costs and high flexibility, it’s a perfect side hustle — or even a full-time gig — for pet lovers who want to be their own boss. You’ll need basic gear, a solid service offering, a legal business setup, and a few smart marketing moves.
Whether you’re walking pups around your neighborhood or building a full pet care brand, this guide breaks down how to start a dog walking business step by step.
🐾Quick stats:
- Startup costs: $0 to $1,000
- Time to launch: 1 to 2 weeks
- Typical net profit margin: 30% to 60%
- Best for: Animal lovers, solo entrepreneurs, part-time hustlers, and those seeking low-overhead businesses
Step 1: Research your local market
Check out who else is offering dog walking services in your area. Look through apps like Rover or Wag, plus Facebook groups or local directories, to get a feel for demand and pricing. Are these services charging by the walk or by the hour? Do they specialize in solo walks, group walks, or add-on services like pet sitting? If you’re in a dog-heavy neighborhood or near apartment complexes, you may already have a strong client base right outside your door.
Qualifications to be a dog walker
You don’t need formal training or certification to become a dog walker, but these qualities will help you stand out and stay safe:
- Comfort with dogs of all sizes and temperaments
- Good physical fitness and stamina
- Basic knowledge of dog behavior and body language
- Strong time management and communication skills
- Trustworthiness and professionalism (you’ll often have access to clients’ homes)
Optional training like pet first-aid certification or experience volunteering at a shelter can boost your credibility, especially when marketing to new clients.
Step 2: Decide on your services and rates
Dog walking isn’t one-size-fits-all. Offering different service types lets you meet more client needs and boost your income potential. Start by choosing the services you’re confident in offering, and add more as your experience and client base grow.
🐕🦺Common dog walking services:
- Solo walks: One-on-one attention, great for shy, reactive, or high-maintenance dogs.
- Pack walks: Walking two to four dogs at once; ideal for social pups and more efficient for you.
- Potty breaks: Quick 10 to 15 minute visits for bathroom breaks, often mid-day for puppies or senior dogs.
- Extended walks: 60+ minute walks for high-energy dogs or active clients.
- Weekend or evening walks: A premium service you can offer for clients with off-hours needs.
- Dog sitting or overnight care: Great for pet parents going out of town; usually charged by the day.
- Training reinforcement: Optional add-on where you reinforce basic commands during walks.
- Grooming add-ons: Simple services like brushing, paw wiping, or basic bathing — if you’re comfortable.
Start with two to three core services and build from there. It’s better to do a few things really well than to offer everything and struggle to keep up.
Once you’re clear on what you’ll offer, set your prices accordingly. Start with competitive rates and adjust as you gain experience.
💵 How to price your services:
- Per walk: $15-$30 for a standard 30-minute walk
- Per hour: $30-$50 for longer sessions or multiple pets
- Packages: Discounted rates for weekly or monthly bookings (e.g., 5 walks/week for $125)
- Add-ons: Charge separately for extras like weekend walks, brushing, or pet sitting
Make sure your pricing reflects your experience, the value you offer, and the going rates in your area (from your market research in Step 1).
Step 3: Set up your business legally and financially
Even if you’re starting solo and just walking a few pups a week, setting up your dog walking business the right way gives you peace of mind, legal protection, and a strong foundation for growth. Here’s how to do it:
Step 3.1: Choose a business structure
Your first step is deciding how to legally structure your business. Most solo dog walkers go with either:
- Sole proprietorship: The simplest option, but your personal assets aren’t protected if something goes wrong.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): A great choice if you want to limit personal liability while keeping things simple and flexible.
Not sure which structure is best? Check out our guide to the different types of business entities. If you want to operate under a name like Happy Paws Dog Walking instead of your own name, you may also need to register a DBA (Doing Business As). Learn more in our complete guide to registering your business.
Step 3.2: Understand local dog walking laws and licensing
Some cities and counties have regulations specific to professional dog walkers. Be sure to check with your local business office or animal control agency.
Things to look out for:
- Dog walking permits: Required in some major cities like NYC and San Francisco.
- Business licenses: Some states or counties require a general business license even for sole proprietors.
- Leash laws: Know the local rules for where dogs must be leashed
- Dog limits: Some areas restrict how many dogs you can walk at once, often three to six, depending on your location.
- Public space use: Certain parks or trails may require special permissions for commercial use.
Contact your local city clerk or small business office — they’ll let you know exactly what you need to operate legally.
Step 3.3: Get your EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Your EIN is a free tax ID number from the IRS — like a Social Security number for your business. You can apply in minutes at IRS.gov.
You’ll need an EIN if:
- You want to open a business bank account
- You plan to hire employees later
- You’re forming an LLC
Step 3.4: Open a business bank account
Separate your business and personal finances from day one. It keeps your bookkeeping clean, builds credibility, and protects your liability shield if you form an LLC. Look for an account with no monthly fees and that has mobile access.
You may also want to consider a business credit card or debit card to make it easier to track expenses. Use a simple accounting tool (like Wave or QuickBooks) to stay organized.
