How to start a dog walking business: your first steps

Starting a dog walking business is a rewarding venture that combines a passion for dogs with some business savvy. The pet care industry pulls in billions of dollars annually, with consistent demand for walkers from busy professionals, vacationing families, and elderly pet owners.

This guide will take you through the practical steps of validating your business idea, obtaining necessary permits, and marketing your services to help you launch a successful dog walking business in the U.S.

Step 1: Create your business plan and validate the market

Market and competitor research

First, you will want to gauge local demand. Check apps like Rover and Wag to see how many walkers are in your area and what they charge. You can also browse community forums on Nextdoor or local Facebook groups for posts from people who need dog walkers.

As you research, it is a good idea to create a simple spreadsheet. List at least five local competitors and track their services, pricing structures, and customer reviews. This gives you a clear picture of the market you are about to enter.

A frequent misstep for new walkers is to underprice their services just to get clients. This can make it difficult to run a profitable business long-term. Instead, set your rates based on the value you provide and the average prices in your area.

Budgeting for startup costs

With your research done, you can map out your initial expenses. Startup costs for a dog walking business are relatively low, but planning for them is wise. You might expect to spend between $550 and $1,150 to get started.

Here is a typical breakdown of those costs:

• Business License & Registration: $50 - $150
• Liability Insurance: $300 - $500 annually
• Basic Supplies (leashes, waste bags, first-aid kit): $100 - $200
• Initial Marketing (business cards, flyers): $100 - $300

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Research five local competitors on Yelp or Rover and note their pricing.
• Draft a startup budget that includes costs for insurance, licenses, and supplies.
• Post a poll in a local neighborhood Facebook group to gauge interest in your services.

Step 2: Set up your legal structure and get licensed

You might want to consider forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Many new walkers operate as a sole proprietorship, but this puts your personal assets at risk if a dog is injured. An LLC separates your personal and business finances, offering you protection.

Licenses and permits

For dog walking, you typically do not need a federal license. Your focus will be on state and local requirements. You will likely need to register your business name with your state, which is often called a "Doing Business As" or DBA, and costs between $10 and $100.

Next, contact your city or county clerk’s office to apply for a general business license. Some cities may also require a specific animal care permit. Expect to pay between $50 and $200 for these licenses, with processing times that can take a few weeks.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Decide if a sole proprietorship or an LLC is the right structure for you.
• Visit your city clerk’s website to find the application for a general business license.
• Check your state's requirements for registering a DBA if you plan to use a business name.

Step 3: Secure insurance and manage risk

Insurance coverage you need

Your next move is to protect your business. Insurance is not just a formality, it is your financial safety net. A simple accident could otherwise be devastating to your new venture. You will want a policy that specifically covers pet care professionals.

Many new walkers assume general liability is enough, but it often excludes injuries to animals in your care. You need a specialized policy. Look for providers like Pet Care Insurance, Pet Sitters Associates, or Business Insurers of the Carolinas for quotes.

Here is the coverage you should look for.

• General Liability covers client property damage or injuries to third parties. Aim for at least $1 million in coverage.
• Animal Bailee Coverage protects you if a dog is lost, injured, or dies in your care. It is a vital part of any pet business policy.
• Commercial Auto Insurance is for when you transport dogs in your car. Your personal auto policy will not cover you, so you need a commercial rider.

Expect to pay between $300 and $600 annually for a comprehensive policy. This investment protects you from common risks like a dog fight, a lost pet, or accidental property damage.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Request quotes from at least two providers that specialize in pet care insurance.
• Confirm that any policy you consider includes Animal Bailee coverage.
• Contact your auto insurance agent to discuss a commercial rider if you plan to transport dogs.

Step 4: Set up your operations and get equipped

Unlike many businesses, you do not need a commercial space. A simple home office setup is sufficient, which means you can avoid commercial leases and complex zoning regulations. Your main operational focus will be on your gear and client management systems.

