How To Become A Professional Dog Walker

To be sure your new business's name is not taken, check your local phone book, and then do a few different searches online. If you do find another company that is using the name, just be sure its very small, and not in your state (or near your state) and you will probably be fine. If you have any concerns at all, it is best to check with a lawyer.

4) Do not be too clever

It is good to get attention with a name, but do not get too clever, or too extreme. You want people to smile when they hear your business name, not to raise their eyebrows in suspicion.

5) Test it out on your friends

See what your friends think of the name. When you have whittled your names list down to 2-3 candidates, ask your friends which company name they would be more likely to hire. Also ask people who would be your target clientele.

Here are 20 business names to get your ideas flowing. Each one of these could also be changed to "dog walkers" or "dog walking" and still work well.

1) Your Town Dog Walks

2) Your Neighborhood Dog Walkers

3) Active Paws Dog Walking

4) On the Move Dog Walkers

5) Out for a Walk Dog Walking

6) Wanna Go for Walk Dog Walkers

7) Happy Paws Dog Walking

8) Your Name's Dog Walkers

9) Best Friends Dog Walks

10) Sniffs and Wiggles Dog Walkers

11) Out and About Dog Walks

12) Doggie Escorts

13) At Your Service Dog Walkers

14) On the Mend Dog Walking (for older or disabled dogs)

15) Tough Guy Dog Walking (for aggressive dogs)

16) Happy Pack Dog Walks

17) Pedigree Dog Walking

18) Four Seasons Dog Walks

19) Rain or Shine Dog Walking

20) Part of the Family Dog Walking

It seems that many people have a misconception that walking dogs for a living is all fun and games. Dog walkers can make their own schedules, wear what they want to wear, and they spend their days walking around or visiting parks with dogs. In truth, walking dogs isn't as easy as just grabbing a leash and making flyers to get customers. Here's are some tips about how you can begin a rewarding career as a dog walker.

The best way to prepare for a career in dog walking is to complete training and receive certification. Not only will this teach you the ropes of the business, it will ensure customers that you can be trusted with their canine companions. There are several reputable organizations that train and certify dog walkers. One of the better known dog industry trainers is Dog Tec, which provides education in dog training, walking, sitting and other types of services. Dog Tec holds a number of workshops and talks throughout the United States. The Dog Tec Dog Walking Academy is a four-day intensive training program that teaches participants about dog behavior, health issues, pack management and the in's and out's of starting your own business.

Dog insurance is important for dog walkers, sitters and trainers. If you or one of the pets you are working with is injured on the job, insurance will keep you safe from liability. Reputable dog walker insurance programs include Pet Sitters Associates, Mouer-Foster Kennel Pro, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International.