Related:
- Learn how to do it step by step: How to open a business bank account
- See our picks for the best small business checking accounts and best online business banks
Step 3.5: Get dog walker insurance
You’re working with other people’s pets, and that comes with risk. Pet insurance for your business helps protect you (and builds trust with clients).
Look for:
- General liability coverage: Covers injuries or property damage during a walk (e.g., dog bites another dog, damages a client’s fence, slips on ice)
- Care, custody, and control (covers pet-related accidents or injuries): Covers incidents involving the pet itself while in your care — such as injury, illness, or loss
- Bonding insurance (if entering client houses): Optional, but helpful—covers theft or damage if you’re entering clients’ homes
- Workers’ comp (if hiring): Required in most states if you hire employees or subcontractors
- Commercial auto (if transporting dogs): If you use your car for pickups or drop-offs, consider adding this to your coverage
Get a policy from one of the best small business insurance companies. Most plans start around $150-$400/year. Look for insurance specifically for dog walking businesses, such as the one from The Hartford.
Getting your legal and financial setup in place might feel like extra work, but it makes everything easier down the road, especially when you start growing your client base and income.
Step 4: Get the right tools and software
You don’t need much to get started, but a few key tools will help you look professional, stay organized, and deliver a great experience for both dogs and their humans.
Here’s what to have on hand:
Dog walking gear essentials
These are your must-haves for every walk:
- Leashes and backup leashes: Use sturdy, tangle-free options (and carry extras just in case).
- Harnesses or slip leads: Especially useful if clients don’t provide one or if a dog pulls a lot.
- Waste bags: Stock up in bulk to always be prepared.
- Treats: Great for building trust with nervous dogs or rewarding good behavior.
- Portable water bowl + water bottle: Especially important on hot days or long walks.
- Towels or wipes: Handy for muddy paws or rainy days.
Bonus gear for scaling:
- Doggy first-aid kit
- Safety light or reflective gear for evening walks
- Lockbox or secure pouch for client keys
Scheduling and communication tools
Managing bookings, sending updates, and tracking your income gets harder once you have more than a few clients. These tools help:
- Time To Pet: Full-service software for dog walkers and pet sitters. Features include scheduling, invoicing, GPS tracking, client messaging, and visit reports.
- Precise Petcare: Similar to Time To Pet, but with stronger calendar views and client communication features.
- PocketSuite: Designed for solo service businesses. Offers scheduling, payments, and contracts in one app.
You can also start simple with Google Calendar and spreadsheets, but plan to upgrade once you get busy.
Payment processing
Make it easy (and fast) for clients to pay you. Offering flexible, digital payment options shows you’re professional and makes life easier for busy pet parents. Here are some options:
- Accept credit cards via Square or PayPal
- Use Venmo or Cash App for quick digital payments (just note: business use may come with fees)
- Enable online payments through your dog walking software if available
Marketing and branding tools
How you show up online matters, especially when people are trusting you with their pets. These tools help you build credibility, connect with your community, and get found by new clients.
- Canva: Easily design flyers, social posts, and your logo
- Google Business Profile: Helps you show up in local search (and collect reviews)
- Instagram and Facebook: Great for showing off happy dogs, tagging clients, and building trust
If you’re not ready for a full website, you can still create a free site through Google or Linktree with your service info, pricing, and contact form.
Step 5: Find your first clients
Once you’re set up and ready to walk, it’s time to land your first few clients. Most dog walkers start with people they already know, then grow quickly through referrals and local visibility. A strong, trustworthy brand helps you get noticed and booked faster.
Here are some tips:
Build a simple, recognizable brand
Even if you’re just starting with neighbors, having a consistent look and feel makes your service more trustworthy and memorable.
- Choose a business name and stick with it across all platforms
- Create a simple logo using tools like Canva
- Use the same colors, tone, and contact info on your flyers, social media, and pet care apps
- Add a friendly headshot and a short “about me” to help clients feel comfortable
Start with your personal network
Let everyone in your life know you’re open for business. You never know who might need a dog walker or know someone who does.
- Post on your personal Facebook and Instagram
- Text friends, family, and neighbors
- Offer discounted or free first walks to build testimonials and word-of-mouth
Promote locally online and offline
Target your neighborhood first. Local trust and visibility go a long way with pet care services.
Try:
- Facebook groups: Join local “buy and sell” or community groups and share your services (just follow group rules!)
- Nextdoor: A great place to post about your business and answer pet care questions to build credibility
- Community boards: Put up flyers at coffee shops, apartment mailrooms, vet clinics, pet stores, and dog parks
- Leave-behinds: Door hangers or business cards in high-traffic areas (apartment complexes are gold)
Join pet care platforms
Sites like Rover, Wag, and Care.com can help you find clients fast, especially if you’re new and don’t have a website or referrals yet.
- Great for building your portfolio and collecting reviews
- Most take a cut of your earnings, but the exposure can be worth it early on
- Once you’re established, you can gradually move clients off-platform
Offer incentives to get started
A few simple promos can help overcome that “first booking” hesitation:
- First walk free or discounted
- Referral bonuses for existing clients
- Bundle pricing (e.g., “Buy 5 walks, get 1 free”)
- You don’t need to undercharge – just add a little extra value to build traction early.