Gather your walking gear

Your equipment is a direct reflection of your professionalism. While you can start with a modest investment, you should not cut corners on items that ensure a dog’s safety. Many new walkers make the mistake of buying cheap leashes that can snap unexpectedly.

Here is what you will want to get:

• Leashes and Harnesses: A few high-quality, non-retractable 6-foot leashes and a variety of harness sizes will cost between $50 and $150.
• Waste Bags: You can buy biodegradable bags in bulk for around $20. Always carry more than you think you need.
• Pet First-Aid Kit: A pre-made kit from a supplier like Kurgo or a local pet store costs $20 to $40.
• Water and Bowl: A collapsible bowl and a dedicated water bottle will run you about $15.

You can find these supplies at online retailers like Chewy or at local pet supply stores. There are no minimum order quantities, so you can buy just what you need as you start.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Purchase a dedicated pet first-aid kit and keep it with your walking supplies.
• Buy two durable, 6-foot leashes from a reputable brand.
• Set up a simple spreadsheet on your computer to track your initial equipment expenses.

Step 5: Set up your payment system

Set up payment processing

You should decide on your payment terms upfront. Many walkers charge per walk, while others offer weekly or monthly packages at a slight discount. For regular clients, a simple service contract that outlines your rates and schedule adds a layer of professionalism.

Some new walkers choose payment solutions with high fees or clunky hardware. Average commission rates from other providers can be as high as 2.9% plus additional fees. This eats into your profit, especially when you are just starting out.

For dog walkers who need to accept payments on-site, JIM offers a streamlined solution. With JIM, you can accept debit, credit, and digital wallets directly through your smartphone. At just 1.99% per transaction with no hidden costs or extra hardware, it is great for collecting payment right at a client's door.

Here is how you can start with JIM:

• Get Started: Download the JIM app for iOS.
• Make a Sale: Type the sales amount, hit sell, and ask your customer to tap their card or device on your phone.
• Access Funds: Your money is available on your JIM card as soon as the sale is done.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Decide if you will offer per-walk rates, weekly packages, or both.
• Download the JIM app to see how it works on your phone.
• Draft a basic service agreement for your first recurring client.

Step 6: Fund your business and manage finances

Your startup costs are low, but you will want cash on hand for the first six months. Plan for about $1,000 to $2,500 in working capital. This covers ongoing expenses like insurance, marketing, and supplies before your client list is full.

Funding your startup

Most walkers use personal savings to start. If you need a small loan, an SBA Microloan is a great fit. These loans range from $500 to $50,000. Interest rates are usually between 8% and 13%, and lenders are often more flexible with new businesses.

Grants are rare for dog walking businesses, but you can check with your local Chamber of Commerce. They sometimes offer small grants for new local enterprises. These are competitive, but it costs nothing to look.

Managing your money

As soon as you register your business, open a separate business bank account. A frequent misstep is to mix personal and business funds, which complicates tax filing and hides your true profitability. A dedicated account keeps your bookkeeping clean from day one.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Open a dedicated business checking account for your dog walking service.
• Calculate your estimated operating costs for the first six months.
• Search the SBA’s website for a microloan lender in your state.

Step 7: Hire your first walkers and scale operations

Hiring your team

Once you have more clients than you can handle, it is time to hire. This usually happens around 10-15 regular clients. You will want to look for a part-time Dog Walker to start. Pay typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour.

While not legally required, having walkers complete a Pet CPR and First Aid course is a huge selling point. It shows clients you prioritize safety. You can find these courses through the American Red Cross.

Choosing your software

As your team grows, managing schedules with texts and a calendar becomes chaotic. It is better to adopt scheduling software early. Look at options like Time To Pet or Pet Sitter Plus. They handle scheduling, billing, and client updates.

