Dog Walking: How To Get Started

The most important thing that you need to possess is a love of dogs and a great familiarity with them. It is essential that you are knowledgeable about all of the different dog breeds, as well as how to take care of them. Having this knowledge will allow you to build a stronger, more successful business. You must also have a carefully crafted business plan, however, or your dog walking business may fail.

In planning your business strategy, first decide who your potential customers are. You will have to do some research to figure out where your customers are located. The ideal customers for a dog walking business are elderly people, handicapped individuals, those who go on regular vacations, and people with long work hours. Once you get an idea of your prospective customers, you also need to determine who your competition is and what they charge. You can do a survey online to get this kind of information.

Another important step in planning your dog walking business is to create an estimate of your start up costs. Fortunately, the majority of your start up costs will be related to pamphlets and other advertising, dog supplies, and business cards. As you plan your budget, remember to allow for any unexpected expenses that might come up. Also, be sure to obtain a business license and insurance before you start accepting customers.

Advertising is one of the most important components to launching a successful dog walking business. Make sure you give out your business cards to your local veterinarians, pet supply stores, and all of your friends and acquaintances. You might find that word of mouth is one of the best ways to build up your customer base. Offer promotional discounts for your elderly customers, or for the handicapped, to try to increase your business. After your business becomes established, you may choose to offer additional services to your clients.

Online directories and pet publications are another great way to spread the word about your new business. Many people refer to these publications when choosing dog walkers, so make sure you check them out. You might also be interested in advertising with some pet care organizations. Membership in one or more of these groups will allow you to develop a social network with other dog walkers, and to become more familiar with the latest developments in dog care.

For each of your new clients, you should carefully create a contract that provides details about the job you will be performing. In addition to listing any other services that you may be providing, your contract should list the rate you are charging, the time periods and dates that you are committing to the dog, and the name of the dog that you will be taking for walks. Always remember to keep plenty of poop bags, leashes, and a first aid kit for unexpected emergencies.

Always keep your eyes and ears open to discover new ways and means to enhance your business. Continue diversifying and adding to your client base. This way your dog walking business will turn out to be a roaring success.