Step 6: Grow your business
Once you’ve landed your first few clients, focus on building long-term relationships and turning great service into a steady, growing stream of business. Retention, reputation, and smart expansion are key to making your dog walking business sustainable and scalable.
Keep clients coming back
Loyal clients make your schedule more predictable and your income more stable.
- Offer recurring walk packages so clients can book you weekly or monthly
- Send short walk updates (with a photo or quick note) to show reliability and care
- Be consistent with communication, timing, and how you handle each dog
Encourage referrals and reviews
Happy clients are often your best marketers but they may need a gentle nudge.
- Ask for a Google or Facebook review after a few successful walks
- Offer referral perks (e.g., “Refer a friend, get a free walk!”)
- Share positive reviews and client tags on your social media to build trust with potential clients
Build your reputation in the community
Establishing yourself as the “go-to” dog walker locally helps you grow faster and attract higher-quality clients.
- Create a Google Business Profile so you show up in local search
- Network with local pet pros, like groomers, trainers, and vets, for referrals
- Post consistently on social media to stay top of mind and show off your reliability
Expand your services or team
Once your schedule is full or clients start asking for more, it might be time to grow.
- Add services like pet sitting, puppy drop-ins, or training reinforcement
- Hire another walker if you’re turning down work
- Invest in matching gear, branded uniforms, or a professional website for a more polished presence
Free download: Dog walking business toolkit
Download our free Dog Walking Business Toolkit to make starting easier. It includes everything you need to know about how to start a dog walking business.
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Why start a dog walking business?
Starting a dog walking business is one of the easiest ways to turn your love for pets into a reliable source of income. It’s flexible, low-cost, and can grow into a full-time gig or stay a part-time side hustle—whatever fits your lifestyle.
Here’s why more people are starting dog walking businesses:
- Low startup costs: You don’t need a storefront or expensive gear to begin. Many walkers start with just a leash, a phone, and word of mouth.
- Growing demand: With busy work schedules and more households owning pets, dependable dog walkers are in high demand, especially in cities and suburbs. The estimated dog walking industry revenue for 2025 is $1.7 billion, a CAGR of 5.9% over the past five years.
- Flexible schedule: You set your own hours and decide how many dogs to walk and when.
- Solo-friendly: This is a great business for people who want to work independently and be their own boss.
Many walkers start small, offering their services to neighbors or on apps like Rover, and grow their business through referrals and great service. Whether you’re walking one dog a day or building a team, it’s a business with room to grow.
From side hustle to steady clients – this is what a successful dog walking business can look like.
Common challenges (& how to overcome them)
Starting a dog walking business is exciting, but like any new venture, it comes with a few bumps along the way. The good news? Most challenges are easy to navigate once you know what to expect.
Here’s what might pop up — and how to handle it like a pro:
Dealing with bad weather
Rain, snow, extreme heat — dogs still need to go out, and so do you.
How to handle it:
- Invest in quality weather gear (rain jackets, boots, gloves)
- Shorten walks slightly in extreme conditions and prioritize potty breaks
- Communicate with clients about your weather policy upfront
Managing dog behavior issues
Even the best-behaved dogs can act differently outside their home.
How to handle it:
- Meet new dogs (and owners) in advance with a free “intro” session
- Ask detailed intake questions: leash manners, fears, reactivity triggers
- Carry high-value treats to redirect or reward good behavior
- Learn basic dog body language to spot stress early
Building trust with new clients
Clients are handing you keys to their homes and their beloved pets—it’s a big deal.
How to handle it:
- Be professional from the first contact: clear communication, insurance coverage, written agreements
- Offer updates after each walk (photos are a bonus!)
- Gather testimonials early and showcase them on your profiles or website
Dealing with competition
Dog walking is a popular business idea, especially in busy towns and cities.
How to handle it:
- Find your niche (e.g., solo walks for shy dogs, specialized puppy programs, flexible weekend availability)
- Focus on consistent, exceptional service over racing to the bottom on price
- Build genuine relationships with clients so they stick with you even when others pop up
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Click through the sections below to read answers to common questions about starting a dog walking business:
Earnings vary based on location, experience, and services offered. On average, dog walkers in the U.S. earn between $15 and $25 per hour.
Starting costs are relatively low, typically ranging from $0 to $1,000. Expenses may include leashes, waste bags, insurance, and marketing materials.
Yes, obtaining general liability insurance is recommended to protect against potential accidents or damages while caring for clients’ pets.
Begin by leveraging your personal network, then expand through local advertising, social media, and platforms like Rover or Wag. Building relationships with local pet-related businesses can also help.
Certification isn’t mandatory, but completing pet first-aid courses or obtaining professional credentials can enhance credibility and client trust.
Bottom line
Starting a dog walking business is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to work for yourself, especially if you love animals and being outside. With just a few tools, a strong work ethic, and a bit of local marketing, you can turn casual walks into a reliable source of income.
From legal setup to loyal clients, every step you take builds toward a business that fits your lifestyle and grows at your pace. Start small, stay consistent, and let great service (and happy dogs!) do the talking.