A full-time walker can typically manage 5-8 individual walks per day. This ratio helps you project when you will need to hire your next team member as your client list expands. Using software makes managing multiple walkers much simpler.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Draft a job description for a part-time dog walker.
• Research Pet CPR and First Aid courses from the American Red Cross.
• Sign up for a free trial or demo of Time To Pet or Pet Sitter Plus.

Step 8: Market your business and get clients

Build a local presence

Start with tangible marketing. Print professional business cards and flyers. You can get 500 cards for about $30. Post your flyers at local vet offices, pet supply stores, and community centers. Always ask for permission first. This builds goodwill with other local businesses.

Many new walkers create generic flyers that get ignored. Make yours stand out with a clear photo of you with a happy dog, your rates, and a special introductory offer, like 20% off the first walk. This gives potential clients a reason to call you now.

Establish your digital footprint

Next, claim your online space. Create a free Google Business Profile. This puts you on the map when people search for "dog walkers near me." Encourage your first few clients to leave reviews. Aim for at least five positive reviews to build initial trust and credibility.

You can also use social media. Create a Facebook or Instagram page for your business. Post photos from your walks, with the owner's permission. This shows you are active and that pets are safe and happy in your care. Consistency is more important than frequency.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Print 250 business cards and 100 flyers with an introductory offer.
• Set up a Google Business Profile and ask your first client for a review.
• Visit three local pet stores or vet clinics and ask to leave your marketing materials.

Step 9: Set your pricing strategy

Your pricing should reflect local market rates and the value you provide. Check apps like Rover and Wag to see what top-rated walkers in your zip code charge. A standard 30-minute solo walk often falls between $20 and $30.

Choose your pricing model

Most walkers start with a per-walk rate. This is simple for clients to understand. For example, you might charge $25 for a 30-minute walk and $40 for a 60-minute walk. This sets a clear baseline for your services.

Once you have a base rate, you can offer packages to encourage repeat business. You could offer a weekly package of five 30-minute walks for $115, which gives the client a $10 discount. This helps you secure consistent income.

You can also add surcharges for special requests. Consider a $5 to $10 fee for walks on major holidays or outside of normal business hours. An extra fee for puppies under one year old is also common due to the extra attention they require.

Many new walkers forget to calculate their profit margin. After you account for travel, supplies, and insurance, you should aim for a 60-70% margin. If you price too low, you might find you are working for less than you think.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Set your standard rate for a 30-minute and a 60-minute walk.
• Create one weekly package that offers a small discount for five walks.
• List two add-on services, like holiday walks or a puppy fee, and set their prices.

Step 10: Maintain quality and scale your operations

Set your quality standards

Once you have a steady client base, you need to maintain service quality. You can pursue certifications from organizations like the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) or Pet Sitters International (PSI) to formalize your expertise and build trust with new clients.

You should track key metrics to measure performance. Aim for a client retention rate above 90% and an average review score of 4.8 stars or higher. A sudden drop in these numbers is a clear signal that you need to address a service issue.

Know when to grow

Many owners wait too long to hire help or adopt management software. This can lead to burnout and scheduling errors. A good benchmark for hiring your next walker is when you start to turn down more than three client requests per week due to a full schedule.

As you add walkers, a simple calendar will not work. Software like Time To Pet or Pet Sitter Plus helps you manage multiple schedules, track walker locations via GPS, and automate client updates. This investment becomes valuable once you have two or more walkers on your team.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Look into the certification requirements on the NAPPS or PSI websites.
• Calculate your client retention rate from the last quarter.
• Schedule a free demo with a platform like Time To Pet to see its team management features.

You have the roadmap to turn your passion for dogs into a real business. Remember that your reputation for being dependable is your greatest asset. Every walk is a chance to prove that. With this guide, you are ready to take the first step.

And when it comes to getting paid, keep it simple. JIM lets you accept card payments right on your smartphone for a flat 1.99% fee, with no extra hardware needed. This lets you manage your money easily. Download JIM and you are set.